Protecting Health
Below The Surface

A properly designed and maintained sewage system plays an important role in protecting your health, your property, and our local waterways. Branch-Hillsdale-St.Joseph Community Health Agency helps ensure sewage systems are installed, repaired, and maintained in accordance with state and local regulations to help safeguard the health of our community and environment.

Sewage Disposal Systems

A properly functioning septic system is essential for protecting health, preserving groundwater, and keeping our lakes, rivers, and communities safe. We work with homeowners, contractors, and property owners to ensure onsite sewage disposal (septic) systems are designed, installed, repaired, and maintained according to state and local regulations. Whether you’re building a new home, replacing an aging system, or need guidance on permits, inspections, or maintenance, our Environmental Health team is here to help every step of the way.

On-site Sewage Disposal (Septic) Permits
Required permit for installation of on-site sewage disposal (septic) systems. Permit fee must be paid at time of application (online submissions will charge a convenience fee for payments). Applications are available below or at each county office. For more information please call the following:

Branch County: 517-279-9561 ext. 106
Hillsdale County: 517-473-7395 ext. 331
St. Joseph County: 269-273-2161 ext. 233

Michigan Saves Program

The Septic Replacement Loan Program (SRLP), created in partnership with the Michigan Department of Environment, Great Lakes, and Energy (EGLE), provides low-interest financing to Michigan homeowners for the replacement of failing or near-failing septic systems. EGLE contracted Michigan Saves to develop and manage the program.

*If you’re interested in becoming an authorized contractor with Michigan Saves, you can find more information below:

Sewage/Septic Permits and Fees

Online Septic Permit

Visit our online Environmental Health portal to complete an online septic permit.

Residential Septic

Download a paper application to request a sewage permit or site (vacant land) evaluation.

Commercial Septic

Download a paper application to request a commercial sewage permit.

Fee Schedule

View the latest fee schedule for sewage and septic permits, inspections, and testing services.