Parcel development is regulated by the Environmental Health Department. In order to lift sanitary restrictions, a well and septic permit issued by the Sanitarian or his/her representative is required PRIOR to initiating construction. Well and Septic permits are issued pending compliance with:
- Plat Approval Statements
- Voluntary Zoning districts
- Restrictive Covenants
- Floodplain Regulations
If the Parcel was created through a State-approved subdivision, the well and septic locations have already been approved and the permits may be issued relatively quickly. If the parcel has not been reviewed by the State, a site evaluation by the sanitarian is required PRIOR to permit issuance.
A site evaluation included the excavation of an 8' deep profile hole with a backhoe. The sanitarian then reviews the soils for permeability, structure, restrictive layering and checks for evidence of high groundwater or bedrock. If evidence of groundwater is encountered, groundwater monitoring is required.
While Ravalli County currently does not enforce building codes, the public should know that electrical, plumbing and commercial building permits are necessary. The public is recommended to contact the State Department of Commerce at (406)444-4239 or the local community for building permit information.
To handle your septic permit or site evaluation request more efficiently, please remember to bring in copies of your tax statement and your plat