Guide To Rural Living Book

Chippewa County Land & Resource Mgmt. 629 N. 11th Street Montevideo, MN 56265

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GUIDE TO RURAL LIVING

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TO THE CHIPPEWA COUNTY GUIDE TO RURAL LIVING!

Guide to Rural Living—Introduction

This “Guide to Rural Living” is intended to educate new, existing, and potential rural homeowners within Chippewa County on the rules and regulations that exist regarding rural living. The guide will address some of the many concerns and issues that rural residents face. Individuals looking at building or purchasing a home in the rural setting for the first time need to be informed of some factors to consider. In providing this information prior to purchase we hope to minimize “after the fact” issues, concerns, and problems that homeowners are faced with. Existing homeowners may find this guide useful in answering specific questions on the rules and regulations in place within Chippewa County. Whether you are a new rural homeowner or have resided on your family farm for 50 years, we hope this guide will answer any questions you may have and provide you with the correct contact information, leading to more knowledgeable and educated rural homeowners throughout Chippewa County.

- Chippewa County Land & Resource Management

WELCOME!WELCOME!

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Welcome to Chippewa County!

Guide to Rural Living–

For more information, be sure to visit the County Web site at www.co.chippewa.mn.us.

BE A GOOD NEIGHBOR

Be considerate!! It’s the number one aspect of being a good neighbor. This can mean many different things. Also, there are certain aspects of farming and rural living that new neighbors may want to consider. Here are some:

⇒ Try not to make noise that your neighbors may hear late at night and early in the morning

⇒ Don’t allow your pets to get into your neighbor’s yard ⇒ When snowmobiling and four wheeling, ask before going

on your neighbor’s property ⇒ Be aware of State trespass laws and regulations concerning

use of off road vehicles (i.e. ATV’s, snowmobiles) ⇒ If you have a neighborhood concern, speak to them in a

calm manner right away ⇒ Remember that animal waste does smell, so expect some

odor once in a while—it’s a part of agriculture ⇒ Expect late-night combine or tractor noises in the spring

and fall ⇒ Remember that your neighbors have the “Right to Farm”

and you can expect normal and accepted farm practices from them

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Miscellaneous Tidbits cont...

Guide to Rural Living– Miscellaneous

BE SAFE! When out driving on ANY road, be aware of farm machinery and trucks that will be out working, especially during spring and fall seasons.

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QUESTIONS THAT I SHOULD ASK...

Guide to Rural Living– Introduction

Are there setback requirements that I must meet when constructing a house or feedlot? When buying property, are there any lot size requirements that I should be aware of? Does the property include an updated septic system according to the 7080 ISTS requirements? If there is an existing system, what do I need to know about it? What is the condition of the well? Are there any abandoned wells on the property? Before building or remodeling, are there any permits that I must obtain? What if there is a feedlot on the property? Is there a 911 address assigned to my site? Is there a sign posted? Where does my recycling go? Where can I get rid of my household hazardous waste safely? What if I have a chemical spill at my site? What options do I have for my rural garbage so I don’t have to have a burn barrel anymore? What are banned items? Are there any hazardous materials above or below ground that need to be cleaned up? We hope that this guide will answer these important questions, and provide you with additional information on the many questions and concerns you may have.

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Table of Contents Page WHO TO CONTACT 6--9

CHEMICAL SPILLS 10 Who do I call?

FEEDLOTS 11 What should I consider before buying a site with a feedlot? Can someone build a feedlot next to me? When is a feedlot permit required?

GARBAGE 12 What are my options for getting rid of household garbage?

HOUSEHOLD HAZARDOUS WASTE (HHW) 12-14 What is HHW and where can I get rid of it safely? What HHW materials are required to be recycled by MN State Law?

INDIVIDUAL SEWAGE TREATMENT SYSTEMS (ISTS) 15-21 What is an ISTS? How does an ISTS work? Why do I need good wastewater treatment? Will plumbing changes in my house effect my system? When is a compliance inspection required? What is the Chippewa County Septic Loan Program? What should I consider when buying a lot? What should I ask before purchasing a house with an ISTS? What can I do to maintain my septic system? What are some indicators that my system is not working? Where can I get a current list of licensed installers, inspectors, and pumpers in the area?

LAND USE PERMITS 24-25 When do I need a land use permit? Is there a permit fee? How long is a land use permit valid? Where can I get a land use permit? What happens if I do not get a permit? Will you be disturbing one acre or more of land? RURAL RECYCLING 26 What does the county recycle? What should I do with my recycling?

Guide to Rural Living– Table of Contents

DID YOU KNOW...

You do not have to live directly on a lake, river, or stream to affect the quality of the water? Did you ever stop and think about where your used water actually goes? Where does the excess water from your yard go when the snow melts or after a rain event? The water that does not soak into the ground ends up in our lakes, rivers, and streams either by storm drains, tile, open ditches, failing septic systems or wastewater treatment plants. Even if you live many miles from a watercourse, chances are, your water gets there!

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What should I do if I have an underground or aboveground storage tank on my property?

