Does Gaston Have a Sewer System or Septic Tanks?

Learn about Does Gaston have a sewer system or septic tanks?

If you’re wondering, “Does Gaston have a sewer system or septic tanks?”, here’s the short version: the town center of Gaston has a municipal sewer system, while most homes, farms, and wineries outside the city limits use private septic systems. This guide explains what that means, what to expect, and who to call.

Quick Answer

Gaston has both. Properties in the incorporated town core (along OR‑47/Main Street near the school and city businesses) are typically connected to the city’s sewer system and pay a monthly utility bill. Homes in the surrounding countryside—toward Hagg Lake, Cherry Grove, and the vineyard hills—mostly use individual septic tanks and drainfields.

What Does Gaston have a sewer system or septic tanks? Means

  • Sewer system: Homes and businesses connect to city pipes that carry wastewater to a municipal treatment facility. The city maintains the mains; you pay a monthly sewer charge on your utility bill.
  • Septic tanks: Wastewater is treated on your property by a tank and drainfield. You’re responsible for permits, maintenance, and repairs.

In Gaston, both exist side by side. Downtown blocks typically have sewer. The rural edges and properties outside city limits are almost all on septic.

Why People Search for This in Gaston, Oregon

  • Gaston sits between Forest Grove and Yamhill County, with a mix of small-town streets and open farmland.
  • Many folks consider moving here for wineries, proximity to Hagg Lake, and a quieter lifestyle—so utility setup and costs matter.
  • Sewer vs. septic affects monthly bills, home inspections, and future remodels or additions.

Distances for context:

  • Forest Grove: about 8–10 miles north (10–15 minutes)
  • Hillsboro: about 16–20 miles northeast (25–35 minutes)
  • Portland: roughly 30 miles (45–60 minutes, traffic-dependent)
  • Henry Hagg Lake/Scoggins Valley Park: about 5 miles west

What to Expect

If you’re on city sewer:

  • You’ll get a combined city utility bill (water/sewer, and sometimes stormwater).
  • The city maintains the main lines; you maintain your home’s lateral to the main.
  • Connection may be required if a main is available near your property (fees apply).

If you’re on a septic system:

  • Plan for regular pumping (often every 3–5 years, depending on use).
  • Wet winters can saturate soils in the Tualatin Valley; be gentle with water use during long rainy spells.
  • New builds or additions need county septic permits, setbacks from wells/streams, and a soil (perc) evaluation.
  • Some parcels on the town’s edge may still be on septic even if they’re close to town—verify before you buy.

Local geography note:

  • Low areas near Wapato Lake National Wildlife Refuge can have a higher water table. That can affect drainfield design and costs.
  • Hillsides toward Cherry Grove and the Coast Range may have shallow or rocky soils—another factor for septic design.

Tips for Visitors / Residents

For residents:

  • Not sure which you have? Check your utility bill for a sewer line item or ask City Hall. If there’s no sewer charge and you don’t receive a city bill, you’re likely on septic.
  • On sewer: keep wipes, grease, and oil out of drains. They cause backups.
  • On septic: know your tank location, keep lids accessible, divert roof/gutter water away from the drainfield, and avoid parking on it.

For homebuyers and renters:

  • Ask for utility details in writing: city sewer connection or septic records.
  • For septic homes, request pumping/inspection records and county permits before closing.

For visitors (Hagg Lake, wineries, Wapato Lake NWR):

  • Day-use parks have restrooms, but there’s no camping at Hagg Lake. Plan accordingly.
  • RV travelers: check regional RV dump stations in Forest Grove or along US‑26 before heading out.

Best Local Resources

  • City of Gaston — Utilities/Public Works: Contact City Hall for sewer service areas, connection questions, and current rates.
  • Washington County Onsite Wastewater Program: Septic permits, records, and inspections for properties in Washington County (most of the Gaston area).
  • Yamhill County Onsite Program: For properties south of the county line.
  • Oregon DEQ Onsite Program: Statewide standards and homeowner guides for septic systems.

Tip: If you’re unsure which county your address falls in, your property tax statement or the county GIS map can confirm it.

Frequently Asked Questions About Does Gaston have a sewer system or septic tanks?

Q: How do I know if a Gaston address is on city sewer? A: Check for a city sewer charge on the utility bill or call City Hall with the address. A title report or seller’s disclosure should also state sewer vs. septic.

Q: Can I switch from septic to city sewer? A: Possibly, if a sewer main is available nearby and the city approves a connection. Expect permits, connection fees, and construction costs.

Q: Is sewer available near Hagg Lake or Cherry Grove? A: Generally no. Those areas are rural and rely on septic systems.

Q: How far is Gaston from Portland? A: About 30 miles. Plan on 45–60 minutes by car, depending on traffic.

Q: What time of year is best for septic work? A: Late spring through early fall—soils are drier and easier to evaluate and construct. Winter rains can delay work.

Summary

  • The short answer: Gaston has both a city sewer system (in the town core) and many properties on septic (in the surrounding rural area).
  • Moving or buying? Verify sewer vs. septic early—it affects costs, maintenance, and permitting.
  • When in doubt, call City Hall for sewer service info, and the county onsite program for septic records.
  • Moving to Gaston, Oregon: What Daily Life Really Looks Like
  • Living Near Hagg Lake: Parks, Roads, and Seasonal Tips
  • Wineries Around Gaston: Visiting Tips and Quiet Backroads