Rules and Regs Re: Septic Systems on Nantucket

If your home is in Massachusetts and has a septic system, you’ll need to have the system inspected and certified under Title V before transferring ownership or making significant alterations or additions to your home.  Title V is the set of state regulations that govern this process. These regulations were created in 1995 by the Massachusetts Department of Environmental Protection (Mass DEP) to protect waterways, the groundwater and the environment.  Septic system inspections are a key piece of these regulations. The Nantucket Board of Health administers Title V and keeps a record of as-built septic plans, as well as inspection results. It is important to note that the local Board of Health has adopted more stringent regulations than those of the state due, in part, to rapid infiltration rates and coastal areas characterized by tidally induced ground water fluctuations.  Certain sensitive zones now require that the seller of a property must install an innovative/alternative (I/A) septic system, which has nitrogen reducing upgrades, regardless of whether or not the current system complies with Title V.
Title V regulations require septic system inspections anytime ownership of a property is transferred. This includes when the property is sold to new owners or when it is inherited.  There are other circumstances when an inspection may be required as well (some changes of use, subdivision or significant expansion to an existing structure among them).
The Title V inspection is performed by a certified septic pumping professional, licensed in the state of Massachusetts. These professionals can also perform any necessary repairs, upgrades, or replacements necessary for compliance with the regulations.  In Massachusetts, the state does allow for a Confidential Voluntary Assessment, which means a homeowner can have their septic system inspected without having to submit their finding to the Board of Health. This could give the homeowner a heads-up to any problems or repairs needed before the official Title V inspection.
When inspection time comes, the inspector will look at all parts of your septic system, including the leach field, distribution box and septic tank. The inspector will also check for hydraulic failure and check the distance between the system and high groundwater elevation.  The inspector then writes up a report which is filed with the local Board of Health.  If a system passes, the inspection is good for two years from the date of the report.  If the system fails the inspection then that is another story!  Please contact the Nantucket Health Department with any questions.