If you have an underground or above ground storage tank the number one thing to watch for is leakage. If the tank is underground be sure to monitor the amount in the tank and the usage so you can tell if the tank is leaking. Leakage from storage tanks is a direct source of water contamination and can be detrimental to the health of your well and your neighbors well if it is leaking.

For more information or questions on underground and aboveground storage tanks, call the Minnesota Pollution Control Agency or check out the web site at www.pca.state.mn.us/cleanup/pubs/stortanksfs.html#ust

Are there any committees I could serve on?

If you are interested in serving on an appointed board for your county, contact the Chippewa County Auditor/Treasure’s Office for the list of committees needing appointments.

What should I contact township officials for?

Each of the townships throughout Chippewa County has a Board of Supervisors. These boards meet monthly and address township issues such as road grading, snow removal, and setting township levies. The overall goal of these boards is to provide guidance and general protection of their individual township.

If there are questions or concerns that you may have, a good place to start would be with your Township Clerk. A listing of current Clerks and members can be obtained at the Chippewa County Auditor/Treasures Office.

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How can I contact other local elected officials?

Chippewa County has other local elected officials, such as County Commissioners and Soil and Water Conservation District Supervisors, whose job it is to represent the constituents of their district.

Contact information on these elected officials can be obtained at the Chippewa County Auditor/Treasurer’s Office or found at www.co.chippewa.mn.us.

With public sentiment, nothing can fail; without it, nothing can succeed! ~ Abraham Lincoln

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Table of Contents Page

WELLS 27-33 Well Management What is well disclosure? How do I know if there is a well on my property? Who do I contact to have my water tested? What contaminants should my water be tested for? What if a well is not in use? What is well sealing? Building, Remodeling, Demolition, and Wells What are the setbacks from contamination sources? What do I need to consider when locating my new well? What is the required permit or notification?

ZONING 34-35 What are Zoning Districts? Shoreland vs. Non-Shoreland Are there setback or lot size requirements when building a new structure or addition? What should I consider before buying a lot?

MISCELLANEOUS TIDBITS 36-43 Where do I get a 911 address? What about my 911 sign? Where do I get a burning permit? Facts about burn barrels. What if there is a wetland on my property? Where can I purchase trees for a windbreak? What should I do with empty pesticide containers? What are banned items? Are there any committees I could serve on? What should I contact township officials for? How can I contact other local elected officials? What should I do if I have an underground or aboveground storage tank on my property? Be a Good Neighbors. Be Safe.

Guide to Rural Living– Table of Contents

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Who to Contact

Chippewa County Land and Resource Management 629 N. 11th Street Zoning Permits, New 911 Montevideo, MN 56265 Addresses, Feedlots, Septic (320) 269-6231 Systems, Garbage, Recycling, Demolition, HHW, Local Water Plan Cost Share, Well Sealing

Chippewa Soil and Water Conservation District (SWCD) 629 N. 11th Street Best Management Practices Montevideo, MN 56265 State Cost Share (320) 269-2139 Ext. 3 Technical Assistance

Chippewa County Sheriff’s Department 629 N. 11th Street Montevideo, MN 56265 Burning Permits (320) 269-2121

Chippewa County Landfill 1050 Hwy 7 SW Garbage Montevideo, MN 56265 Demolition Waste (320) 269-8306 Recycling

Chippewa County Auditor/Treasurer’s Office 629 N. 11th Street County Ditch Information Montevideo, MN 56265 Property Tax Information (320) 269– 7447 Township Board of Supervisors Voters Registration, Election Administration County Finances, County Board of Commissioners

Chippewa County Highway Department 902 N. 17th Street County Highway Montevideo, MN 56265 information (320) 269-2151

Guide to Rural Living– Contacts

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What should I do with empty pesticide containers?

Empty pesticide containers can be recycled at the annual collection usually held sometime in August. The containers must be triple rinsed and the labels and caps removed. To get the dates of the upcoming years collection, contact the Chippewa County Land and Resource Management Department. What are banned items?

When referring to a banned item we are talking about items that are no longer acceptable to be placed in the trash. Most of these items can be recycled in some way. To receive the proper disposal method for the following list, contact the Chippewa County Landfill, Land and Resource Management Department, or check on the web site at www.co.chippewa.mn.us.

Banned items from trash disposal: ⇒ compost (trees, brush) ⇒ tires ⇒ used oil, oil filters and any other automotive fluids ⇒ vehicle batteries ⇒ button batteries ⇒ thermostats and thermometers containing mercury ⇒ fluorescent light bulbs ⇒ electronics containing cathode ray tubes (TV’s and computer monitors) ⇒ appliances (i.e. refrigerators, freezers, washer) ⇒ hazardous waste Most of these items have something hazardous in them that needs to be removed, but some of them are so easily recycled that it’s a much better option than disposing of them in a landfill. (See pages 11 and 12 for disposal information.)

What if there is a wetland on my property?

Wetlands provide a number of benefits to improving water quality by filtering pollutants to surface and ground water, utilization as a recharge area for groundwater, and are natural floodwater and storm water retention areas. Other benefits include providing wildlife habitat and recreational uses such as wildlife viewing, hunting, and fishing.

