Current Status on Septic
Current Status of the Higgins Septic Ordinance
Septic system regulation in Michigan is handled at the local level. Michigan is the only state in the country that does not have a statewide septic code. As a result, septic oversight is regulated by counties and townships rather than by a uniform state law.
Because Higgins Lake is governed by two townships — Lyon Township (Roscommon County) and Gerrish Township — septic ordinance decisions are made separately by each township.
Below is the current status of septic ordinance activity in each township.
Gerrish Township
Current Status
Gerrish Township does not currently have a septic ordinance in place.
Through its Health of Higgins Lake initiative, the Township has been gathering septic data and discussing the development of a potential ordinance. Work is ongoing at the committee and Planning Commission level.
What This Means for Homeowners
- There is currently no township-required septic inspection program in effect.
- A new ordinance may be considered following Planning Commission review and public hearings.
- Homeowners should monitor Township meeting agendas and minutes for updates.
Lyon Township
Current Status
Lyon Township repealed its previous septic ordinance in November 2024. As a result, there is no active township septic ordinance currently in effect.
The Township has indicated that a new draft septic ordinance is being developed through the Planning Commission. A draft has been posted publicly and remains under review. It has not yet been adopted.
What This Means for Homeowners
- No septic inspection ordinance has been adopted.
- Draft concepts are being discussed, but no formal ordinance has been approved.
- Future proposals would require public review and Township Board action before becoming effective.