SB287 Alabama 2018 Session

Summary

Primary Sponsor

Greg AlbrittonSenator

Republican

Session

Regular Session 2018

Title

Sewer systems, solid waste, septic tank sewage-systems, regulated by Dept. of Public Health, rules limiting systems based on types of materials used in treatment superseded

Summary

SB 287 would require rules for onsite septic systems to be based on performance instead of the materials used, and would void post-2017 material-based rules.

What This Bill Does

It requires Department of Public Health rules on onsite sewage treatment and disposal to be applied uniformly based on performance and functionality. It prohibits enforcing rules that restrict systems solely because of the materials used, unless there is technical justification. It voids any rule that became effective in March 2017 and was based on material types, and repeals conflicting rules. The act becomes effective immediately after the Governor signs it into law.

Who It Affects

• Homeowners and property owners with onsite septic systems, who would see more options and rules focused on actual system performance rather than the materials used.
• Onsite septic system professionals, designers, and manufacturers, who would operate under uniform performance-based standards and may need to adjust practices and products to meet those standards.

Key Provisions

• Uniform, performance-based rulemaking: All DPH rules for onsite sewage treatment and disposal must be applied based on performance and functionality, not on the materials used.
• Voidance of material-based rules and immediate effectiveness: Any rule based on material type (especially those effective since March 2017) is void or superseded; the act takes effect immediately after governor's approval.

AI-generated summary using openai/gpt-5-nano on Feb 24, 2026. May contain errors — refer to the official bill text for accuracy.

Subjects

Health Department