To retain the benefits of wetlands, they are protected by state and federal laws. Violation of these laws may require restoration and or replacement at the landowner’s expense.

Anyone proposing to drain, fill, or excavate a wetland on their property must first contact the Chippewa Soil and Water Conservation District (SWCD). Where can I purchase trees for a windbreak?

Free technical assistance is available from the Chippewa SWCD for developing a field or farmstead windbreak plan. Adequate space is required between rows and between the proposed windbreak and existing buildings to ensure proper performance. Windbreaks are subject to County Zoning setbacks from roads.

Conservation trees can be purchased each year from the SWCD. Contact the SWCD for the time of year to place your order, a list of trees available, and current prices. A sample tree order form can be obtained in the Chippewa SWCD Office.

Private nurseries or landscape contractors may also have services available for windbreak plantings.

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An area does not have to hold water throughout the year to be considered a wetland.

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Who to Contact

Chippewa County Assessor’s Office 629 N. 11th Street Value and classify Montevideo, MN 56265 property for real estate (320) 269-7696 tax purposes

Chippewa County License Bureau 629 N. 11th Street Drivers License Montevideo, MN 56265 DNR Registration (320) 269-6035 Off-Highway Vehicles Game and Fish Licensing Motor Vehicle Registration and Titling Prorate

Chippewa County Recorder’s Office 629 N. 11th Street Records of the county Montevideo, MN 56265 pertaining to Real Estate (320) 269-9431 Documents and Personal Property Tax Liens—Abstracting—Passport Applications Notary Registration—Records military discharges Vitals recorded: Certified copies of birth certificates, death and marriage certificates and marriage applications Genealogy: Real Estate records and Vitals dated back to 1870.

Chippewa County Veteran’s Service Office 629 N. 11th Street Montevideo, MN 56265 Provides services to all (320) 269-6419 veterans, their dependents, and survivors of veterans.

Tostenson’s Inc. PO Box 304 Garbage Montevideo, MN 56265 Demolition Waste (320) 269-7243 Recycling


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Who to Contact

Minnesota Department of Health (MDH) 121 E Seventh Place, Suite 220 PO Box 64975 Wells St. Paul, MN 55164-0975 (651) 215-0811 or 1-800-383-9808

University of Minnesota Extension Chippewa County 629 N 11th Street Montevideo, MN 56265-1685 4-H Youth Development (320) 269-6521 Master Gardener [email protected] Nutrition Education

Kandiyohi County Regional Household Hazardous Waste 1404 22nd Street SW PO Box 1123 Household Hazardous Waste Willmar, MN 56201 (320) 231-3587

Countryside Public Health Services 719 N. 7th Street; Suite 308 Montevideo, MN 56265 (320) 269-2174 or Toll free: (800) 894-0192

Maternal and Child Health: Women, Infants and Children (WIC) - Child & Teen Checkup Outreach (CTC)—Car Seat Education—Prenatal Education—New Parents

Environmental Health: Water Analysis Testing—Radon Testing Kits—Investigation of Nuisance Complaints—Food, Beverage, and Lodging Licensing and Inspections

Office Services: Immunizations—Blood Pressure Checks—Pedicures—Medication Management Services—Pregnancy Tests

Other Services Offered: Long Term Care Consultation—Case Mgmt.—School Nursing—Infectious Disease Prevention—Youth Tobacco Use Prevention—Emergency Preparedness—Visits to Daycare Providers—Information on Various Health Topics


Facts about burn barrels:

For most Minnesotans, it is against the law to burn or bury household wastes — it's been illegal since 1969. Although farmers were allowed to continue burning because they lacked garbage pickup, that is no longer the situation in Chippewa County. (see pages 10 and 22 for options)

Household burn barrels, fire pits, wood stoves or similar homemade devices produce low-temperature fires. They receive very little oxygen and produce a lot of smoke. Under these conditions a variety of toxic substances is produced. Virtually all of the pollutants are released into the air, and close to ground level where they are easily inhaled. Carbon monoxide (CO), carbon dioxide (CO2), and nitrogen oxides (NOx) represent the largest portion of pollutants emitted from burning household waste in a burn barrel. Smaller amounts of more poisonous chemicals are also released into the air when household waste is burned.

Among the environmental and health risks posed by residential garbage burning, dioxin is the key concern. Dioxin is a potent human carcinogen that is especially harmful for pregnant women, children, and the elderly. Dioxin is also an endocrine disrupter and can cause reproductive, developmental, and immunological problems in humans and animals.

To find out more information and facts about the hazards of burn barrels, look at the Minnesota Office of Environmental Assistance web site at www.moea.state.mn.us/reduce/burnbarrel.cfm or contact the Chippewa County Land and Resource Management Office.

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Where do I get a 911 address?

Currently, any existing site within the county should have a 911 address. Contact the Chippewa County Land and Resource Management Office if there is a question on the current 911 address of the site.

To obtain a 911 address for a new building site, contact the Land and Resource Management Office. What about my 911 sign?

Currently, all existing sites within the county should have a 911 sign located at the end of their driveway for emergency service purposes. If you don’t have one, please contact the Chippewa County Land and Resource Management Office to have one made.

