New septic system laws are pending in the Indiana Legislature. (Getty Images)
Among the bills awaiting additional action from Indiana lawmakers in the back half of the legislative session are two measures that seek to further limit inspection mandates for residential septic systems.
Republicans said the bills are meant to “clean up” and “clarify” existing state policy . But critics worry that fewer inspections could increase the number of failing septic systems in Indiana, threatening local communities and their water sources.
House Bill 1352 , authored by Rep. Bob Morris, R-Fort Wayne, follows up legislation passed during the 2023 session. The new bill ensures that inspections of septic systems are only allowed after installation if required by the manufacturer, requested by the owner, required by federal or another state law, or if there is a complaint filed with the health department.
A separate proposal, House Bill 1329 , would prevent a local health department or other government entity from requiring inspections of a property’s septic system when there is a sale or transfer of the property.