June 24, 2019
For More Information Contact Risk Communications Manager Lorrie Andrew-Spear – Lorrie.Andrew-Spear@vdh.Virginia.gov
New Onsite Sewage System and Private Well Application Fees Take Effect July 1
Onsite Sewage System and Private Well Application Processes Change Effective July 11
(Brunswick, Va.)—The Southside Health District is notifying the public that new fees for onsite sewage systems and private wells will go into effect on July 1, 2019. The Virginia Department of Health (VDH) is gradually transitioning evaluation and design services for onsite sewage systems and private wells to the private sector. The health department will continue to be the permitting authority of all sewage disposal systems and private wells, however, it will no longer be the primary designer of such systems.
Starting July 11, 2019, all applications for onsite sewage systems and/or private wells must be accompanied by supporting work from a private sector consultant who is properly licensed to do such work through the Department of Professional and Occupational Regulation.
VDH may serve as a provider of last resort for applicants who submit a petition for services and who meet the income eligibility criteria established in the Code or the Hardship Guidelines, available at https://www.vdh.virginia.gov/environmental-health/onsite-sewage-water-services-updated/news-of-interest/.
For many years, the Virginia Department of Health (VDH) has been the primary source for designing septic systems for new homes and the repair of existing septic systems. As directed by the Virginia legislature, the State has been moving toward requiring private sector design for septic systems. House Bill 558 (HB558) mandated that the Health Department no longer be the primary designer of septic systems. The policy changes that take effect July 11 begin the gradual transition of evaluation and design services for onsite sewage systems and private wells to the private sector.
For more detailed information, see the attached documents, including an updated fee schedule, the “Means Testing Criteria” for hardship assistance, and a letter that has been sent directly to stakeholders explaining the changes to the policies and fees.
If you have questions, email the Southside Health District Environmental Health Manager Briana Bill at briana.bill@vdh.virginia.gov or call 434-766-9833. You may also contact your local health district. Find your local health district at www.vdh.virginia.gov/health-department-locator/.
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