Some changes are coming to all septic system owners in the Tri-county area.

A new state program now requires people to have their septic systems checked. 

According to Colton Masters, The Director of Environmental health, there are more than 17,000 septic systems in Mahoning County. 

Due to this new program, owners will need to have someone come out and check their tank. 

Each system is put into specific level criteria and depending on which criteria you fall under, it will determine how much the cost is. 

About 14,000 residents fall under a level 1 system which is about 30 dollars a year. 

If you fall into a level two category, which is essentially a mechanical unit that does not fall under the EPA EPD discharging permit, a special permit that the EPA issues. If you're in this category, its 40 dollars per year.

The level 3 is the highest level and that is 125 dollars a year. The fee is over 100 because the county has to sample the system and it covers the lab fee.

It's aimed at protecting the surface and local waterways from contamination.

The county plans to have meetings starting on January 4th and 5th to explain the new program and answer any questions. 

Mahoning County sent cards to residents who have septic tanks regarding informational meetings.

If you can't attend the meetings in January, the presentation will be posted online on Mahoning County Public Health's Website.

If you have any questions, you can contact the Mahoning County Public Health at (330) 270-2855.