Island County Public Health Department

Island County Public Health Department We promote the health and well-being of our unique island communities.

We promote the health and well-being of our unique island communities.

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Whether your septic system needs repair, replacement, or an upgrade, or you’re looking to add square footage, a bedroom,...
09/07/2026

Whether your septic system needs repair, replacement, or an upgrade, or you’re looking to add square footage, a bedroom, or an accessory dwelling unit (ADU), you must submit a permit for any septic system change.

Adding to or repairing any major component of the system, such as the tank(s) or drainfield, requires a permit from the County.

A permit is required for:
- Installing a new system or adding a new tank
- Repairing, replacing, or modifying the drainfield
- Tank repair or replacement
- Connecting a new structure to the existing system or adding a new bedroom to your home (ex: ADU, shop)

A permit is not required, but professional service is recommended for:
- Water-tight tank riser installation
- Replacing a failed sewage pump or alarm panel (like-for-like)
- Fixing a broken transport line and not a drainfield lateral
- Replacing an outlet baffle or the distribution box
- Installing monitoring ports or an effluent filter

One of the easiest ways to protect your investment is to ensure you always choose a licensed septic professional to work on your system. Always contact a licensed septic designer before making a change to your septic system.

To learn about Island County’s septic permitting process, check out our educational brochure: https://www.islandcountywa.gov/DocumentCenter/View/9841/Septic-Permitting-Process?bidId=

Labor Day originated in the late 19th century as a celebration of the American labor movement and the contributions of w...
09/07/2026

Labor Day originated in the late 19th century as a celebration of the American labor movement and the contributions of workers to our nation's strength and prosperity.

In honor of the holiday, our offices will be closed on Monday, September 7th.

In the 2024 Community Health Assessment (CHA), community members from across our islands identify an opportunity for us ...
09/06/2026

In the 2024 Community Health Assessment (CHA), community members from across our islands identify an opportunity for us to coordinate the thousands of resources available in our county.

From there, Island County Public Health began designing the Thrive Island County Resource Guide.

Thrive is an interactive resource directory with health promotion and education woven throughout the website. This provides islanders with information to guide their health journey and direct access to local resources in order to address their needs.

To browse the Thrive Island County Resource Guide, visit the website: https://thrive.islandcountywa.gov/

Make sure you bookmark this website, new resources will be added as they come available!

Did you know that the first significant rainfall of the year is called a “first flush”? During this first rainfall, wate...
09/05/2026

Did you know that the first significant rainfall of the year is called a “first flush”? During this first rainfall, water washes significant levels of pollution off of streets and driveways into storm drains that empty into our streams, lakes, and marine environment.

Everyone in Island County can help improve water quality by taking action before the “first flush” to reduce the amount of pollution being carried downstream and into Puget Sound:

Get your Septic System Inspected: Major cracks can allow sewage to seep into the groundwater. An inspection can also ensure that rainwater seeping into the ground cannot infiltrate your pipe, backing up your system.

Pick up Pet Waste in Your Yard: Rainwater carries bacteria from dog p**p to nearby creeks and streams. The bacteria from pet waste can end up in shellfish, making people sick and water unsafe to drink.

Avoid Excessive Lawn Nutrient Use: Too many nutrients from excess fertilizers or animal waste can contribute to algal blooms, reducing the oxygen levels in the water and impacting the survival of fish and other aquatic life.

Dispose of Household Chemicals: Properly store or dispose of fertilizers, paints, or chemicals so they don’t end up in the storm drains. Fix oil leaks and clean up after any spills.

Consider building a rain garden to collect, absorb and filter stormwater from rooftops, driveways, and paved areas.

To learn more about rain gardens, follow this link: https://extension.wsu.edu/raingarden/

Did you know that 1 in 6 Americans experience foodborne illness every year? Follow these safety tips to keep you and you...
09/04/2026

Did you know that 1 in 6 Americans experience foodborne illness every year?

Follow these safety tips to keep you and your family safe:

- Clean: Wash hands with soap and warm water for at least 20 seconds, and regularly wash cutting boards, utensils, counters, fruits, and vegetables.
- Separate: Keep raw meat, poultry, seafood, and eggs away from other foods, and use separate cutting boards when possible to prevent cross-contamination.
- Cook: Use a food thermometer rather than relying on colour or texture to make sure foods reach a safe internal temperature.
- Chill: Refrigerate perishable foods within 2 hours (or within 1 hour when it’s above 90°F/32°C), and thaw foods safely in the refrigerator, cold water, or microwave — not on the counter.

