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The Montgomery County Department of Permitting Services (DPS) has released a new podcast episode, “Septic System Basics,” that explains how proper septic system maintenance can help homeowners avoid costly repairs and protect both the environment and public health. The episode coincides with SepticSmart Week, Sept. 14 – 18, an annual educational campaign spearheaded by the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA).
Approximately 20,000 properties in Montgomery County rely on septic systems for wastewater disposal, and DPS is responsible for conducting soil testing and issuing permits for septic systems. Beginning Sept. 14, the Department of Environmental Protection will offer a $100 rebate program to help homeowners cover the cost of pumping their septic tanks. To receive the rebate, homeowners must submit a digital copy of the septic hauler’s invoice within 90 days of the service. The invoice must include the date the tank was pumped. Homeowners are eligible for the rebate once every five years. Questions about the program may be emailed to waterandsewer@montgomerycountymd.gov.
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The new podcast episode is hosted by DPS Division Chief Gail Lucas and features DPS Well and Septic Section Manager Heidi Benham, who leads a team of environmental health specialists responsible for plan reviews and inspections. “Our role is to protect people’s health and to protect the environment,” said Benham. “We are protecting the groundwater and making sure septic systems are installed and designed properly to prevent groundwater contamination from sewage.”
During the episode, Lucas and Benham explain how septic systems work, how homeowners can determine whether their property uses one, and why they may need to contact DPS. They also discuss septic tank pumping and system lifespans, what homeowners should avoid putting down toilets and sinks, and which records prospective homebuyers should request before purchasing a property with a septic system.
Benham recommends pumping a septic tank every three to five years, depending on the system’s size and the number of people living in the home. She emphasized that regular maintenance is essential. Homeowners should also contact DPS before beginning projects such as home additions to ensure the proposed work is permitted based on the septic system’s size and location.
Residents can subscribe to the DPS podcast on major platforms, including Amazon Music, Apple Podcasts, and Spotify, or watch episodes on the County’s YouTube channel. The program also airs on County Cable Montgomery at 6:15 p.m. on Tuesdays. Listeners who have questions or ideas for future DPS Podcast episodes should email dps.podcast@montgomerycountymd.gov.
On Monday, Sept. 14, the National Onsite Wastewater Recycling Association (NOWRA) will host a free webinar on how septic systems work, with tips for proper use and maintenance. Register online.
The Montgomery County Department of Environmental Protection (DEP) website provides additional information and guidance on septic system care and maintenance. The https://www.epa.gov/septic also has educational resources. Earlier this month, Benham discussed the importance of septic system maintenance on https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=9JP6fxCuo_I.
To report a septic system problem or failure, contact the DPS Well and Septic section by calling MC 311 or 240-777-0311. Financial assistance may be available through the Bay Restoration Fund for those who need to replace a failing septic system.
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Visit the DPS website for more information about septic systems and other online services, including how to apply for permits, schedule inspections, check a permit’s status, request records, file a property complaint, and schedule a design consultation.
DPS offices are located at 2425 Reedie Drive, Seventh Floor, in Wheaton. The customer service lobby is open from 7:30 a.m. to 4 p.m. weekdays, with no appointment required.
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Media Contact: Sonya Burke, 240-855-9813, sonya.burke@montgomerycountymd.gov
Read the original article at mcgov
