Routine Inspection Program

For more information call the Water Quality Division at (513) 946-7863.

Hamilton County Public Health began an operational permit program of household sewage treatment systems (septic systems) in 1994. The permit program began with the inspection of aerobic treatment units and was expanded in 1996 to include all household sewage treatment systems located within the jurisdiction of the Health District (mechanical and non-mechanical).

Each year, Health District sanitarians inspect approximately 14,000 new and existing septic systems in Hamilton County.

What systems are inspected?

All household sewage treatment systems with mechanical components (aeration) are inspected yearly; systems without mechanical components (non-mechanical) are inspected once every five years. During the inspection, staff determine system location, check for proper system maintenance and operation, and provide helpful information to system owners.

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How inspections are conducted

Health District staff will either knock on your door or ring your doorbell prior to inspecting your system. If you do not respond, a green door hanger will be placed on your door. This door hanger identifies the reason for the inspection, date and time of inspection, and the name and phone number of the inspector. Staff will then proceed with inspecting your household sewage treatment system.

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Identifying Hamilton County Public Health staff

Staff typically wear polo shirts or other shirts or jackets which are marked with the Health District’s logo. In addition, all staff carry picture identification badges.

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Permits

Once the inspection is finished and paper work is completed, a copy of the inspection report and invoice will be mailed to you. You will be asked to pay your fee within 30 days, at which time your permit will be issued if your system has been approved. For more information call (513) 946-7862.

  • Mechanical Systems: $40 for 1 year permit
  • Non-Mechanical Systems: $85 for 5 year permit
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Contacting inspectors

Non-mechanical Household Sewage Treatment System Inspections:

  • (513) 946-7864
  • (513) 946-7867

Mechanical Household Sewage Treatment Systems (Aerobic):

  • (513) 946-7865 - Anderson Twp., Blue Ash, Cleves, Columbia Twp., Evendale, Loveland, Madeira, Mariemont, Miami Twp., North Bend, Springfield Twp., Sycamore Twp., Symmes Twp., Terrace Park, Woodlawn
  • (513) 946-7869 - Colerain Twp., Crosby Twp., Delhi Twp., Harrison Twp., Whitewater Twp.
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