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Household Sewage Treatment Systems Program Status
The new household sewage treatment rules that have been in effect since January 1, 2007 were immediately repealed when Governor Strickland signed the new budget bill on June 30 th. The bill essentially returned the State of Ohio back to the previous sewage regulations of 1977. The only major aspects of the new code to survive were the requirement of NPDES permits for discharging systems and the continued management of small flow on-site sewage treatment systems by local health departments. The 1977 sewage code does allow for local health departments to create more stringent standards by using the state rules as a baseline. The Stark County Health Department adopted new county regulations at the July 11 th board meeting, using the 2007 rules as a guideline. The new county rules are a hybrid of science based treatment systems that consider the economical impact of system installation . These regulations will help to provide stability to our sewage treatment industry and community until a revised set of State rules are introduced in 2009. The new rules can be viewed online here.
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Smoke Free Ohio: A Year Later
The smoke has lifted from our local bars, restaurants and businesses. Now a full year after the Smoke Free Workplace Law has been in affect we have all seen the benefit of dining in a smoke free environment. Local businesses have also enjoyed cleaner indoor air quality. Businesses are required to ban smoking indoors to protect to health of their employees.
Here in Stark County compliance has gone very well, with only a few exceptions. By the end of 2007 the Stark County Health Department had received over 300 complaints on 158 establishments. Of course many of us thought bars and restaurants would produce the majority of the complaints, but that just wasn’t the case. Out of the 158 establishments only half were bars and restaurants. The other half was local businesses including: gas stations, manufacturing plants, and stores. The complaints taken by the report hotline has launched 235 cases. Our Sanitarians have conducted on-site investigations for all cases. Even though our investigations are ongoing, to date our investigations have resulted in:
- 67 Establishments found 1st Violation/Letter of Warning
- 21 Establishments 2nd Violation/$100 Fine level
- 7 Establishments 3rd Violation/$500 fine level
- 2 Establishment 4th Violation/$1,000 fine level
- 1 Establishment 5th Violation/$2,500 fine level
We all agree that we are healthier without the presence of second hand smoke, but are we happy with the Smoke Free Law. A recent poll conducted by Midwest Communications and Media has answered this question. Their poll found that nearly 80% of Ohioans are pleased with the passing of the law, which puts to rest the claim that Ohio voters did not know what they were voting for. Now a year later, Ohioans, are enjoying a cleaner, healthier environment for themselves and their families.
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Home Sale Inspections
Over the years the health department has been involved with several lawsuits where home inspectors overlooked septic problems, causing new buyers extreme hardship. In addition, the licensing council strongly advocated a septic system inspection program for home sales. Thus, regulations were written in late 2006 that implemented a property transfer inspection program on January 1, 2008. The regulations require properties served by a Home Sewage Treatment System (HSTS) to be inspected prior to a property transfer to determine if the HSTS is functioning properly and if sanitary sewer is available. All failing HSTSs will be replaced or upgraded, or if sanitary sewer is available (a sewer lateral on the property) the property must be connected. Signs of failure may include but are not limited to: sewage surfacing into the ground or being discharged into a stream or storm sewer, backing into a structure or otherwise causing a public health threat. This program dovetails with the operation and maintenance program in the Phase II Stormwater Program, both of which aid in attainment of the Ohio EPA’s water quality (TMDL) standards.
The program also requires that the system be inspected by the health department or by a registered service provider. Service providers are tested and bonded through the health department. Copies of their inspections must be submitted to the health department, for review and follow-up, when necessary. In addition, minimum inspection standards have been implemented.
Real estate transfer inspections are an ideal time to upgrade failing systems, since funds can be easily allocated for the correction during the transfer. It also protects buyers from the financial burden they may encounter if the system is found to be failing later, if an inspection had not been conducted. Lastly, it gives the buyer an opportunity to become educated on how to properly maintain the system, improving system longevity.
For further information, please visit http://www.starkhealth.org/sewage.htm
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Radon
Radon is an invisible radioactive gas that seeps into homes undetected through foundation cracks, and can reach harmful levels if trapped indoors. It travels up from underground sources of uranium in the earth's crust. EPA estimates that one in 15 homes will have a radon level of four PicoCuries per liter (pCi/L) of air or more, a level the agency considers high.
