Septic in Derry, NH

In Derry, you'll often run into a yard vent cap poking up between lilacs and pines, a reminder that many homes here rely on a septic system to treat wastewater right on the property—sometimes tucked behind stone walls or near the edge of a field. It's part of our everyday sense of neighborhood practicality, where a well-kept septic means peace of mind and a straightforward home experience.

Is septic common in Derry? Should I expect septic if I own or buy a home?

Yes. In Derry, many single‑family homes—especially in rural and suburban pockets not served by municipal sewers—use septic systems. If your street doesn't connect to a town wastewater line, you should plan on a septic system. If you're buying a home, verify with the seller and town records whether the property has an on‑site system, when it was installed, and when it was last pumped. A current septic permit or as‑built drawing can save headaches later on.

Why homes typically use septic systems in Derry

• Local layout and sewer reach: Not every street in Derry is wired to a municipal sewer, particularly farther from town centers. Septic provides a practical, on‑site solution for these parcels.
• Cost and feasibility: Extending sewer mains to every lot can be expensive and disruptive. On‑site systems are often the most economical option for individual lots.
• Soil and groundwater realities: When designed and installed correctly, soil beds treat effluent on the property, helping protect groundwater and local wells.
• Property size and flexibility: Many Derry homes sit on parcels where on‑site treatment is a sensible fit, offering more building and landscaping flexibility than a centralized sewer tie-in.
• Regulation and maintenance: NH towns typically require proper permitting, regular inspections, and periodic pumping to keep the system functioning safely and efficiently.

High‑level explanation (why septic exists here)

Septics exist here because a lot of our neighborhoods grew where sewer lines don't always reach, and on‑site wastewater treatment became the sensible, scalable approach. Properly designed and maintained systems let households dispose of wastewater close to where it's created, minimizing environmental impact and keeping daily life straightforward for homeowners.

As your neighbor and local septic pro, I'll be honest about maintenance basics—regular pumping intervals, mindful water use, and noticing early warning signs like slow drains or damp spots in the yard. You'll find practical steps and checklists in the sections ahead, all geared toward keeping your Derry system running smoothly.

Where Septic Systems Are Common in Derry

How Derry's sewer landscape shapes septic use

In Derry, not every property is connected to a municipal sewer line. The town has a public sewer system in its denser, central areas, but most outlying neighborhoods and rural parcels rely on on-site wastewater treatment (septic systems). Distance from the sewer district, lot size, and soil conditions all help determine where septic is the norm. For homeowners, confirming whether your property is in the sewer service area is the first step in understanding your wastewater options.

Areas where septic is the norm

• Unsewered or partially sewered neighborhoods in the outskirts of town. These areas historically relied on septic as the practical option for wastewater disposal.
• Older subdivisions built before centralized sewer expansion, where homes still use individual septic systems or (in some cases) small-community systems.
• Farms and rural-acre parcels where building on-site wastewater systems fits the lot and soil conditions, and where extending sewer lines would be costly or impractical.
• Hillsides or oddly shaped lots where access to an existing sewer main is limited or where gravity-fed connections would require extensive work.

Soil and site conditions that influence septic use

• Well-drained soils (sandy loam and loam) that support reliable septic percolation are common in parts of Derry, allowing conventional systems to function well with proper design.
• Areas with shallow bedrock, ledge, or high groundwater can still use septic, but typically require advanced designs, deeper testing, or alternative treatment options.
• Clay-heavy soils, compacted layers, or flood-prone zones tend to complicate septic performance and may trigger higher maintenance or more frequent inspections.
• Slope and drainage patterns affect field layout; steeper lots often require careful leach-field placement to protect groundwater and surface water.

Typical property features that indicate septic use

• Lot sizes that leave space for a septic system and a replacement area (often 0.5 acre or larger, though local conditions vary).
• Homes built before sewer expansion or in the outskirts of town where sewer service isn't available.
• Visible indicators like septic tanks or cleanouts near driveways or side yards, or records in town files showing septic permits.

How to verify if your home uses septic

1. Check the Town of Derry's sewer service boundaries or maps to see if your property lies within the sewer district.
2. Contact the Town's Public Works or Wastewater Department for confirmation and any program guides.
3. Review the property's septic permit history with the NH Department of Environmental Services (NH DES) to understand system type and maintenance history.
4. If you're planning improvements, confirm whether any sewer connection is feasible or required by local codes.

