Water Resources Center
OSTP

The Water Resources Center is affiliated with the College of Food, Agricultural and Natural Resource Sciences and University of Minnesota Extension.

SSTS Regulations

There are four layers of regulations. The federal government has regulations, the Minnesota legislature writes local statutes, the MPCA writes Chapter 7080, and local governmental units (i.e. counties, townships and cities) have local ordinances. Therefore, the requirements vary across the state.

State and Local Policies Affecting Septic Systems

Local Level

Counties, Cities and Townships with Septic System Regulations

State Level

Minnesota Pollution Control Agency (MPCA)>>
Administers MN Rule 7080, the state wide rule regarding onsite sewage treatment systems and licensing program for onsite professionals.

Minnesota Department of Health
Administers the well code, well head protection program and oversees food, beverage, and lodging establishmentsMinnesota Department of Labor & Industry
Administers the Boiler Operator's License for Pumpers using boilers to thaw frozen septic systemsMinnesota Department of Natural Resources (DNR)
Has Shoreland Managment Programs which protect surface waters
Board of Water and Soil Resources (BWSR)
In reference to SSTSs, BWSR administers the wetland conservation act. (M.S. 103G and MN Rules Chapter 8420) and links water resource planning with comprehensive land use planning.

Board of Architecture, Engineering, Land Surveying, Landscape Architecture, Geoscience and Interior Design
This board licenses professional engineers, soil scientists, and geologists involved with the design of SSTS systems.

Minnesota Occupational Safety and Health (MNOSHA) is committed to helping Minnesotans improve workplace safety and health

Minnesota Department of Transportation

Federal Level

Environmental Protection Agency (USEPA)
Regulates Class V systems and septage application