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1. What does the well and septic office regulate?

The well and septic office regulates well, septic systems, percolation tests, site plan review and building permit approvals. See COMAR Chapter 26

Note: Above is for both commercial and residential properties

2. Does FCHD accept credit cards?

Yes. Effective January 19, 2012 our office will accept Visa / MasterCard Only. Debit cards are not accepted at this time. We also accept cash and checks.
Please note: Checks that are returned for any reason are assessed a $25 charge.

3. Does FCHD have my well and septic records?

The Environmental Health Department has septic records as old as 1950. That does not ensure that we have yours.
To have a sanitarian start the research complete an Information Research Request Form.

Information Research Request Form

4. Can I fill out my permits online?

No, but you can come to the office and fill one out.

350 Montevue Lane
Frederick, MD 21702

5. How do I treat my well?

Find details on well water testing and disinfection here. 

6. What are the costs of the permits?

Fees: Fee Schedule

7. What is a percolation test?

This test is conducted to determine the absorption rate of the soil.
The type of septic is determined by FCHD sanitarian based on percolation, topography, geology, slope and usability of the septic system. Conducted where the septic system is located
Subdivision lots - Minimum 10,000 square foot area, it is common to have a greater than a 10,000 square foot area.
10,000 sq it to be intended for the original septic system and 2 replacement systems.

A backhoe operator is hired and required to dig no less than 3 holes.

The first hole is the observation hole. This is where we find the limiting factor which is usually >50% rock or water table.
The second and third holes are the perc test holes that are 4’ above the limiting factor.
The water has 30 minutes per inch to percolate for a conventional septic system and 60 minutes per inch in an infiltrometer for a sand mound test.

The FCHD sanitarian conducts the official percolation test and records (COMAR 26):

Perc time
Location of perc/observation holes
Depth of perc holes
Any other information pertinent to the solid and site characteristics of the property.

8. Where can I get a copy of a COMAR regulation?

Division of State Documents Code of Maryland (COMAR)

9. How often should I pump my tank?

3 - 5 years

10. When do I need a septic permit?

You need a septic permit when you are altering, installing a new septic system or repairing your septic system in anyway.

11. Where can I build my pool/addition?

Set back requirement are 30’ from the well and 10’ from the septic system or area. Other dimensions are determined by building restriction lines and county codes.

12. Can I build in my septic area?

No

13. Can I build over my well?

According to COMAR regulations, all dwellings must be 30’ from an existing well.