Did You Know
Did you know?
High nitrate levels from failing or poorly maintained septic systems can contaminate drinking water, impacting the health of homeowners and guests. Nitrates reduce oxygen in the blood and can cause “blue baby syndrome,” a potentially fatal condition in infants in which the blood cannot carry enough oxygen, leading to bluish skin and serious health risks, including difficulty breathing.
Septic contamination can also introduce harmful bacteria and viruses that cause acute gastrointestinal illness. Regular septic maintenance and routine well-water testing can help protect your family’s health.
Did you know?
The Health District does not place liens on homes for unpaid septic system permit fees, though the property may be considered out of compliance.
Did you know?
Draining a pool or spa into or over a septic system is prohibited because it can overload and damage the system. For guidance on how to drain your pool or spa, see our Pool Draining Guide.
Did you know?
Current septic permits issued under the existing regulations are considered temporary. The permit is valid until the disposal system fails, or a community sewerage system is installed to service the area and connection is legally required.
Did you know?
Pursuant to the Nevada state law known as Assembly Bill 220 (2023) , properties receiving Colorado River water cannot install new septic systems without obtaining a waiver from the Southern Nevada Water Authority (SNWA). Southern Nevada Health District (SNHD) is a different agency with no authority over this waiver.
Did you know?
Assembly Bill 220 (2023) authorizes, but does not require, the Health District to create a financial assistance program for septic-to-sewer conversions. The Health District is open to creating such a program once a sustainable funding source is identified.
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SNHD does not have authority over water or water rights from private property owners; its role is limited to the protection of public health. Water rights are exclusively managed by the Nevada Division of Water Resources (NDWR).
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The Health District has regulatory authority over septic systems in Clark County. The Health District and Southern Nevada Water Authority (SNWA) have complementary roles and collaborate as appropriate to ensure the protection of the community’s water resources and public health.
The Health District has jurisdictional authority to permit, inspect and regulate septic systems in Clark County. An important distinction is when the Colorado River is the water supply source. Since June 6, 2023 (the effect date of AB220), Nevada state law has prohibited the installation of new septic systems on properties that receive water from the Colorado River. In these cases, a waiver must be granted by SNWA before the Health District can issue a permit for a new septic system.
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Under the current regulations, the only recourse for noncompliance is to apply for a variance.
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The current regulations strictly prohibit any paving and vehicular traffic over any part of the septic system or trees within ten feet of the septic system.
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The owner is responsible for having the septic tank pumped when the volume of solids and scum exceeds one-third of the total tank liquid capacity.
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No permit or fee is required to abandon a septic system, but a form and supporting documentation must be submitted to SNHD so we can update our records.
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Discharging Recreational Vehicle (RV) waste into a residential septic system is prohibited under the current regulations.
Did you know?
Every liquid waste hauling vehicle (pumper truck) must be inspected and permitted annually by SNHD.
Updated on: March 18, 2026