Private SEPTAGE SYSTEM regulation

Private septage systems are essential in many parts of Dane County that are not served by public sanitary sewer. If a private septage system fails, it is a hazard to human health and the environment.

A Sanitary Permit is Needed to:

• Install a new private septage system
• Repair an existing private septage system
• Extend or enlarge and existing private septage system
• Reconnect to an existing private septage system
• Otherwise modify an existing private septage system

Steps to Getting a Sanitary Permit

1. Soil evaluation - property owner contracts with a licensed certified soil tester. (Refer to your phone book for a list of professionals)
2. System design - property owner has a system designed by a licensed professional such as a Master Plumber, Master Plumber Restricted, or a Certified Designer. In some cases a professional engineer may also have the credentials necessary to design a septic system. (Refer to your phone book for a list of professionals)
3. Sanitary permit application - have Master Plumber submit Sanitary Permit Application to Public Health - Madison & Dane County. For information about fees, see Well & Septic Program Fee Schedule (PDF).
4. Plan/permit review - PHMDC sanitarian reviews plans and permit applications and issues plan approvals or sanitary permits as appropriate.