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1. When can I apply for my well and/or sewage system permits?

Once your have an approved soil evaluation, you may apply for your well and sewage permits. Remember to read the soils approval letter issued by our office to determine site-specific requirements, such as a tank-first or well-first requirement. After you receive your well and sewage permits, you can then apply for your building permits and/or soil erosion permits, if needed.

2. How do I apply for my well and sewage permits?

To apply for your well and/or sewage permit, you must submit a complete permit application to:

Washtenaw County Environmental Health
705 N Zeeb Road
P.O. Box 8645
Ann Arbor, MI 48107-8645
Phone: 734-222-3800

To find more information about application requirements view our Application Requirements page.

3. How long are my permits valid?

You have one year from the time your sewage permit is issued to complete construction. After that, the permit must be rewritten and a fee assessed. If changes are made which require a site visit, an additional fee may be required. A sewage permit is not transferable from place to place or person to person. Well permits are valid for one year. Well permits can be reactivated within two years after expiration for 50% of the permit fee.

4. What inspections are made by Washtenaw County Environmental Health during the construction of my well and sewage system?

Your inspection schedule will be listed on your permit. When you are ready for an inspection, call Environmental Health at 734-222-3800. All inspections will be made promptly (usually within 24 hours, excluding weekends and holidays). Please note that any deviations from your original plans must be approved by Environmental Health before excavation/construction can begin!

Typical Inspections

Find information about typical inspections.

5. What happens after the inspections?

The outcomes of the inspections generally result in a phone call from the Sanitarian, and/or the issuance of a tag:

• White Tag: Approval of specified inspection. You may proceed to the next step.
• Blue Tag: Additional information is needed to determine the outcome of the inspection, which may involve consultation with the excavating contractor or Environmental Health staff. A blue tag may or may not result in an additional inspection and/or fee.
• Red Tag: The system is not properly constructed, or the permit conditions were not followed . The system is not approved until corrections have been made and it is re-inspected. A re-inspection fee will be assessed.
• Green Tag: Final approval of the system is granted.