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Board hears private proposal for mandatory septic inspections in shoreline zone
Summary
A private group is drafting a proposed ordinance to require inspections and reporting of septic systems in the shoreline zone; the board discussed enforcement limits, state reporting gaps and possible budget implications but took no formal action.
A board member reported that a private working group (led by experienced former DEP staff and local volunteers) is drafting a mandatory septic-inspection ordinance aimed at property in the shoreline zone. The proposal described to the board would require owners to identify septic system locations, obtain inspections, and submit reports to the town rather than only to the state. The group also anticipates fines for noncompliance and a phased-in inspection program.
Board members and staff raised questions about enforcement authority and overlap with state rules. The transcript notes that state law requires shoreline septic reports to be filed with the state but that the state does not consistently enforce those filings; the private group’s proposal would shift reporting and enforcement mechanics toward the town. Select board members asked staff to consult with the code enforcement officer and legal counsel about what the town could lawfully require and enforce.
The board did not act on an ordinance at the meeting; presenters described the drafting group as a private organization that has not been formally charged by the select board. Speakers indicated the drafting team includes former Department of Environmental Protection staff and watershed representatives and plans to return with a formal draft for the select board’s review.
