Environmental Health staff work behind the scenes to ensure Lawrence and Douglas County residents live in a safe and healthy environment. From assisting rural residents with clean water and functioning septic systems to advocating air quality improvements, Environmental Health focuses on the relationships between people and their environment.
Activities and Duties
Some of the activities Environmental Health staff perform are:
Timely investigation of complaints
Thorough inspection of regulated industries and activities
Promotion of environmentally responsible behaviors through education and outreach
Development and enforcement of environmental laws and regulations
Protecting Environmental Quality
Two Environmental staff members enforce environmental health and safety regulations in the City of Lawrence and unincorporated areas of Douglas County to protect environmental quality for the benefit of all residents. Services include:
Onsite sewage management septic system permits and inspections
Private water supply (well) permits and inspections
Well water samples collected and screened for bacteria and nitrates
Non-residential (public) swimming pool and spa inspections
School inspections
Cereal-Malt Beverage (CMB) inspections within the city of Lawrence
Septage hauling equipment permits and inspections
Response to animal bites in unincorporated Douglas County
Response to citizens’ complaints regarding various environmental health issues