Senate Bill 771: A Statewide Septic Code
Did you know? Michigan is currently the only state without a uniform statewide septic code. Currently, oversight is handled at the local level. A new bill seeks to change that.
Throughout the Glen Lake/Crystal River Watershed, septic systems are often located near shorelines. When they fail, they can diminish overall lake health by contributing to bacterial contamination, algal growth, and degraded water clarity. Senate Bill 771 proposes creating Michigan’s first comprehensive statewide framework for the oversight and maintenance of septic systems.
Key provisions of SB771 include:
- Prioritizing inspections for high-risk or older systems (20+ years old and near water, erosion areas, dunes, or floodplains), followed by routine 10-year inspections (under certain conditions)
- Defining what constitutes a septic system “failure” and authorizing local health departments to inspect and enforce compliance
- Establishing a Technical Advisory Committee of experts to help develop statewide standards and rules
- Creating a dedicated fund to support local health departments, modernize septic records, expand public education, and assist low-income homeowners with costs.
- Allowing approved alternative and innovative treatment technologies to meet state standards, providing flexibility for property owners and communities.
Senate Bill 0812: Wake Boat Regulations
Wake boats are a popular part of lake recreation in Michigan. However, research indicates that large wakes can interact with shorelines and lakebeds, particularly in nearshore areas. According to the Michigan Department of Natural Resources, the large wakes created by wake boats can cause increased damage to aquatic environments through several mechanisms including shoreline erosion, decreased water clarity and plant abundance, and increased phosphorus in the water column.
Senate Bill 0812 proposes updates to the state’s boating regulations that would define and set operating standards for “wake boats,” which are equipped with ballast systems to create larger wakes for water sports.
Key provisions of SB0812 include:
- Defining “wake boat,” “wake-enhancing equipment,” and “wake sport mode”
- Prohibiting the operation of a boat in wake sport mode in water less than 20 feet deep and/or within 500 feet of shorelines, docks, swimmers, or moored boats
- Establishing fines and enforcement mechanisms for violations
Why These Bills Matter and How You Can Get Involved
While the two bills address very different sources of impact, both relate to how human activity affects lake health. As these bills move through the legislative process, opportunities for your input may emerge.
If you’re interested in following or commenting on these bills, here are a few ways you can engage:
- Visit the Michigan Legislature website to read full text and see upcoming hearings for Senate Bill 771 and Senate Bill 0812
- Contact your state senator or representative to share your perspective