A Connection Between Septic Systems And Sprawl

Anthony Flint investigates how a change in the allowable rate of percolation of septic systems could open up thousands of acres for development in Massachusetts.

1 minute read

December 2, 2002, 5:00 AM PST

By Chris Steins @planetizen


"The modification would allow treated wastewater in septic systems to filter through the ground at a slower rate than is now required. If the change is approved, septic systems could be built in soil types where the filtering process has been too slow under the current standard... But Title 5 has had broader implications in recent years, development specialists say. Local governments have used the strict standards as a tool to block new development, said David Begelfer, chief executive of the National Association of Industrial and Office Properties."

Thanks to Chris Steins

Sunday, December 1, 2002 in The Boston Globe

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