Environmental Health

Environmental Health Specialist- Ben Huntley

2105 Main Street

PO Box 271

Emmetsburg, IA 50536

Office Phone:  712-852-3058

Fax:  712-852-4307

email: bhuntley@emmetcounty.iowa.gov

 

Soil  Absorption System

LINKS

Watershed Septic Improvement Grant Application

• • Watershed Septic Improvement Grant funding is provided by the Palo Alto County Gaming Development Corporation
• Septic Permit Application:  Complete prior to installation or repair of the system.
  • Fillable Form: Palo Alto Septic Permit application Form
• Iowa Code: Chapter 69: Onsite Wastewater Treatment and Disposal 
• Septic System Treatment Overview Booklet
• Iowa DNR Septic Info
• EPA Septic Systems

 

Prior to a septic system installation, the Environmental Health Specialist will conduct a site evaluation and determine design standards based on the soil type and the number of bedrooms in the home.  The purpose of this program is to protect surface and groundwater from contamination of human sewage. Human sewage carries many harmful pathogens that may cause people to become ill or even die.

Time of Transfer 

Effective July 1, 2009, Iowa law requires that every home/building served by a septic system have that septic system inspected prior to the sale or deed transfer for the home/building. The purpose of the law is to eliminate sub-standard or polluting septic systems.

• TOT Binding agreement for weather delayed inspection
• TOT Binding agreement for demolition
• TOT Binding agreement for a future installation
• List of Certified Time of Transfer Inspectors

Onsite Wastewater Assistance Program (OSWAP) The Onsite Wastewater Assistance Program (OSWAP) offers low-interest loans through participating lenders to rural homeowners for the replacement of inadequate or failing septic systems.  Loan terms start at $2,000 up to 10 years with a 3% fixed interest rate.

• Obtain a septic construction permit from the county environmental health department.
• Complete an OSWAP approval form which is completed through the county environmental health department.
• Apply for a loan through a participating lender. Please note, lenders may become a participating lender by following the simple steps provided here.
• Hire a septic contractor to complete the approved project.