Septic Pumping Mandate Explained

We understand that members may have questions or concerns about the Club’s mandatory septic-system pumping requirement. Below is a brief explanation of the rule and some of the reasoning which led to its adoption.

What the policy requires

The Voting Board passed the mandatory septic pumping rule in March 2023. In summary:

• All septic systems in the community – which includes newer “advanced filtration” or “ATU” and similar systems – must be pumped every three years.
• Members must provide proof of pumping to accounting@hlcc.org by April 1, 2026, covering the period April 1, 2023 through March 31, 2026.
• Failure to comply will result in a $500 fine for the first offense, with escalating fines thereafter.

Why this rule exists

• Nationally recognized lake management experts and studies within our community identify septic systems as the #1 threat to lake health. This includes properly functioning systems as well as those which may be failing or poorly maintained.
• While certain advanced treatment systems may improve drain-field life, they do not adequately reduce soluble phosphorus and/or nitrogen – the key pollutants doing real harm to our lakes. For this reason, such systems are not exempt from the rule.
• Virtually all septic system manufacturers and NJ DEP, USEPA and others consistently recommend pumping at intervals ranging from 2 to 5 years. The Board selected the 3‑year cycle as a reasonable compromise.
• Implementing this rule reflects our strong commitment to environmental stewardship – protecting lake water quality, sustaining healthy ecosystems, and preserving our community’s natural resources for future generations.

Why there are no exemptions

Although some homeowners with newer systems argue their service contracts and semi‑annual inspections are sufficient, the policy applies uniformly because:

• The environmental and public-health risk is shared amongst us all. Our collective system maintenance affects the entire lake environment.
• Allowing exemptions weakens enforcement.  There simply is no way to accommodate everyone’s specific situations.

What to do next

• If your system has been pumped within the past three years (April 1, 2023–March 31, 2026), submit proof to accounting@hlcc.org.

Thank you for your cooperation. Protecting our lakes and maintaining the health, value, and enjoyment of our community requires every member’s participation.