Septic System/Well Permits
In order to ensure the integrity and safe operation of all septic systems and wells within the township, permits are required for all work, however minor, done in connection with these systems. In most situations, work required will necessitate engaging the services of a licensed professional engineer who will coordinate the permitting process, secure the necessary environmental assessments and submit proposed designs to the appropriate entity. Please call the Health Department at 973.989.7050 if your specific situation is not covered below.
- Repairs & Alterations
Most repairs and alterations to septic systems are highly technical and require the expertise of a licensed professional engineer. Before undertaking any repairs without the use of a licensed engineer, you must contact the Health Department to ensure compliance with state law and township policies. Permits are required.
Application Review Fees:
Residential review: $50.00
Commercial review: $100.00Permit Fees:
Residential repairs: $100.00
Commercial repairs: $250.00- New System Installations
The design of a new septic system must be performed by a licensed professional engineer. The engineer will submit the application and proposed designs to the Health Department for its review. Upon approval, the Health Department will issue a permit. No construction or connection may begin until such authorization is obtained. All inspections must be completed by the Health Department before a new system is deemed to be in compliance with the law.
Application Review Fees:
Residential: $100.00
Commercial: $160.00Permit Fees:
Residential: $300.00
Commercial: $500.00- Septic System Abandonment
The abandonment of an existing septic system is subject to review by the Health Department. One might abandon an existing septic system if a new system in a different location is planned or if connection to the township’s sewer system becomes available to a property. Please contact the Health Department for details.
Fee: $50.00
- Septic Operator’s License
The Health Department requires that all operational septic systems be licensed by the township. Licenses are valid for three years from the date of issuance and are transferable. Renewal requires proof of pumping or a report evidencing a septic system inspection by a licensed professional engineer. Failure to properly maintain the system or renew the operator license will result in penalties as permitted under N.J.A.C. 7:9A-3.14.
For your convenience, we have made the Application for the Septic Operator’s License available online. To view it, you will need the freely available Adobe Reader software installed on your computer, version 4 or higher.
This is a “fillable form” and may be filled out on your computer. Please note that a fillable form isn’t the same as electronic filing and it is not possible to electronically submit a form—you must print it out after entering the information. Complete instructions are provided on the first page of the application.
Fee: $50.00
- Septic System Pumping
In order to maximize the life of your septic system and ensure optimal performance, the township recommends that residents have their septic systems pumped every 2-1/2 to 3 years. A permit is required and is usually obtained by the commercial establishment that pumps the tank.
Fee: $10.00 (for both commercial and residential)
- Repairs & Modifications
Most repairs and modifications to wells are highly technical and require the expertise of a licensed professional engineer. Before undertaking any repairs without the use of a licensed engineer or well driller, you must contact the Health Department to ensure compliance with state law and township ordinances.
Fees:
Residential repairs: $50.00
Commercial repairs: $50.00- Well Drilling
The New Jersey Department of Environmental Protection (DEP) regulates the procedures associated with the drilling of wells. Most notably, wells must be drilled by a firm licensed by the DEP and all wells must be approved by the DEP prior to use. Residents should contact a licensed well driller or the DEP at 609.292.5550 for questions regarding this process.
Fee: $200.00
- Well Abandonment
State and local ordinances regulate well abandonment in order to protect our municipal water supply from private and possibly contaminated wells within the township. Abandoning a well, typically associated with connection to the township’s water system or the drilling of a new well, is subject to review by the Health Department. Please call 973.989.7050 for further details.
Fee: None
- Well Testing
Upon request, the Health Department will coordinate basic well water testing for potability (total coliform and e-coli, when indicated). If you require more sophisticated testing (i.e., VOC, lead, pH), it is recommended that you contact a New Jersey Department of Environmental Protection certified laboratory. Please contact the Health Department at 973.989.7050 for more information.
Fee: $30.00