The On-Lot Sewage Management Program, Ordinance 2023-01, was adopted on September 7, 2023 and went into effect January 1, 2024. The purpose of this ordinance is to ensure all on-lot septic systems throughout the Township are functioning property in order to protect our community and our environment. When a treatment system malfunctions and discharges raw sewage onto public lands or private property or into waterways, the negative impacts are significant. Drinking water supplies can be contaminated. Pennsylvanians’ health and safety are endangered. The environment we depend on is degraded. Property and community value is damaged.
For this reason, Pennsylvania cities, townships, and boroughs are required by the Pennsylvania Sewage Facility Act of 1966 to manage all sewage within their borders. This includes not only public sewer systems, but also on-lot sewage treatment systems. In other words, if you have a septic system on your property, it’s considered part of your local municipal infrastructure.
Just like a home and car, a septic system requires maintenance. Regular maintenance extends the longevity of the system and significantly reduces the need for repair or replacement. If maintenance is neglected, even expertly designed and installed systems can function well below capacity or fail completely.
What does a municipal sewage management program mean to me?
- Pumping the treatment tank once every four years.
- Property owner education on the operation and maintenance of a septic system.
- Registration or licensing of septage haulers and other service providers, including standard procedures.
- Inspections to ensure proper operation.
The Township is divided into four (4) zones, and which zone you live in determines when you are required to provide proof of pumping/inspection. The zones are as follows:
- Zone 1 – West of 225 to the Western Banks of the Susquehanna River.
- Zone 2 – Clark’s Valley
- Zone 3 – Stoney Creek Valley
- Zone 4 – Fishing Creek Valley including Front Street, Roberts Valley Road and Greggs Road areas.
If you have questions about which zone you are in, simply contact the Township office.
At the beginning of each year, notice letters will be mailed informing residents that their zone is up to provide proof of pumping/inspection. You have until December 31 of that year to have your system pumped and inspected by a registered hauler/pumper. Reminder notices will be mailed quarterly. Pumping/inspection reports done within one (1) year prior to your zone’s current year are acceptable.
For a full list of approved septic waste haulers/pumpers, please click here. If a company that you use is not on this list, simply have them reach out to the Township office to added.
All questions regarding the On-Lot Sewage Management Program should be directed to the Township office at 717-921-8128. Questions regarding maintenance/repair to your septic system should be directed to Brian McFeaters at 717-813-6492.
Full text of Ordinance 2023-01 can be viewed here.