Wastewater

The Rockland County Department of Health (RCDOH) regulates all phases of wastewater disposal in Rockland, including reviewing and approving engineering plans sewer main extensions (public and private), new and repairs to existing individual subsurface disposal systems, private collection systems, as well as inspecting municipal wastewater treatment plants, investigating wastewater complaints and spills.

Applications

• Sanitary Sewer Main Extension Application Instructions
• Wastewater Disposal System (SAN-5)

Guides & Resources

• 10 States Standards
• NYS Design Standards for Intermediate Sized Wastewater Treatment Systems

Septic System Design and Installation

Septic system/Subsurface disposal system requirements:

• RCDOH to assesses site conditions performed with property owner's engineer 
• System plans are designed by a Licensed Professional Engineer or Registered Architect
• RCDOH reviews and approves system plans
• RCDOH inspects installation

Applications

Guides & Resources

• Appendix 75-A- for residential systems
• EPA Homeowner's Guide to Septic Systems- septic system functions and maintenance
• NYS Design Standards- for non-residential systems
• Residential Onsite Wastewater Treatment Design Handbook- from NYSDOH
• Rockland County Sanitary Code, Article IV- Waste Facilities and Disposal
• Septic System Operation and Maintenance- from NYSDOH

Septic System Failures

When a septic system fails, pollutants such as nitrogen, phosphorus, and disease-causing bacteria and viruses can end up in our streams and water bodies. The EPA Homeowners Guide to Septic Systems provides information on properly maintaining your septic system and avoiding costly repairs or replacement. If your septic system is not functioning properly,  RCDOH can provide guidance; please call 845-364-2656. Note: RCDOH approval is required for all repairs.

Sewage Overflows

Overflowing manholes are  often caused by blockages from wipes, grease or debris that do not belong in the public sewer system. Overflows usually result in untreated sewage entering our streams and waterways. Do not flush wipes (even if labeled as flushable), diapers, rags, etc. down the toilet or pour grease down the sink.

If you see an overflowing manhole, call the local Town or Village since the systems are usually maintained by the municipality. After hours, call the local police department.

To report a spill of any type, call the New York State Dept. of Environmental Conservation Spill Hotline at 1-800-457-7362.

To report a sewage concern use our confidential complaint form or call 845-364-2656.

Sewage Treatment Plant Inspections

There are 6 major Sewage Treatment Plants in Rockland County. These plants are regulated under a State Pollutant Discharge Elimination System (SPDES) permit issued by the New York State Dept. of Environmental Conservation (NYSDEC)  and inspected by the RCDOH to ensure compliance with their SPDES permit.