[Ord. 1989-1, 2/6/1989; Ord. 1990-3, 10/1/1990; Ord. 91-2, 11/4/1991; Ord. 1997-2, 1/6/1997; Ord. 1997-3, 2/19/1997; Ord. 1998-2, 6/1/1998; Ord. 2013-1, 12/2/2013; Ord. No. 2026-04, 4/6/2026]
This Part shall be known as and may be referred to as the Londonderry Township "On-Lot Sewage Disposal Systems (OLSDS) Ordinance."
[Ord. 1989-1, 2/6/1989; Ord. 1990-3, 10/1/1990; Ord. 91-2, 11/4/1991; Ord. 1997-2, 1/6/1997; Ord. 1997-3, 2/19/1997; Ord. 1998-2, 6/1/1998; Ord. 2013-1, 12/2/2013; Ord. No. 2026-04, 4/6/2026]
The purpose of this Part is to regulate the installation, inspection, operation, repair, replacement and timely ongoing maintenance of OLSDSs within the Township. Establish provisions and safeguards for the Township which enable the issuance of permits for OLSDS by and through the Sewage Enforcement Officer (SEO). Registration of pumper/hauler businesses that remove and dispose of septage. Establish minimum standards for the periodic pumping, treatment, dosing and lift-pump tanks which are components of OLSDSs. Adoption of standards for inspection and pumping of systems and tanks; and provide provision for the Township to take action to correct conditions which are declared public nuisances or hazards to the public health.
[Ord. 1989-1, 2/6/1989; Ord. 1990-3, 10/1/1990; by Ord. 91-2, 11/4/1991; Ord. 1997-2, 1/6/1997; Ord. 1997-3, 2/19/1997; Ord. 1998-2, 6/1/1998; Ord. 2013-1, 12/2/2013; Ord. No. 2026-04, 4/6/2026]
As mandated by the municipal codes, the Clean Streams Law (35 P.S. §§ 691.1 to 691.1001), and the Pennsylvania Sewage Facilities Act (Act of January 24, 1966, P.L. (1965) 1535, No. 537, as amended, 35 P.S. § 750.1 et seq., known as "Act 537"), municipalities have the power and duty to provide adequate sewage treatment facilities for the protection of the public health by preventing the discharge of untreated or inadequately treated sewage. The Board of Supervisors recognizes that individual and community OLSDSs constitute a valid and approved manner of protecting the quality of the water and other natural resources of the Township through proper treatment of wastes generated by certain development within the Township. The use of OLSDS must be regulated in accordance with the regulations promulgated by the Pennsylvania Department of Environmental Protection (DEP) which pertain to the location and permitted types of OLSDS. In addition, the Township has determined that, should the OLSDS installed by a landowner fail, thereby endangering the health and welfare of the residents and visitors, the Board of Supervisors desires to require that all landowners provide and set aside areas for the installation of replacement individual OLSDS. It is the further intent of the Board of Supervisors to ensure that OLSDS are properly maintained as failure to maintain an OLSDS can eventuate into pollution of the groundwater and other natural resources of the Township and to require that regular inspection and pumping of OLSDS be completed to assist in ensuring that proper function and maintenance of OLSDS is occurring.
[Ord. 1989-1, 2/6/1989; Ord. 1990-3, 10/1/1990; Ord. 91-2, 11/4/1991; Ord. 1997-2, 1/6/1997; Ord. 1997-3, 2/19/1997; Ord. 1998-2, 6/1/1998; Ord. 2013-1, 12/2/2013]
Chapters 71, 72, and 73 of Title 25 of the Pennsylvania Code, as promulgated by the DEP, are hereby adopted as the sewage permit application and installation procedure of the Township, and each and all of the regulations contained in the said chapters are hereby adopted by the Township, except as specifically modified by this Part. It is the intent of the Board of Supervisors to adopt automatically, without further action of the Board, all subsequent amendments and revisions to the said chapters as permitted by law and in accordance with the provisions of 1 Pa.C.S.A. § 1937(a). If such intent is found invalid by a court of competent jurisdiction, it is the intent of the Board to adopt the said chapters as they existed on the effective date of this Part.
[Ord. 1989-1, 2/6/1989; Ord. 1990-3, 10/1/1990; Ord. 91-2, 11/4/1991; Ord. 1997-2, 1/6/1997; Ord. 1997-3, 2/19/1997; Ord. 1998-2, 6/1/1998; Ord. 2013-1, 12/2/2013; Ord. No. 2026-04, 4/6/2026]
1. 
General Terms. In the interpretation of this Part, the singular shall include the plural, and the masculine shall include the feminine and the neuter.
2. 
Specific Terms. For the purposes of this Part, the terms used shall be construed to have the following meanings:
ACT
The Pennsylvania Sewage Facilities Act, Act of January 24, 1966, P.L. (1965) 1535, No. 537, as amended, 35 P.S. § 750.1 et seq.
ABSORPTION AREA EASEMENT
A portion of a lot, tract, or parcel that encompasses the primary and replacement areas and which shall be delineated and preserved. The primary and replacement areas need not be contiguous.
ALTERNATIVE SYSTEM
A sewage facility that is approved by the Department but not described in 25 Pa. Chapter Code 73, Standards for Onlot Sewage Treatment Facilities, as defined therein.
AUTHORIZED AGENT
A certified sewage enforcement officer, licensed professional engineer or sanitarian, soils scientist, or any other qualified or licensed person who is delegated to function within the specified limits as the agent of the Board of Supervisors of Londonderry Township to carry out the provisions of this Part.
BOARD
The Board of Supervisors of the Township of Londonderry, Dauphin County, Pennsylvania.
CESSPOOL
A covered pit with open jointed lining which receives the sewage or other organic wastes directly from a building drain or building sewer. The pit retains the solid wastes and allows the liquid waste to pass through its bottom and sides.
COMMUNITY SEWAGE SYSTEM
Any system, whether publicly or privately owned, which collects sewage from two or more lots or uses, and the treatment and/or disposal of the sewage occurs on one or more of the lots or at any other site which complies with all applicable regulations of the DEP.
DEPARTMENT/DEP
The Department of Environmental Protection of the Commonwealth of Pennsylvania or any successor agency.
DEVELOPER
Any person, partnership or corporation which erects or contracts to erect a building on property owned by it with the intent to sell the building to some other party upon its full or partial completion or upon the conveyance of property on which the building is to be built.
GRAY WATER
Liquid waste from laundry, bath, or kitchen sources and water softener backwash.
INDIVIDUAL SEWAGE SYSTEM
Any system of piping, tanks, or other facilities serving a single residential unit and collecting and disposing of sewage, in whole or in part, into the soil or any waters of the Commonwealth of Pennsylvania or by means of conveyance to another site for final disposal.
LAND DEVELOPMENT
A land development as defined in the Pennsylvania Municipalities Planning Code, Act of July 31, 1968, P.L. 805, No. 247, as amended and reenacted, 53 P.S. § 10101 et seq.
LOT
A parcel of land used or intended to be used as a building site or separate parcel to be created as a result of approval of a subdivision or land development plan, or a condominium unit.
MALFUNCTION
A condition which occurs when any sewage facility discharges onto the surface of the ground, into groundwater of this commonwealth, or into surface waters of this commonwealth, backs up into a building connected to the system or in any manner causes a nuisance or hazard to the public health. This shall include pollution of ground- or surface water or contamination of public or private drinking water wells. Systems shall be considered to be malfunctioning if any condition noted above occurs for any length of time during any period of the year.
OFFICIAL SEWAGE FACILITIES PLAN
A comprehensive plan for the provision of adequate sewage disposal systems adopted by the Township and approved by the DEP in accordance with the Act and with applicable DEP regulations.
ON-LOT SEWAGE DISPOSAL SYSTEM (OLSDS)
Any system for disposal of domestic sewage involving pretreatment and subsequent disposal of clarified sewage into an absorption area or retaining tank. This term includes both individual sewage systems and community sewage systems.
OWNER
Any person vested with ownership, legal or equitable, sole or partial, of any owned property.
PERSON
Any individual, company, association, society, trust, corporation or other group or entity.
PLANNING MODULE FOR LAND DEVELOPMENT
A revision to, or exception to the revision of, the Official Sewage Facilities Plan of the Township, submitted in connection with the request for approval of a subdivision or land development in accordance with DEP regulations.
POLLUTION/POLLUTING
The discharge of raw or partially treated sewage to the surface water, groundwater, or surface of the ground.
PRIMARY AREA
An area on a lot, tract or parcel of land that has been tested by the SEO and found suitable, based upon the then-current DEP site requirements, for the installation of an OLSDS and which will be preserved and protected from alteration for installation of the initial OLSDS for sewage generated on that lot, tract, or parcel.
PUMPER/HAULER
Any person, company, partnership, or corporation which engages in cleaning any or all components of an on-lot sewage disposal system and evacuates and transports the sewage and/or septage cleaned therefrom.
PUMPER'S REPORT
A form, provided by the Township, which shall be used by all pumpers/haulers to report every pumping of an OLSDS in the Township.
REPAIR
Work done to modify, alter, enlarge, or replace an existing component or system.
REPLACEMENT AREA
An area designated as the future location of an OLSDS that shall be installed should the initial OLSDS fail or otherwise become inoperable. The area shall meet all the regulations of the DEP and all applicable Township ordinances for an OLSDS.
SEASONAL ISLAND DWELLING
A structure that is located on Beech, Hill, Shelley (Bare's Tip), or Poplar Island of the Susquehanna River and used exclusively for temporary and non-continuous human habitation between April 1st and October 31st of any given year.
SEPTAGE
The residual scum, sludge and other materials pumped from septic or aerobic treatment tanks and the systems they serve.
SEWAGE
Any substance that contains gray water, waste products, excrement or other discharge from the bodies of human beings, or any noxious or deleterious substance harmful to public health, to animal or aquatic life, to the use of water for domestic water supply or recreation or which constitutes pollution under the Act of June 22, 1937 (P.L. 1987, No. 94), known as the "Clean Streams Law," as amended.
SEWAGE ENFORCEMENT OFFICER (SEO)
A person certified by the State Board for the Certification of Sewage Enforcement Officers, who is appointed by the Board to administer the provisions of this Part or any other ordinance adopted by the Township, the provisions of the Act, and the regulations in Pa. Code Title 25, Chapters 71, 72 and 73.
SEWAGE FACILITY
Any method of sewage collection, conveyance, treatment, and disposal which will prevent the discharge of untreated or inadequately treated sewage into the waters of the commonwealth or otherwise provide for the safe and sanitary treatment of sewage.
SEWAGE MANAGEMENT PROGRAM
A comprehensive set of legal and administrative requirements encompassing the requirements of this Part, the Sewage Facilities Act, the Clean Streams Law, the regulations promulgated thereunder and such other requirements adopted by the Board to effectively enforce and administer this Part.
SHALLOW-ROOTED PLANT MATERIAL
Plants with roots not normally extending beyond 12 inches below ground level.
SINGLE AND SEPARATE OWNERSHIP
The ownership of a lot by one or more persons, which ownership is separate and distinct from that of any abutting or adjoining lot.
SUBDIVISION
The division or redivision of a lot, tract or parcel of land, by any means, into two or more lots, tracts, parcels or other divisions of land, including changes in existing lot lines for the purpose, whether immediate or future, of lease, partition by the court for distribution to heirs or devisees, transfer of ownership or building or lot development; provided, however, that the subdivision by lease of land for agricultural purposes into parcels of more than 10 acres, not involving any new street or easement of access or any residential dwelling, shall be exempted.
TOWNSHIP
The Township of Londonderry, Dauphin County, Pennsylvania, a Pennsylvania municipality, acting by and through its Board of Supervisors and, in appropriate cases, acting by and through its authorized representatives.
TREATMENT TANK
A watertight tank designed to retain sewage long enough for satisfactory bacterial decomposition of the solids to take place. The term includes the following:
A. 
SEPTIC TANKA treatment tank that provides for anaerobic decomposition of sewage prior to its discharge.
B. 
AEROBIC SEWAGE TREATMENT TANKA mechanically aerated treatment tank that provides aerobic biochemical stabilization of sewage prior to its point of discharge.
3. 
All other definitions of words and terms used in this Part shall have the same meanings as set forth in Chapter 73, Standards for Sewage Disposal Facilities, of Title 25, Rules and Regulations, of the DEP.
[Ord. 1989-1, 2/6/1989; Ord. 1990-3, 10/1/1990; Ord. 91-2, 11/4/1991; Ord. 1997-2, 1/6/1997; Ord. 1997-3, 2/19/1997; Ord. 1998-2, 6/1/1998; Ord. 2013-1, 12/2/2013; Ord. No. 2026-04, 4/6/2026]
From the effective date of this Part, its provisions shall apply to all persons owning any property serviced by an individual or community OLSDS and to all persons installing, maintaining, or repairing such systems. The aforesaid notwithstanding, the Board of Supervisors may, in its sole discretion, provide a grace period for implementation of the provisions of this Part to persons who will be required to connect to the Township's community sewer collection and treatment system.
[Ord. 1989-1, 2/6/1989; Ord. 1990-3, 10/1/1990; Ord. 91-2, 11/4/1991; Ord. 1997-2, 1/6/1997; Ord. 1997-3, 2/19/1997; Ord. 1998-2, 6/1/1998; Ord. 2013-1, 12/2/2013; Ord. No. 2026-04, 4/6/2026]
1. 
No person shall install, construct, alter, enlarge or repair any OLSDS within the Township of Londonderry, Dauphin County, without first obtaining a permit from the Sewage Enforcement Officer or the Department as defined in the Part.
2. 
Application for such permits shall indicate that the site, plans and specifications of such system are in compliance with the provisions of the Pennsylvania Sewage Facilities Act (Act of January 24, 1966, P.L. 1535, as amended, 35 P.S. § 750.1 et seq.) and the rules and regulations adopted by the Department of Environmental Protection pursuant thereto. A permit shall be required regardless of the size of the lot or tract of ground on which the building or structure is to be constructed, altered or occupied.
3. 
Building and zoning permits shall not be issued for any building or improvement to real property to be serviced by an on-lot system, prior to receiving a permit for the installation of the OLSDS from the SEO.
4. 
All system components, including absorption areas, should be located on the same lot, tract, or parcel as the structure they will serve. Systems or components should not be located on a separately deeded parcel if possible. If specific circumstances require an on-lot system to be located on a parcel other than that of the structure it serves, it may be located on a separate parcel through the establishment of a duly recorded easement, right-of-way, or other instrument.
5. 
All planning modules proposing individual or community sewage systems which require a DEP permit shall include a provision granting the Township and its agents the right to enter the premises to inspect the construction and/or operation of the DEP-permitted system and, if the system is not being constructed or operated according to the permitted design, issue a stop-work order or revoke the occupancy permit until construction or operation is brought into compliance with the permit.
6. 
Following the installation, but before the operation or use of all sewage facilities installed in the Township, whether permitted by the SEP or DEP, the applicant shall submit to the Township an as-built drawing(s) of the entire system.
A. 
All as-built drawings shall be drawn to the same scale and with the same detail as the drawings which were submitted as part of the application for the permit to install the sewage facility.
B. 
At a minimum, the following components shall be located by actual field measurements of the finished component's location to two immovable points, such as, but not limited to, building corners, bridge abutments, property corner monuments or similar features:
(1) 
Four corners of each bed-type absorption system.
(2) 
Four corners of each trench in a trench-type absorption system.
(3) 
Inlet observation ports of all treatment, dosing, siphon, process, surge, or other tanks.
(4) 
Distribution boxes.
(5) 
Chlorine pumps, table chlorinators.
(6) 
Chlorine storage sites for liquid, solid, or gaseous chlorine.
(7) 
Contact tanks.
C. 
Distances may be incorporated in the drawing in association with an arrow between the respective points or presented in the context of a table.
[Ord. 1989-1, 2/6/1989; Ord. 1990-3, 10/1/1990; Ord. 91-2, 11/4/1991; Ord. 1997-2, 1/6/1997; Ord. 1997-3, 2/19/1997; Ord. 1998-2, 6/1/1998; Ord. 2013-1, 12/2/2013; Ord. No. 2026-04, 4/6/2026]
1. 
Any aggrieved party may appeal to the Board for relief from the strict application of the provisions of this Part when such constitute a demonstrable hardship.
2. 
Appeals shall:
A. 
Be in writing;
B. 
State the alleged hardship and the reason that strict adherence will cause that hardship;
C. 
Include a description of the relief sought; and
D. 
Propose alternate methods or provisions that will, to the greatest extent possible, attain the purposes of this Part.
3. 
Appeal requests must be received by the Board within 15 days of the action being appealed and must be accompanied by the appropriate fee set by resolution of the Board.
4. 
Within 15 days of receipt of an appeal, the Board shall schedule a public hearing, which shall be conducted pursuant to the Local Agency Law (2 Pa.C.S.A. § 551 et seq.).
5. 
The Board shall issue its decision within 15 days of the end of the hearing.
6. 
Only in the case of a demonstrated hardship may the Board, in its discretion, grant a variance from the provisions of this Part.
A. 
Any such variance shall, to the greatest extent possible, protect the public health and quality of the water resources of the Township.
B. 
When, in the opinion of the Board, it is necessary to meet the purposes of this Part, a variance may be conditioned upon measures not specified in this Part.
7. 
At all times, the burden to present credible evidence and the burden of persuasion shall be upon the applicant seeking relief.
8. 
Relief from Replacement Area Requirement.
A. 
If any unimproved lot held in single and separate ownership does not contain suitable land for both a primary absorption area and a replacement absorption area, the landowner desiring to install an individual sewage system may request that the Board grant an exception to the requirement of providing a replacement area.
B. 
At a minimum, landowners seeking relief shall present credible evidence to the Board demonstrating:
(1) 
That the lot was held in single and separate ownership on the effective date of this Part;
(2) 
The size of the lot;
(3) 
The results of soil evaluation and testing that were conducted and which determine that the soil conditions on the lot are of an extent or nature that only a primary area exists on the lot; and
(4) 
The inability of the applicant to acquire adjacent land or the unsuitability of adjacent land which might be able to be acquired.