The radon threat is preventable with some simple steps. In existing homes, families can begin protecting themselves by buying an easy-to-use radon test kit to determine if a high level exists; if so, a high level might be lowered simply with a straight-forward radon venting system installed by a contractor. In new homes, builders can easily and economically include radon-resistant features during construction, and home buyers should ask for these. EPA also recommends that home buyers ask their builder to test for radon gas before they move in.
Radon preventive actions have saved an estimated 6,000 lives in the last 20 years. EPA has a goal to double that number, to 12,000 lives saved, in the next five years. All Americans can contribute to saving someone's life by testing and reducing high levels in existing homes or testing and building radon-resistant new homes.
As part of an effort called Radon Leaders Saving Lives, EPA is working with state and local governments, non-profit organizations, and radon professionals across the country to educate consumers about ways to reduce radon in existing and new homes. Moreover, everyone can be a radon leader and help save a life by telling a friend or neighbor about preventing lung cancer from breathing radon.
For more information about radon, visit: www.epa.gov/radon or call 1-800-SOS-RADON (767-7236)
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PHASE II STORM WATER
Due to an EPA mandate under the Clean Water Act called Phase II Storm water, communities within the “urbanized area” of the County, have contracted services with the Board of Health to conduct an “illicit discharge, detection, and elimination program”. The program is designed to monitor, detect, and remove pollution from the storm sewer systems.
Our program involves:
1.) Creating a database for all sewage system records in the urbanized area, especially those discharging into the storm sewer.
2.) Screening and inspection of storm sewer systems.
3.) Locating Problem Areas. (This includes failing septic systems, but also includes illegal residential or industrial discharges, such as used motor oil or paint).
4.) Determine the Source. 5.) Remove/Correct Illicit Connections, using enforcement and community based solutions when necessary.
6.) Document Actions Taken and Report to the Ohio EPA.
The Phase II employees have visited outfall sites for dry flow screening in the urbanized areas of Stark County, North Canton, East Canton, Navarre Village, Louisville, Hartville, and Tuscarawas, Canton, Plain, Jackson, Lake, Perry, Lawrence, and Nimishillen Townships. The Health District has not contracted services in Canton, Massillon, or Alliance.
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Mosquito Program
The primary focus of the mosquito program is to reduce the incidence of mosquito borne disease. Our primary work involves larvaciding early in the mosquito season. Larvaciding lets us control or minimize the number of adults capable of breeding and/or biting.
As the mosquito population begins to grow, adulticiding becomes necessary. We attempt to spray most areas of the county twice per summer. A number of municipalities contract with us to spray more frequently. The Stark County Health Department's mosquito control plan is consistent with the practice of Integrated Pest Management (IPM). IPM allows for the safest and most effective method of mosquito control.
Mosquito Spraying Schedule
Experts agree that WNV is here to stay.
The Stark County Health Department cooperates with the Ohio Department of Health (ODH) in both dead bird surveillance and mosquito trapping.
ODH will continue using dead bird surveillance as a tool for early detection of WNV infection. Dead birds will be accepted beginning April 16, 2007 and will include only crows and blue jays.. Waterfowl and raptors will not be accepted for testing. The Ohio Department of Health will continue testing birds once two positives have been found in a county. Residents can continue to report dead birds for location surveillance.
Mosquito trapping and testing
is also used
in Stark County as a tool for early detection of possible WNV activity in an area.
Mosquitoes are submitted to ODH, with results reported back to our department in as little as two weeks.
Helpful Links
CDC West Nile Virus Homepage
Ohio Department of Health West Nile Virus Homepage
What Horse Owners Should Know About West Nile Virus
Frequently Asked Questions About Birds And West Nile Virus
Larvaciding and adulticiding are portions of our Integrated Pest Management for control of mosquitoes. Residents may contact the Stark County Health Department regarding concerns over possible mosquito breeding areas and their treatment. When necessary, our department will use adulticiding as a means of mosquito control. Recent studies have shown that the proper use of pesticides do not pose any risk to people or the environment. The Stark County Health Department is very committed to using the safest chemicals available regardless of cost. The Chemicals Used by the Stark County Health Department
Altosid Briquets , larvacide, (Label & MSDS ) an insect growth regulation hormone is an insect growth regulator that prevents the mosquito from passing onto the adult stage.
