Sewage and wastewater contain many bacteria and viruses known as "pathogens" which can cause disease, illness, and even death. The phosphorus and solids in sewage when not properly treated cause degradation of water quality. Nitrogen can cause both water quality and health problems.

Health standards established in the 1920's are the basis for today's Minnesota Rule Chapter 7080, which regulates septic systems.

In the 1960's Minnesota developed wastewater treatment rules to upgrade septic systems on lakeshores. The Minnesota Pollution Control Agency (MPCA) and local units of government, counties, cities and townships are responsible for enforcement of these rules.

Our lifestyle changes, increased knowledge, product availability and research efforts have led to code revisions. Statewide licensing of septic system professionals has been mandatory since 1996. State law requires homeowners to disclose what they know about the septic system to potential homebuyers. Many local units of government require inspections and mandatory upgrades at the time of a home sale. Upgrades on lakeshore have been mandatory since 1972 when a building permit is requested.

Local units of government are required to adopt and enforce chapter 7080 to regulate septic systems. Because of unique local conditions, ordinances may be slightly more or less restrictive than state rules.

MPCA is in the process of amending Chapter 7080. The agency is dividing Chapter 7080 into separate rules and making major changes to each area. The areas are: 7080 -Individual Sewage Treatment Systems for five or less homes, 7081 - Midsize Sewage Treatment Systems (cluster systems), 7082 - Administration of Programs and 7083 - Professional Registration and Licensing Program. It is likely these rules will not impact private property owners until 2007 or 2008 depending on the time frame of adoption at the local unit of government level.

The code can be found on the State Register web site. Questions about local code adjustments and enforcement should be directed to your local planning and zoning or environmental services office. Refer to the University of Minnesota Onsite Sewage Treatment Program website for more information: Water Resources.

Links:
Lake Home & Cabin Kit
Septic Systems Owner's Guide
Water Resources Septic Systems