On-Site Septic Systems

The Grand Traverse County Health Department (GTCHD) Environmental Health Division is responsible for issuing permits and designing and ensuring the proper installation of on-site septic systems for residential and commercial properties. Proper design, installation, and maintenance are important to prevent system failures that can lead to environmental contamination and public health hazards. 

Permitting: 

Sanitarians conduct field evaluations, review plans, and consult with homeowners and contractors to issue on-site septic permits for properties that do not have access to municipal systems. 

To obtain a permit for the installation of a new or replacement septic system, applications may be submitted through our online permitting system EPIC GT. After obtaining a permit, the applicant can choose a contractor for installation. Final inspections are required before being approved for use, which is included in the permit.  

Site Evaluations (aka Perc Test):

Site evaluations are conducted to determine whether an on-site sewage system is suitable for a property. These evaluations are typically performed on vacant parcels as part of due diligence during real estate transactions. During these evaluations, a Sanitarian performs field assessments to determine the type of soil, groundwater evaluations, proximity to surface waters, and other site conditions that may impact the suitability of an on-site septic system. 

Septic System Review:

Many local permitting agencies require a well and septic status form to be completed as part of their application process. This would include, but is not limited to, remodels to an existing dwelling, construction of garages, and/or outbuildings if those buildings include plumbing. A remodel of a dwelling that may result in an increase of wastewater, such as the addition of bedrooms or a change of use, will require review by this department. Using the Status Review Form, GTCHD will determine if an existing sewage disposal system is sufficient to allow the proposed change of use, provided well and septic records exist. In instances where no records exist, a third-party inspection may be required. A report documenting the results of the review will be supplied to the applicant.  

Short-term Rental Review:

Various townships within Grand Traverse County request a review of a property's well and septic records for the approval of short-term rental licensure. Provided well and septic records exist, a report documenting the number of bedrooms supported by the onsite septic system will be issued. In instances where no records exist, a third-party inspection will be required for a determination to be made. Please consult with your township for all short-term rental requirements. 

Please take a look at the 2026 fee schedule before submitting your permit application, as payment is due at the time of submission. It can take up to 30 days for the turnaround time for both permit issuance and site evaluations. Other related forms may take up to ten business days to complete.  

If you have any questions or need assistance with the process, please get in touch with us at 231-995-6051 or email us at eh@gtcountymi.gov.

Forms: 

Additional Information: