What is a Repair? A replacement of an old or malfunctioning permitted, correctly sized Onsite Wastewater Treatment System (OWTS).
What is an Upgrade? A modification of an existing, permitted OWTS including:
- a partial or total replacement of a permitted OWTS
- addition of dispersal area or treatment components to meet current standards
- addition of dispersal area or treatment components to support a remodel or addition to the structure
- installation of an additional OWTS or septic tank to serve an accessory dwelling unit on a developed parcel
To determine whether Repair or Upgrade Standards apply, the first step is to determine if the parcel has a permitted OWTS.
To determine the legality of the OWTS on a parcel, go to EH Files online. Follow the instructions to look up your parcel.
If the parcel does not have a permitted OWTS, it will need to meet current standards for new development.
If the parcel has a permitted OWTS, determine from the EH Files online what size structure the OWTS was permitted for. As noted on the most recent OWTS permit, find the number of structures, bedrooms, and square footage. If a legal ADU exists, there will be two permits to consider.
- Repair Standards apply if the current structure(s) does not exceed what the OWTS was permitted for. There is one-time allowance/parcel of less than 500 square feet if there are no additional bedrooms (a bedroom is any room other than a kitchen, bathroom and one living space).
- Upgrade Standards apply if the current structure has more bedrooms (a bedroom is any room other than a kitchen, bathroom and one living space) or more than 500 additional square feet or more structures than what the OWTS permit allowed.