The Oregon Department of Environmental Quality permits residential and small business septic systems in Curry, Jackson, and Josephine counties out of the DEQ Medford Office. In Oregon's other 33 counties, DEQ has contracts with local jurisdictions for residential and small business septic permitting. To find your local septic permitting authority, please visit our contacts page. To learn more, visit our about septic systems page.
Types of septic applications and application materials
- Site evaluation packet. During a site evaluation, an onsite program specialist evaluates soil test pits in proposed initial and replacement soil absorption areas on a property. They will record soil and groundwater conditions and check the property for site constraints that require setbacks to septic systems. If all rule requirements are met, the onsite program specialist will complete a report that details septic system requirements for the property.
*Note: Conducting a site evaluation does not guarantee any specific type or approval of a septic system. If approved, a separate application for a construction-installation permit is required.
- Authorization notice guide and application. An authorization notice is required when there is a proposal to connect to, change the use of, increase the sewage flow into, or connect an ADU to an existing septic system. The authorization notice process involves an onsite program specialist making sure the existing system is in good working order and can handle the proposed change in use or flow. If all rule requirements are met, which in some cases includes the designation of a full replacement system area, the onsite program specialist will issue an authorization notice, valid for one year, to connect to the existing septic system with the proposed change.
- Septic permit application. Septic permits are required to install a new septic system, alter an existing septic system, or repair an existing septic system. An onsite program specialist will review the septic permit application materials and make sure conditions of the site evaluation report and rule requirements are met. Once all rule requirements are satisfied, the septic installation permit will be issued and is valid for one year.
Forms
How to submit a residential septic application in Curry, Jackson, and Josephine counties
DEQ uses Oregon e-Permitting to submit septic applications online. Features of the online system allows users to:
- Apply for permits, site evaluations, and authorizations
- Submit plans and forms
- Pay for applications online quickly and conveniently via credit card
- Track applications online
Submissions by email, mail, or in-person are not accepted. Contact the DEQ Medford Office to request application submittal training or to request a reasonable accommodation, such as needing to make a one-time manual submittal because you live in an area underserved by broadband internet. Applications missing required fees or exhibits will be considered incomplete, and you will be notified accordingly.
To start the online application process, follow these steps:
Step 1: Visit Oregon e-Permitting to register and create an account.
Step 2: Hover over the “Apply" button and select “Onsite/Septic Application."
Step 3: Select county (Curry, Jackson or Josephine).
Step 4: Select the desired Onsite application type.
Step 5: Enter your parcel number with exact formatting and select search.
Step 6: Update any owner, address and contact information as needed. Then, select continue application.
Step 7: Enter applicant and site contact information as needed.
Step 8: If working with a licensed septic professional, add their sewage disposal service license information (installer or installer/pumper).
Step 9: Fill in required application information.
Step 10: Upload all required submittal documents.
- Documents must be uploaded as a pdf. See the application packet or guide for a list of required submittal documents:
Step 11: Once your application has been submitted and deemed complete by staff, all fees will be invoiced and ready for payment. If your application is not complete, an office support specialist will send you an email listing what is missing in your application with a request for additional information.
Step 12: After review by an onsite program specialist, if the application and supporting materials are deemed complete and accurate, the permit will be issued, usually within 20 days. Revisions or requests for additional information may occur and could delay permit issuance until resolved.
Step 13: Install the system according to permit conditions. If you have any questions regarding the permit conditions, or you find that the system cannot be installed as per the permit or approved plans, contact the issuing onsite program specialist.
Step 14: After the system is installed, submit your final inspection request and notice (FIRN), as-built drawing, installation photos, and materials list in Oregon e-Permitting. Once received, the pre-cover inspection will be scheduled.
What if I need help registering?
Email the Help Desk at oregon.epermitting@dcbs.oregon.gov or call 503-373-7396 or 800-442-7457.