COLUMBUS COUNTY HEALTH DEPARTMENT’S
ENVRIONMENTAL HEALTH RE-INSPECTION/REUSE PROCEDURE
Policy Title:
REINSPECTION/REUSE PROCEDURE
Program Area:
Environmental Health
Policy Identifier: (optional)
Effective Date:
Approval Date:
Revision Date(s):
Approved by:
Kim Smith RN, BSN, MSHCA, Health Director
Approved by:
William Horne, Environmental Health Supervisor
March 10th 2009
June 27, 2012
Purpose:
The purpose of this policy is to provide for uniform determination of whether or not to issue an
“Operation Permit for System Reuse”, in accordance with the North Carolina Administrative
Code .1900, for existing onsite wastewater disposal systems.
Definitions:
The Environmental Health Division will follow uniform procedures in provide reuse/re-inspection
services to clients
Responsibilities:
Environmental Health Specialists, Environmental Health Program Specialist, Environmental Health Supervisor I
Procedures:
1) Individual submits an application for either reuse of an existing system or reinspection
of an existing system for addition to existing structure. If available, attach a copy of the
original operation permit/improvement permit/construction authorization to the
application.
2) Is the proposed flow the same as what was originally permitted? If “yes” continue. If
“no” make application for a site evaluation for expansion and follow the site evaluation
procedures for the expanded flow only.
3) Applicant is given instructions to stake off the proposed structure/addition. Applicant is
advised that soil cover must be removed from the lid at the outlet end of the septic and
over the distribution device (if present).
4) When performing the re-inspection, the environmental health specialist shall schedule a
meeting with the applicant to perform the following:
a. Inspect the septic tank and determine sludge depth. If sludge depth is found to be
equal to or greater than 1/3 of the liquid depth of the tank applicant is advised
that the septic tank must be pumped prior to issuance of an operation permit
system reuse. If valid documentation is presented that the septic tank has been
Page 1 of 2
COLUMBUS COUNTY HEALTH DEPARTMENT’S
ENVRIONMENTAL HEALTH RE-INSPECTION/REUSE PROCEDURE
5)
6)
7)
8)
9)
pumped within 24 months of the date of application then sludge depth inspection
is waived.
b. The sanitary tee is inspected. If the sanitary tee is deteriorated or insufficient a
new sanitary tee must be installed. If tank was installed 1999, or after an
effluent filter must also be installed.
c. All other system components shall be inspected for compliance.
d. If problems are found go to #6.
If all inspected components of the septic system are found to be functioning properly an
operation permit for system reuse shall be issued, including a drawing accurately
showing the location of the system, drain lines, and all components. In a manufactured
home park, a reuse authorization shall be issued.
Applicant shall be immediately advised of any maintenance items that must be
addressed before an “operation permit for system reuse” can be issued. Also, if the
septic system is not functioning properly, applicant is advised to apply for an
authorization for construction for repair.
Site evaluation is performed and repair permit is issued. If the existing system is in use
and is malfunctioning, the owner of the property is also issued a “notice of violation”
(see Notice of Violation Policy) along with the repair permit.
Once system is properly repaired, a new operation permit shall be issued. If the
repaired system is in a manufactured home park, a reuse authorization shall be issued.
The re-inspection is valid for up to 12 months from the date of issuance.
Laws and Rules:
Reference(s):
Page 2 of 2