A Reminder to Some of the Los Osos Community

Portions of the Los Osos community remain on septic systems.  It is the owner's responsibility to maintain and use their septic system properly.  Household wastewater exits your home through a pipe to the septic tank and that wastewater flows to the drainfield where it percolates into the soil.  If the amount of wastewater entering the system is more than it can handle, wastewater backs up into the house or yard and creates a health hazard.

Keeping your septic system working properly is a wise investment for economic, human health and environmental reasons.  What goes down your drain can have a major impact on how well the septic system works.

Maintenance Tips

• conserve water
• fix leaks
• install new "low flow" fixtures when replacing old ones
• do not overload the system
• direct down spouts and runoff away from the septic field
• do not plant trees over the septic tank
• do not drive or park vehicles over the area
• pump your tank every two to five years
• hire a professional to pump the waste

Do Not Pour Down The Drain

These items can stress or destroy the biological treatment taking place in the system or might contaminate surface and groundwaters:

• paints
• acids
• oils
• gasoline
• solvents
• pesticides
• antifreeze
• household chemicals
• drain cleaners (some indicate on the label if safe for septic systems)
• bleach in large quantities
• grease

Do Not Flush Down The Toilet

• adult wipes
• clothing
• diapers
• baby wipes
• grease
• feminine hygine products
• condoms
• kitty litter
• coffee grinds
• fats
• dental floss
• cotton swabs
• cigarette butts
• paper towels 
• DO NOT FLUSH any other kitchen or bathroom items that can clog and potentially damage septic system components if they become trapped.