Septic & Waste Water
The Health Department staff regularly conduct, and document, official inspections/investigations as required by state and local code.
Site Evaluations: Review certified soil analysis to ascertain the soil characteristics profile and loading rate to determine the suitability for an on-site wastewater treatment system.
Site Evaluation: This document may approve or deny the use of an on-site system based on the data collected from the soil analysis and site evaluation.
Septic Permits: Issued for repairs or new construction of on-site wastewater treatment systems. Will specify system requirements and location.
Inspections: Inspect all septic system installations for compliance with Brown County Ordinance, and rule 410 IAC 6-8.3. A diagram of the system is kept on file.
Investigations: Investigate reports of malfunctioning septic systems. Take samples and if necessary check potential sources with tracer dye.
Education: Programs and workshops are given for the public, septic contractors, builders, and realtors as needed
Contractor Registration: Administer tests and educate installers on system installations so that they may be registered to install on-site wastewater treatment systems in Brown County. A current list of Registered Contractors is kept on file at the office.
Loan Opportunities: The Great Lakes Community Action Partnership Decentralized Water Systems Program now has grants available for water well, in-home water treatment, and septic systems repairs. The maximum loan amount is $15,000 with an interest rate of 1%. Maturity may not exceed 20 years and will depend on repayment ability. To be eligible, the applicant’s household income may not exceed $34,800. Associated loan costs are at the borrower’s expense and can be included within the loan. Applicants must own and occupy the home or be in the process of purchasing the home for occupancy. New home construction and community water systems are not eligible. For further information and to obtain an application please visit www.glcap.org or call Valerie Vanfleet at 1-800-775-9767 or 419-333-6074. Valerie can be reached by email directly at vjvanfleet@glcap.org.
Septic System Forms
Forms can be opened and downloaded in PDF format by clicking on any of the links below.