This bill establishes a new chapter in Title 23.1 of the North Dakota Century Code, focusing on onsite wastewater treatment systems. It amends existing sections related to the powers and duties of public health units and boards of health, specifically adding provisions for the permitting and inspection of onsite wastewater treatment systems. Public health units are now required to conduct inspections within one business day of a request and may enter cooperative agreements with local governments for these services. Additionally, the bill repeals previous sections related to an onsite wastewater recycling technical committee, streamlining the regulatory framework.

The bill also introduces new definitions and establishes the Department of Environmental Quality as the authority for licensing, permitting, and inspecting onsite wastewater treatment systems. It outlines the licensing requirements for individuals installing these systems, including penalties for violations and provisions for appeals against permit decisions. Furthermore, the bill appropriates $99,500 for the regulation of onsite wastewater treatment systems for the 2025-2027 biennium and mandates a report 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