Think Septic Before You Sell

May 31, 2025

Thinking of putting your house on the market next year? Despite being the Great Lakes State, Michigan is the only state in the country without a statewide septic code. But recently, Grand Traverse County joined neighboring counties Leelanau and Benzie in creating its own regulations, which will go into effect January 1, 2026, and require septic evaluations whenever properties within 300 feet of surface water (including lakes, ponds, streams, or rivers) are sold or transferred. Note that properties must be evaluated by a certified evaluator. “Certified evaluators are responsible for submitting evaluation reports to the Grand Traverse County Health Department for review and approval before any property transfer may occur,” according to the county. If the septic system is failing, the owner or buyer will need to submit an action plan and complete repairs within 180 days. To learn more, visit gtcountymi.gov/822/On-Site-Septic-Systems.