Michigan remains the only state without statewide septic regulations, as legislators adjourned in 2024 before voting on a proposed septic bill, Planet Detroit reported. The bill may be reintroduced in 2025 if it receives bipartisan support when Republicans control the House.
Because there are no statewide standards, local governments regulate septic system construction, maintenance and inspections. Critics say this leads to inconsistencies that might threaten the environment.
Dave Dempsey, a senior adviser to the nonprofit For Love of Water, told Planet Detroit in an email that everyone agrees on the need to take action on septic codes, but it hasn’t happened yet.
“The result is continued contamination of our waters and endangerment of private drinking water wells," Dempsey said.
Arkansas city expands permit requirements to existing onsite systems
Property owners in Bella Vista, Arkansas, now are required to get a septic plumbing permit before installing, repairing or replacing a septic system. According to the Northwest Arkansas Democrat Gazette, the city amended its septic ordinance on Nov. 25, 2024. Previously, the city only regulated new septic system installation. The amended regulation expands permit requirements to existing septic systems.
Property owners, licensed septic installers or their representatives must obtain a permit from the city before work begins. Permits cost $30 for residential and $50 for commercial property owners.
City Council member Larry Wilms spoke in favor of the permit process, saying the city would be able to track septic system upgrades easier. Additionally, the permits ensure that septic systems are placed, installed and maintained by the proper professionals.
Washington County adopts new septic ordinance
Washington County, Indiana, adopted a residential/commercial septic system ordinance on Dec. 3, reported the Salem Leader. The county’s previous ordinance was void after a change in Indiana state law in 2023.
The ordinance requires septic installers to register with the Washington County Health Department. If the installer isn’t already registered in another county, the installer is required to pass a certification exam. The ordinance also requires soil testing prior to installing a new septic system or changing an existing septic system. Lastly, the ordinance creates a state-level technical review panel. The county also set guidelines and penalties for violations and developed an appeals process.
Pennsylvania town now requires property owners to report septic maintenance
Property owners in the town of East Lampeter, Pennsylvania, will be required to report septic maintenance to the town after April 1, 2025, reported Lancaster Online. The ordinance, adopted on Dec. 2 and taking effect April 1, will allow the town to track septic system maintenance better. Residents who violate the ordinance are subject to fines of $300-$2,500 per day, plus the cost of damages.
South Carolina town launches septic maintenance program for residents
Mount Pleasant Waterworks in South Carolina launched a Septic System Maintenance Program on Jan. 1, 2025, reported The Post and Courier. Allan Clum, Mount Pleasant Waterworks general manager, said the program helps homeowners understand how to maintain their septic systems properly.
"When somebody calls us that has a septic tank and they're having issues and they don't understand how to maintain that tank, I wanted to make sure that we had an option for them," Clum said.
By enrolling in the program, town residents pay $15 a month. In return, they receive annual septic inspections by certified technicians, pumpouts and waste disposal every five years, help coordinating any necessary repairs, and as much as $3,000 for repairs during every pumpout cycle. The first 50 customers who apply by June 30 will receive a $50 utility credit.
