Septic systems are the second most frequently cited source of groundwater contamination in our country. Unapproved, aging, and failing septic systems have a large impact on the quality and safety of our water supply.
Find out more about the problem and strategies to protect our waters and the health of the community.
Mailings to Properties in High Risk Areas
In many areas of Boulder County septic systems (i.e. onsite wastewater systems) are located in areas that pose a greater risk to waterways and human health. Because of this increased risk, homeowners in high-risk areas may have received a letter (136 KB) from Boulder County Public Health requesting that their systems receive permits to ensure the safety of our water supply.
Septic System Approval
The deadline for approval of septic systems is December 31, 2023. Boulder County Public Health anticipates that most residents will have received approval of their system before this deadline in order to ensure protection of our waters.
Property Transfer
After researching nationally how the issue of unapproved septic systems is being addressed, Boulder County Public Health discovered one common strategy was to require inspection of a property’s septic system at the time of property sale or transfer.
The Boulder County Board of Health adopted a property transfer regulation (45 KB) in 2008 to ensure that any issues with the septic system are disclosed to the new buyer, and that the existing owner or new buyer will make the repairs within one year of the closing date.
Risk Factors
There are many
factors that put some areas with septic systems at greater risk than others. Boulder County Public Health has worked with experts to determine the areas in Boulder County that are at greater risk.