For new building sites, the Land and Resource Management Office will issue you a new 911 address and a sign when you apply for your land use permit. Where do I get a burning permit?

To obtain a burning permit, the applicant must apply in person and have the permit in possession while burning. Permits can be obtained at the following locations in Chippewa County: ⇒ Clara City City Hall ⇒ Milan City Hall ⇒ Chippewa County Sheriff’s Office located in Montevideo

For additional burning questions, such as when a permit is and is not needed and what materials can and cannot be burned, can be found by calling one of the sites above or at the DNR Forestry Office web site: www.dnr.state.mn.us/forestry/fire/questions.html.

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Miscellaneous Tidbits


4025

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Who to Contact

Chippewa County Family Services Community Service Building 719 N. 7th Street; Suite 200 Montevideo, MN 56265 (320) 269-6401 Toll free: (877) 450-6401 Office Hours: 7:30 a.m.—3:30 p.m.

List of Financial Services: Child Support for non-public and public assistance recipients– Food Support— Minnesota Family Investment Program—Diversionary Work Program—MN Supplemental Aid—General & Medical Assistance—General Assistance Medical Care—MinnesotaCare—Medicare Savings Program.

List of Social Services: Adoption Services—Adult Services—Chemical Abuse/Dependency Services—Children & Family Services—Day Care Services—Foster Care Services—Developmental Disabilities Services—Mental Health Services—Physical Disability Services

Services available in all areas: Case Management—Counseling—Emergency/crisis assistance—Information and referral—Orders for Protection—Education/public speaking

Minnesota Pollution Control Agency (MPCA) 520 Lafayette Road St. Paul, MN 55155-4194 Feedlot owner change (612) 282-6246 or registration 1-800-657-3864 Stormwater Permit

Minnesota Office of Environmental Assistance 520 Lafayette Rd N Floor 2 Burn Barrels St. Paul, MN 55155-4100 Household Hazardous Waste (651) 296-3417 or 1-800-657-3843 Recycling


After Hours Contact: Chippewa County Sheriff’s Department (320) 269-2121

Woodland Centers: 24-hr. Crisis Toll-Free Hotline 1-800-992-1716

Who do I call?

REPORT CHEMICAL and FUEL OIL SPILLS IMMEDIATELY!!

Minnesota State Duty Officer: On Call 24 hrs a day! 1-800-422-0798 or 1-651-649-5451 TDD: 1-800-627-3529 Minnesota Pollution Control Agency: (800) 657-3864 or (651) 296-6300 Ask for Emergency Response 911 for Local Fire Department

Be ready to provide the following information when contacting the Minnesota Duty Officer or

other emergency personnel:

* telephone number for call-backs at the scene or facility * have local officials been notified of incident – FD, PD, etc. * date, time and location of the incident (specific) * materials and quantity involved in incident * responsible party of incident * what kind of assistance is requested * what has happened or what is happening

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Chemical Spills

Guide to Rural Living-Chemical Spills

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Zoning continued...

Shoreland vs. Non-Shoreland

Shoreland in Chippewa County is considered 1,000 feet from the high water mark of a lake or 300 feet from a river or stream.

Within shoreland areas, certain regulations may exist to protect public waters, preserve shoreland aesthetics, and protect fish and wildlife habitat. Are there setback or lot size requirements when building a new structure or addition?

When buying property or applying for a building permit on an existing acreage, it is important to be aware of setback requirements. Within each zoning district, setbacks exist for buildings, windbreaks, agricultural buildings, septic systems, and dwellings. These setbacks are from the centerline of roads, side and rear property lines, water level, and feedlots. Certain uses also require a minimum lot area, width, and depth.

Buyers or homeowners can contact the Land and Resource Management Office to learn more about setback requirements specific to their site, or you can find specific setback requirements at www.co.chippewa.mn.us.

Guide to Rural Living– Zoning

What should I consider before buying a lot?

Before finalizing any kind of purchase contract, check with the Land and Resource Management Office to see whether you can get a permit, including a permit to install an individual sewage treatment system. This will work to alleviate problems in the future if the site does not meet the minimum lot area or setback requirements.

What are Zoning Districts?

The Chippewa County Land and Related Resource Management Ordinance divides the county into zoning districts for the purpose of regulating structures and use of the land. The purpose of defining these districts was to minimize conflict between incompatible uses and to provide for orderly development. Each district includes a definition of how the land may be used, such as lot area, size of buildings, and setbacks. By defining the regulations and uses within each district, the county hopes to encourage the most appropriate use of the land while respecting economic and environmental values, and recognizing the rights of property owners and land use patterns.

While each zoning district allows for a specific number of permitted uses, there are additional uses, called conditional uses, which may be allowed subject to a public hearing process.

Contact the Chippewa County Land and Resource Management Office for additional information on what zoning district you are located within, permitted uses within that district, or to obtain a copy of the Chippewa County Zoning Ordinance.

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Zoning

The county is divided into zoning districts for the purpose of regulating

structures and use of the land.

