Maintenance Notices

Our office is committed to upholding State Statute 145 and Administrative Code SPS 383 by implementing comprehensive maintenance and tracking programs for privately owned wastewater treatments systems, also known as "POWTS". As part of these efforts, we send out a substantial number of maintenance reminder notices (yellow postcards) to property owners each year.

 

Frequently Asked Questions

🏡 Septic System Maintenance

You received a notice… now what?

If you received a maintenance notice, your septic system needs to be serviced and reported by November 15.

That doesn’t mean you need to call today.
It does mean don’t wait until the last leaves fall and everyone else is scrambling 🍂


📅 What Should I Do Next?

1. Contact a licensed septic service provider

2. Ask if they’re already working in your area
You may be able to save on trip charges if your service is grouped with nearby properties.

3. Confirm what service will be performed
(Not all “maintenance” is the same… more on that below 👇)

4. Make payment after service
Your provider will submit the official report to the County after payment is received.

The County no longer accepts invoices from property owners. This ensures work is completed and properly reported.


Q: What should I do if I receive a notice but already had my system serviced?

A: If your system was pumped within the last 3 years:

  1. Contact the company first
    Ask them to report the service to our office (preferred method)


📍 Has My Maintenance Been Reported?

  • Around October 1, the County will post a list of properties with no report on file
  • This is a helpful way to check your status

After November 15:

  • Second notices will be issued
  • Remaining properties will move into the County’s standard enforcement process

Our goal is compliance, not penalties. Staying on schedule helps avoid additional steps.


Understanding Septic Maintenance

Q: Why do I need to maintain my septic system if everything seems to be working fine?

A: Septic systems require regular maintenance, even when there are no visible problems.

Think of it like changing the oil in your car. Even if you don’t drive often, oil still breaks down over time. Similarly, solids build up in your septic tank and components can wear down without warning.

Routine maintenance helps:

  • Prevent backups into your home
  • Catch small issues before they become costly failures
  • Keep your system working properly

Waiting until there’s a problem is almost always more expensive.

 

What Does “Maintenance” Actually Mean?

Not all service visits are created equal. Here’s how to think about it:

✅GOOD: Meet the Requirement

  • System is serviced within the 3-year timeframe (inspection or pumping)
  • Report is submitted to the County

✔ Keeps you compliant

✅✅BETTER: Do the Basics Right

Everything in “Good,” plus:

  • Tank is inspected, not just pumped
  • Baffles are checked
  • Effluent filter is cleaned (if applicable)
  • Technician confirms whether pumping is actually needed

✔ Helps prevent problems

✅✅✅BEST: Know Your System

Everything in “Better,” plus:

  • You review your system records or as-built
  • Maintenance follows your system’s specific design and needs
  • You ask questions and keep simple records

✔ Extends system life and saves money long-term

 

❓ Questions You Can Ask Your Service Provider ❓

A few simple questions can make a big difference:

  • “Does my system actually need pumping right now?”
  • “Did you check the tank condition and baffles?”
  • “Do I have a filter that needs cleaning?”
  • “Are there any early signs of issues?”
  • “How often should my specific system be serviced?”

🛠️ Before the Service Visit

A little prep can make your appointment smoother (and sometimes cheaper):

  • Locate and mark your tank (if known)
  • Make sure lids are accessible
  • Keep pets secured 🐾
  • Share any concerns (slow drains, odors, etc.)
  • Have past records handy, if available

Think of it as setting the stage for a successful visit.

 

⚠️ Septic Tank Safety

This one is important.

  • Tank covers must be secure and structurally sound
  • Loose or damaged lids can be a serious safety hazard
  • Open tanks pose risks to:
    • Children
    • Pets
    • Wildlife

If your lid isn’t secure, it’s not just maintenance… it’s safety.

 

Why Not Wait Until October?

You can… but here’s what tends to happen:

  • Schedules fill up quickly
  • Costs may increase
  • Service visits get rushed
  • Cold weather creeps in ❄️

Waiting too long can increase the risk of freezing, especially if your system is already due for maintenance.

