701-331-2400

News

Proposed Updates to North Dakota Onsite Wastewater Regulations

Mar 13, 2026

The North Dakota Department of Environmental Quality (DEQ) has released proposed updates to state rules related to onsite wastewater treatment systems, commonly known as septic systems. These proposed changes could affect installers, regulators, and property owners across North Dakota.

NDOWRA encourages members and industry professionals to review the proposed documents and become familiar with the potential changes.

The proposed rules are part of a broader effort to establish statewide standards for the licensing, permitting, and oversight of onsite wastewater treatment systems. The documents outline the regulatory framework the state may use moving forward and describe how septic system installation and regulation could be managed under updated rules.

In addition, the proposals address the transition from existing licensing practices to a system that would be administered through the state, including provisions for installers who currently hold licenses issued through local public health units.

While these proposals are still under consideration, they represent an important step in shaping how onsite wastewater systems may be regulated in North Dakota in the future.

Because these documents contain the full language of the proposed rules, NDOWRA strongly encourages installers, regulators, and other stakeholders to review them carefully.

Review the Proposed Documents

You can read the full proposed documents here:

 

These documents provide the complete details regarding the proposed regulations, definitions, and regulatory structure.

Staying Informed

NDOWRA remains committed to keeping members informed about regulatory developments that affect the onsite wastewater industry in North Dakota. As more information becomes available regarding these proposals, we will continue sharing updates with the industry.

Professionals involved in septic system design, installation, regulation, and service are encouraged to stay engaged and review the proposed materials.