Guide to Rural Living– Zoning

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Feedlots

What should I consider before buying a site with a feedlot?

If the existing site has a feedlot permit, the new owners need to contact the Minnesota Pollution Control Agency about updating the permit and completing a “Change of Ownership” form.

Any cleanup or closure of an existing site is the responsibility of the current land owner. Before purchasing any building site, contact Chippewa County Land and Resource Management to find out the specific requirements on submitting a closure plan. Plans need to be according to MPCA closure and abandonment guidelines. Can someone build a feedlot next to me?

According to the Chippewa County Feedlot Ordinance, setback requirements exist for new feedlots wishing to build next to a rural residence (other than the feedlot owner). In turn, any new non-farm residence is required to have the same setbacks from a feedlot.

For any questions on setback requirements, contact the Land and Resource Management Office or go to www.co.chippewa.mn.us. When is a feedlot permit required?

Any person proposing to own or operate a feedlot must first check with the Land and Resource Management Office to see if a permit is required.

Guide to Rural Living-Feedlots

Chippewa County currently enforces a Feedlot Ordinance which can be found

at www.co.chippewa.mn.us

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Garbage

What are my options for getting rid of household garbage?

Rural landowners have the option of getting a 65 gallon or 95 gallon garbage receptacle with once a week pickup or you can rent or purchase a 2-yard dumpster and have it emptied on an as needed basis. Contact Tostenson’s Inc. (269-7243) at the Chippewa County Landfill for more information.

What is Household Hazardous Waste and where can I get rid of it safely?

A hazardous product is one whose improper disposal or storage poses a threat to health or the environment. This includes products that are flammable, corrosive, reactive or toxic. Look for label words such as warning, danger, flammable, combustible, corrosive and poison. The best way to manage a hazardous substance is to use it up for its intended purpose, but if unable to do so, bring it to the HHW Facility located in

Willmar, Kandiyohi County. For more information on HHW and proper disposal please refer to the Chippewa County web site at www.co.chippewa.mn.us or call the Land and Resource Management Office.

Household Hazardous Waste

Guide to Rural Living-Garbage & HHW

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Wells continued...

Guide to Rural Living– Wells

What do I need to consider when locating my new well?

A well must be located so that it meets the minimum required isolation distances. These are between the well and utilities, buildings, and potential sources of contamination. Before construction begins, the best location on the property should be identified by considering the land elevation and location of proposed or existing buildings, buried gas or power lines, and potential sources of contamination. A licensed well contractor can help you choose the best location for your new well.

For specific setback requirements contact the Minnesota Department of Health or Chippewa County Land and Resource Management.

What is the required permit or notification?

The Minnesota Department of Health (MDH) must be notified before well construction begins. The notification form must be submitted by the well contractor or the property owner and must be accompanied by the appropriate fee. Construction may begin when the notification form and fee have been received by MDH.

Utilities

Chemical Storage

Oil Tank

Septic Tank

Drainfield

Stream

Building

Feedlot

Building, Remodeling, Demolition, and Wells

During building, demolition, or remodeling, sometimes unused wells are discovered. Care should be taken not to damage a well. Damaged wells can lead to contamination of the well and groundwater. Damaged wells are also more difficult and expensive to repair or seal.

Wells may not be buried, bulldozed, or otherwise excavated while doing

building projects or demolition. When constructing additions to your home, adding new buildings, or making changes to septic systems or other contamination sources, be sure to maintain the required separation distances to your well. What are the setbacks from contamination sources?

Remodeling or building projects may involve installation of sewers or other sources of contamination. A minimum isolation distance must be maintained between a well and a source of contamination to protect the well and groundwater. This distance applies to the construction of new wells, and to the placement of contamination sources near existing wells.

Well rules contain specific distances from contamination sources such as petroleum tanks, chemical storage, and septic systems.

For specific setback requirements contact the Minnesota Department of Health, Chippewa County Land and Resource Management Office, or look at www.co.chippewa.mn.us.

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Wells continued...


What HHW materials are required to be recycled by Minnesota State Law?

They are all items banned from landfills. Used Motor Oil: Many automotive service centers allow the general public to recycle used oil at their facility at no charge. Chippewa County has many locations for used oil. For more information, call a service center near you or the Chippewa County Land & Resource Management office at 320-269-6231.

Motor Oil Filters: Some auto service centers accept oil filters for recycling (a small fee may be charged). For more information, call a service center near you or the Chippewa County Land & Resource Management office at 320-269-6231.

Vehicle Batteries: Businesses that sell automotive (lead acid) batteries accept used batteries for recycling. Tires: Most tire dealers accept tires for

recycling (for a fee) as does the Chippewa County Recycling Center. Fluorescent Lamps: These are accepted for recycling at the following hardware stores in Chippewa County: Shinnick’s Our Own Hardware in Clara City and ACE Hardware in Montevideo. A nominal fee is charged.

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HHW continued...

Guide to Rural Living– HHW

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HHW continued...

Guide to Rural Living- HHW

Button Batteries: Businesses that sell button batteries accept used batteries for recycling. Some button batteries are hazardous so they must be recycled – but to make things easier, all button batteries are easily recycled to just recycle them all!

