| MAINE
Other States: Contact: James A. Jacobsen or W. Clough Toppan, Dir. Maine Constitutions, Statutes and Codes Maine Subsurface
Wastewater Disposal Rules Onsite regulations for Maine were last revised June 1, 1997. February of each year there is a public hearing for rule changes; mostly as a means to fine tune the regulations rather than a substantial change. Currently, the regulations are being reviewed in an attempt to rearrange the order of information contained within the regulations. The state of Maine is not considering the implementation of performance based standards. Alternative soil absorption designs, aerobic treatment units (ATUs), mounds/raised beds, and gravelless/chamber systems are covered by state code. Peat filters and experimental technologies may be allowed on a case-by-case basis. Currently, the regulations do not require management districts or maintenance districts. No such plans are contemplated, as Maine is largely rural and development is decentralized beyond larger towns and cities. The Maine Department of Environmental Protection (DEP) offers assistance programs to homeowners for replacement of failing systems or installation of new systems, through community grants. Mr. Richard Green, (207) 287-7688, with the Maine DEP can be contacted for further information. The state of Maine is hoping to have a voluntary certification program in place by the end of 1998 or early 1999. Previous efforts to enact a licensing program have failed in the state legislature. Training is offered for treatment plant operators at the University of Southern Maine and Southern Maine Technical College. For information contact Mr. Jacobsen or Ms. Robinson at the address and/or telephone number listed above. Currently, there are no research projects or
demonstration projects occurring in the state of Maine. |