C. 
Under this subsection, the Board may condition relief on a more-frequent pumping schedule, use of water conservation measures or other appropriate management techniques.
[1]
Editor's Note: Former § 18-108, Issuance of permit, adopted by Ord. 1989-1, 2/6/1989; as amended by Ord. 1990-3, 10/1/1990; Ord. 91-2, 11/4/1991; Ord. 1997-2, 1/6/1997; Ord. 1997-3, 2/19/1997; Ord. 1998-2, 6/1/1998; and Ord. 2013-1, 12/2/2013, was repealed by Ord. No. 2026-04, 4/6/2026. This ordinance also renumbered former §§ 18-109 through 18-123 as §§ 18-108 through 18-122, respectively.
[Ord. 1989-1, 2/6/1989; Ord. 1990-3, 10/1/1990; Ord. 91-2, 11/4/1991; Ord. 1997-2, 1/6/1997; Ord. 1997-3, 2/19/1997; Ord. 1998-2, 6/1/1998; Ord. 2013-1, 12/2/2013; Ord. No. 2026-04, 4/6/2026]
The SEO of Londonderry Township shall issue permits, review permit applications and sewage facilities planning modules and conduct investigations and inspections necessary to implement the Sewage Facilities Act and the regulations thereunder. More specifically, duties of the SEO shall include the following:
1. 
Issue, deny or revoke septic system permits in accordance with state regulations and standards.
2. 
Review soil profiles (deep probes) and percolation tests.
3. 
Inspect newly installed systems to ensure proper installation.
4. 
Conduct initial septic system site investigations to document conditions, determine the causes of malfunctions, and decide the extent of the repair needed to resolve septic system malfunction problems.
5. 
Issue a notice of violation to the responsible property owner for a failed septic system and issue a sewage permit application for the proper system repair.
6. 
Issue the responsible property owner a permit to repair or replace the malfunctioning system after any necessary site testing has been done and an acceptable system design has been submitted.
[Ord. 1989-1, 2/6/1989; Ord. 1990-3, 10/1/1990; Ord. 91-2, 11/4/1991; Ord. 1997-2, 1/6/1997; Ord. 1997-3, 2/19/1997; Ord. 1998-2, 6/1/1998; Ord. 2013-1, 12/2/2013; Ord. No. 2026-04, 4/6/2026]
1. 
Any person who shall install a new or replacement OLSDS shall use underground warning tape to identify the location of all treatment tanks and appurtenances. The underground warning tape shall be buried six inches below finished grade. The underground warning tape shall be magnetic polyethylene tape, three inches in width, with a minimum lettering of one inch.
2. 
In addition, a manhole riser and cover shall be installed on all new septic tanks to enable easy access. The riser shall extend to the surface. A mechanism to prevent unlawful entry shall be installed on the cover if it is brought to the surface.
[Ord. 1989-1, 2/6/1989; Ord. 1990-3, 10/1/1990; Ord. 91-2, 11/4/1991; Ord. 1997-2, 1/6/1997; Ord. 1997-3, 2/19/1997; Ord. 1998-2, 6/1/1998; Ord. 2013-1, 12/2/2013; Ord. No. 2026-04, 4/6/2026]
1. 
Requirements.
A. 
A replacement area for an individual or community OLSDS shall be provided for all lots which are not serviced by public sewer. Lots that are served by an OLSDS that existed prior to the effective date of this Part shall be exempt from the requirements of this § 18-111.
B. 
A replacement area for an individual or community OLSDS shall be required for all unimproved lots existing prior to the effective date of this Part which are intended to be serviced by a soil absorption system but for which a permit to install an individual or community OLSDS has not been issued.
C. 
The replacement area provided shall comply with the Act, with all regulations issued by the DEP concerning OLSDS, including isolation distances, and with the terms of this Part and any other applicable Township ordinances.
2. 
Identification of Replacement Area.
A. 
Each applicant who shall submit a plan for subdivision or land development or who shall request approval of a planning module for land development or the adoption of a revision, planning exemption, or supplement to the Official Sewage Facilities Plan shall demonstrate to the satisfaction of the SEO that a functional OLSDS and a suitable replacement area exists on the residual lot. To confirm the suitability of the primary area and replacement area, the SEO shall perform or observe all soil tests required in Chapter 73 of the Act for the location of an OLSDS.
B. 
The location of the initial OLSDS and the replacement area(s), as confirmed by the SEO, shall be delineated and identified as an absorption area easement on a plot plan and diagram submitted as part of the permit application.
C. 
If the application is for subdivision or land development plan approval or as part of a request that the Township approve a planning module for land development to amend its Official Sewage Facilities Plan, or approval of a request for a planning exemption to the revision of the Official Sewage Facilities Plan, the location of each initial OLSDS and each replacement area shall be noted as an absorption area easement upon the plans. If the application is for subdivision or land development approval, a note shall also be added to the plans stating that no improvements, whether permanent or temporary, shall be constructed upon or within the primary area and replacement area (absorption area easement), with the exception of those identified in Subsection 3 hereinbelow.
D. 
The description, including metes and bounds, of every absorption area easement shall be recorded as part of the deed for each lot created as part of a subdivision or land development plan.
E. 
An owner may submit a written request for planning exemption to submit a sewage facilities planning module for any new lot using the application mailer as provided for by the Act; said request must be approved by the Township and the DEP.
F. 
Any revisions to a permit or plan affecting a replacement area which previously has been approved pursuant to the provisions of this Part shall be reviewed for approval by the SEO and forwarded to the Board of Supervisors and the owner for final approval.
3. 
Construction Restrictions.
A. 
The site for the primary area and replacement area shall be protected and a note added upon the plan stating that:
(1) 
No permanent or temporary improvements of any character, other than shallow-rooted plant matter, shall be constructed upon or within the absorption area easement.
(2) 
No permanent or temporary alterations, grading, excavation, or stockpiling of any soil or any other material shall take place upon or within the absorption area easement.
(3) 
During any construction or other activities, the absorption area easement shall be so marked to prevent equipment with greater wheel loading than a common garden tractor/riding mower from traveling over or operating upon the surface of the absorption area easement.
