Florida Department of Health in Indian River Launches Septic Search 

Vero Beach, Fla.— Effective October 1, 2016, the Florida Department of Health in Indian River County’s septic system and water well permit documents will be available online to the public. Scanned site plans will be available for permits issued after January 1, 2000. Documents available for viewing include applications, permits, repair and existing system evaluations, site evaluations, and inspections.

Septic Search™ is a free web service available to Indian River County residents, contractors and realtors. This service will assist homeowners, buyers, sellers, contractors, and realtors in learning more about septic systems. This information includes the type and size of the septic tank and drainfield on the property, the location of the system, potential restrictions, and system maintenance.

Simply go to www.septicsearch.com and choose “Indian River County.” Then select “records search.” The most common search criteria is either the address or the tax parcel ID as listed by the Indian River County Property Appraiser. Once the property is found, select “view history” and then select “view” on which document you would like to review.

There are approximately 30,920 properties served by septic systems in Indian River County. With a conventional septic system, wastewater from toilets, sinks, baths and washing machines begins its initial treatment in the septic tank. Wastewater is further treated in the drainfield that can be constructed of gravel or other alternative products. Factors that affect proper function of a septic system include groundwater table, household water use, location of trees and vegetation, leaking plumbing, use of garbage disposals, dumping of fats or grease and stormwater runoff.

Cheryl Dunn, Environmental Manager, recommends that “septic system owners maintain their system by having them pumped out every three to five years depending on the number of people using the system.” Septic systems are sized based on two occupants per bedroom in a residential setting.

For more information, contact the Florida Department of Health in Indian River County Environmental Health at 772-794-7440.

About the Florida Department of Health

The department, nationally accredited by the Public Health Accreditation Board, works to protect, promote and improve the health of all people in Florida through integrated state, county and community efforts.

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