New Hampshire on Sept. 1 adopted new laws regarding waterfront septic systems. The Laconia Daily Sun reported that environmental professionals and conservationists are optimistic the new rules will help protect the state’s rivers, lakes
and streams.
The new ruling requires a state-licensed septic system evaluator or state-permitted designer to inspect a septic system at a waterfront property before the property is sold or transferred. In the event of a failing system, the evaluator would notify the local health officer and the New Hampshire Department of Environmental Services. The home buyer would have 180 days to replace the septic system or request an extension of up to 180 days.
Tennessee, Florida, North Carolina residents eligible for FEMA assistance to repair onsite systems damaged by storms
Property owners in Tennessee may be eligible for FEMA assistance for damages caused by Tropical Storm Helene. According to the Elizabethton Star, Tennesseans can apply for FEMA funding to cover septic system repairs or replacement and also for the cost of a licensed technician to inspect their system and prepare an estimate.
Floridians whose private wells and septic systems sustained damage from Hurricanes Milton, Helene or Debby can also apply for FEMA assistance to cover repairs or replacement as can North Carolinians due to damage caused by
Hurricane Helene.
New York lawmakers ask to expand Septic System Replacement Fund to include Putnam Valley
Two New York lawmakers are asking the state to expand its Septic System Replacement Fund to include the Putnam Valley area. The Mid Hudson News reported that Sen. Rob Rolison and Rep. Matt Slater met with Putnam Valley residents in October to discuss solutions and funding for residents with failing septic systems. Following the meeting, Rolinson and Slater sent a letter to the State Department of Environmental Conservation requesting access to state septic funding for the region.
Cesspool conversion regulations in effect in Sonoma County
New regulations are in place for residents with cesspools in Sonoma County, California. The Sonoma County Gazette reported that 2024 updates to the onsite wastewater treatment systems manual give homeowners more affordable alternatives than a full septic system conversion. The revised OWTS manual allows residents to convert cesspools into seepage pits or leaching pits, which are less costly to install than septic systems. The updated OWTS manual also waives some of the tests that were previously required. Sonoma County residents with property on the Russian River are subject to stricter guidelines for cesspool upgrades.