Official resources for homeowners

• NH Department of Environmental Services (DES) – Onsite Wastewater Systems (OWTS) program for design, permitting, and maintenance guidance:
• U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) – Septic systems overview and homeowner tips:

Septic vs Sewer: What Homeowners in Derry Should Know

Quick comparison: Septic vs Sewer

• Ownership and maintenance: Septic systems are private underground systems you own and must maintain (pump and inspect). Sewer connections are municipal; the town maintains the main, and you pay a monthly sewer bill after connection.
• Upfront costs: Septic installation is a major one-time expense. Sewer hookup can involve a significant connection fee, trenching, and potential street work.
• Ongoing costs: Septic pumping every 3–5 years (or as recommended) plus occasional inspections. Sewer costs are typically a predictable monthly or quarterly bill based on usage.
• Environmental impact: Properly maintained septic can protect groundwater when used correctly; poorly maintained septic can leak and contaminate soil and water. Municipal sewer treatment relies on centralized facilities with regulated discharge; local conditions still matter for capacity and rate changes.
• When to choose or connect: Rural or undeveloped lots often rely on septic; properties near current sewer mains may benefit from connecting to the town system. In Derry, availability depends on location, infrastructure, and approvals.

How a sewer connection works in Derry

• Availability and planning: Your property must be within the town's sewer service area. Check with the Town of Derry's Public Works or Planning Department for service maps and requirements.
• Permits and approvals: A licensed contractor or plumber will typically obtain the necessary permits and inspections before work begins.
• Installation steps: A service lateral is run from the main line in the street to your property line, then into your home. The town staff install a curb stop and the utility connection, and you coordinate with your contractor for trenching and line installation.
• Post-connection: Once tested and approved, you receive a sewer bill from the municipal sewer system. The city or town maintains the main lines; homeowners are responsible for the interior plumbing and the service lateral up to the curb stop.
• Official guidance: For broader details about septic and sewer programs, see EPA's Septic Systems overview and NH DES OWTS information:

How a septic system works in Derry

• Basic layout: Wastewater from the house goes into a septic tank, where solids settle. Effluent then flows to a drainfield (leach field) where soil and microbes treat it.
• Key components: Tank, distribution box or piping, and a properly designed drainfield sized for your soil and family usage.
• Maintenance is essential: Schedule professional pumping every 3–5 years (varies by tank size and usage). Avoid putting fats, oils, grease, and harsh chemicals down drains; protect the drainfield from heavy vehicle traffic and deep-rooted plants.
• Signs of trouble: gurgling drains, wet spots or lush patches over the drainfield, backups, or strong odors. If you notice issues, contact a licensed septic professional promptly.
• Official guidance: Learn more from EPA and NH DES:

Typical Septic System Types in Derry

Conventional gravity septic systems

• How they work: A septic tank separates solids from liquids; clarified effluent drips into a leach field of perforated pipes buried in soil.
• Where they fit in Derry: Still the most common when soils are well-drained and there's enough depth to groundwater to support a leach field.
• Pros:
  • Simple design and generally lower upfront cost
  • Fewer moving parts; easier to service over time
• Cons:
  • Requires suitable soil conditions (depth to bedrock/water table, permeability)
  • Poor soils or high groundwater may necessitate an alternative system

Pressure-dosed systems (pump-assisted distribution)

• How they work: A small pump moves effluent from the septic tank to separate lines in the leach field, delivering it more evenly.
• When they're used: Helpful in sloped lots or soils with uneven percolation, which can create dry spots and fouled areas in a standard gravity field.
• Pros:
  • More uniform distribution can enhance system longevity
  • Works where conventional gravity fields struggle
• Cons:
  • More components to maintain (pump, control floats)
  • Higher energy use and potential for pump failure if not serviced

Aerobic Treatment Units (ATU) and other advanced systems

• How they work: Treat wastewater with controlled aerobic (oxygen-rich) processes before it enters the drain field.
• Why homeowners see these: NH towns may require ATUs where soils are marginal or where higher treatment standards are needed.
• Pros:
  • Higher level of treatment, which can extend field life in challenging soils
  • Some units can reduce odors and standing water in the leach area
• Cons:
  • Ongoing energy use and routine service by licensed technicians
  • More complex maintenance and potential for higher replacement costs

Mound systems

• How they work: Build an above-ground "mound" of soil over the native site to create the proper drainage after compacted or poor soils hinder leaching.
• When used: In Derry if the natural soil depth or permeability isn't adequate for a conventional system.
• Pros:
  • Enables septic work where space and soil conditions would otherwise prevent it
• Cons:
  • Higher construction cost and more intensive maintenance
  • Requires extra land area and proper grading

Sand filter and chamber systems

• How they work: After the tank, effluent is treated in a sand filter or flows through modular plastic chambers that act as an enhanced dispersal bed.
• Pros:
  • Improved treatment performance in marginal soils
  • May offer easier installation in constrained spaces
• Cons:
  • Specialized components; can be more expensive
  • Regular inspection and maintenance needed to prevent clogging

Drip irrigation and alternative disposal methods (where permitted)

• What to know: Some advanced designs use drip lines or alternative disposal methods to spread effluent slowly and reduce saturation of the leach field.
• Pros:
  • Potentially reduces surface pooling and soil saturation
• Cons:
  • Not universally permitted; depends on local rules and system design

How to tell what you have and what to expect

1. Check your permit or as-built from the town records (Derry has official records for septic installations).
2. Look for access points and cleanouts near grade; note the presence of a distribution box, pump, or field lines.
3. Hire a licensed septic designer or installer to confirm the system type and condition, and to assess soil adequacy for current use.
4. If you're buying a home, request the septic as-built and any maintenance history from the seller.