Rechargeable Batteries: These can be recycled at the Chippewa County Courthouse in the Land & Resource Management Office.

Mercury Thermostats and Thermometers: These cannot be put in the garbage. Take these items to a hazardous waste facility or the Chippewa County Land & Resource Management Office located in the Courthouse.

Cell Phones: These can be recycled at the Chippewa County Courthouse in the Land & Resource Management Office.

Ink Jet Cartridges: These can be recycled and many organizations receive money for recycling them, such as schools and churches. Boxes are located at the

local banks and at the Chippewa County Courthouse.

Television and Computer Monitors: Take to landfill site to be recycled. See information below on Minnesota Cathode-Ray Tube Ban.

Minnesota’s Cathode-Ray Tube (CRT) Ban:

Effective July 1, 2006 products containing a cathode-ray tube (CRT), such as televisions and computer monitors, can no longer be placed in the garbage or landfill (MN Statutes 115A.9565). Products with a CRT contain between 2—8 pounds of lead and many may also contain toxic metals such as mercury and cadmium.

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Wells continued...

What is well sealing?

On your property, you could have one or more wells which are not in use, and which are not properly sealed. In the past they could have served former houses or buildings, or been used for irrigation or livestock watering. Wells which are abandoned can be a potential threat to health, safety, and the environment. Larger diameter wells can pose safety concerns for people or animals.

Unused wells provide a pathway through which contaminants at the surface may move down to the groundwater and contaminate nearby wells. Identifying and sealing unused wells is one important way to protect groundwater from contamination.

Well sealing involves removing pumping equipment and debris, and permanently and completely filling a well with a sealing material called grout. State law requires that a well must be sealed by a licensed well or well sealing contractor.

For additional information on sealing unused wells, or to obtain a publication at no cost, contact the Minnesota Department of Health. Additional information is also available on the MDH website at www.health.state.mn.us/divs/eh/wells/index.html


When the well’s dry, we know the worth of water

.~ Ben Franklin, Poor Richard’s Almanac

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Wells continued...

Protect your health—-test your private well water. ⇒ Test your well water at least once a year for bacteria. ⇒ Test your well water at least once every year or two for

nitrate, and always before giving it to an infant. ⇒ Test your well water at least once for arsenic.

What if a well is not in use?

If a well is not in use, the property owner has three options:

1. The well can be put back into use; 2. The well can be sealed by a licensed well contractor, or a

licensed well sealing contractor; or 3. The property owner can apply for a maintenance permit from

the MDH.

If one of these steps has not been taken at the time of property transfer, it will be the responsibility of the buyer to choose an option and follow through with it.

Guide to Rural Living—Wells

Page 15

What is an ISTS?

While residents of towns and cities have their sewage treated at a municipal treatment plant, residents of areas without access to this type of treatment own, operate, and maintain their own “mini-treatment plants,” their septic system. The purpose of an individual sewage treatment system (ISTS), or septic system, is to treat sewage from your household which contains bacteria, viruses and other disease-causing pathogens. How does an ISTS work?

A complete septic system is made up of three primary compo-nents: ◊ Plumbing: wastewater collection ◊ Septic Tank: primary treatment ◊ Soil Treatment System: final treatment.

The sewage flows through the plumbing and pipes that connect the building to the septic tank.

Individual Sewage Treatment Systems

Guide to Rural Living– ISTS

The septic tank performs the first step of the wastewater treatment process. The tank is a solid tank designed specifically to accept all wastewater from the home. Several tank designs are available but all tanks should feature inlet baffles, outlet baffles with filters, inspection pipes, and a manhole for cleaning.

The final treatment occurs in the soil. The soil treatment (drainfield) kills disease organisms in the sewage and removes nutrients. The soil must be located in an area that is un-compacted, unsaturated, and has natural soil surrounding the drainfield. The drainfield design and size is based on the soil type.

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ISTS continued...


What is SEWAGE? It is wastewater from domestic activity in a home such as

bathing, washing clothes, toilets, cleaning or cooking.

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Wells continued...


What contaminants should my water be tested for?

Sometimes water can become polluted with potentially hazardous contaminants such as nitrate, lead, or disease causing microorganisms. Many contaminants are tasteless, odorless, and colorless. Water which looks and tastes good may still be unsafe. Proper well construction, disinfection, regular water testing, and water system maintenance will help to ensure a safe water supply.

Two standard tests, coliform bacteria and nitrate, should be performed regularly on every well. Testing for other contaminants may also be advisable. The person who constructs the well is responsible for obtaining a sample and having it tested by a certified laboratory.

Arsenic is detected in about half the wells in Minnesota. Every private well should be tested at least once or twice to determine if arsenic is present, and at what levels. After a well has been in existence for a few months, arsenic levels would not be expected to change much over time.

A water test only tells you about the water quality at the time the test was taken. At a minimum, private wells should be tested for coliform bacteria once a year and for nitrate every two to three years. A well should also be tested if there is a sudden change in appearance or taste of the water.

For further information on these, and tests for other contaminants, contact the Minnesota Department of Health.

