Construction of On-Site Sewage Disposal Systems at commercial locations that generate less
than 10,000 gallons per day of waste water are regulated by District Health Department #2. Commercial systems greater then 10,000 gallons per day are regulated by the Michigan Department of Natural Resources and Environment.
The primary document that regulates commercial systems is the "Michigan Criteria for Subsurface Sewage Disposal." Construction permits from District Health Department #2 are required prior to constructing or repairing an on-site sewage disposal system for a commercial structure.
Application
An application for a permit can be obtained by clicking the “Application” link on this site or by visiting a District Health Department #2 office.
Once the application and the associated fee are submitted to this department, Environmental Health staff will make arrangements to visit the site to conduct a site and soils review. A backhoe typically needs to be provided by the applicant to excavate test pits in the area of the proposed drain field and reserve area. Soil texture, seasonal high water table, and other factors affecting soil permeability are determined during the site visit.
A crucial element of the Health Department review process is determining the volume of wastewater generated from a location during peak use periods. Soil application rates for wastewater are determined based on soil texture.
Systems that generate over 1000 gallons per day of wastewater, are required to have plans submitted by an engineer registered in the state of Michigan. Systems less than 2000 gallons per day may have the engineered plan requirement waived at the discretion of the Health Department.
Permits
Once the site is determined to be acceptable and adequate information has been provided, a permit to construct an on-site sewage disposal and treatment system can be issued.
A permit is valid for the remainder of the year in which it is written and for all of the following year. There is no extension or renewal provision for a permit. Once a permit has expired a new application will need to be submitted and the application process repeated.
Final Inspection
A final inspection of the completed system is required prior to covering any portion of the system.
Final inspections are arranged with the Health Department by the installer or property owner.