Rural Saline County property often means a private well and septic system

Outside Marshall and the county’s towns, many Saline County homes are not on a city water or sewer line. Instead, they use a private well for drinking water and an onsite septic system for wastewater. (“Onsite wastewater” just means waste is treated on your own property.) That puts the upkeep on you, the owner. You should test your well water from time to time. A septic system has to be placed correctly and kept in good shape. The state sets rules, and you often need a local permit for a septic system. If you are buying a place like this, ask about the well and septic before you close. Get the water tested, and find out who handles septic permits in your area. The Department of Natural Resources oversees private well construction and drilling. The Department of Health and Senior Services sets the state standards for septic systems and also offers private well-water testing guidance. Your county health department is usually the local contact for septic permits, though in some counties another local office handles them. Confirm the details with the local office.