Septage Regulation

The following guidance document for septage waste storage facility siting, construction, and use was developed by the MDEQ:

Septage Waste Storage Facility Management Practices (.pdf)

Legislative changes to the Michigan Septage Waste Servicers law, Part 117, Septage Waste Servicers, of the Natural Resources and Environmental Protection Act, 1994 PA 451, as amended (Part 117), were signed into law by Gov. Granholm on October 12, 2004.

Two changes to Part 117 that took effect on October 12, 2006, include requirements to 1) screen all septage waste prior to land application and 2) ban septage waste disposal on frozen soil to reduce the potential for runoff. These requirements have led many in the septage waste industry, who use land application as their principle means of disposal, to pursue new ways to continue business during winter, inclement weather, and when crops are planted. For many that choice is to construct a septage waste storage facility.

The MDEQ strongly recommends that septage waste firms planning on constructing winter storage facility contact the local unit of government early in the decision-making process to determine if that use complies with any applicable local ordinances.

Townships are encouraged to work with local septage haulers to address this issue. For more information, contact MTA Legislative Liaison Tom Frazier or Member Information Liaison Catherine Mullhaupt at (517) 321-6467.