A complete list of all programs within the Department of Environment, Great Lakes, and Energy (EGLE)
Community involvement and public participation are an essential part of EGLE’s mission, vision, and values.
Resources and information on utilizing RRD's data exchange and the Inventory of Facilities.
An interactive map displaying contaminated sites throughout Michigan regulated under Parts 213, 201, and 211.
EGLE's interactive calendar is designed to provide timely information on decisions before the Director, proposed settlements of contested cases, administrative rules promulgation, public hearings, meetings and comment deadlines, and environmental conferences, workshops and training programs.
The Michigan Freedom of Information Act (FOIA) provides all persons (except persons incarcerated in correctional facilities) with access to public records of public bodies. Requests to inspect or receive public records from EGLE must be in writing and describe the requested records with enough detail to enable the department to identify and locate the requested records. Some records are exempt from disclosure under the FOIA or another statute and thus will not be provided. A fee may be charged to process your request. Please note that many records are available that do not require a formal FOIA request.
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The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) - in conjunction with federal, state and local governments, and private sector partners - promotes an annual SepticSmart Week to encourage American homeowners and communities to properly maintain their septic systems. Michigan has a vision to protect and promote the wise use of its globally unique water resources. This vision is outlined in the Strategy for Sustaining Michigan's Water Heritage (Water Strategy).
EPA's SepticSmart Program educates homeowners about proper septic system care and maintenance all year long. In addition, it serves as an online resource for industry practitioners, local governments, and community organizations, providing access to tools to educate clients and residents.
More than 1.3 million homes and businesses in Michigan depend on septic systems to treat wastewater. If not maintained, failing septic systems can contaminate groundwater and harm the environment by releasing bacteria, viruses, and household toxics to local waterways. Proper septic system maintenance protects public health, the environment, and saves the homeowner money through avoided costly repairs.
SepticSmart Week Save the Date
Do Your Part. Be SepticSmart!
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Do's and Don'ts of Your Septic System
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Do's and Don'ts of an Advanced Treatment Unit
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Guide to Proper Care and Maintenance of Your Septic System
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Homeowner's Guide to Septic Systems
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Homeowner's Guide to Septic Systems for Tribal Communities
New Homebuyer's Guide to Septic Systems
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Poster for Parks, Campgrounds, and Rest Stops
Poster for Restaurants/Kitchens
Proper Landscaping On and Around Your Septic System
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Rental Property with Septic Systems
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Homeowners should generally have their system inspected every three years by a qualified professional or according to their state or local health department's recommendations. Tanks should be pumped when necessary, typically every three to five years.
Avoid pouring fats, grease, and solids down the drain. These substances can clog a system's pipes and drainfield.
Only put things in the drain or toilet that belong there. For example, coffee grounds, dental floss, disposable diapers and wipes, feminine hygiene products, cigarette butts, and cat litter can all clog and potentially damage septic systems.
Be water-efficient and spread out water use. Fix plumbing leaks and install faucet aerators and water-efficient products. Spread out laundry and dishwasher loads throughout the day - too much water at once can overload a system that hasn't been pumped recently.
Remind guests not to park or drive on a system's drainfield, where the vehicle's weight could damage buried pipes or disrupt underground flow.
Routinely pumping your tank can prevent your septic system from premature failure, which can lead to groundwater contamination.
If septic systems aren't properly maintained, leaks can contaminate well water. Testing your drinking water well is the best way to ensure your well water is free from contaminates.
