How long do I have to connect to sewer if it is installed in my neighborhood?
How long do I have to connect to sewer if it is installed in my neighborhood?
If public sewer is available, and you don’t qualify for a variance, you must connect within the timeframes provided in the Guam Toilet Facilities and Sewer Disposal Act (10 GCA Chapter 48) and the Connection to Public Sewer Regulations (22 GAR Chapter 25), which in general is five (5) years from the time public sewer first becomes available for existing dwellings and duplexes served by adequate septic systems, but this may be reduced to 6 months or even less in some situations, as briefly summarized below:
Existing homes served by an adequate septic system: 5 years. However, no repairs, replacements, or additions to such facilities may be permitted, unless the home is first connected to public sewer.
Existing homes served by an inadequate or defective septic system: 30 days. This may be extended to 6 months provided GEPA finds that the defect or inadeauacy is not hazardous to health.
Existing homes served by adequate septic systems within the Groundwater Protection Zone (GPZ) where the density of septic systems exceeds four (4) septic systems per acre: 6 months (at the discretion of the Administrator)
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Waste System Permit Application Update
Notice to the Public: Pursuant to Public Law 37-105, GEPA’s interim authority to issue construction and operating permits for Type 4 facilities and holding tanks expired on July 31, 2025. GEPA is unable to proceed with the review or approval of Waste Disposal System permit applications until regulations have been adopted.
UPDATED AS OF JULY 18, 2024: Requirements for Septic Systems
Please be advised that the Toilet Facilities and Sewage Disposal Chapter codified in 10 GCA Chapter 48 has been amended through the enactment of Guam Public Law 37-105.
On July 18, 2024, Bill 175-37(COR) as substituted and amended on the floor was signed into law as Guam Public Law 37-105 and is effective upon enactment. As a result of this enactment, certain conditional environmental clearances issued by the Guam Environmental Protection Agency for building permits issued by the Department of Public Works have changed and will now be performed in accordance to this new law and its amended provisions.
Permitting Tips Presentations: Contractors, Home Builders and Property Buyers
In case you missed our Construction & Industry Forum on March 29, 2023, you can click on the links below to access presentations about Guam EPA’s construction permitting process:
In Guam, the use of onsite wastewater disposal systems commonly referred to as ”septic systems,” is regulated through a number of laws and regulations. These laws and regulations cover specific requirements for the permitting, design and construction of septic systems in Guam. Guam EPA has developed this FAQ to help you understand the application of various requirements to the design, permitting, and construction of a septic system for a single family dwelling.
Guam Business License & Permit Center Window Hours
Guam Business License and Permit Center Agency Window Hours:
