Percolation test – “perc test” for short - “Does my lot perc?”

The lot may have a perfectly good percolation rate but be undevelopable, according to Vermont rules, for other reasons: lots need a Vermont Water-Waste water permit for construction of a new residence

• Small lots may have difficulty meeting setback requirements – separation of wells and waste water systems

• Separation from property lines. System separation applies across property lines to abutters systems.

• Excessive slope in area of waste water disposal field

• Depth to bedrock

• Pre-existing easements limiting development of the lot in some manner

• Separation from wetlands or streams

• Inadequate depth to seasonal high water table/difficult soils

New lots currently undeveloped are not granted variance to the rules.  Water supply and Wastewater disposal permit is done together in Vermont.  To obtain a permit for one, both have to be permitted.

Existing occupied residences are granted variances as necessary to make a situation better, ie replacement of a failed waste water disposal or potable water supply.

 Feasibility studies can often be done with Owner present in the field similar to how the one below was done on this very small lot.  We often do some surveying to measure setbacks and slope where conditions look marginal.