On the first of Jan. 2015, the State of Ohio updated their original septic rules for the first time since 1977. The new rules provide greater consistency across Ohio and much more protection for our water ways.
A total of 857 septic inspections were conducted in Stark County in 2015. Only 12% of the septic systems in Stark County were causing a public health nuisance or failing. An additional 9% had improperly discharging gray water and approximately 1/3 of the septic systems had minor issues that were given recommendations on how to improve the function or extend the longevity.
Lake township had the most inspections with a total of 161. Plain, Lawrence and Jackson townships followed at 86, 77 and 74 inspections.
Sugarcreek and Pike townships both had a failure rate of 28%. This is most likely due to the age of the septic systems in the township.
Bethlehem township had a failure rate of 0%. Marlboro was at a 2% failure rate and Plain township was at a 5% failure rate.