Wells, septic systems, and what to check before you buy in Mackinac County

Out in the townships of Mackinac County, most homes aren’t on city water and sewer — they have their own well for drinking water and a septic system for waste. That’s completely normal up here, and a well-built system can last for decades. But because there’s no monthly water or sewer bill, the upkeep is on you, the owner.

Here’s the most important thing to know as a buyer: Michigan is the only state in the country with no statewide septic code. The rules are set locally, through the county health department. Some Michigan communities require a septic inspection every time a house is sold — but Mackinac County is not one of them. Here it’s buyer beware, so you’ll want to do your own homework before you close.

The county’s health department is the LMAS District Health Department, which serves Mackinac along with Luce, Alger, and Schoolcraft counties. Before you buy a place with a well and septic, it’s smart to have both inspected, ask the seller when the tank was last pumped, and find out how old the system is. You can learn more — and find well and septic permit information — at the health department, lmasdhd.org.