Impact of Septic Systems on Michigan’s Water

Michigan is the only U.S. state without a statewide septic code. With nearly 1.5 million homes relying on septic systems, poor maintenance and outdated regulations pose serious environmental and public health risks. Studies have found human fecal pathogens in many Michigan waterways, and failing septic systems contribute to significant water pollution, including an estimated 1.26 billion gallons of untreated sewage entering Saginaw Bay annually.

Efforts to pass statewide septic regulations have faced political opposition, with some lawmakers preferring local control. In 2024, Senate Bills 299 and 300 aimed to establish uniform standards, inspections, and a septic system database, but they stalled in the House. Advocates argue that statewide oversight is essential to protect water quality and public health, while opponents see it as government overreach.

To address the issue, EGLE has launched a septic replacement loan program, and some counties have implemented local inspection programs. However, experts stress the need for political will to implement a comprehensive statewide solution.

Read the full story on WILX News 10.