B. 
This provision shall be enforced by the Township unless the person who desires to construct such improvements shall demonstrate to the satisfaction of the SEO that an alternate replacement area, which complies with all applicable regulations of the DEP, this Part and all other applicable Township codes and ordinances, exists upon the lot. If an alternate replacement area is identified, the alternate replacement area shall be designated the replacement area required by this Part. The owner shall provide a revised plot plan to the Township showing the location of the new replacement area.
C. 
The replacement area may consist of an area set aside for any OLSDS that is acceptable to the DEP.
[Ord. 1989-1, 2/6/1989; Ord. 1990-3, 10/1/1990; Ord. 91-2, 11/4/1991; Ord. 1997-2, 1/6/1997; Ord. 1997-3, 2/19/1997; Ord. 1998-2, 6/1/1998; Ord. 2013-1, 12/2/2013; Ord. No. 2026-04, 4/6/2026]
1. 
All OLSDSs shall be operated by the owner in a manner that is in full compliance with the terms of this Part, the DEP regulations, and the system's permit.
2. 
Only sewage shall be discharged into an OLSDS.
3. 
No OLSDS shall be used or loaded in a manner which is inconsistent with the permit that was issued to authorize that system's installation.
4. 
The following shall not be discharged into any individual or community sewage system. All definitions shall be consistent with the Clean Streams Law and the Pennsylvania Sewage Facilities Act.
A. 
Industrial waste.
B. 
Motor oil, gasoline and fuel oil.
C. 
Fats and grease.
D. 
Hazardous waste.
E. 
Medications and drugs.
F. 
Chemicals, including but not limited to:
(1) 
Pesticides and herbicides;
(2) 
Acids;
(3) 
Paint, paint thinner and solvents, including latex or water-based paints;
(4) 
Wallpaper pastes and adhesives; and
(5) 
Photo-processing chemicals.
G. 
Clean surface water or groundwater, including water from roof or cellar drains, springs, basement sump pumps and French drains.
5. 
In accordance with § 73.11(c) of the Pennsylvania Code, Title 25, DEP, Chapter 73, kitchen and laundry wastes and water softener backwash shall be discharged to a treatment tank.
6. 
No sewage system shall discharge untreated or partially treated sewage to the surface of the ground, or into the waters of the commonwealth, unless a permit to discharge has been obtained from the DEP.
[Ord. 1989-1, 2/6/1989; Ord. 1990-3, 10/1/1990; Ord. 91-2, 11/4/1991; Ord. 1997-2, 1/6/1997; Ord. 1997-3, 2/19/1997; Ord. 1998-2, 6/1/1998; Ord. 2013-1, 12/2/2013; Ord. No. 2026-04, 4/6/2026]
1. 
The owner of a property upon which an OLSDS is located shall at all times operate and maintain the system in such condition as will permit it to function in the manner in which it was designed and to prevent the unlawful discharge of sewage.
2. 
The owner of a property upon which an OLSDS is located shall maintain the area around such system so as to provide convenient access for inspection, maintenance and pumping and divert surface water and downspouts away from the absorption area and system components.
3. 
In the event an owner detects conditions that indicate or could reasonably be interpreted to indicate the OLSDS is not operating properly, the owner shall contact the SEO and, if repair or replacement is necessary, apply for and obtain a permit to repair or replace the system.
4. 
Every treatment tank or cesspool shall be pumped out according to the pumping schedule in § 18-116, Subsection 2, of this Part. If a component's manufacturer requires a more-frequent pumping interval than contained in this Part, that interval shall be deemed the minimum interval for pumping.
5. 
When a treatment tank is pumped out, all dosing tanks, sand filter tanks, lift tanks and other tanks associated with the system shall also be pumped out.
6. 
Any OLSDS or an alternative system which contains an aerobic sewage treatment tank shall follow the operating and maintenance recommendations of the equipment manufacturer.
A. 
A copy of the manufacturer's recommendations and a copy of the service agreement shall be submitted to the Township within six months of the effective date of this Part. Thereafter, service receipts shall be submitted to the Township at the intervals specified by the manufacturer's recommendations.
B. 
If such manufacturer's recommendations and a copy of the service agreement are not available for an existing system, the SEO shall make recommendation to the Township on establishing a proper maintenance schedule for such system. This shall not apply to any system installed after the effective date of the Part.
[Ord. 1989-1, 2/6/1989; Ord. 1990-3, 10/1/1990; Ord. 91-2, 11/4/1991; Ord. 1997-2, 1/6/1997; Ord. 1997-3, 2/19/1997; Ord. 1998-2, 6/1/1998; Ord. 2013-1, 12/2/2013; Ord. No. 2026-04, 4/6/2026]
1. 
No person shall operate or maintain an OLSDS in such a manner that it causes pollution. All liquid wastes, including bathroom, kitchen and laundry wastes and water softener backwash, shall be discharged to a treatment tank. No sewage facility shall discharge untreated or partially treated sewage to the surface of the ground or into the waters of the commonwealth unless a permit to discharge has been obtained from the DEP.
2. 
The Township shall issue a written notice of violation to any person who is the owner of a property in the Township which is found to be served by an OLSDS which is discharging raw or partially treated sewage to the surface water, groundwater or surface of the ground.
3. 
Within 15 days of notice of violation by the Township that pollution has been identified, the owner shall make application to the Township's SEO for a repair permit to abate the pollution. Within 90 days of the original notification by the Township, construction of the permitted repair shall commence. Within 120 days of the original notification by the Township, the repair shall be completed, unless seasonal or unique conditions mandate a longer period, in which case the Township may set an extended completion date.
4. 
The Township shall compel, or may take, immediate corrective action whenever the pollution represents a public health hazard or environmental threat. In the event the Township, or its agents or contractors, takes such corrective action, the owner of the property shall be charged for the costs of work, and related expenses, performed by the Township, or its agents or contractors, which costs shall become a lien on the property and shall be recovered and collected by the Board of Supervisors by the filing of a municipal claim in relation to the property, reducing said claim to judgment and executing upon such judgment, or by instituting a suit to recover such costs or expenses to be charged against the property as a lien or against the person or legal entity as a personal judgment.