VectoLex , larvacide, (Label & MSDS) can kill mosquitoes during the larval stage of its development. Its active ingredient contains a naturally occurring bacteria. VectoLex is a bacterial larvacide that is non‑toxic and will not harm non‑target organisms.
5% Skeeter Abate , larvacide (Label & MSDS ) an insecticide used to control larvae .
Anvil 2+2 ULV , adulticide, (Label & MSDS ), a synthetic pyrethroid, applied as a spray to reduce possibly-disease carrying mosquitoes. It is relatively nontoxic to humans and other mammals, and health risks associated with the use of a pyrethroid in accordance with U.S. Environmental Protection Agency are negligible.
FLIT 10EC , adulticide, (Label & MSDS ) Handheld spraying units will be used to disperse the Flit 10EC for spot treatment of an adulticiding agent. Normally applied to foliage to act as a mosquito barrier.
Mosquitomist ONE ULV , adulticide (Label & MSDS ) is a non-corrosive and features quick knockdown, low odor and low mammalian toxicity. Breaks down quickly in the environment.
We will have our spray schedule posted on this site 1 week ahead of time if you would like to know when your area is scheduled. The variability of rain, temperature and other considerations make it impossible to project beyond that. If you have any questions or need additional information call (330) 493-9904.
The Stark County Health Department is committed to both surveillance and treatment for the safest control of mosquitoes and their associated mosquito-borne diseases. Residents are assured that protection of both humans and of the environment will always play a key role in providing the county with a safe spring, summer and fall. Our web site will continue to offer information and links so that residents can reduce breeding locations on their own properties and reduce exposure of themselves and their family as mosquito populations increase. TOP
MOSQUITO SPRAYING
No Mosquito Spraying Scheduled – End of Season
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Animal Bites
By law, animal bites occurring in our jurisdiction must be reported to the Stark County Health department. Domestic animals, such as dogs and cats, are quarantined for a period of ten (10) days from the date of the original bite. To be released from quarantine the animal must be current on its rabies vaccination and determined not to be afflicted with rabies.
Wild animals (raccoon, skunk, bat etc.) that have bitten a person or family pet may be tested for rabies. Any animal that is submitted for testing must be dead, relatively fresh and have an intact skull. The Stark County Health department does not have the means for euthanizing animals. This task must be done by the homeowner, a private trapper or the local police department that provides this service. If the bite occurs on the weekend the animal may be kept refrigerated until the Health department can pick up the specimen. Please do not freeze the specimens as this can affect the test results.
For raccoons, skunks and foxes that are acting suspicious (defined by walking erratically, turning in circles, tameness, unusual aggressiveness or seems disorientated) we will summit the animal for testing. These animals simply being active during the day is not a suspicious activity. Any animal that is submitted for testing must be dead, relatively fresh and have an intact skull.
Animal Bite Report Form TOP Lead Analysis
Infants and toddlers living in homes built in 1978 and earlier, may be exposed to lead. It is important for physicians to test children, who may be at risk, for lead poisoning. If an elevated level is found, the doctor can refer the case to the Stark County Health Department for environmental testing of the child’s living environment. High levels of lead can result in liver problems, coma, or death; and low levels can cause a variety of problems, such as hyperactivity, posture problems, hearing problems, and decreased I.Q. level. Much of the permanent damage has already been done before any of these effects become apparent; that is why it is very important to have children’s lead levels tested.
Once the health department sanitarian conducts the assessment of lead hazards in the home, a written report is developed to advise the homeowner on what steps to take to reduce or eliminate the hazards. The health department clinic offers lead testing of children and adults on an appointment basis. The cost is FEE. Medicaid is accepted.
You can schedule an appointment to check you, or your child’s lead level, by calling the health department clinic at (330) 493-9914. You can schedule a lead hazard assessment of your home by contacting the Environmental Division- Environmental lead assessments of houses are available to non-lead poisoned Stark County residents as well, for a fee. This fee is waived for those who meet the CDC definition of having lead poisoning. Lead Poisoning
Fact Sheet
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Complaints
Complaints, specifically public health related complaints, are the responsibility of the health department. Complaints can range from a neighbor's septic system flowing on your property, to a dirty restaurant, or perhaps, a neighbor that is stockpiling garbage.
