Lawmakers in Lansing are once again attempting to establish statewide rules for septic systems in Michigan, aiming to address long-standing concerns about water quality.
Members of the state Senate’s natural resources committee recently heard testimony on Senate Bill 771, which proposes uniform standards for the design, installation, inspection and maintenance of residential septic systems. The legislation would direct the Michigan Department of Environment, Great Lakes and Energy to develop a statewide code and oversee regular inspections, with enforcement handled by local health departments.
Michigan is currently the only U.S. state without a comprehensive statewide septic code, relying instead on a patchwork of county and local regulations.
The proposal is being led by Sam Singh, who warned lawmakers that decades of inaction have allowed potential contamination risks to continue affecting lakes, rivers and groundwater.
The bill would prioritize inspections for older or high-risk septic systems, especially those located near water bodies. It also calls for the creation of a statewide database to track more than 1.3 million septic systems and their inspection results.
Environmental groups say failing septic systems can release bacteria and nutrients into waterways, contributing to harmful algae blooms and beach closures. State officials reported hundreds of high-bacteria incidents at beaches last year, many linked to human sewage contamination.
Supporters argue a statewide system would better protect water resources, while local governments and industry groups have raised concerns about implementation costs and potential financial burdens for homeowners.
The committee heard testimony on the bill but has not yet taken a vote.