Why is a Sewage Disposal System Permit necessary?

The purpose of a Sewage Disposal System Permit is to protect the public health and ground water by assuring the construction of adequate on-site sewage treatment and disposal systems.

When do I need a Sewage Disposal System Permit?

A Sewage Disposal System Permit is required when a new or replacement sewage disposal system is to be installed. When additions are proposed to existing homes with septic system, the well and septic staff will want to make sure your project doesn’t overload your septic system or interfere with the function, maintenance or future replacement of your well or septic system. Variables in that process include: the age and design standards of your original system; amount of information on file; improvements that have already been made to the house; type of project you are proposing; etc. You may have to make changes to the design or location of your project so that well and/or septic system is not compromised. Modifications to your well or septic system are another possibility. A feasibility consultation or at least a phone conversation with well and septic plan review personnel is highly recommended prior to having your architect prepare plans. Please call 240-777-6320 for information.

What is the Sewage Disposal System Permit application process?

The application process is described in detail on the direction sheet available from the Well and Septic section at the address below or on the following eDocuments link: Well and Septic Procedure & Requirement. At a minimum, applicants must submit a completed application form, accompanied by the correct fee, and three copies of accurately scaled plans (1" = 30’ or 1" = 50’).

Conditions of Approval

If Well and Septic staff have acceptable water table and percolation test data, they will design the system and issue a permit based on the plans submitted.

Appeal Information

If a permit is denied, an appeal may be made to the Chief of the Division of Land Development Services in this department. If the appeal is denied based on County law, the denial may be appealed to the Montgomery County Board of Appeals. If the denial is based on State law, an appeal may be made to the Maryland Department of the Environment.

Inspection Information

A minimum of two inspections will be required. One will be done when the septic trenches have been dug to full length and depth and the septic tank has been installed. The second inspection will be done after the initial inspection has been approved; the stone, pipe, and paper have been installed; and the tank has been properly connected to the trench piping. Inspections require at least 24 hours notice.

Other Agencies Involved

The Washington Suburban Sanitary Commission (WSSC) should be contacted for information about plumbing permits required to connect the septic system to the structure to be served. You can call them at 301-206-8000.

What will the Sewage Disposal System Permit cost?

The above fees include a 10% automation enhancement fee. Filing fees and permit fees are based on fees in effect on the date the application was filed. All other fees are based on fees in effect at the time the service is requested (revision fee, extension fee, etc.).

When will I receive my Sewage Disposal System Permit?

Sewage Disposal System Permits are issued approximately two weeks from the application date if all pertinent testing has been completed and the well (if necessary) has been successfully drilled. Processing time may vary due to workload factors/project complexity.

Permit Duration

Permits are valid for a period of one year. The fee to extend a permit after written application and before the expiration date is $148.50. The extension is (6) months. Only one extension may be granted for each permit. Permit fees are not transferrable.