This bill establishes a new chapter in the North Dakota Century Code concerning onsite wastewater treatment systems, amending existing sections related to public health units and boards of health. It mandates that public health units provide permitting and inspections for onsite wastewater treatment systems, requiring inspections to be conducted within one business day of a request. The bill also clarifies the powers and duties of boards of health, including the ability to make rules regarding nuisances and public health safety, while excluding rules related to the licensing of onsite wastewater treatment system installers.

Additionally, the bill introduces a licensing framework for individuals installing onsite wastewater treatment systems, stipulating that only licensed individuals may engage in this business, with certain exemptions. It grants the Department of Environmental Quality exclusive authority to adopt rules for licensing, permitting, and inspections, and establishes penalties for violations of the chapter. The bill also repeals previous sections related to an onsite wastewater recycling technical committee and includes a one-time appropriation of $99,500 for the regulation of these systems, with a report due to the legislative management by August 1, 2026.

Statutes affected:
INTRODUCED: 23-35-02, 43-18-24
Adopted by the Senate Agriculture and Veterans Affairs Committee: 43-18-24
FIRST ENGROSSMENT: 43-18-24
Adopted by the Senate Energy and Natural Resources Committee: 23-35-02, 23-35-08
Enrollment: 23-35-02, 23-35-08