Utility Review of Building Projects
EHU's Role in Review
The EHU reviews building proposals submitted to B&P and, if applicable, sends an email requesting applicants to fill out a form. The form captures information about the project used to determine if and what utilities require approval. Utilities refer to methods of sewage disposal and potable water sources. Projects may require approval of either utility or both.
Utility Types
Each Utility has a limited set of types which can provide service. For example: Water can be serviced from a private well or public water line. Each type has its own conditions for approval/approval method. An individual's project location and scope (residential vs. commercial) can limit the types available.
In general, the table below provides information regarding potential types and their respective approval methods. For questions about the methods, please click the provided links or contact the EHU.
| Utility Type | Residential Approval Method | Commercial Approval Method |
|---|---|---|
| Well/Spring | Water Availability | EHS Approval Letter |
| Public Water | Public Water Verification | Water Purveyor Letter* |
| OSS | New OSS Permit Reconnection Approval | New OSS Permit Reconnection Approval |
| Public Sewer | Phone Call Confirmation | Sewer Purveyor Letter* |
| LOSS | State DOH Confirmation | State DOH Confirmation |
| *Contact your purveyor to request a letter of availability | ||
Approvals
Typically, projects involving plumbing will require water approval and those involving bedrooms will require sewer approval. Conditions for approval can differ depending on the project scope (residential vs. commercial) and utility type (public water vs. private well, for example).
If a project requires an approval and the proper conditions have been met, citizens receive paperwork to be given to Building & Planning during application with their department. The EHU informs contacts how to satisfy unmet conditions of approval. Some examples of conditions might include:
- Apply for and receive a permit from the EHU
- Submit a letter from a water or sewer purveyor
- Submit a passing inspection report from a licensed septic professional
1. Submit Request for Review
The EHU prompts applicants by email to fill out our Request for Utility Review form based on projects submitted to B&P.
2. Receive Utility Approvals*
Project may require approval of water, sewer, or both.
- When all conditions for a utility are satisfied, the approval is sent
*If determined to be required
3. Submit to Building & Planning
Provide documents from EHU at application
- Make sure to include review paperwork and approvals