What does septic tank pumping involve in El Paso County?
Pumping removes the settled sludge and floating scum from each compartment of your septic tank. In El Paso County it has to be done by a company holding a systems cleaner license from El Paso County Public Health (EPCPH).
The county's Chapter 8 OWTS regulations (section 8.4.F.2, effective July 11, 2026; retrieved 2026-10-20) also require the cleaner to check the outlet tees and baffles, and to clean, repair or replace the effluent screen as needed. Within 7 days, the cleaner must report in writing any damaged outlet tee, or any system found malfunctioning. More about septic pumping →
Is my Colorado Springs-area home on a septic system?
If your property isn't served by a municipal sewer or a sanitation district, it almost certainly uses an onsite wastewater treatment system (OWTS), also called a septic system. EPCPH estimates that about 30,000 are operating in El Paso County (retrieved 2026-10-20).
The U.S. EPA lists some quick checks. Your utility bill may show a $0.00 sewer charge, or you may get no sewer bill at all. Your water line may have no meter, which suggests a private well. You may also see a septic access riser, usually about 10 feet from the house. Which parts of El Paso County use septic →
How often should a septic tank be pumped in Colorado Springs?
Every three to five years is typical for a household tank, according to the U.S. EPA. EPCPH recommends that conventional (TL1) systems be evaluated by a maintenance provider at least every 4 years (Chapter 8, section 8.14.C.2.c).
Advanced treatment systems run on a stricter schedule set by the county regulation. Full pumping-interval guide →
Do you need a septic inspection to sell a house in El Paso County?
No, not since July 11, 2026. EPCPH's 2026 program update says the property-sale inspection requirement was removed, and certified inspection reviews are now voluntary (retrieved 2026-10-20).
Septic inspections and home sales →
Do you need a permit to repair a drain field in El Paso County?
Yes. EPCPH requires a permit before any septic repair begins, and work on the drain field (the soil treatment area) is classed as a Major Repair under Chapter 8, section 8.4.B (retrieved 2026-10-24).
Soggy ground or sewage odors over the drain field are among the EPA's warning signs of a failing system. Drain field problems and repair →
What should you never flush on a septic system?
Anything other than human waste and toilet paper, according to the U.S. EPA (retrieved 2026-10-31). That rules out wipes, grease, coffee grounds, cat litter and household chemicals.
What not to flush or pour down the drain →
Who runs this site?
An independent information and referral project, not a septic company. We don't pump tanks and we aren't affiliated with El Paso County Public Health.