If your parcel is within the jurisdiction of the District, the Application for Building Permit must be reviewed and endorsed by District staff. Please check the following to avoid unnecessary delays to your project.
Before the release of the Application for a Building Permit, the following requirements must be met:
New single-family residence or commercial facility
The property owner must obtain a construction and discharge permit for an Onsite Wastewater Treatment System (OWTS) from the District. Contact the District office for the appropriate forms and fee schedule.
Adding conditioned footprint to an existing structure
The District defines this as new construction (see definition below) and requires that the OWTS meet the current Title IV: Onsite Wastewater Treatment System Regulations. Variances to this provision can be applied for if the current system is an engineered system, is in excellent operating condition, and if the residence will not exceed the square footage limitations defined by the size of the current system. The variance procedure as indicated in Title IV requires both San Francisco Regional Water Quality Control Board review and District Board approval. If a variance is granted, the applicant must demonstrate that the system functions as designed.
Remodels that do not increase footprint of conditioned space
The District defines this as alterations and additions that do not constitute new construction. It requires that the OWTS must be found to be adequate for the residence, to be in good working condition, and not jeopardize public health or safety. An evaluation of the OWTS will be required. A qualified professional, usually a civil engineer or registered environmental health specialist, must conduct this evaluation.
Determination of whether or not a system substantially complies with this code is within the joint discretion of the District Engineer and General Manager.
If District staff is required to go to the county offices for sign-off of plans, a Plan Check fee will be appended to the applicant's next water bill (this sign-off fee is included in the construction permit fee).