How do I know if there is a well on my property?

Almost every home has had to have some kind of water supply. If a home is older than an existing well or older than when the home was connected to municipal water or rural water, then there is likely an old well on the property.

⇒ A well usually appears as a pipe or casing from 1-1/4 to 6 inches in diameter, but may be a ring of concrete or tile up to 3 feet in diameter. The pipe may be sticking out of the ground or in a pit.

⇒ A well inside the house can often be found by looking in the basement for a pipe that is sticking up from the floor or in a small room off to one side.

⇒ Farmsteads may have additional wells located in, or near, out-buildings or livestock areas.

⇒ The previous owner or a neighbor may have knowledge of the location of the well.

⇒ Consult a well disclosure certificate available from the Minnesota Department of Health for property transfers after November 1, 1990.

Who do I contact to have my water tested?

To get a water testing kit, contact Countryside Public Health or the Minnesota Department of Health. The labs used should be certified by the MDH.

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Wells continued...

Groundwater provides drinking water to three out of four residents

of Minnesota and must be protected from contamination.


Why do I need good wastewater treatment?

Proper treatment of wastewater reduces health risks to humans and animals and prevents surface and groundwater contamination. It is unhealthy for humans, pets, and wildlife to drink or come in contact with surface or groundwater contaminated with wastewater. Inadequate treatment allows for bacteria, viruses, and other disease causing pathogens to enter ground and surface water. A system that fails to treat sewage can also allow excess nutrients to reach nearby lakes and streams.

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To receive a copy of the Septic System Owner’s Guide published by the University of Minnesota Extension

Service, contact the Chippewa County Land and Resource Management Office. A $4.00 fee is charged.

Will adding or changing the plumbing in my house effect my system?

Before remodeling a home, consider the impacts these changes will make on the septic system. By adding a bathroom or hot tub, you may be overloading what the current system was designed to handle. Excessive water puts an unnecessary load on the system. Hot tubs and swimming pools should not be discharged into the septic tank. When is a compliance inspection required?

A septic system may require a compliance inspection when a land use permit is applied for in certain zoning districts or for a certain use, or at any time the Land and Resource Management Office deems appropriate, such as upon receiving a complaint or other information of system failure.

Contact the Chippewa County Land and Resource Management Office to find out specific information on when a compliance inspection is required. What is the Chippewa County Septic Loan Program?

Chippewa County currently has a program to improve water quality by providing public loan assistance for ISTS for all property owners. The loan will show as a special assessment on your tax statement and is to be used for site evaluation, design, installation, repair, and replacement on privately owned property.

For additional information on the County Loan Program, contact the Land and Resource Management Office.

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Well Management

Properly constructed and maintained water wells can provide safe water for many years, but as wells age, they may deteriorate or become damaged and eventually lose their ability to keep contaminants out of the water. If your well is old, or has not been inspected for many years, contact a licensed well contractor and have the well inspected. If your well has outlived its useful life, it should be properly sealed and replaced with a modern, safe well. What is well disclosure?

Well disclosure is the process by which the seller of property provides information to the buyer. A well disclosure certificate is also required at closing and is filed with the County Recorder. If the seller makes a false disclosure, they are liable to the buyer for costs related to sealing the well for up to six years after the purchase of property.

For additional information on well disclosure, or to obtain a publication at no cost, contact the Minnesota Department of Health (MDH). Additional information is available on the MDH website at www.health.state.mn.us/divs/eh/wells/index.html.

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Wells

First, make sure that your well is located and

constructed properly.


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Rural Recycling

What does the county recycle?

The county recycles brown, green and clear glass, tin, steel, aluminum, plastics (numbers 1,2,5 or 7), newspapers, hard and soft covered books, magazines, telephone books, white office paper, and corrugated cardboard.

For proper recycling, please contact the Chippewa County Landfill, Chippewa County Land and Resource Management, or check the county web site at www.co.chippewa.mn.us. What should I do with my recycling?

Recycling sites are available to rural homeowners throughout Chippewa County. Drop sites are open once a week for a 24 hr. time period weekly throughout the cities located in the county. The Chippewa County Recycling Center, located at the County Landfill site, is open Monday—Friday and can be brought out there also. For a copy of the recycling schedule, contact the Chippewa County Landfill, Chippewa County Land and Resource Management Office, or find it on the county web site at www.co.chippewa.mn.us.

Guide to Rural Living– Rural Recycling

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What should I consider when buying a lot?

Before you buy a lot, know exactly where the boundaries are. Then determine the most desirable location for your home and ISTS. When building on a new lot, it is required to have two potential sites for your ISTS. These sites should be designated before construction begins to maintain the sites usability.

When selling property, the seller

is required to provide

information to the buyer regarding the

status of the ISTS on the property.

What should I ask before purchasing a house with a septic system?

Before buying a home, ask questions about the current sewage treatment system. Such as, what is the condition of the tank and drainfield, when was it installed, and has it ever been pumped? Even with a Certificate of Compliance, it is still wise to hire an inspector to conduct a point of sale inspection. The party who requests the inspection generally pays for it.

