property

Shoreland Septic System Transfer Rule

Under 30-A M.R.S. §4216, when Maine property with a subsurface wastewater system in a shoreland area is transferred, the seller gives a written statement of whether it malfunctioned in the prior 180 days, and the buyer must have it inspected by a DEP-certified inspector before purchase. If weather prevents inspection, it must be done within 9 months after transfer; a malfunctioning system must be repaired or replaced within 1 year. Shoreland areas generally lie within 250 feet of great ponds, rivers and saltwater, or 75 feet of streams.