Septic Systems
Purpose/Goals
- To assure the proper treatment and disposal of wastewater from residences or buildings that require private onsite waste disposal and
- To prevent human health hazards, water pollution, drinking water contamination and the spread of communicable diseases.
Program Description
Administer the County Sanitary Code. Review plans and issue permits for construction of private onsite wastewater and treatment systems (POWTS). Conduct inspections for all newly installed POWTS and enforce correction of failing systems. Review Wisconsin Fund applications from county residents for state funding to replace their failing sewage systems. Administer and enforce a state required maintenance program for all POWTS installed in Eau Claire County and/or within the city limits of Eau Claire.A POWTS is also known as a sanitary or septic system. Its function is to collect household wastewater in a septic tank where biological processes digest solids and physical processes remove fats, oils, greases, and indigestible solids. Effluent (wastewater) exits the tank through a filter that removes suspended solids to an absorption system where it is discharged to the soil where microorganisms are removed and the clarified effluent percolates back into the groundwater. Some properties lack the necessary physical characteristics to allow for this type of system, and therefore, on a case-by-case basis, are approved to have a holding tank installed.
| Sanitary Permits |
Septic System Maintenance Program |
Wisconsin Fund |
- Department of Commerce
- Onsite Wastewater Treatment Systems Manual (EPA)
- Privy, Composting, or Incinerating Toilets
Rules/Regulations
- Department of Commerce Codes
- Eau Claire County Sanitary Code, Chapter 8.12
