The City of Malibu is interested in contracting with a highly qualified consulting firm to provide post-fire onsite wastewater treatment system maintenance services. These services include pumping septic tanks and/or decommissioning wastewater treatment systems.In response to ongoing concerns about toxic runoff and water quality, the City has implemented specific mitigation measures including issuing Onsite Wastewater Treatment System (OWTS) Pumping Guidelines for all red-tagged properties, 100% destroyed, and/or 60-100% severe damage within the burn area. Currently, approximately 390 systems remain non-compliant with the City's requirements. The City of Malibu is seeking qualified firms to provide the following services (see RFP for details):A. Pre-Work CoordinationB. Pump and Cap Septic TankC. Abandonment (Decommissioning) of SystemD. Compliance and ReportingThe rainy season is typically defined as occurring from October 1 through April 30. During this period, stormwater runoff can transport pollutants - including those from non-compliant OWTS - directly into storm drains and ultimately into the ocean. It is critical to complete the Post-Fire OWTS Maintenance Project as soon as feasible, ideally prior to the onset of the 2025-26 rainy season.
Background
The City of Malibu is seeking a highly qualified consulting firm to provide post-fire onsite wastewater treatment system maintenance services in response to the Franklin and Palisades Fires that caused extensive damage in the area. The fires raised concerns about toxic runoff and water quality, prompting the City to implement mitigation measures, including OWTS Pumping Guidelines for non-compliant properties. Approximately 390 systems remain non-compliant, necessitating immediate action to protect public health and prevent environmental contamination before the rainy season begins.
Work Details
The contractor will provide the following services:
A. Pre-Work Coordination:
1. Conduct a mandatory site visit.
2. Coordinate with property owners and agency representatives.
3. Obtain necessary permits from the City of Malibu.
4. Verify system configuration with site plans.
5. Provide an OWTS Fire Damage Assessment Report to determine if pumping and capping or abandonment is needed.
B. Pump and Cap Septic Tank:
1. Locate and uncover septic tank components.
2. Pump out all contents of the septic tank(s).
3. Disconnect and cap inlet/outlet plumbing lines.
4. Cap and seal access points.
5. Dispose of waste at a licensed facility and document disposal.
C. Abandonment (Decommissioning) of System:
1. Remove septic tank per Malibu Municipal Code; if abandoned in place, pump and slurry fill; if removal is required, excavate and restore site conditions.
D. Compliance and Reporting:
Ensure compliance with local/state regulations, submit documentation including photographs of work conditions, pumping manifests, decommissioning certificates, and a final report summarizing all work performed.
Period of Performance
The project should be completed as soon as feasible, ideally before the onset of the 2025-26 rainy season, which typically runs from October 1 through April 30.
Place of Performance
The services will be performed within the City of Malibu, specifically in areas affected by the Franklin and Palisades Fires.
Bidder Requirements
Bidders must be registered practitioners in Malibu for Operations & Maintenance, possess a valid state or county septic system contractor license, have at least two years of experience in OWTS services, demonstrate knowledge of local wastewater regulations, provide proof of liability insurance and worker’s compensation coverage, ensure minimal disruption during work, maintain professionalism in public interactions, and keep thorough records.
