Kitsap County septic O&M checklist
Quick facts
| Topic | What Kitsap materials say (re-check live) |
|---|---|
| Inspection interval | Every three years by a Kitsap-certified septic service professional for typical systems. Alternative systems (pumps, treatment devices, etc.): at least annual inspection and an annual maintenance contract with a certified monitoring & maintenance specialist. |
| Self-inspect allowed? | Only after Single-Family Residence Owner — Monitoring and Maintenance Certification (Section 17 of regulations). Not a casual DIY path. |
| Certification steps (summary) | Hold a valid M&M contract with a certified provider for at least one year while completing requirements (or during 2-year warranty on new/replacement systems); complete ≥ 8 hours OSS training from an approved entity such as WOSSA; pass WOSSA certification test; have required tools; submit application + fees; demonstrate field competency under Health Officer supervision; first year is probation. |
| Property sale | Property conveyance inspection (PCI) process through Kitsap Public Health (Board Ordinance 2025A-01 / related materials). Record drawing required for PCI if none on file. |
| Report / records | Use Kitsap’s property / septic record search tools from the Drinking Water & Onsite Sewage pages. Contractors also use OnlineRME for some county contract workflows. |
Homeowner checklist
- Confirm system type via Kitsap records/GIS search linked from the septic info pages.
- If alternative: keep a current annual maintenance contract with a certified M&M specialist — required language on the public septic info page.
- Default routine path: hire a Kitsap-certified professional on the 3-year (or annual) cycle.
- Homeowner certification: only if you will complete WOSSA training/test, paperwork, fees, and Health Officer field check. Read the certification page end-to-end before paying for a course.
- Selling: ask about PCI timing and record drawings early — deficiencies show up often in Kitsap’s published PCI stats.
Disclosures
Not affiliated with Kitsap Public Health District, WOSSA, or WA DOH. See about & disclosures.