Septic Systems

Learn how to be SepticSmart

Check out EPA's "Dos and Don'ts" of your septic system to protect your home, health, environment, and property value at www.epa.gov/septicsmart.

If you're one of the nearly 2,000 homeowners in Bothell with an onsite sewage system (OSS), use the resources on this page to learn how to maintain your system and how to identify warning signs that your system may need service.

  1. Septic system basics

Most septic systems are a simple design with a two-compartment tank and drain field. The septic tank is a watertight box, usually made of concrete or fiberglass, with an inlet and outlet pipe. The septic tank treats the wastewater by holding it in the tank long enough for solids and liquids to separate. 

Sludge and scum

Solids lighter than water (such as fats, oils, and grease) float to the top forming a layer of scum. Solids heavier than water settle at the bottom of the tank forming a layer of sludge. The layers of sludge and scum remain in the septic tank where bacteria found naturally in the wastewater work to break the solids down. The sludge and scum that can't be broken down are retained in the tank until it is pumped. 

Standard drain field 

A standard drain field is a series of trenches or a bed lined with gravel or course sand and buried 1' - 3' below the ground's surface. Perforated pipes or drain tiles run through the trenches to distribute the wastewater. The drain field treats the wastewater by allowing it to slowly trickle from the pipes out into the gravel and down through the soil.

Septic Drainfield

Caring for your septic system

There are many ways to extend the life and functionality of your septic system. Read the "Caring for your system" section on this page.

Have your septic system inspected

Your septic system needs an annual inspection and needs to be pumped at least every three years, or more frequently depending on what type of system you have and how you use it. Search for a septic system professional in your area.

Be smart when you hire a septic contractor

Check out the Labor & Industries website to learn how to "hire smart" and protect your home in the process.

Get a copy of your septic system as-built

Health departments often have septic system as-builts stored in a public database. Check your county's health department to see if yours is available.

Looking for other septic-related records? Please submit a public records request.

Septic systems glossary

EPA’s Glossary of Septic System Terminology contains terms commonly used in the wastewater treatment field and their definitions.

  1. How your system works
  1. Caring for your system
  1. Resource and guides
  1. Septic Care Dos and Don'ts

Questions about connecting to sewer in Bothell? 

Contact our Development Review Engineer.

Questions about maintaining your system? 

Contacting your local health district is the best place to start.

Sign up for City eNews

Stay informed about community news, events, and workshops. Sign up here!