Septic & Well Permits
If you are building a house or other structure needing plumbing, you will either need a septic system or the ability to connect to city sewer.
Even if you don’t think your project involves a septic system, it’s best to check with an MPH land sanitarian first so there are no surprises later.
If a septic permit is required, it will need to be finalized before other permits can be issued. Land sanitarians are available for walk-ins and calls Monday, Tuesday, Wednesday and Friday from 8 a.m. to 12 p.m. and 1 to 5 p.m. Please note the land sanitarian desk is not open to the public on Thursdays.
Applying for a permit
Required materials
Prior to filling out an application, please have floor plans, and site plans (existing and proposed) with distances to surface water, drinking water wells, septic/sewer information, wells/drainfields within 100 feet of property, property lines, buildings, slope, and easements/no build zones. See lot layout example.
Groundwater monitoring
Groundwater monitoring is required to ensure there is enough distance between proposed wastewater and groundwater. A distance of four feet is required between drainfield and groundwater. Talk with a land sanitarian if you are uncertain as to whether groundwater monitoring is required on your site. Groundwater monitoring must start by April 1st or may be required to wait until the next seasonal high groundwater.