Buying or selling a home? Make sure septic system is in compliance

Editor’s note: The following information was provided by Todd County Planning and Zoning.

TODD COUNTY — Recent activity in the housing market has shown high volume of sales. Todd County has been no exception to this trend. Todd County Planning and Zoning would like to take this opportunity to remind those in the housing market that septic compliance is required upon transfer of ownership.

Section 9.08J (vi) states that prior to the sale or transfer of any property in Todd County, the sewage treatment system must have a compliance inspection unless a valid certificate of compliance is on file with the county. A valid certificate of compliance is an inspection that was conducted within five years on a new installation of a septic system or three years on an existing system.

In addition, section 9.08L (iv) states that prior to the sale or transfer of property in Todd County, the sewage treatment system must have a compliance inspection unless a valid certificate of compliance is on file with the county. If not found in compliance, the system must be: 1) Brought into compliance prior to transfer of property or, 2) The seller shall provide the buyer sufficient security in the form of an escrow agreement to assure the installation of a fully complaint sewage treatment system. The escrow amount shall be equal to 150% of a written estimate from a licensed and certified sewage treatment installer or 110% of a written contract price provided by a licensed and certified sewage treatment installer or, 3) The system must be discontinued from use.

As a buyer, this information is important to know to avoid being stuck with a noncompliant septic system which has now become your responsibly to update. As a seller, avoid delays in the sale of your property and increase the value by updating the system in advance.

Todd County has programs available to assist land owners with updating failing or noncompliant septic system. Grants are available to low income families in need of a septic upgrade. Low interest loans are available for most land owners to assist with septic upgrades. Please be advised that the loan program is set to expire in March of 2024. Funding is limited so we encourage land owners to inquire about the funds before they become unavailable.

For additional information, contact Todd County Planning and Zoning at 320-732-4420.