Welcome to South Platte Services, LLC, formerly Shirley Septic Pumping, LLC!
Advanced System O&M Agreements
About Our Services
Operations & Maintenance for Engineered & Mechanical System
Many mountain properties in Jefferson, Park, and Clear Creek Counties rely on advanced septic treatment systems rather than conventional gravity systems.
Unlike standard septic systems, advanced systems contain mechanical components and engineered treatment processes. Because of this, county regulations typically require an active Operations & Maintenance (O&M) agreement with a qualified provider.
For over 50 years, South Platte Services has maintained both conventional and advanced septic systems throughout Colorado’s mountain communities. We provide ongoing O&M agreements designed to keep systems compliant, functional, and documented.
What Is an Advanced Septic System?
An advanced (or engineered) septic system is any system that includes mechanical or enhanced treatment components beyond a standard tank and gravity drain field.
These systems often include:
- Aerobic Treatment Units (ATUs)
• Aeration blowers
• Timed dosing pumps
• Control panels and alarms
• Pretreatment tanks
• Sand filters or media filters
• Pressure distribution systems
Advanced systems are commonly installed on:
- Small or constrained lots
• Steep, mountain terrain
• Properties with shallow soils
• Areas with higher groundwater sensitivity
Because they actively treat wastewater, they require routine inspection and servicing.
Why O&M Agreements Are Required
County health departments require O&M agreements for advanced systems to ensure:
- Mechanical components remain operational
• Effluent treatment standards are maintained
• Groundwater protection standards are upheld
• Systems do not degrade due to neglect
• Proper documentation is available during property transfer
An advanced system without maintenance can fail silently — often without obvious warning until significant repair costs occur.
Ongoing service protects both the property owner and future buyers.
County Regulatory Context
While requirements vary slightly by county, advanced systems in:
- Jefferson County
• Park County
• Clear Creek County
typically require documented ongoing maintenance.
During a home sale, documentation of an active O&M agreement and recent service may be requested.
If no agreement is in place, the county or buyer may require one before closing.
What’s Included in Our O&M Agreement
Our O&M agreements are structured to meet county expectations and protect system functionality.
Service typically includes:
- Scheduled inspections (frequency determined by system type)
• Inspection of aeration blowers and pumps
• Alarm and control panel testing
• Cleaning of effluent filters
• Evaluation of discharge and treatment performance
• Identification of worn or failing components
• Documentation for homeowner records
We focus on early detection of issues — preventing small mechanical problems from becoming major system failures.
How Often Is Service Required?
Maintenance frequency depends on:
- System manufacturer specifications
• Permit conditions
• County requirements
• Property usage
Most advanced systems require 1–3 service visits per year.
We help homeowners confirm the appropriate schedule for their specific system.
Selling Property with an Advanced System
If you are selling a home with an advanced septic system:
- An active O&M agreement is required
• Service documentation may be requested
• Mechanical components must be operational
• Alarm systems must be functioning properly
Missing O&M documentation is one of the most common septic-related closing delays in mountain transactions.
We work directly with homeowners and realtors to confirm compliance before listing or during contract.
Common Advanced System Issues We Identify
After decades of service in mountain communities, common issues include:
- Failed aeration blowers
• Inoperable alarms
• Clogged effluent filters
• Worn pumps
• Electrical control issues
• Lack of routine maintenance
These issues are often correctable when identified early.
Why Experience Matters with Advanced Systems
Advanced systems are not interchangeable.
Different manufacturers and engineered designs require specific service approaches. Having worked with mountain properties for over 50 years, South Platte Services has maintained both legacy and modern advanced systems across all three counties.
We understand:
- Engineered mountain system designs
• Mechanical component wear patterns
• County compliance expectations
• Transfer-of-title documentation requirements
That experience reduces uncertainty for homeowners and realtors.
Establish or Renew an O&M Agreement
If your property has an advanced septic system — or if you are unsure — contact South Platte Services.
We will:
- Confirm system type
• Review county requirements
• Establish or renew your O&M agreement
• Provide documentation for your records
• Coordinate with real estate transactions if needed
Ongoing maintenance protects your system, your property value, and your compliance status.