DHHS Maine Center for Disease Control and Prevention Issues New Subsurface Wastewater Rules

July 14, 2009

DHHS has adopted Rule number 2009-242 which will be effective on August 1, 2009. The majority of changes are intended to simplify the application and enforcement of the rules, improve readability, and clarify intent. Changes include adding definitions for relevant terms, adding requirements for backfill envelopes, specifying sizes for stone-filled disposal trenches, specifying setback requirements for field-stone disposal trenches, adding requirement for risers with access openings to septic tanks, and increased requirements for installation of tanks. The amendments were developed through a consensus-based rulemaking process by a task force made up of site evaluators, state regulatory officials, local plumbing inspectors, system installers, system inspectors, septic pumpers, equipment suppliers and equipment manufacturers.

For more information, please contact Bill Ferdinand in our Brunswick office.