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Stoddard committee flags inconsistent septic inspections; considers standardized form and code changes
Summary
Members heard that DES does not centrally license septic evaluators and that no standardized inspection form exists; the committee discussed adopting a comprehensive inspection form and a dyed‑flow test, and a guest presented proposed local code changes for future consideration.
Steve Jacobs reported to the Cyanobacteria Committee on March 13 that the state’s regulatory framework for septic systems near water creates potential inconsistencies: he found that the DES (as referenced in discussion) does not centrally license evaluators, training and licensing are handled elsewhere, and there is no standardized inspection form, which could lead to divergent assessments of septic system condition.
Jacobs said Salmon Falls Headwaters Lakes requires comprehensive inspection forms and suggested Stoddard consider adopting a similar standardized form and include a dyed‑flow test to detect leaks. Guest Paul Fiondella added that the state separates licensing for designers and inspectors and said his recent septic permit included an agreement to have the system inspected every two years. Paul handed the committee an amended version of code changes he had submitted to the Planning Board and asked to return on a future agenda to discuss those revisions.
Committee members discussed how to get town enforcement of state rules and the potential benefit of a standard inspection form to reduce evaluator inconsistencies. No formal action was taken; members said they will continue research and consider the proposed code amendments at a later meeting.
