Frequently Asked Questions
Definitions
- FCHD - Frederick County Health Department
- Conventional Septic System - an onsite site sewage disposal system that is placed in the ground by either shallow or deep trenches, seepage pit(s)
- Sand Mound - an onsite sewage disposal system that is elevated above the soil surface
- Perc - Percolation Test
- COMAR - Code of Maryland
What does the well and septic office regulate?
- The well and septic office regulates well, septic systems, percolation tests, site plan review and building permit approvals. See COMAR Chapter 26
- Note: Above is for both commercial and residential properties
How do I develop raw land?
Does FCHD accept credit cards?
Yes. Effective January 19, 2012 our office will accept Visa/Mastercard Only. Debit cards are not accepted at this time. We also accept cash and checks.
- Please note: Checks that are returned for any reason are assessed a $25 charge.
Does FCHD have my well and septic records?
- The Environmental Health Department has septic records as old as 1950. That does not ensure that we have yours.
- To have a sanitarian start the research complete an Information Research Request Form
Can I fill out my permits online?
- No, but you can come to the office and fill one out.
- 350 Montevue Lane
Frederick, MD 21702
What are the costs of the permits?
What is a percolation test?
- This test is conducted to determine the absorption rate of the soil
- The type of septic is determined by FCHD sanitarian based on percolation, topography, geology, slope and usability of the septic system.
- Conducted where the septic system is located
- Subdivision lots - Minimum 10,000 square foot area, it is common to have a greater than a 10,000 square foot area
- 10,000 sq it to be intended for the original septic system and two replacement systems
A backhoe operator is hired and required to dig, no less than, (3) three holes.
- The first hole is the observation hole. This is where we find the limiting factor which is usually >50% rock or water table.
- The second and third holes are the perc test holes that are 4’ above the limiting factor.
- The water has 30 minutes per inch to percolate for a conventional septic system and 60 minutes per inch in an infiltrometer for a sand mound test.
The FCHD sanitarian conducts the official percolation test and records(COMAR 26):
- Perc time
- Location of perc/observation holes
- Depth of perc holes
- Any other information pertinent to the solid and site characteristics of the property.
Where can I get a copy of a COMAR regulation?
How often should I pump my tank?
When do I need a septic permit?
- You need a septic permit when you are altering, installing a new septic system or repairing your septic system in anyway.
Where can I build my pool/addition?
- Set back requirement are 30’ from the well and 10’ from the septic system or area. Other dimensions are determined by building restriction lines and county codes.
Can I build in my septic area?
Can I build over my well?
- According to COMAR regulations all dwelling must be 30’ from an existing well.