On-site Wastewater Treatment System and Septic System License

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An On-site Wastewater Treatment System, also known as septic systems, is any system used for the collection, storage, treatment, neutralization, or stabilization of sewage that occurs on the property. A licensed installer or contractor must inspect On-site Wastewater Treatment Systems. Contact an environmental health specialist at 720-887-2220 to become a licensed inspector.

To preserve the environment and protect public health and water quality, Broomfield Public Health and Environment is proposing standards and regulations for On-site Wastewater Treatment Systems (OWTS). The draft regulations have been revised based on feedback from the State Water Quality Control Division and are scheduled for public hearing and adoption at the Board of Health meeting on March 5. A summary of the changes from the previous draft is available for review. Community members may share comments in person at the March 5 meeting or by email no later than February 25 by sending comments to publichealth@broomfield.org. Anyone interested is encouraged to review the updated draft and share feedback. 

Check Your Septic System. Follow these tips to reduce the risk of costly repairs:

Homes with on-site wastewater treatment systems, also called septic systems, treat and dispose of household wastewater. When maintained properly, your septic system ensures that harmful bacteria and pollutants don’t enter water systems—safeguarding your health and the environment.Improper care can lead to expensive repairs, groundwater contamination and health hazards. Use these tips and short videos to protect your system and be septic-smart:

Everything that goes down your drain can affect your septic system. Don’t pour fats, oils and grease down the sink, as they can clog pipes and drain fields. Use your garbage disposal sparingly. Don’t flush items like wipes, menstrual products, and dental floss—only toilet paper should be flushed.

Don't Strain Your Drain

Keep It Clean

Regular septic system inspections and pumping are vital. The EPA recommends having your septic system inspected every three years by a licensed professional and pumped every three to five years, depending on your household size and usage. This prevents the buildup of solids that can clog your system and cause failures.

Shield Your Field

Your drain field is an essential part of your septic system, where the soil filters and treats wastewater. Protect your drain field by not parking or driving on it, planting trees and shrubs a safe distance away to prevent root interference and ensuring that roof drains and sump pumps direct water away from it.

Keep the components of your septic system, like the tank and drainfield, accessible for inspections and maintenance. Know the location of your system to prevent accidental damage during landscaping or construction activities. 

Don't Overload the Commode

Your toilet is not a trash can. Flushing non-biodegradable items can clog your septic system and lead to failures. Only flush human waste and toilet paper. Educate your family and guests about what can and cannot be flushed to avoid unnecessary damage.