San Diego County sets the septic rules
The city doesn't issue septic permits or set the sale-inspection and installer rules, because the county health department handles all three. San Diego County's septic program has run under a new LAMP since February 1, 2025..
- Who permits septic systems
- County of San Diego Department of Environmental Health and Quality (DEHQ), Land and Water Quality Division, Land Use Program; onsite systems counter at 5500 Overland Ave, Suite 110; Duty Desk (858) 565-5173; Septic Inspection Line (858) 694-2553.
- Inspection at sale
- No rule found in the county's published code
- Permit steps
- Forms (new or updated effective Feb 1, 2025): OWTS Layout Report, Percolation Test Permit Application, Percolation Test Results, Septic Repair Authorization, Septic Installation Permit Application, Covenant Agreement, OWTS Professional Registration. Supplemental treatment systems need percolation testing and a design from an OWTS Professional holding a license; slopes over 25% need a slope stability report or statement from a civil engineer or geologist holding a license.