The regulatory framework for installing septic systems, holding tanks and other systems designed to handle
domestic wastewater is provided by the Wisconsin Uniform Plumbing Code and Wood County #702 Private Sewage
System Ordinance. Maintenance requirements vary based on the type of system that is installed and the
individual household waste strength and volume. The Wood County Planning & Zoning Office is the County
agency responsible for the regulation and inspection of septic systems as well as the issuance of sanitary
permits and any code enforcement that may be required.
The Department of Planning and Zoning can be contacted at (715) 421-8466
with any questions regarding the sanitary program. Specific information
on sanitary permits and maintenance is detailed below.
Sanitary Permit Information
The purpose of the sanitary permit is to allow installation, repair or alteration
of the septic system as described on the approved permit application. The life
expectancy of your septic system will be enhanced with knowledgeable soil testing,
site specific design and quality installation. The soil and groundwater conditions
reported on the soil test for the property form the basis for a sanitary permit
application, as do any plans submitted along with the application.
The Private Onsite Waste Treatment Systems (POWTS) Inventory and Soils GIS map layers, for
reference purposed only, can be found at Wood County Land Records Viewer.
Forms
Financial Assistance Program
The Wisconsin Fund Replacement or Rehabilitation Financial Assistance Program is a State-funded program which provides grants
to homeowners and owners of small businesses that need to replace a failing private onsite wastewater treatment system.
Please contact the Planning and Zoning Department for other grant opportunities that may be available at (715) 421-8466.
Septic Maintenance
The purpose of the maintenance program is to maintain inspection and pumping information
for all systems and to encourage proper system maintenance that contributes to protecting
groundwater and surface water quality. Protecting your investment with good maintenance
will ensure that you as owner can avoid costly repairs in the future. The most important
reason to complete septic system maintenance is to keep your family and the environment
safe by preventing harmful pathogens and bacteria from entering the water table or ground
surface.