Vermont Septic & Well Water Rules

Vermont DEC's Drinking Water and Groundwater Protection Division issues Wastewater System and Potable Water Supply permits, which cover septic systems and wells together.

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

Permits & designers

• A Wastewater System and Potable Water Supply permit is required for new, modified or replaced systems and for other situations listed in the rules.
• A licensed designer must design the system. Classes A, B and BW are limited to 1,350 gallons per day, and Class 1 designers (Vermont professional engineers) can design any size.
• Designer licenses are issued by the Secretary of State's Office of Professional Regulation (OPR). You can check a designer's status with OPR's "Find a Professional" search.
• Septic system installers are not currently licensed by the State of Vermont.

Private well testing

• The Vermont Department of Health sells test kits, including a Homeowner Testing Package it recommends every five years (bacteria, inorganic chemicals including arsenic, and gross alpha).

Frequently asked questions

Sources

• Vermont DEC: WW Permit FAQ
• Vermont DEC: Licensed Designers
• 10 V.S.A. § 1975
• Vermont Dept. of Health: How to Test Your Drinking Water

Last checked: October 21, 2026