5. 
The Township's SEO shall have the authority to require the repair of any pollution by the following methods: cleaning, repair or replacement of components of the existing system; adding capacity or otherwise altering or replacing the system's treatment tank; expanding the existing disposal area; replacing the existing disposal area; replacing a gravity distribution system with a pressurized system; or other alternatives as appropriate for the specific site, in accordance with the Act.
6. 
In lieu of or in combination with the remedies described in § 18-114, Subsection 5, above, the SEO may require the installation of water conservation equipment and the institution of water conservation practices in structures having an OLSDS. Water-using devices and appliances in the structure may be retrofit with water-saving appurtenances or they may be replaced by water-conserving devices and appliances. Wastewater generated in the structure may also be reduced by water usage patterns in the structure served.
7. 
In the event that the repair measures in § 18-114, Subsections 1 through 6, above are not feasible or do not prove effective, the owner is not absolved of the responsibility for any negative effects caused by the malfunction, and the Township may require the owner to apply for a permit to install a holding tank in accordance with Township Ordinance No. 1994-3B, as amended and supplemented.[1] Upon receipt of said permit, the owner shall complete the installation of the holding tank within 90 days, unless seasonal or unique conditions mandate a longer period, in which case the Township may set an extended completion date.
[1]
Editor's Note: See Ch. 18, Part 3, Holding Tanks.
[Ord. 1989-1, 2/6/1989; Ord. 1990-3, 10/1/1990; Ord. 91-2, 11/4/1991; Ord. 1997-2, 1/6/1997; Ord. 1997-3, 2/19/1997; Ord. 1998-2, 6/1/1998; Ord. 2013-1, 12/2/2013; Ord. No. 2026-04, 4/6/2026]
The Township, upon written notice from the SEO that an imminent health hazard exists due to failure of an owner to maintain, repair or rehabilitate an OLSDS as provided under the terms of this Part, shall have the authority to perform or contract to have performed the work required by the SEO. The Township shall retain the right to reclaim fees and costs in accordance with applicable laws.
[Ord. 1989-1, 2/6/1989; Ord. 1990-3, 10/1/1990; Ord. 91-2, 11/4/1991; Ord. 1997-2, 1/6/1997; Ord. 1997-3, 2/19/1997; Ord. 1998-2, 6/1/1998; Ord. 2013-1, 12/2/2013; Ord. No. 2026-04, 4/6/2026]
1. 
Districts Created. The Township is hereby divided into five districts being identified as On-Lot Management District A, On-Lot Management District B, Sewer District 1, Sewer District 2, and Sewer District 3, as illustrated on the On-Lot Sewer Management District Map, which is incorporated by reference into this Part as Appendix 1,[1] and as may be amended from time to time.
[1]
Editor's Note: Said appendix is on file in the Township offices.
2. 
Inspection, Pumping, and Reporting Schedule.
A. 
Every On-Lot Sewage Disposal System (OLSDS) in the Township shall be inspected and system pumped at least once every four years and the report of such inspection and pumping provided to the Township. Reports shall be due to the Township by the 30th of June of the given year for the district that is due for reporting. Reporting will be required as shown in the calendar below:
District
Pumping and inspection Report Due Date
Sewer District 1/Sewer District 2
June 30th, 2027
Sewer District 3
June 30th, 2028
On-Lot Management District B
June 30th, 2029
On-Lot Management District A
June 30th, 2030
B. 
Upon recommendation of the Sewage Enforcement Officer, the required pumping frequency may be increased at the discretion of the Township if the treatment tank is undersized, if solids buildup is above average, if the hydraulic load on the system increases significantly, if a garbage grinder is used, if the system malfunctions, or if the treatment tank is filled with solids in excess of 1/3 of the liquid depth of the tank or with scum in excess of 1/3 of the liquid depth of the tank.
C. 
Any property that has multiple OLSDS on the property shall report each OLSDS inspection and pumping separately on a separate report. Any report provided for the purpose of this Part is not to be used as satisfaction for the inspection of system for the sale of a property.
D. 
The Township may require additional maintenance activity as determined by the SEO, including, but not necessarily limited to, cleaning and unclogging of piping; servicing and repair of mechanical equipment; leveling of distribution boxes, tanks and lines; removal of obstructing roots or trees; and diversion of surface water away from the disposal area. Repair permits issued by the SEO must be secured before these activities are commenced.
3. 
Deferment of Inspection and Pumping.
A. 
A property owner may submit for a deferral of inspection and pumping, including the submission of the required report, for any reporting due date by submission of an "Affidavit of OLSDS Reporting Deferral for Special Situation Properties" hereby incorporated by reference into this Part as Appendix 2,[2] and as may be amended from time to time without requirement to amend this Part.
[2]
Editor's Note: Said appendix is on file in the Township offices.
B. 
Those properties located on the Susquehanna River Islands may submit an "Affidavit of OLSDS Reporting Deferral for Seasonal Dwelling on Susquehanna River Island" hereby incorporated by reference into this Part as Appendix 3,[3] and as may be amended from time to time without requirement to amend this Part. Those river island properties that do not submit an affidavit shall be required to provide an inspection and pumping report by the report due date.
[3]
Editor's Note: Said appendix is on file in the Township offices.
C. 
A property owner wishing to receive a deferment shall submit an Affidavit for each reporting due date and cycle period for which they wish to receive such deferment. The deferment shall only apply to those properties which the owner can reasonably demonstrate that a unique or particular situation has occurred or exists for the property in question as specified in Appendix 2.[4] Such deferment shall only apply to the current reporting due date and cycle period.
[4]
Editor's Note: Said appendix is on file in the Township offices.
D. 
The Township in reviewing and granting such deferment shall take into account the information submitted by the applicant, the sewerage permit issued by the SEO, and any other supporting documentation or information. The Township may also conduct an on-site inspection of the OLSDS to verify its current condition. The applicant shall bear the cost of any inspection or soil and water sampling conducted for the purposes of evaluating the request.
E. 
The Property Owner of any property that has received a deferral shall upon change in status to the property under which the deferral was granted report such change to the Township within 90 days.
F. 
