New Septic System Inspection Program Is Official!

April 12, 2023

Here’s what it means to you and how you can help protect Lake George

The Lake George Park Commission has taken a critically important step toward the enduring protection of Lake George with its new wastewater regulations and mandatory septic system inspection and pump-out program. Congratulations and thank you to the Commissioners and LGPC staff! Read all the details on P. 13 of the New York State Register.

IS YOUR SEPTIC SYSTEM INCLUDED?

If you own a septic system anywhere in the Lake George basin, you are now required to have your system pumped out at least once every 10 years.

If your system is within 500 feet of the Lake or 100 feet of a regulated stream that empties into the Lake, you are required to have your system pumped AND inspected every five years. The Park Commission will contact you to schedule your inspection.

This program is great news for the Lake because the more septic systems that are properly maintained, the less nutrients that will leak into the Lake, feed algae growth, and increase the risk for harmful algal blooms.

HELPFUL LINKS AND RESOURCES

The LGA has compiled this list of resources to help you comply with the new septic system regulations and protect Lake George:

  • The Park Commission has prepared this informative FAQ guide to the new inspection program.
  • For everything you need to know about proper septic system maintenance – from fixing to financing – the LGA has developed SafeSepticsystems.org.
  • Speaking of great news, if your septic system is in need of repairs or replacement, you may qualify for a grant of up to $10,000 through a special program offered by New York State and Warren, Washington, and Essex counties. For information, click the link for your county or call Essex County at (518) (518) 873-3686.
  • The LGA is also proud to partner with Glens Falls National Bank and Adirondack Trust Company to offer no-interest or low-interest replacement and repair loans for qualified property owners.

By properly maintaining your septic system, you become part of the solution that will keep our Lake clear and clean for generations to come.