Well and septic in Charlevoix County

Outside the cities of Charlevoix, Boyne City, and East Jordan, most of Charlevoix County is rural or lakefront, and homes here usually run on a private well and a septic system. If you’re buying in one of the townships — including out on Beaver Island — plan on that.

Michigan is the only state without a statewide septic code, so the rules are set locally. Charlevoix County is served by the Health Department of Northwest Michigan, which has its main office in Charlevoix and issues the permits for new and replacement wells and septic systems. Right now, no township or city in Charlevoix County requires an automatic septic inspection when a property sells — it’s “buyer beware.” That said, getting one here is more than a formality: a study of the Lake Charlevoix watershed found that a large share of the area’s older septic systems may need to be repaired or replaced. Always make your offer contingent on a septic inspection and a well water test.

On a rural or lakefront property, check the age and type of the septic system, where the drainfield sits, the well depth and water quality, and whether there’s room for a replacement drainfield. Lakefront systems near Lake Charlevoix and the smaller lakes deserve a close look, since the whole county cares a lot about keeping its water clean. A passing soil test (a “perc test”) is part of building on a vacant lot. (Worth knowing: a statewide septic-inspection law has been floated in Lansing for years; if it ever passes, the rules here could change.)