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What can I do to maintain my septic system?

Here are several tips you can follow to keep your system in good working order to protect your ground and surface water.

Good Household HabitsGood Household HabitsGood Household Habits ⇒ Conserve water—excess water is the most common cause of

failure ⇒ Repair dripping faucets and running toilets ⇒ Shorten shower times and choose showers over baths ⇒ Do not use the toilet as a waste basket ⇒ Eliminate the use of garbage disposals ⇒ Wash only full loads in washing machines and dishwashers ⇒ Use liquid laundry detergent

Landscaping TipsLandscaping TipsLandscaping Tips ⇒ Be aware of the location of your tank and drainfield ⇒ Plant trees and shrubs at least 5 feet away from these ⇒ Route roof drains and drain tile away from the drainfield

System MaintenanceSystem MaintenanceSystem Maintenance ⇒ Do not add “starters” or additives to your system ⇒ Do not connect the sump pump or hot tubs to the tank ⇒ Do not put toxic substances down the drain ⇒ Do not use chemicals to clean your system ⇒ Do not walk or drive over the system ⇒ PUMP YOUR TANK AT LEAST ONCE EVERY THREE

YEARS—if floating sludge is allowed to enter the drainfield it will cause expensive and sometimes irreparable damage.


Although the design, installation, and inspection of septic systems is controlled by state and local rules to ensure proper installation... Operation and Maintenance of the system is the homeowner’s responsibility.

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Land Use Permits continued...

Where can I get a land use permit?

A land use permit can be obtained from the Chippewa County Land & Resource Management Office. Each application must include a plan showing the dimensions of the lot to be built upon and the size and location of the building, addition, or accessory building to be constructed.

After an application has been made, the proposal is reviewed for compliance of county setbacks and ordinances. Land use permits can frequently be obtained within one day of application, unless zoning requirements are not met and more time is needed to address these issues. What happens if I do not get a permit?

If a land use permit is not obtained prior to construction the late fee is double the permit fee and you may be subject to criminal prosecution. Will you be disturbing one acre or more of land?

As of March 10, 2003 a General Stormwater Permit for Construction Activity is required by the MPCA from homeowners for any construction activity disturbing one acre or more of land. Construction activities requiring a permit include landscape clearing, grading, excavation, and construction of homes. Program information and permit forms can be found at www.pca.state.mn.us/water/stormwater/stormwater-c.html or the Chippewa County SWCD.

Guide to Rural Living– Land Use Permits

“Controlling erosion can significantly reduce the amount of sedimentation and other pollutants transported by runoff from construction sites.”

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Land Use Permits

When do I need a land use permit?

A land use permit is required to construct or alter, in respect to height or area, any building. Is there a permit fee?

Yes, fees are determined by the project being completed and are collected when a land use permit is obtained at the Land and Resource Management Office. Current fees can be found at www.co.chippewa.mn.us.

Land Use Permits ARE NOT needed for:

◊ Non-structural: reshingling, residing, window replacement, internal remodeling

How long is a land use permit valid?

A land use permit is valid for a period of one year after the date of issuance.

Land Use Permits are needed for:

⇒ New Construction (dwellings, barns, silos, grain bins, machine sheds, garages, and other structures)

⇒ Expansion or addition to existing structure ⇒ Accessory Structures (porch, deck, gazebo, pool,

tool shed) ⇒ Construction, alteration, and movement of buildings

Guide to Rural Living– Land Use Permits

What are some indicators that my system is not working?

The fact that your toilet flushes does not guarantee that your septic system is working properly. Here are some indicators that your system is not properly designed or is currently failing:

⇒ Discharging into an ag tile line, ditch, water body, or onto the surface

⇒ Your tank has not been maintained for more than 3 years ⇒ Your tank is leaky ⇒ Drainfield is not at least 3 feet above the seasonally high

water table ⇒ Grass above the drainfield is greener than surrounding

areas ⇒ Sewage backup in your drains or toilet ⇒ Slow toilet flushing ⇒ Wet areas or water seeping near drainfield ⇒ Excessive growth of aquatic weeds or algae in the lake

near your home ⇒ Unpleasant odors around your house ⇒ Bacteria or nitrates found in your well water

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Where can I get a current list of licensed installers, inspectors, and pumpers in the area?

The design and installation of ISTS is regulated by state rules through the Land and Resource Management Office. ISTS must be installed by a state licensed contractor. Contact the Land and Resource Management Office to obtain a current list of licensed contractors, inspectors, and installers in the area.


CHIPPEWA COUNPage 22

Chippewa County has 16 Townships and 5 Commissioner Districts.

The Commissioner Districts are divided as follows:

District 1: Big Bend, Crate, Grace, Havelock, Kragero, Louriston, Mandt, Rosewood, Tunsberg, City of Milan, City of Watson

District 2: Lone Tree, Rheiderland, Stoneham, Woods, City of Clara City, City of Maynard.

District 3: Granite Falls, Leenthrop, Sparta, City of Granite Falls W2

District 4: City of Montevideo Precinct 1

District 5: City of Montevideo Precinct 2

TY AT A GLANCE Page 23