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SB 165

Environment - On-Site Wastewater Systems - Implementation Dates

2026 Regular Session Introduced by Ben Brooks

Maryland bill mandates regular inspection and pumping schedules for septic systems to prevent environmental contamination and protect groundwater quality.

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Bill Summary · SB 165

Legislative bill overview

SB 165 establishes new requirements for the inspection and pumping of on-site wastewater systems (septic systems) in Maryland, including mandatory service schedules and implementation timelines. The bill sets standards for how frequently these systems must be inspected and pumped to prevent environmental contamination and system failure.

Why is this important

On-site wastewater systems serve approximately 1.5 million Marylanders, particularly in rural areas without municipal sewer infrastructure. Poorly maintained septic systems can contaminate groundwater and nearby surface water, posing serious public health and environmental risks. This bill attempts to establish uniform maintenance standards that could prevent costly failures and protect water quality.

Potential points of contention

  • Homeowner compliance burden: Mandatory inspection and pumping schedules impose ongoing costs on property owners, which may be substantial for low-income rural residents who already face limited sewer access options
  • Implementation feasibility: The bill's effectiveness depends on adequate inspector availability and enforcement capacity in rural counties that may lack sufficient resources
  • One-size-fits-all concerns: Different system types and soil conditions may warrant different maintenance schedules, raising questions about whether uniform requirements are appropriate statewide

Compiled from official sources — confirm details with the bill’s official record.

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