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PW CASE <br /> <br />CONSIDER SEPTIC SYSTEM INSPECTION PROGRAM <br /> By: Steven J. Jankowski, City Engineer <br /> <br />Background: <br /> <br />State law required that cities bring their local septic system ordinances in compliance with <br />Chapter 7080 of State Code by December 31, 1997. During 1997, the City Public Works <br />Committee reviewed a model ordinance, which was prepared by MPCA. There were a number <br />of optional elements in that model ordinance and the Public Works Committee made a final <br />recommendation on the City's septic system ordinance at the November 18, 1997 meeting. The <br />City's new ordinance #98-03 was adopted on January 27, 1998, and became effective on March <br />2, 1998. A copy of the new ordinance is attached to this case. <br /> <br />This ordinance has some significant differences fi:om the previous septic system ordinance. The <br />old ordinance required the City to develop a program of septic system inspections. Homeowners <br />were allowed to perform these inspections. In practice, a systematic program of inspections of <br />existing systems was never performed. At best, septic tank pumpers would report their pumping <br />activities to the building inspection department. Some pumpers would identify suspicious <br />systems, and the building inspection department would follow up with a site visit and issue an <br />order to repair the system if it was found to be in failure. <br /> <br />The new ordinance requires a compliance inspection of existing systems under a limited number <br />of circumstances. These include transfer of the property, probable cause that the system is in <br />failure, and when an additional bedroom is constructed. The Building Official reports that the <br />inspection at point of sale has had a significant positive effect. A record number of septic system <br />repairs were made in 1998. In addition, there was not a single complaint of a failed septic <br />system by a new property owner. This had been a common experience in the past. <br /> <br />Discussion: <br /> <br />The purpose of this case is to discuss whether some expanded type of inspection program for <br />existing systems might be considered. Reason for considering such an expanded program might <br />include: <br /> <br />1. Enhancement of public health and protection of ground and surface water resources. <br />2. Verification that on-site areas adjacent to sewered areas are functioning adequately. <br />3. Addressing Metropolitan Council concerns over the adequacy of on-site septic systems. <br /> <br />Several programs might be considered. This case is intended to initiate an exchange of ideas on <br />such programs. <br /> <br />Committee Action: <br />None required. <br /> <br />Reviewed by: <br />City Engineer <br /> <br />PW:03/16/99 <br /> <br /> <br />