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Onsite Wastewater Management Program

 Wildfire and septic systems

Many homes were damaged or lost in the Oregon wildfires of September 2020. Septic systems are not immune from damage in the wildfire. There are a number of scenarios when returning home or rebuilding that are likely to come up that these frequently asked questions should help answer.

One thing to keep in mind is septic system materials, such as plastic, steel and concrete, are susceptible to damage by the extreme heat generated in a fire and care should be taken approaching a septic tank after the wildfire.  


 

Onsite records available online

DEQ is digitizing onsite septic records for the nine counties where it administers onsite septic system programs so they are available to the public online and without charge. The counties that DEQ has septic system records for are Baker, Coos, Curry, Jackson, Josephine, Morrow, Union, Wallowa and Wheeler. All records should be available by spring 2019.
 
See step-by-step instructions on how to search our database.

​New site allows users to submit onsite applications online

You can now use your credit card to pay application fees for septic system permits, site evaluations, authorization notices, records requests or other onsite fees. This move is a further expansion of the onsite program’s online offerings. Applicants can submit and track their applications and receive their permits online.
 
The online system allows users to create an account to track their applications and to pay invoices online. Check it out on the Oregon e-Permitting page. DEQ offices also have public kiosks for those who don’t have internet access or who want help with the process. A help desk is available to anyone who has questions. It can be reached at oregonepermitting@oregon.gov or by calling 503-373-7396 or 1-800-442-7457.