Onsite Sewage Disposal Program

Onsite sewage disposal is the treatment and disposal of wastewater on the same property on which the wastewater is generated. The most common form of onsite sewage disposal in Jefferson County, Alabama, is a septic tank with underground gravel disposal lines (field lines).

In addition to septic tank and field line systems, there are peat bio-filters, aerobic treatment units, above-ground mound systems, spray irrigation systems, buried sand mounds, gravel-less pipe, and a variety of other alternative sewage disposal systems in Jefferson County.

The Jefferson County Department of Health is a leader in promoting public health through the use of onsite sewage disposal. The Jefferson County Department of Health has a three-fold strategy to ensure properly operating onsite sewage disposal systems. This three-fold strategy includes proper: 1) site evaluation, 2) system construction, and 3) system maintenance.

All onsite sewage disposal systems require regular maintenance, such as septic tank pumping, to keep them operating properly. Eventually, most onsite sewage disposal systems will need some type of repair work. The Jefferson County Department of Health has Environmental Health Specialists trained to diagnose the cause of a failing onsite sewage disposal system and will give the homeowner written repair recommendations. Next, only an individual holding a valid Certificate of Competency issued by the Jefferson County Department of Health is allowed to perform the repair work, including the pumping of septic tanks. Upon completion of the repair, an Environmental Health Specialist will inspect the work for compliance with Regulations. Further, the following are links to frequently used forms for use when applying for permits with this Department:

• Permit Application
• Subdivision Preliminary Application
• Subdivision Final Application