Environmental Health

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Our Mission:

Pure Water
Wholesome Food
Clean Air
Safe Surroundings

Our Vision:

Our vision is to act in accordance with scientific principles that promote the maximum health and quality of life for all citizens in Washington County. We administer and enforce programs originating from the Maryland Department of Health (MDH) and the Maryland Department of the Environment (MDE) through delegated authority. We also work closely with other Washington County government agencies.

Air Quality

Monitor and respond to various air quality complaints involving smoke, dust and odors. We respond to various open burning complaints. Please note that the burning of trash as a means of refuse disposal is prohibited in Washington County.

Food Protection

We seek to maintain a safe food supply and reduce the likelihood of foodborne illness through permits, inspections and educational activity. Food service facilities include both permanent and temporary facilities, such as, restaurants, mobile units, schools, grocery stores, nursing homes, hospitals and concession stands at various events. Food service facilities are required to obtain an operating permit from the Washington County Health Department.

Recreational Community Services

Ensure the operation, maintenance and construction of public swimming pools and spas, public bathing beaches, campgrounds and mobile home parks are in accordance with applicable regulations and do not jeopardize the health or safety of the community.

Rabies and Zoonotic Control

Review all possible exposure incidents and initiate any intervention or legal actions necessary to protect public health. All bite reports received are investigated and when necessary, animals are temporarily quarantined or tested for rabies. Exotic birds are licensed and inspected as required by law.

On-Site Sewage Disposal

Septic systems are used for the disposal of sewage where public collection and disposal systems are not available. A proper functioning septic system depends on many factors and may be most impacted by site suitability and use (load) of the system. Percolation tests are conducted to evaluate soils for suitability of a potential on-site septic system. When a system is being repaired, permits may be issued for the replacement of the failing system based on all available information for evaluation.

Each year, Sept. 14-18 is Septic Week!

On-Site Water Supplies

Consideration of well siting, construction, yield and water quality are all part of the approval process for permitting wells. Once a well is drilled, water is sampled to ensure the protection of public health.

Transient Non-Community Water Supplies

Monitor transient non-community water supplies to ensure water is safe to use and drink. These systems may serve motels, hotels, restaurants, schools and similar facilities not connected to a public water system. Transient non-community water supplies are defined as public water systems that use individual wells and serve at least 15 service connections or at least 25 people at least 60 days out of the year.

Radon Awareness

Radon is the number one cause of lung cancer in non-smokers. For children, radon and second-hand smoke are the biggest risks for developing lung cancer later in life. Unless you test with a radon test kit, you can’t tell whether your home has radon, because radon is a gas that has no smell, no color, and can’t be seen. Radon is an invisible, odorless radioactive gas in the earth that can enter into lower level rooms of your home, like a basement. The longer you and your family are exposed to radon, the greater risk you have of developing lung cancer.
Order a discounted Radon Kit HERE

For more information, go to:

https://mde.maryland.gov/programs/air/RadiologicalHealth/Pages/radon.aspx https://health.maryland.gov/phpa/OEHFP/EH/Pages/Radon.aspx
https://www.epa.gov/radon