Pennsylvania Septic & Well Water Rules

Under the Pennsylvania Sewage Facilities Act (Act 537), septic (on-lot) permits are issued by local agencies (municipalities or county health departments) through certified Sewage Enforcement Officers, with DEP oversight.

This is a short state page. It covers only the facts we've verified from official sources so far.

Septic permits

• Under 25 Pa. Code § 72.22, you need a permit from the local agency before installing an on-lot system or building or occupying a building served by one.
• A permit is also required for repairs that replace or enlarge a tank or disturb the soil absorption area.
• Permits can only be issued through a certified Sewage Enforcement Officer (SEO) employed or contracted by the local agency (§ 72.21).

Private well testing

• Pennsylvania does not regulate private homeowner wells. The owner is responsible for testing.
• DEP recommends annual testing for total coliform bacteria, nitrate, total dissolved solids and pH, using a DEP-accredited lab. Penn State's Agricultural Analytical Services Laboratory is DEP-accredited and sells test kits.

Frequently asked questions

Sources

• PA DEP: On-lot Disposal System
• 25 Pa. Code Ch. 72 Subchapter B
• PA DEP: Private Well Water Testing

Last checked: October 21, 2026