PRIVATE SEPTAGE SYSTEMS

Private septage systems are essential in many parts of Dane County that are not served by public sanitary sewer. If a private septage system fails, it is a hazard to human health and the environment. The Wisconsin Fund Program provides grants to homeowners and owners of small businesses that need to replace a failing private wastewater treatment system with a new system. For more information, see the Wisconsin Fund Program flyer.

A Sanitary Permit is Needed to:

• Install a new private septage system
• Repair an existing private septage system
• Extend or enlarge and existing private septage system
• Reconnect to an existing private septage system
• Otherwise modify an existing private septage system

Steps to Getting a Sanitary Permit

1. Soil evaluation - property owner contracts with a licensed certified soil tester. (Refer to your phone book for a list of professionals)
2. System design - property owner has a system designed by a licensed professional such as a Master Plumber, Master Plumber Restricted, or a Certified Designer. In some cases a professional engineer may also have the credentials necessary to design a septic system. (Refer to your phone book for a list of professionals)
3. Sanitary permit application - have Master Plumber submit Sanitary Permit Application to Public Health - Madison & Dane County. For information about fees, see Well & Septic Program Fee Schedule (PDF).
4. Plan/permit review - PHMDC sanitarian reviews plans and permit applications and issues plan approvals or sanitary permits as appropriate.

private sewage system maintenance program

All septic systems in Dane County must be inspected and serviced on a regular basis to ensure that they are operating correctly. Public Health Madison and Dane County ensures this is done by enforcing Dane County's septic inspection and maintenance rules. Most septic systems require service every three years. Certain types of septic systems need service on a more frequent basis to keep filters clean or ensure mechanical systems are operating correctly. Below are some forms that you may need to report septic system inspection and maintenance.

• Private Sewage System Maintenance Form (PDF)
• Holding Tank Servicing Contract (MS Word)
• Septic System Abandonment Form (PDF)