On Monday, November 3rd, the Loudoun County Board of Supervisors will vote on a proposed ordinance to restrict the use of new non-conventional septic systems for five years, with few exceptions. Rural businesses, churches and homes are subjected to the ban.  Public buildings, such as schools, and historic landmarks are exempt.   The ordinance also includes widely-supported maintenance requirements on approved non-conventional septic systems.

Despite the views expressed by hundreds of Loudoun residents, rural businesses, soil engineers and industry experts over a one year period before stakeholder meetings, a public hearing and public input sessions opposing the ban, it is believed that the LCBOS will approve the prohibition on the installation of new non-conventional onsite septic systems on undeveloped property.

The effect of this ban on non-conventional septic systems will prevent renovations and additions to homes, if they are required to expand an already-approved alternative system.  Additionally, existing lots of record that have not yet been built on may altogether lose the ability to build a marketable home on the property, and vested lots that are subject to an approved preliminary subdivision plat but did not identify the lot as being served by an alternative system may also be prevented from building a marketable home.  Rural businesses, including bed & breakfasts, wineries, kennels, and churches may similarly lose their ability to expand or build.