Whatever the case, the nuisance must be reported to the health department on a written form as provided by the health department
You may call 330.493.9904 to request a complaint form, or download a complaint form below. TOP
Well Water Samples
The Stark County Health District takes over 2,000 water samples every year to verify the bacteriological safety of residential and commercial wells annually. You can arrange to have your well tested by calling 330.493.9904. Cost FEE for the first sample and FEE for each additional sample.Should your initial sample come back 'unsafe', you will be directed to Disinfect Your Water Well, (download guidelines). Our staff will provide specific guidelines pertinent to the circumstances.
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Permits
Water Well Permits
Any property owner intending to construct, develop, or install a private water system or have such operations performed by another person, must make application to the Stark County Health Department prior to the start of work.Applications, which can be mailed out upon request (330.493.9904), must be accompanied by a site plan and the fee. Residential @ FEE and Commercial @ FEE.
Within three working days from the date of application receipt, the public health sanitarian will determine compliance, and if found satisfactory, issue the permit. Well Abandonment Permits
A well abandonment form must be otained from the Stark County Health Department (330) 493.9904. The fee for well abandonment permit is FEE residential and FEE for commercial. All obstructions n the well must be removed (ex. pump, wiring, etc.). The well is then filled entirely with an approved grouting material. Proper abandonment of water wells help insure that our ground water is maintained for the present and future generations. New Septic System Permit
For information click here. Replacement Septic System Permit
For information click here. Plumbing Permits
Plumbing permits must be obtained through the Stark County Health Department prior to the start of work.
To obtain a Residential Plumbing Permit, the homeowner or plumber can make application at the Stark County Health Department for a FEE before obtaining a permit.
Note: Homeowners doing their own plumbing must live at the residence and sign a notarized AFFIDAVIT.
Prior to obtaining a Commercial Plumbing Permit you must submit a Plumbing Plan Review Application. A professional engineer or architect must design plan. Upon receipt, your plan will be logged and then assigned to a plans examiner. You will be notified by letter whether your plan is in compliance, or whether additional information is needed, once it is reviewed. Submission of all items at the same time is essential in order to streamline and prevent delays in the review. After plan approval, application may be made for a FEE to obtain a permit.
Note: After the plans have been received, they will be reviewed within 30 days. This applies to new or remodeled plumbing. Plans are reviewed in the order they are received or resubmitted. If your plans are incomplete or disapproved, the 30 days begins again after the necessary information or revisions are received.
Note: Any plumbing contractor engaged in or intending to engage in the plumbing business in the Stark County Health Department jurisdiction must be registered with the department. Plumbing Contractor Registration Form and Criteria. Permit for a New Restaurant
Application is made on a prescribed form, with submittal of full plans of the facility planned and plan review fees. Plan review fees vary based upon the size and/or complexity of the food service operation planned. Once plans are reviewed, an approval letter is sent to the applicant.
Once construction is complete and the applicant has obtained all building department, zoning, and fire approvals, a pre-licensing inspection is conducted. If the facility has been constructed in compliance with the approved plans and state and local regulations, the applicant may apply for and obtain a food service license. License fees again vary based upon the size and complexity of the operation planned. For more information on obtaining a license see the Food Safety Page. Permit for a Temporary Food Service License
Temporary food licenses are issued for events that are a maximum of 5 days in duration.
Applicant fills out application along with detailed information on location, time, and date of the event, foods to be served, handling procedure and equipment set-up. Fee is FEE.
All temporary permits issued by the health department are inspected during operation. For more information on obtaining a license see the Food Safety Page. TOP
Print/Download Forms
To obtain a copy of the Animal Bite and/or Nuisance Complaint form, you must have Adobe Acrobat Reader installed on your computer. To download and install a FREE copy of Adobe Acrobat Reader click here: 
To print or download the form(s), choose which form, Animal Bite Form or Nuisance Complaint Form, and either save the document or click on the print button on the toolbar.
Upon completion of the form, you can return it to the Stark County Health Department by one of two methods. You can fax the completed form to (330) 493-9920, or send it to:
Stark County Health Department
3951 Convenience Circle, N.W.
Canton, Oh. 44718-2660
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