Printable version of Project Review Guidelines
Proposed projects with Chelan or Douglas Counties may require health district review. Properties that have onsite septic systems are of primary concern and the proposed projects are evaluated to determine the impact to the existing septic system and reserve drainfield areas. These CDHD reviews are accomplished with our Project Review Application, which may be submitted through our online portal, SmartGov.
The most common examples of projects that require health district review are new residential swimming pools, garages, shops, and home remodels that expands the footprint.
A site plan and floor plan (if applicable) are the minimum required submittals with our Project Review Application. The site plan should include the proposed building, structure, or pool and the existing onsite septic system (septic tank, drainfield, septic transport lines), the reserve drainfield area (if designated), domestic well (if applicable) and water lines.
The County Building Department will reference our Project Review Guidelines to determine if your project will require CDHD Review.
Please note that new home construction, Accessory Dwelling Units (ADU’s), and other structures that will have plumbing will require septic permits and have a separate application.
For questions or assistance with the Project Review Application contact our support staff at 509-886-6400 or ehsupport@cdhd.wa.gov.
CDHD PROJECT REVIEW GUIDELINES
1. BUILDING PERMIT APPLICATIONS THAT REQUIRE CDHD REVIEW
NEW HOME – Septic Permit or Connection Permit required.
ADU– Accessory Dwelling Unit – Septic Permit or Connection Permit required.
SHOP/GARAGE/POOL HOUSE with bathroom (plumbing) – no bedrooms – Septic Permit or Connection Permit required.
Note: Connections to septic systems > 2 years old will require an O&M Septic System Inspection.
Note: Commercial Building Projects are typically reviewed by CDHD through Land Use Reviews.
HOME REMODEL – Adding bedroom(s) – Project Review required, if septic system not adequately sized will require a Septic System Expansion Permit.
Refer client to CDHD SmartGov Portal for permit application process.
2. BUILDING PERMIT APPLICATIONS THAT MAY REQUIRE CDHD REVIEW BASED ON
MINIMUM LAND AREA AVAILABLE.
If water supply is public water source – lots <0.5 acres will require project review.
If water supply is private water source – lots <1.0 acres will require project review.
List of Projects that will require a project review if minimum lot size criteria not met.
POOL CONSTRUCTION
SHOP/GARAGE/POOL HOUSE – no plumbing
HOME REMODEL – No additional bedroom(s) – original footprint expanded
3. BUILDING PERMIT APPLICATIONS THAT WILL NOT REQUIRE CDHD REVIEW
The above listed projects that meet minimum lot size criteria.
HOME REMODELS – same footprint
DECKS
DOCKS
FENCES
Other structures not listed above at the discretion of the County.
For Building Permit Applications that do not require CDHD review please add the following disclaimer to the application:
“Health District requires placement of structure to meet minimum setbacks from all septic system components and designated
reserve drainfield areas.”
Reference WAC 246-272A-0210.
