Septic Permits
When to Apply
Once you have an approved Soil Evaluation, you may apply for your septic permit. Read the soil evaluation for site-specific requirements.
For new building construction, you will also need:
- Land use permit from your Local Township
- Soil erosion permit from Drain Commissioner
- Driveway permit from the Road Commission
Once you have obtained these permits, you can apply for your building permit. Contact the Livingston County Building Department (LCBD) for more information. LCBD has permitting authority for all Livingston County except for Green Oak Township. If your building project is in Green Oak Township, please contact their Building Department directly.
How to Apply
Submit a complete Well & Septic Permit Application to LCHD Environmental Health Division in-person, by email, or online. If you will be installing a well, you must apply for it at the same time as the septic system.
The application must include:
- Documentation of permanent street address for new construction (tax bill, township address form, etc.)
- Copy of a certified survey and legal description (for new construction only)
- Copy of an accurate plot plan (Example Plot Plan)
- Appropriate fees
Once these materials are submitted, an Environmental Health Specialist will review and issue the permit via email and/or contact you within 3-5 business days to request more information. At your request, permits can be mailed or picked up once issued. Issued permits will automatically be forwarded on to the municipality and Building Official. View your permit for further instructions and requirements including inspections and water testing.
Online Permit Applications
Apply for a permit and look up information.
Inspections
Your inspection schedule will be listed on your permit. The septic contractor will contact us for the required inspections. All inspections will be made promptly (usually within 24 hours, excluding weekends and holidays.) Please note that any changes from your original plans must be approved by Environmental Health before excavation/construction can begin.
After the septic system inspections, a final approval (Completed Permit) will be issued. Once the septic system has been approved, the Completed Permit will be forwarded to the appropriate building department. The building department must have this documentation on file before they will issue their Certificate of Occupancy.
Well & Septic Contractor Inspection Request
Online scheduling is now available for contractors to request well and septic inspections.
Inspections can be scheduled for morning (9:30am–12pm) or afternoon (1pm–3:30pm) appointment windows.
Please note that we do not offer inspection services to homeowners or real estate agents.
How long are my permits valid?
You have 1 year from the time your sewage/well 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 extra fee may be required.
Financial Assistance
If you’re seeking financial support to install a replacement septic system, please visit the Septic Replacement Loan Program for more details.
Last Modified April 28, 2026



