Rural Properties and OWTS – You Need to Know These 4 Things

August 18, 2022

Author: Heather Connor, Realtor

Are you buying a property in Gunnison County that is outside of city limits? There are 4 things you must know about OWTS.

1) What is OWTS?
2) The purpose
3) The basics
4) Should the seller have this done prior to listing?

What is Gunnison County's OWTS?

OWTS stands for On-site Wastewater Treatment System and it applies to domestic properties in unincorporated Gunnison County. It’s a newish regulation that establishes minimum standards and regulations with the intent to preserve the environment, protect public health, and water quality.

The purpose of Gunnison's OWTS

The purpose is to regulate all aspects of permits: performance, location, installation, construction, maintenance, alteration, use, and repair within Gunnison County.

The basics of Gunnison's OWTS

OWTS is limited to areas in which central sewage system treatment systems are not feasible. Building permits will not be issued prior to the OWTS permit being issued. Inspection is required upon transfer of ownership of the property and there is a list of certified inspectors.

Should the seller have this done prior to listing?

The seller absolutely should have this done prior to listing or initiate the process in the beginning of the listing process. Rural properties can have longer days on the market and it can be challenging or impossible to complete the inspection in the winter which could hold up closing of your property.

We covered a lot of information really quickly. So, if you would like to read more about OWTS, send me a text: 619.333.7412

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