On-Lot Sewage Disposal Systems of an alternative nature that have unique or specific maintenance requirements or that require pumping at a more frequent interval than once every four years shall not be eligible for deferment and shall report in the manner prescribed in accordance with this Part or the authorized maintenance schedule recognized by the approved installation permit.
[Ord. 1989-1, 2/6/1989; Ord. 1990-3, 10/1/1990; Ord. 91-2, 11/4/1991; Ord. 1997-2, 1/6/1997; Ord. 1997-3, 2/19/1997; Ord. 1998-2, 6/1/1998; Ord. 2013-1, 12/2/2013; Ord. No. 2026-04, 4/6/2026]
1. 
Pumper/Haulers.
A. 
Only those Pumper/Haulers that register with the Township as prescribed in § 18-118 shall be eligible to fill out reports for the purpose of this Part.
B. 
The pumper hauler shall complete the pumpers report, retaining the relevant page for their records and providing the property owner with the Township and Property Owner copies of the report.
C. 
The report completed by the pumper/hauler shall be on a Township-provided form, which is incorporated by reference into this Part as Appendix 4,[1] and as may be amended from time to time without the requirement to amend this Part.
[1]
Editor's Note: Said appendix is on file in the Township offices.
D. 
Should the pumping/inspection reveal that the OLSDS is polluting the groundwater or surface waters or discharging to the surface of the ground, the pumper/hauler shall notify the Township, which shall notify the owner, in accordance with this Part, to take corrective action of the pollution.
E. 
Pumper/Haulers shall be susceptible to enforcement action for those items specified in § 18-122, Unlawful Acts; Violations and Penalties.
2. 
Property Owners.
A. 
Property Owners shall contact and contract with a registered Pumper/Hauler for the purpose of conducting inspections and pumping of the OLSDS prior to the due date for the relevant cycle in the district in which the property is located.
B. 
Property Owners shall be responsible to submit the Township Copy of Appendix 4[2] to the Township with any applicable administrative fee as adopted by the Board of Supervisors by Resolution as part of the Township Fee Schedule.
[2]
Editor's Note: Said appendix is on file in the Township offices.
C. 
Reports submitted after the report due date may be subject to a late fee as adopted by the Board of Supervisors by Resolution as part of the Township Fee Schedule. Failure to have any OLSDS inspected and pumped and/or submit a report for the relevant cycle and due date for the district in which a property is located may result in enforcement action as prescribed in § 18-122.
3. 
Sewage Enforcement Officer/Township Notification.
A. 
Sewage Enforcement Officer (SEO).
(1) 
In the event that an owner fails to carry out the requirements for the initial or subsequent pumping/inspection, the SEO shall have the right to enter upon land for the purpose of conducting inspections required by this Part.
(2) 
The SEO shall make an effort to contact the owner, current tenant, or both, in writing, prior to conducting the inspection. The notice shall include the date and time of the inspection and the reason for the inspection. If the owner or tenant cannot be reached and, in the judgment of the SEO, there is an immediate and substantial safety, water pollution or health hazard, the SEO may enter upon the property and proceed with the inspection of the OLSDS.
(3) 
No provision of this Part shall require notice to be given before entry where it can be observed from a public street or abutting property (with the consent of the abutting property owner) that an OLSDS is polluting.
B. 
Township Notification.
(1) 
The Township will provide notification of the requirement to pump to property owners in the following manner:
(a) 
No earlier than 18 months prior to the next report due date, the Township will send a "Letter of Announcement" advising of the opening of the district reporting cycle. The Announcement will include the current pumper hauler registry list, fees, and the due date for the district being announced.
(b) 
No earlier than 12 months prior to the next report due date, the Township will send a "Notice to Pump" advising of the opening of the district reporting cycle. The Notice will include the current pumper hauler registry list, fees, and the due date for the district being announced.
(c) 
No earlier than 8 months prior to the next report due date, the Township will send a "2nd Notice to Pump" advising those properties that have not reported or filed an affidavit. The Notice will include the current pumper hauler registry list, fees, and the due date for the district.
(d) 
No earlier than four months prior to the next report due date, the Township will send a "3rd Notice to Pump" advising those properties that have not reported or filed an affidavit. The Notice will include the current pumper hauler registry list, fees, and the due date for the district.
(e) 
Upon the passing of the report due date, the Township will send a "Notice of Late Reporting" advising those properties that have not reported or filed an affidavit. The Notice will include the current pumper hauler registry list, fees, the due date for the district, a 30-day filing extension, and the possibility of enforcement action.
(f) 
If no report or affidavit is received after the 30 days provided in the "Notice of Late Reporting" a "Notice of Violation" will be issued to those properties that have failed to file in accordance with § 18-122 Unlawful Acts; Violations and Penalties.
[Ord. 1989-1, 2/6/1989; Ord. 1990-3, 10/1/1990; Ord. 91-2, 11/4/1991; Ord. 1997-2, 1/6/1997; Ord. 1997-3, 2/19/1997; Ord. 1998-2, 6/1/1998; Ord. 2013-1, 12/2/2013; Ord. No. 2026-04, 4/6/2026]
1. 
Registration Process and Term.
A. 
Those Pumper/Haulers wishing to provide services to owners in Londonderry Township, including the inspections, pumping, and reporting of OLSDS maintenance as required by § 18-116, shall register with the Township at least seven days prior to making such services available.
B. 
Registration will be completed on a Township provided form, which is incorporated by reference into this Part as Appendix 5,[1] and as may be amended from time to time without the requirement to amend this Part. The following information at minimum will be included in the registration paperwork:
(1) 
The name, address, and telephone number of the pumper/hauler.
(2) 
Proof of registration with the Pennsylvania Department of Environmental Protection as a registered Residential Septage Hauler along with the assigned and current five-digit transporter number.
(3) 
Copy of insurance coverage, with minimum coverages as follows: compliance with the Workers' Compensation Act, and the Social Security Act, as amended, and liability insurance in an amount of not less than $1,000,000 for injuries, including accidental death, to any one person and subject to the same limit for each person, in an amount of no less than $2,000,000 on account of one accident, and property damage insurance in an amount of not less than $1,000,000 or $2,000,000 combined single-limit liability, with an umbrella coverage of $2,000,000.
