Health District

Sanitarian services are provided by the Connecticut River Area Health District (CRAHD). All new buildings need engineer designed septic systems which must be reviewed for Health Code compliance. CRAHD does this review and also oversees the system installations, conducts soil testing and oversees systems repairs. Installaton of new septic systems and repairs to existing systems are by permit and must be performed by licensed intallers. Guidelines for septic review and design and installation criteria are part of the Connecticut Public Health Code.

Additionally, the Connecticut Public Health Code requires that before any building can occur on a property, the owner must demonstrate that the property can support a septic system that meets the current Health Code. This review is generally referred to as a "B100a Application." This means that, as part of a building permit for an addition, above ground pool, deck, garage, etc., it is required that an area of the property be set aside for the future upgrade of the septic testing. If there has previously been soil testing done for the property, CRAHD will likely be able to use that. A B100a review is also required prior to any lot line revision.

CT River Area Health District

The Connecticut River Area Health District is your local health department and provides the following local public health services.  

Environmental health:  Regulation of on-site sewage disposal systems, all foodservice establishments, on-site private well water supplies, day care centers, public swimming pools and bathing areas, overnight stay facilities, hair and nail salons, tattoo establishments and minimum housing standards. 

Health Education:  Health District provides education on infectious and chronic disease prevention and management, skin cancer prevention, creates press releases on current public health topics, manages social media.

Public Health Nursing:  CRAHD conducts follow up on reportable diseases, communicates with local physicians and school nurses regarding diseases of concern, conducts vaccination clinics, answers inquiries from residents regarding disease related concerns. 

Public Health Preparedness:  CRAHD maintains public health emergency plans, conducts and participates in drills and exercises, works with partner agencies on preparedness, takes public health actions when response is warranted.