Navigating the process of obtaining permits for septic systems in St. Johns County, Florida, might seem daunting. Understanding where to begin your St Johns County Permit Search and who to contact is crucial for homeowners and contractors alike. This guide provides essential information regarding septic system permits in St. Johns County, ensuring you have the resources to proceed smoothly.
Understanding Florida’s OSTDS Program and St. Johns County
As of July 1, 2021, the administration of Florida’s Onsite Sewage Treatment and Disposal Systems (OSTDS) program transitioned to the Florida Department of Environmental Protection (DEP). This change is a result of Florida’s Clean Waterways Act of 2020. It’s important to note that while the DEP now oversees the program at the state level, local county health departments, including in St. Johns County, continue to manage the permitting and inspection processes for septic tanks. Therefore, for all your St Johns County permit search and septic-related needs, your primary point of contact remains the local health department.
This system ensures that septic systems are correctly designed, built, and maintained, which is vital for protecting groundwater quality. Groundwater is the source of 90% of Florida’s drinking water, making proper wastewater disposal through OSTDS a critical public health and environmental concern.
How to Conduct Your St Johns County Permit Search
When initiating your St Johns County permit search, remember these key steps and resources:
- St. Johns County Health Department is Your Starting Point: For any permitting inquiries, applications, or to check the status of a permit, the St. Johns County Health Department is the office to contact. They handle the local administration of septic system permits.
- Contact Information: To find the specific contact details for the St. Johns County Health Department, you can utilize the DOH location finder provided by the Florida Department of Health. This tool will help you locate the relevant office and their contact information.
- Online Bill Pay: For environmental health bills and fees related to your septic permit, you can conveniently use the online bill pay system. This online portal offers a streamlined way to manage payments associated with your St Johns County permit search and application process.
Important Updates: Private Provider Inspections
For those seeking more flexibility in the inspection process, as of July 1, 2022, Florida law allows the option to hire a private provider to conduct OSTDS inspections. This option is available to property owners or authorized contractors in St. Johns County. The DEP has implemented this new law, and further details can be found on the DEP’s website regarding private provider inspections for OSTDS. While this is an option, remember that the initial permitting process still begins with the St. Johns County Health Department.
Operating Permits for Specific Systems
It’s worth noting that operating permits are required for certain types of septic systems. These typically include:
- Aerobic Treatment Units (ATU)
- Performance Based Treatment Systems (PBTS)
- Commercial Septic Systems
- Industrial or Manufacturing Zoned Septic Systems
If your St Johns County permit search relates to one of these system types, ensure you inquire about the specific operating permit requirements during your application process with the St. Johns County Health Department.
Conclusion
Successfully navigating the St Johns County permit search for septic systems involves understanding the roles of both the Florida DEP and the local St. Johns County Health Department. By directing your initial inquiries and permit applications to the St. Johns County Health Department and utilizing the provided online resources for contact information and bill payment, you can efficiently manage your septic system permitting needs. Remember to consult the relevant websites for the most up-to-date information and any changes to regulations or procedures.
