Massachusetts has strict rules for septic system placement, aimed at protecting the state’s abundant natural resources.
Title 5 Regulations: Title 5 prescribes minimum setbacks, system sizing based on bedroom count, and other criteria. For example, systems must be set at least 100 feet from private wells, 50 feet from wetlands, and 10 feet from property boundaries. Consult your local Board of Health for any town-specific bylaws that may be more restrictive than state requirements.
Permitting Process: After site evaluation, an engineer or licensed designer prepares a septic system design, which must be submitted to the local Board of Health for review and approval. The permitting process typically includes public hearings and may require additional documentation if the site is near sensitive resources.
Variances: In some cases, a property may not meet all Title 5 standards due to site constraints. Homeowners can apply for variances, but these are reviewed on a case-by-case basis and often require justification, mitigation measures, and additional oversight.
For more information, contact Morse Engineering and Construction.