For more information, visit the Food and Drug Administration website: https://www.fda.gov/food/buy-store-serve-safe-food/safe-food-handling

It’s Newborn Screening Awareness Month!Did you know the Washington State Newborn Screening Program tests infants for 35 ...
09/03/2026

It’s Newborn Screening Awareness Month!

Did you know the Washington State Newborn Screening Program tests infants for 35 rare but serious health conditions?

From PKU to cystic fibrosis, catching these disorders early opens the door to lifesaving treatments.

The process is simple:
- A quick blood spot test at 24 hours of life
- A second test at 7–14 days to optimize disease detection

While this public health initiative isn't mandated, it is an essential step for preventive care. Screening significantly reduces risk through early intervention, giving your little one the healthiest start possible.

09/02/2026

It's Protect Your Groundwater Day!

Groundwater Protection Day is a great reminder of just how critical our local water supply is—especially here in Island County.

Because most of our community relies on water that comes directly from the underground natural reservoirs beneath our feet, consider taking simple steps today to protect our groundwater for generations to come!

For more information about Drinking Water in Island County, please visit our website: https://www.islandcountywa.gov/658/Drinking-Water

WIND ADVISORY – ISLAND COUNTYThe National Weather Service (NWS) has issued a Wind Advisory for Island County for Wednesd...
09/02/2026

WIND ADVISORY – ISLAND COUNTY
The National Weather Service (NWS) has issued a Wind Advisory for Island County for Wednesday, September 2, from 2 AM until 8 PM.

FORECAST
• Sustained winds of 15–25 mph
• Wind gusts up to 40 mph

POSSIBLE IMPACTS
• Downed tree limbs and wind-blown debris
• Scattered power outages
• Possible disruptions to regional ferry service

Residents are encouraged to secure loose outdoor items, use caution while traveling, and be prepared for possible power outages.

The Island County Department of Emergency Management (DEM) is monitoring the system and any potential impacts.

Please report significant weather-related incidents, road blockages, or infrastructure damage to the appropriate authorities.

Winter is coming; that means inclement weather, king tides, and high winds. This post is a reminder that emergencies can...
09/01/2026

Winter is coming; that means inclement weather, king tides, and high winds. This post is a reminder that emergencies can happen at any time, and we have a responsibility to our families and community to be prepared! From natural disasters to unexpected emergencies, having a plan in place can make all the difference.

Start with small actions:
Make a family emergency kit. Don’t forget your pets!
Build a supply kit; aim for two weeks of preparation if you can.
Stay informed and sign up for local alerts.

Because of our island geography, it may take time for outside help to arrive. Being prepared helps to ensure that you can stay safe and self-sufficient when it matters the most.

Learn more and get started by visiting the county website: https://www.islandcountywa.gov/327/Public-Health-Emergency-Preparedness-Res

(https://www.facebook.com/IslandEmergencyManagement)

Respiratory virus season, which spans November through April, is just around the corner! Now’s the time to start prepari...
08/31/2026

Respiratory virus season, which spans November through April, is just around the corner!

Now’s the time to start preparing for the upcoming cold and flu season. Swipe to learn more about respiratory viruses, the importance of vaccination, and the science behind keeping our vaccines safe and effective.

Do you have questions about respiratory virus season or getting vaccinated? Visit https://www.islandcountywa.gov/1072/Immunizations

For more information about Respiratory Illness in Island County, please click here: https://www.islandcountywa.gov/825/Respiratory-Illnesses
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Este es el momento de empezar a prepararse para la temporada de virus respiratorios que se avecina. Deslice el dedo para informarse más sobre los virus respiratorios, la importancia de vacunarse y los datos científicos que demuestran que las vacunas son seguras y eficaces.

¿Tiene preguntas sobre la temporada de virus respiratorios o sobre si debe vacunarse? Consulte https://www.islandcountywa.gov/1072/Immunizations

Address

1 NE 7th Street
Coupeville, WA
98239

Telephone

+13606785111

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