17.36.327    SEWAGE SYSTEMS: EXISTING SYSTEMS

(1) The provisions of (2) through (5) apply only to existing non-public sewage systems in proposed subdivisions. Facilities previously approved under Title 76, chapter 4, MCA, must be reviewed in accordance with ARM 17.36.112. Public sewage supply systems must meet the requirements of Title 75, chapter 6, MCA, and rules promulgated thereunder.

(2) If an existing sewage treatment system is present, the department shall review the adequacy of the existing system for the proposed use and the capability of the existing system to operate without risk to public health and without pollution of state waters. To assist the department in making this determination, the applicant shall submit the following information, together with fees as provided in ARM 17.36.802:

(a) evidence demonstrating the proper hydraulic functioning of each existing system;

(b) evidence as to whether each existing system complied with state and local laws and regulations, including permit requirements, applicable at the time of installation; and

(c) evidence that each existing septic tank was pumped within three years prior to the department’s review unless the existing septic tank is less than five years old.

(3) The setbacks requirements in ARM 17.36.323 apply, but may be waived for existing sewage systems pursuant to ARM 17.36.601.

(4) The applicant shall provide for a replacement area for each existing system. Unless a waiver is approved by the department pursuant to ARM 17.36.601, replacement areas must comply with the requirements of this subchapter.

(5) Existing cesspools and pit privies must be replaced by a system approved under this subchapter. Holding tanks may be allowed by waiver pursuant to ARM 17.36.321(3)(g)(ii). Existing sealed pit privies must also be replaced, unless they are at a facility owned and operated by a local, state, or federal unit of government, or are at a facility where use of a sealed pit privy is authorized by the Department of Public Health and Human Services.

 

History: 76-4-104, MCA; IMP, 76-4-104, MCA; NEW, 2000 MAR p. 3371, Eff. 12/8/00; AMD, 2002 MAR p. 1465, Eff. 5/17/02; AMD, 2016 MAR p. 722, Eff. 4/23/16; AMD, 2023 MAR p. 324, Eff. 4/15/23.