FAQs • Coconino County, AZ • CivicEngage

How often should I pump my septic tank?: How often you need to pump depends on the size of the tank, the number of people in the household, and the amount and type of solids. Generally, a septic tank should be pumped every 3 to 5 years. However, some alternative systems that are more complex may need pumping more frequently. If you are unsure if your tank needs pumping, have it inspected and get a recommendation for how many years you can go between pumping. Write this schedule down on a maintenance chart or where you keep your maintenance records and stick to it!

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Community Development - Environmental Quality

1. Can I reuse gray water in Coconino County?: In general, the County allows for gray water reuse, but all systems need to meet Arizona’s Dept. of Environmental Qualities requirements, as well as, the Gray water Guidelines from Coconino County Environmental Services. Coconino County Environmental Services Division reviews plans for waste water systems, including gray water. For more information and resources on gray water reuse, visit the water section on Sustainable Building Program’s website or contact Environmental Services for specific system information at (928) 679-8850.

2. Are composting toilets allowed in Coconino County?: Yes, they are a general permit that can be applied for in conjunction with a wastewater permit design.

3. Do I need to get a permit to make repairs to my septic system?: Yes. You can download the permit application from the Environmental Quality web page. (open the septic system application, under permit type, check the box for repair only) or contact our office for assistance (928) 679-8764.

4. How do I find out if a septic system on a property is permitted, the type and size of system, and if there are site plans or as-built drawings of the wastewater system?: Submit a Septic Information request. The form is available on the Environmental Quality web page under Transfer of Ownership. Fax, mail or bring the form into our office with payment for processing. There is an administrative fee for the septic information search. The fee is charged regardless of the file search results. File searches are processed in the order that they are received. Please allow 5-7 working days to process.

5. How often should I pump my septic tank?: How often you need to pump depends on the size of the tank, the number of people in the household, and the amount and type of solids. Generally, a septic tank should be pumped every 3 to 5 years. However, some alternative systems that are more complex may need pumping more frequently. If you are unsure if your tank needs pumping, have it inspected and get a recommendation for how many years you can go between pumping. Write this schedule down on a maintenance chart or where you keep your maintenance records and stick to it!

6. If I install a gray water system do I still need a wastewater system?: Yes, a full size wastewater system must be installed to dispose of all wastewater produced during non-watering months.