Winter water table testing period now open

The winter water table testing period (WWTTP) for Santa Cruz County onsite wastewater treatment systems (OWTS) is officially open, running through March 13. This period is crucial for property owners considering development on previously undeveloped land, major remodels or repairs on properties served by an OWTS that could be susceptible to high groundwater levels. The length of the WWTT period may be extended with continued rainfall. 

“Determining groundwater levels is a critical constraining factor when designing an OWTS that meets current code standards,” Heather Reynolds, Environmental Health program manager, said in a news release. “We encourage residents to act now and participate in the Winter Water Table Testing Period to ensure the safety and compliance of their property.”

Property owners are strongly encouraged to arrange for multiple groundwater observations on their property during this testing period. Applications can be submitted until Friday for the current period.

Piezometer readings, required at the beginning, middle and end of the testing period, must be conducted by a qualified professional, who must submit the site evaluation application with a monitoring plan that is approved by county Environmental Health land-use staff. Property owners can find one through the updated list of qualified professionals on the Environmental Health website at scceh.org.

Those with an active winter water testing site evaluation application are encouraged to contact their Environmental Health land use district inspector to schedule readings. To schedule a reading or request further information, contact Landuse@santacruzcountyca.gov.