(4) 
Identify the location(s) at which the pumper/hauler business proposes to dispose of septage collected in the Township that shall be valid for the calendar year.
(5) 
Whether or not the Pumper/Hauler will be offering service on the Susquehanna River Islands.
[1]
Editor's Note: Said appendix is on file in the Township offices.
C. 
Only those Pumper/Haulers that register with the Township shall be permitted to remove septage from any OLSDS in the Township. Pumping and removal of septage by an unregistered Pumper/Hauler shall be considered a violation of this Part and susceptible to enforcement action under § 18-122 Unlawful Acts; Violations and Penalties.
D. 
Registrations shall only be good for the calendar year in which they are issued, with all registrations expiring on December 31st of any given year. The Board of Supervisors may establish a Pumper/Hauler registration fee to be set from time to time by resolution of the Board.
E. 
The Township shall maintain a list of registered pumper/hauler businesses. If a Pumper/Hauler commits a violation as described in § 18-122 or upon the recommendation of the Sewage Enforcement Officer a registered Pumper/Hauler is found to not be in compliance with the registration criteria, the Board of Supervisors may revoke the registration of the Pumper/Hauler in question.
[Ord. 1989-1, 2/6/1989; Ord. 1990-3, 10/1/1990; Ord. 91-2, 11/4/1991; Ord. 1997-2, 1/6/1997; Ord. 1997-3, 2/19/1997; Ord. 1998-2, 6/1/1998; Ord. 2013-1, 12/2/2013; Ord. No. 2026-04, 4/6/2026]
1. 
All septage originating within the Township shall be disposed of at sites or facilities approved by the DEP. Approved sites or facilities shall include the following: septage treatment facilities, wastewater treatment plants, composting sites, and DEP-approved farmlands.
2. 
All pumpers/haulers operating within the Township shall operate in a manner consistent with the provisions of Pa. Code, Title 25, Environmental Protection, Chapter 285, and the Pennsylvania Solid Waste Management Act (Act 97 of 1980, 35 P.S. §§ 6018.101 through 6018.1003).
[Ord. 1989-1, 2/6/1989; Ord. 1990-3, 10/1/1990; Ord. 91-2, 11/4/1991; Ord. 1997-2, 1/6/1997; Ord. 1997-3, 2/19/1997; Ord. 1998-2, 6/1/1998; Ord. 2013-1, 12/2/2013; Ord. No. 2026-04, 4/6/2026]
1. 
The Township shall establish all administrative procedures necessary to carry out the provisions of this Part.
2. 
The Township may appoint an authorized agent or may contract with private individuals or firms as necessary to carry out the provisions of this Part.
3. 
All permits, records, reports, files and other written material related to the installation, operation and maintenance of Township OLSDSs shall become the property of the Township. Existing and future records shall be available for public inspection during regular business hours at the Township offices. All records pertaining to sewage permits, building permits, occupancy permits, and all other aspects of the Township's management program shall be made available, upon request, for inspection, in accordance with the Pennsylvania Open Records Law.
[Ord. 1989-1, 2/6/1989; Ord. 1990-3, 10/1/1990; Ord. 91-2, 11/4/1991; Ord. 1997-2, 1/6/1997; Ord. 1997-3, 2/19/1997; Ord. 1998-2, 6/1/1998; Ord. 2013-1, 12/2/2013; Ord. No. 2026-04, 4/6/2026]
The Board may, by resolution, establish a fee schedule and collect fees to cover the Township's costs of permits and otherwise administering this Part.
[Ord. 1989-1, 2/6/1989; Ord. 1990-3, 10/1/1990; Ord. 91-2, 11/4/1991; Ord. 1997-2, 1/6/1997; Ord. 1997-3, 2/19/1997; Ord. 1998-2, 6/1/1998; Ord. 2013-1, 12/2/2013; Ord. No. 2026-04, 4/6/2026]
1. 
Unlawful Acts.
A. 
It shall be illegal to construct, alter, or repair an OLSDS without first obtaining a permit for the installation or repair from the SEO.
B. 
It shall be illegal to fail to maintain the components of an OLSDS at the intervals specified in this Part or those specified by the equipment manufacturer.
C. 
It shall be illegal for a pumper/hauler business to fail to register and remove septage from any OLSDS in the Township as required by this Part.
D. 
The Township at its discretion may allow a pumper hauler to register in lieu of citation by submitting the required paperwork as provided by § 18-118(1)B with a penalty fee to be set from time to time by resolution of the Board.
E. 
It shall be illegal for any property owner to fail to report the inspection and/or pumping of any OLSDS operating on any property that they own.
2. 
Violations and Penalties.
A. 
Any person who violates any of the provisions of this Part commits a summary offense and shall be subject to prosecution by the Township and, upon conviction before a Magisterial District Judge, shall be subject to a fine of not less than $250 nor more than $1,000, plus costs of prosecution and the Township's reasonable attorneys' fees. Each day of a continuing violation shall be considered a new and separate violation of this Part and shall be subject to separate fine.
B. 
Upon the failure of a property owner to respond to a "Notice of Late Reporting" a "Notice of Violation" shall be issued to the property owner for a failure to report. The "Notice of Violation" shall provide 30 days for the property owner to come into compliance and advise that if corrective action is not taken that a summary offense may be issued pursuant to § 18-122(2)A.
C. 
Any pumper/hauler business which has been found guilty by a Magisterial District Judge of violations of this Part or which fails to comply with any of the provisions of this Part or which violates the conditions of its DEP permit relating to the handling, treatment or disposition of septage or of any state law or Township ordinance governing its operation shall be barred from operating within the Township for a period of one year.
D. 
Upon discovery of any violation of this Part, the Township may, at its option, forgo any prosecution hereunder and may grant to the owner a period of up to 30 days to initiate corrective action with the provisions of this Part. Upon failure of the owner to affect such compliance, the Township may initiate prosecution as hereinabove set forth or take action under 35 P.S. § 750.12(a).
E. 
In addition to any other actions to obtain compliance, the Township may assess civil penalties as described in the Act. (See 35 P.S. § 750.13a.).