PREPROPOSAL STATEMENT OF INQUIRY
Subject of Possible Rule Making: Chapter 246-272C WAC, a new chapter establishing standards for sewage (septic) tanks. WSR 04-03-010 listed standards for large on-site sewage systems (LOSS) and sewage tanks as the subject of possible rule making. This statement of inquiry establishes a separate rule making for sewage tank standards. The LOSS rule making will continue under WSR 04-03-010.
Statutes Authorizing the Agency to Adopt Rules on this Subject: RCW 43.20.050.
Reasons Why Rules on this Subject may be Needed and What They Might Accomplish: Under recently adopted on-site sewage system rules, chapter 246-272A WAC, sewage tanks must be reviewed and approved by the department of health (DOH). Chapter 246-272C WAC will establish criteria for the approval of sewage tanks. Currently there are design criteria and standards for sewage tanks in guidance. DOH finds this guidance should be placed in rule to be enforceable as intended under chapter 246-272A WAC.
Other Federal and State Agencies that Regulate this Subject and the Process Coordinating the Rule with These Agencies: None.
Process for Developing New Rule: DOH and the state board of health will seek the input of interested parties into the development of these rules. Most communication will be electronic and through mailings. Please contact the individuals listed below to participate.
Interested parties can participate in the decision to adopt the new rule and formulation of the proposed rule before publication by contacting Mamdouh El-Aarag, Department of Health, 1500 West 4th Avenue, Suite 403, Spokane, WA 99204, (509) 456-2754, el-aarag.mamdouh@doh.wa.gov; and Ned Therien, State Board of Health, P.O. Box 47990, Tumwater, WA 98504, (360) 236-4103, ned.therien@doh.wa.gov.
February 24, 2006
Craig McLaughlin
Executive Director