 

Q: Does septic maintenance help protect my drinking water?

A: Yes. Many homes rely on groundwater for drinking water, and septic systems discharge to that same groundwater.

A failing system can contaminate:

  • Your well
  • Your neighbor’s well
  • Nearby lakes and streams

Proper maintenance is one of the simplest ways to protect your water supply.

 

🚫 What Not to Do

Improper discharge is not allowed

Pumping wastewater onto the ground surface is not permitted.

Untreated wastewater contains harmful:

  • Bacteria
  • Viruses
  • Parasites

This can:

  • Contaminate groundwater and wells
  • Impact neighboring properties
  • Create health risks for people and animals

What leaves your system doesn’t always stay on your property.

🐾 Why This Matters Beyond Your Yard

  • Pets and wildlife can come into contact with untreated wastewater
  • They can carry contaminants back into homes and neighborhoods
  • Surface discharge can harm local ecosystems and wildlife

 

Q: What are POWTS Maintenance Notices?

A: Maintenance notifications are sent out by our office to property owners with privately owned wastewater treatment systems (POWTS), also known as septic systems. These letters serve as reminders for property owners to schedule routine maintenance for their septic systems as required by State Statute 145 and Administrative Code SPS 383.

 

Q: Why did I receive a Maintenance Notice?

A: You received a Maintenance Notice because our records indicate that it's time for routine maintenance on your septic system. Regular maintenance is crucial for the proper functioning and longevity of your system, as well as for environmental and public health reasons.

 

Q: What if I am unable to fulfill either of the options mentioned above?

A: If you are unable to complete either of the steps mentioned in the yellow septic maintenance letter, you, as the landowner, are responsible for contacting a licensed individual to perform the required septic maintenance. It's essential to ensure that your septic system receives the necessary maintenance to prevent potential issues and maintain compliance with regulations.

 

Q: What happens if I ignore the Maintenance Notice?

A: Ignoring the maintenance notice can lead to issues such as system failure, environmental contamination, and potential legal consequences. It's essential to address the maintenance requirements promptly to ensure the proper functioning of your septic system and compliance with regulations.

 

Q: Can I be exempt from maintenance if my system isn’t being used?

A: Maintenance requirements still apply, but we recognize that each situation is different.

If your property is vacant or has very limited use, please contact our office to discuss your circumstances. We can review your system records and help determine appropriate next steps.

Note, Inactive septic system should still be evaluated periodically.

Over time:

  • Tanks can accumulate residual solids
  • Components can deteriorate

Ignoring maintenance entirely can lead to system issues that are more costly to fix later.

 

Q: What if I cannot afford maintenance right now?

A: Contact our office as soon as possible, early communication is important.

 

Q: Can I contact your office if I have further questions or need assistance?

A: Absolutely! If you have any further questions or need assistance regarding your POWTS system, please send an email to pandz@dunncountywi.gov or call us at 715-231-6520. We're here to help ensure the proper maintenance and functioning of your septic system.

 

Q: Who do I contact to pump my system? 
A:  Septic Pumpers Contact List

 

🌱 Why Septic Maintenance Matters

  • Protects your home investment
  • Prevents costly repairs or system failure
  • Protects groundwater and drinking water
  • Keeps your system working for decades

Your septic system is one of the most important systems on your property… it just happens to be out of sight.

 

🏡 Thinking About Selling Someday?

Septic maintenance records are one of the most commonly requested items by:

  • Realtors
  • Lenders
  • Potential buyers

A well-documented system can:

  • Help avoid delays during a sale
  • Reduce last-minute inspections or surprises
  • Show buyers your home has been properly cared for

On the flip side:

  • Missing records
  • Gaps in maintenance
  • Delayed reporting

…can raise red flags and potentially cost you time and money at closing


Q: Can I flush wipes down the toilet?

A: No. Even “flushable” wipes do not break down properly and can clog your system.

Always throw wipes in the trash.

 

Q: Where can I find information regarding what maintenance activities are necessary?

A: There are four main septic system types: Maintenance plans are specific to the type of system installed on your property.