Water Quality

Monitoring Water Quality

Several local communities have experienced water quality issues recently.  It has been about 20 years since the last time the City of Isle of Palms completed any type of water quality testing. In 2024, the Environmental Advisory Committee unanimously approved a proposal for monitoring water quality at drainage outfalls. Parameters of interest include fecal coliforms, total coliforms, nitrogen, phosphorous, oil and grease, pH, and suspended solids. The analysis was performed by Trident and Gel Labs in the second half of 2024.

Targeted DNA testing from three additional outfall sites were collected in 2025. Under both dry and rain weather conditions, DNA testing determined that dog waste was the only E. coli source found in the water samples. 

The current conclusion is that there is no wide spread human sewage problem on IOP, however pet waste (dog) IS a problem. 

Excess harmful E. coli can damage marsh grasses such as spartina and harm fish and shellfish habitats. The EAC plans to retest island outfalls in two years to evaluate changes following a pet waste education and cleanup initiative called Doody Calls, which is being planned for 2026.

Septic Tank Recommendations

The Environmental Advisory Committee developed guidelines for Isle of Palms homeowners to ensure best practices for Septic Tank health:

• DO have a regular maintenance plan for your septic system. Have your septic tank pumped out (minimally) on a 3-year cycle.  The typical fee for a septic tank pump-out is $450. Here are septic system providers available for IOP citizens to use for pump outs:

• DO know where your drain field is
• DO have your septic system inspected every 1-2 years
• DON’T put impervious surfaces like driveways over any part of a septic system drain field
• DON’T have major landscaping planted around or over a septic system drain field
• DO limit the water entering your septic tank, and give your system time to rest after heavy use
• DO repair leaky toilets and dripping faucets
• DO discard grease in the garbage or compost bin – not the drain
• DO notify DHEC if you see or smell effluent in your drain field area or in your neighbor's drain field area

Protect your property value with a healthy septic system maintenance plan – DON’T let your septic system fail!