Alternative Septic Systems - New Law ... Important Information

During the 2010 General Assembly session, Virginia has enacted a law that requires property owners with alternative septic systems to maintain their systems and prove that they do so every year. The law requires a yearly review of the system by a licensed septic contractor who will then file a report with the local county governement, satisfying the requirements of the law.

If you have received a letter from the Virginia State Health Department alerting you that you are subject to the law and must get an inspection - do so. Failure to comply could result in fines.

This law was considered and supported by VAR after some localities were trying to ban alternatie septic systems entirely. The law that we are now operating under was a compromise between those who wanted to do away completely with these systems and those in real estate who know what a disaster that would be.

If you or any of your friends, neighbors or clients are confused about the new requirements, they should contact their local Department of Health and ask for the person who handles environmental services. This person should explain the process and will refer the owner to the DPOR website for a list of qualified licensed contractors.