Sewage Systems

Environmental Health Division

Please note most of the documents on this page are PDFs. Many are readable by Screen Readers but some have been scanned in. Any resident using a Screen Reader may contact the office to inquire about receiving readable, non-scanned copies.

Subsurface Sewage Disposal Systems

• Inspectors review applications and issue permits for Subsurface Sewage Disposal Systems (septic systems).
• Permits are reviewed in accordance with the State Standards for proper design, installation and maintenance. A properly functioning septic system protects ground water and prevents exposure to disease causing agents.
• Inspectors also perform field inspections of installations.
• Inspectors respond to citizen complaints of overflowing septic systems.
• Enforcement is done through court actions.
• Homeowners need to be aware of issues related to septic systems.
• Please fill out a Salem County Records request form for any information pertaining to septic systems.

For Professionals

Are you a septic system inspector who performs system inspections for real estate transactions or a homeowner, real estate agent or lawyer involved in a real estate transfer? If so, please read the following documents to understand the procedure that needs to be followed in order for the inspection to be considered a Department recognized inspection as per N.J.A.C. 7:9A.

• Notice to all septic system inspectors conducting inspections for real property transfers
• System inspection protocol for septic system inspectors - this inspection protocol shall be followed in order for the inspection to be identified as a Department recognized inspection by the Salem County Health Department. This PDF is available in the download list below.
• Onsite System Inspection Form - this inspection form shall be used, filled out completely and accurately in order for the inspection to be identified as a Department recognized inspection by the Salem County Health Department. This form is available in the download list below.
• As of April 2, 2012, the new NJAC 7:9A rules have taken effect in regards to septic system installations and repairs to existing septic systems. The following documents are related to the new code. Please visit NJDEP's website for additional information pertaining to the new code changes or contact the Salem County Division of Environmental Health for additional information - (856)935-7510 x 8448.

Subsurface Disposal Systems

• Appendix E Septic System Inspection Protocol
• Engineer Certification For Repairs to Existing Septic Systems
• Info For Real Estate Agents Regarding 7-9A
• NJAC 7-9A Septic Application
• NJAC 7:9A-State Septic Code
• NJAC 7-9a Standards for Individual Subsurface Sewage Disposal Systems
• Notice to All ATU Owners and Service Providers
• Onsite Septic System Inspection Form
• Septic Repair Application
• Septic System Inspections For Real Property Transfers
• Sieve Analysis Engineer Form
• Technical Guidance Document for Septic System Inspections
• Water Tightness Testing Completion Certification
• Request to Witness – Soil test pits and soil evaluation
• Homeowner’s Guide to Septic Systems
• Application For Septic System Abandonment