BASIC as a whole is interested in finding the best option for our neighborhood, whatever that turns out to be. While some members have opinions based on our research about which options will work best, we’re open to all options. If you think you can help with our research, please let us know!
Is the Los Osos sewer amenable to adding us?
We believe so based on our research. It was also not listed as a concern for Cabrillo estates, who have a larger number of properties.
Some people would have complicated sewer connections and I’m concerned!
We are too! We’re looking for the best solution for our neighborhood for the long term, and our research is ongoing. Due to continually changing regulations, it may still be less expensive (and more reliable and future-proof) to go with a complicated sewer connection than to upgrade your septic system. One of our next steps is to investigate the cost for example homes in our neighborhood.
Not everyone pays the same for sewer service in Los Osos already, how do we know what it would cost us to connect?
We’ve estimated using information in the research done by the Cabrillo Estates neighborhood, but we need to continue our research specific to our neighborhood. See our resources page for info on Cabrillo Estates research.
Is there a third option to install the sewer and let some people with functioning septic systems keep them until they fail, and then connect to it at that time? Or will we be compelled to connect once the mains are installed in the street?
We believe there could be options like this available, as we’ve seen other counties allowing delayed connection, though we aren’t yet sure how this could impact financing the project. We’d like to explore more about a third option and could use your help researching!
Can’t I just repair my septic system the way it is? My neighbor did!
California statewide regulations require that any system that fails and requires repair to meet the new regulations, which specifically disallow reusing an existing configuration. Once a system fails, you must have a new system designed by an engineer to comply with the LAMP. Any repairs done that do not comply with the LAMP may be required to comply with the LAMP upon discovery by the county. However, to avoid paying for two expensive options, the water board may consider exclusions IF our community agrees on a long-term solution such as connecting to the sewer (see SLO County’s LAMP for details, or the County’s FAQ page.
Can we lobby the legislature to allow us to install traditional septic systems because we’re a rural community with larger lot sizes?
The new regulations are California statewide, though Los Osos is subject to additional restrictions because of the degraded groundwater nitrate level. We aren’t sure if there is a way to lobby for traditional septic systems, but it does seem like there would be significant hurdles to do so. Furthermore, many lots in the neighborhood are not large enough according to the lamp, which considers 1 acre the minimum parcel size for a new conventional OWTS. In any case, this is not the primary direction we are currently researching, but if you’d like to research this and share your findings, please let us know.
What happens if my septic system fails and we decide to go with the sewer? Do I have to pay for both options?
Technically, yes, and that’s a major concern we share. If our community can come together and agree on a long term solution to connect to the sewer and your septic system system fails in the interim period, it’s more likely that the water board will approve temporary exemptions to repair them without full compliance to the LAMP. In the meantime, we shared tips to prolong the life of your existing septic system in our first presentation to help avoid that situation.
When do we have to comply with new septic regulations? Is there a deadline? What if we sell our house?
In the current LAMP, there is no deadline, and you do not have to comply as long as your current septic system remains functional. Once your system fails, and all systems eventually will, or if you make water-producing renovations to your home, you will be required to comply at that time. There is no requirement to comply if you sell your home, unless your system is found to have failed or is in the process of failing during an inspection, which is possible even if you don’t see outward signs of failure. For tips on prolonging the lifespan of your current system, see our recommendations in the slides above, which were compiled across several resources. You can also find additional resources on our resources page.
Is the Los Osos CSD involved or responsible for a solution?
Our CSD is not responsible nor does it have any authority over wastewater for Los Osos; however, they may be able to assist us with financing options, and this is something we need to research.
Are all parcels in the Bayview Heights neighborhood in the restricted zone?
Based on our interpretation of information contained in the SLO county LAMP, all OWTS in Los Osos will be subject to the same set of California statewide regulations.
Both the sewer and new OWTS systems are expensive, how can we afford this?
We agree, both options are expensive, and both options have ongoing costs to operate which are subject to increase, though the large expense for the sewer is more one-time than the new OWTS systems. It appears more straightforward to finance a sewer install than individual OWTS systems as well. This is an area where we could use your help researching!
What if you have a small parcel? How do you make these new regulations work for you?
Small parcels must install Supplemental Treatment Systems (STS), as they will not have space for a traditional leach system or its reserve area. Larger parcels may also have to install STS due to other regulations. Additionally, smaller parcels will struggle to find unused land to locate replacement leach systems with required reserve area, and may be subject to additional regulations or removal of trees/shrubs, landscaping and/or hardscaping (some have been told to install a permeable driveway using gravel, for instance). Any unpermitted buildings may be required to be removed to create space for the leach or reserve area.
Can’t a septic system last forever if you treat it properly?
Every septic system will fail at some point, though proper usage and maintenance can extend its lifespan significantly. See our resources page for more information on septic systems.
How do you know if your septic system has failed?
First, we have to advise that you speak to a licensed professional regarding your current system. The only way to know for sure is to have it inspected because it can fail without any visible problems, but there may be other signs you can look out for. Some telltale signs are if toilets stop flushing or wastewater backs up into your home (generally in the lowest elevation fixture like a bath tub), but your system can fail without any problems in the home, especially if you live on a slope. Look out for pooling sewage near the lids of your septic tank or any inspection ports for your leach system. Also, if you smell sewage, there is likely a problem. Lush grass in the leach area may also indicate an issue.
Generally, if you aren’t sure, don’t know where your system is located, or it’s been more than 3 years since anyone has inspected it, it’s recommended to call a professional.
How does a septic system work? Where does biodegrading happen, in the tank or the leach field?
How your septic system works depends on which type you have, but in general, primary wastewater treatment occurs in your septic tank where solids fall to the bottom and oils rise to the top. The soil in your leach field sometimes provides secondary treatment if it’s close enough to the surface of the soil, but sometimes provides little secondary treatment. Components like nitrates, which concern our community, are often sent to our groundwater due to lack of secondary treatment.
How loud are ATUs?
We couldn’t find any reliable information to answer this question yet. If you have more information, let us know!