Variance approved for three lots to use mound (Type 3) septic systems in subdivision

The Morrison County Board of Adjustment approved a variance on April 29 permitting the development of three subdivision lots with Type 3 (mound) septic systems after designers concluded no area on those parcels could support a Type 1 system.

Land Services staff told the board the request (ordinance references listed in the packet as "13 o 1.1215 o 1.4") covers three lots in the Tredder Martie subdivision (lots 67 and 68 were referenced) for which the applicant has purchase agreements. Staff said the designer could not locate sufficient soil depth for a Type 1 system and has submitted designs for Type 3 mound systems on all three lots. Staff also said houses would be slab-on-grade and that the lots meet other ordinance setbacks.

Board members noted site-visit observations and that neighboring lots in the area already use similar mound systems. A board member said Soil and Water found no wetlands on the parcels and that each lot includes room for two septic systems, which staff said makes the design feasible.

The motion to approve the variance was made by Brent and seconded by George. The roll call was Brent — aye; George — aye; Marv — aye; Clint — aye; John — aye. The board approved the requested variances. Staff noted these are the final lots within the subdivision and that follow-up permitting and recording of conditions will occur as part of the building and septic-permitting process.

The approval allows the applicant to proceed with the Type 3 systems as designed; installation must follow county septic-permit procedures and any conditions recorded with the variance findings.