Confirm the county steps before agreeing to septic work.

Start with the proposed scope

Describe the component under discussion and the work the provider recommends. A maintenance visit, a connecting-pipe repair, a drainfield alteration and a replacement system are different proposals. Ask the county to classify the actual work rather than relying on a general description such as septic repair. Have the property address or parcel information and any existing permit number ready.

Separate design review, permit issuance and inspection

Kittitas County publishes an onsite-sewage process covering site evaluation, design, permit issuance and final inspection. Its guidance distinguishes approval of a design from issuance of an installation permit. Use that distinction when asking what must happen before the proposed work can start. The applicable path for an existing-system repair needs confirmation from the county.

Put the unanswered questions in writing

Ask the provider and county to identify the required forms and who will handle each step. Keep the response with the proposal so both parties are discussing the same scope.

• Which approval or permit, if any, applies to this specific work?
• Who submits the application, design and supporting records?
• What are the current fees, expiration dates and renewal conditions?
• Which inspections must be arranged, and what completion records will you receive?

Gather existing septic records · Compare the proposed work

Use the county’s current documents

Open forms through the county’s onsite-sewage page and confirm current instructions directly with Public Health. Do not treat a contractor’s estimate, an older checklist or this website as permit approval. This resource helps prepare the conversation; the county determines the requirements for the individual project.