Font Size

Septic System Program

septicA permit is required prior to the installation of a new or replacement septic tank and leach field or the repair of an existing failing system. A permit application must be submitted along with a complete site plan, fee, and soil test data. All soil test data is required in Modoc County, except for system repairs.

Soil tests can include, but not limited to, the excavation of a soil profile pit so that the profile can be logged and at least three percolation tests. On occasion other tests may be requested. Test must be done by, or under the supervision of a qualified registered engineer, registered geologist, registered environmental health specialist, certified engineering geologist, or soil scientist certified by the American Registry of Certified Professionals in Agronomy, Crops and Soils, or a contractor with a C36, C42 or Gen A. California Contractors License approved by this office.

Septic system permits are issued after Environmental Health Department staff determine a site is suitable for a septic system and are valid for one year. Environmental Health Department staff must inspect the system prior to backfilling to verify compliance with terms of the permit and sewage disposal standards. A copy of the standards may be obtained from the Modoc County Environmental Health Dept.