Well & Septic Permit Applications

Permits are required for the installation of all new and repair on site water wells. Proper well construction is a critical step to prevent contamination during the life of the well. Prior to the issuance of a permit, the site must be evaluated to ensure that it meets all the requirements of the Ottawa County Environmental Health Code.

Permits are required for the installation of all new and repair sewage disposal (septic) systems. Prior to the issuance of a permit, the site must be evaluated to ensure that it meets all of the requirements of the Ottawa County Environmental Health Code.

Vacant Land Evaluation is a program to preliminarily determine if a property is suitable for private home or semi public construction utilizing on site water wells and/or on site septic systems.

The program was designed to protect home buyers, sellers, seller’s agents and the community. Sewage from a failed sewage disposal (septic) system can flow into back yards, wetlands or nearby creeks. A damaged water supply system can contaminate the water serving many homes. Before transferring ownership, a septic system and/or water supply system evaluation must be done.

• Real Estate Transfer Evaluation Program

All unused wells must be properly abandoned to prevent groundwater aquifer contamination. Call the Ottawa County Department of Public Health, Environmental Health Division at (616) 393-5645 for information regarding the requirements and plugging information.

This program permits and inspects wells and non-municipal water supplies, also known as type II wells, which provide water to 25 or more people at least 60 days per year (i.e. motels, schools utilizing water wells).

Include a diagram of the site with your application. The diagram should indicate the following:

• The location of the proposed well and distribution system in relation to the property lines and all structures on the property and adjacent property that will be served by the well.
• The distances from the proposed well to any drain fields, sewer lines, septic tanks, drywells, grease traps, abandoned wells, chemical storage facilities or fertilizer storage units.
• The areas subject to flooding and/or standing surface waters (e.g. lake or streams).
• Major sources of contamination such as landfills, waste disposal sites and known groundwater contamination sites. Also indicate if the old well will be used in any capacity, provide a list of the number of sinks, toilets, faucets, hose connections, drinking fountains and the number of people to be served by the well. This will help us determine the flow rate for the well.

A program to preliminarily determine if a property is suitable for a subdivision or site condominium utilizing on site water wells and/or on site septic systems. Vacant Land Evaluation Application for Future Subdivision Use and permit fee required.

A review and subsequent approval/disapproval of a formal submittal for the development of a subdivision or a site condominium utilizing on site water wells and septic systems. Engineered plans submitted by a professional and fee required.

A program of licensing and inspection to ensure that campgrounds, both permanent and temporary are constructed and maintained in a sanitary manner. State of Michigan Campground License fee and county inspection fee required.