The sewage program for Jefferson County is performed in accordance with the Illinois Private Sewage Disposal Licensing Act and Code "to prevent the transmission of disease organisms, environmental contamination and nuisances resulting from improper handling, storage, transportation and disposal from private sewage disposal systems," (Local Health protection Grant). Any new, replaced or renovated system must be installed by a licensed contractor or the homeowner and permitted through JCHD. The agency must receive an application for permit and the appropriate fee from the contractor/homeowner. Once reviewed and approved, a permit is issued and an inspection of the system is conducted during and after construction. JCHD also investigates all private sewage disposal system complaints.