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1. How does the proposed increased fees apply to septic owners, system cleaners, and installers?

• Septic owners: The proposed fees would affect existing septic owners if they have to install a new system, repair an existing system, sell their home and/or add a bedroom to their home. Under the proposed regulations, all new systems would have to be in compliance.

• System cleaners: The proposed fee associated with system cleaners will be increased from $25 to $50. This proposed fee adjustment is to reflect administrative costs associated with review and processing the application.

• System installers: The proposed fee associated with system installers will be increased from $25 to $50. This proposed fee adjustment is to reflect administrative costs associated with review and processing the application.

2. How do I obtain a Use Permit?

• Schedule an inspection for the On-site Wastewater Treatment Systems (OWTS) with a certified inspector and have the certified inspector complete the Use Permit Application.

  • Note: Certified inspectors are independent and do not work for Broomfield Public Health and Environment.

• Submit a copy of the completed inspection form with the Use Permit Application and the required fee.

• If deficient items were found during the inspection, repair the deficient item(s) and the certified inspector or owner will complete the Use Permit Deficiency Repair Verification Form documenting that the repairs were made.

3. Why did I receive a letter regarding the proposed On-site Wastewater Treatment Systems (OWTS)?

Owners of existing OWTS systems will be receiving a letter regarding the proposed OWTS regulation update. No action is needed unless any of the conditions noted in question #6 apply.  This letter is intended to provide information and the opportunity for public comment.

4. What else is being changed by the proposed regulation?

• Installers/Cleaners must be National Association of Wastewater Technician (NAWT) Certified or equivalent.

• Higher Level Treatment Systems are not allowed in the City and County of Broomfield.

• For new systems or repairs to existing systems, On-site Wastewater Treatment Systems (OWTS) that include electrical components must be reviewed and/or permitted by the Building Division.

• Documentation of waste disposal at a proper facility must be obtained by the system cleaner and provided if requested by the owner or the department.

• Standard residential occupancy for an OWTS includes two persons for up to four bedrooms.

5. Who is required to obtain a Use Permit?

The owner/seller of the property is required to obtain a Use Permit. If the owner/seller does not obtain a Use Permit prior to sale or change of ownership, the purchaser of the property will be required to obtain the Use Permit.

6. What circumstances require a Use Permit?

• Sale or change of ownership of the property served by an On-site Wastewater Treatment Systems (OWTS) per City and County of Broomfield OWTS Regulation.

• Change in use of the property.

  • For example, if the residence is converted into a business or commercial use.

• The addition of one or to two bedrooms to the home.

• The addition of a separate modular home to the existing OWTS.

• For all other circumstances, contact the Broomfield Public Health and Environment at 720.887.2220 or email publichealth@broomfield.org.

7. What are the next steps after I submit the Use Permit Application?

The application is reviewed by an environmental health specialist. If it's complete, the Use Permit is issued. If the inspection report indicates there are deficiencies, an environmental health specialist will contact the homeowner for additional guidance on next steps.

8. How do I find a certified inspector?

You can find a certified inspector online at the National Association of Wastewater Technicians. 

9. Who does the inspection and what does the certified inspector look for?

A certified inspector will perform the inspection. The certified inspector will evaluate the design and components of the On-site Wastewater Treatment System (OWTS) including, but not limited, to the septic tank, electrical connections, controls and pumps (if applicable), and the soil treatment area (drainfield).

10. What if the certified inspector identifies a problem with the On-site Wastewater Treatment Systems (OWTS)?

All deficiencies that are identified during the inspection need to be repaired before a Use Permit can be issued. If the deficiencies are minor and when all deficiencies noted in the inspection are repaired, then the certified inspector or owner will complete the Use Permit Deficiency Repair Verification Form. This will be submitted with the Use Permit Application.

If the deficiencies are major, the owner would need to submit an OWTS application.

11. What if the certified inspector determines the On-site Wastewater Treatment Systems (OWTS) is malfunctioning?

If the certified inspector determines the OWTS is malfunctioning, contact Public Health and Environment at 720.887.2220 or email publichealth@broomfield.org.

12. What does a Use Permit cost?

Currently, there is no fee; however, the proposed fee for the revised regulation is $100.