Legislative Update August 5, 2024

Changes to waterfront septic law

New Hampshire REALTORS CEO Bob Quinn and NH Department of Environmental Services Land Resources Division Manager Phil Trowbridge recently discussed House Bill 1113, which makes changes to RSA 485-A:39 and goes into effect Sept. 1.

To view the video, click here.

The bill eliminates the state mandated site assessments for all septic systems located on properties on the waterfront where the property line is within 200 feet of the reference line. The new law mandates septic inspections performed by a licensed septic evaluator only if any portion of the septic system is within 250 feet of the reference line. It also requires a system deemed to be in failure to be repaired or replaced within 180 days of transfer. Please take a moment to watch the video to learn about additional requirements. 

There are a number of important details regarding the new law covered in the NH DES Fact Sheet – Transfer of waterfront properties, as well as the video. For additional information, call 603-271-3501.