Official resources:

• EPA Septic Systems:
• EPA and state guidance on seasonal and soil considerations for septic design and maintenance: https://www.epa.gov/septic/what-septic-system

Common Septic Issues in Derry

Aging, failing, or poorly designed systems in older Derry homes

Many Derry homes still rely on aging septic components that have reached or surpassed their design life. Cracked tanks, degraded baffles, corroded lines, and undersized or poorly designed leach fields are common in older neighborhoods.

• Symptoms
  • Foul odors around the septic tank or drainfield
  • Slow drains, gurgling toilets, or backups
  • Lush, unusually green patches over the drainfield
• Derry-specific factors
  • A large inventory of mid- to late-20th-century systems approaching 20–40+ years old
  • Soil conditions that stress drainfields (shallow groundwater or variable soils in parts of town)
• Quick checks
  • Locate the tank lid and inspect for cracks or signs of leakage
  • Check for standing water or squidgy soil over the drainfield after rain
• What to do (steps)
  1. Schedule a licensed septic professional for a full evaluation (inspection, sludge/sump depth, and tank condition)
  2. If the drainfield is failing or near failure, plan a design upgrade with proper permits
  3. Consider modern, higher-efficiency components or advanced treatment if replacing
  4. Follow NH DES guidelines for any upgrades and maintenance

Drainfield limitations from soil and groundwater in Derry

Derry's soils vary widely; many areas have shallow groundwater, perched water tables, or compacted subsoils. These conditions limit drainfield capacity and can cause long-term performance issues.

• Symptoms
  • Water pooling or spongy ground around the drainfield
  • Persistent damp areas or foul odors near the drain area, especially after rain
• Derry-specific factors
  • Seasonal high water table and occasional heavy rainfall can saturate soils quickly
  • Clay-rich pockets or tight soils reduce infiltration
• Quick checks
  • Review soil test results if you have them; note groundwater depth in wet seasons
  • Observe drainage patterns on the property after a rainstorm
• What to do (steps)
  1. Have a soil evaluation and perc test reviewed by a licensed pro
  2. Consider drainfield relocation, replacement, or alternative designs (e.g., mound or advanced systems) if soils are unsuitable
  3. Implement water-use strategies to reduce load on the system
  4. Obtain guidance from NH DES for permitted remedies

Root intrusion and landscaping interference

Trees and shrubs planted near the septic system are common in Derry and can send roots into pipes and tanks, causing blockages and damage.

• Symptoms
  • Slow drains or repeated clogs
  • Cracked or collapsed pipes, or unexpected backups
• Derry-specific factors
  • Mature landscapes close to houses increase the risk of root intrusion into leach lines
• Quick checks
  • Inspect exposed pipes for cracks; observe where roots might be present during digging or excavation
• What to do (steps)
  1. Keep trees and large shrubs away from the septic system and leach field
  2. Have a pro inspect for root intrusion and replace damaged lines
  3. Consider root barriers or rerouting install

Overuse of water and disposal of improper substances

High daily flow and improper waste disposal stress septic systems, especially in smaller lots common in town.

• Symptoms
  • Frequent backups, slow flushing, or overworked pumps
• Derry-specific factors
  • Frequent use of multiple bathrooms, laundry, and dishwashing in sequence can overload undersized systems
• Quick checks
  • Monitor greywater and blackwater loads; avoid flushing non-degradables
• What to do (steps)
  1. Space out high-volume uses; run full loads rather than partial
  2. Install water-saving fixtures (high-efficiency toilets, low-flow faucets)
  3. Avoid flushing fats, oils, solvents, paints, medications, or chemicals
  4. Use soil-based or approved greywater management practices

Winter, frost, and seasonal issues

Cold snaps and frozen soils impact septic performance in Derry, particularly in areas with shallow frost depth or limited insulation around tanks and lines.

• Symptoms
  • Slower drainage in winter; occasional backups when refreezing occurs
  • Unusual odors indoors or near the tank after thaw
• Derry-specific factors
  • Uninsulated or poorly protected tanks/pipes, plus variable winter conditions
• Quick checks
  • Ensure access lids are insulated and protected; check venting and seals
• What to do (steps)
  1. Protect tanks and lines from freezing with proper insulation and clearance
  2. Schedule wintertime inspections if backups occur
  3. Keep maintenance up to date to prevent winter-related failures

Official resources

• EPA Septic Systems:

Septic Inspection, Permits & Local Oversight

Local oversight in Derry, NH

In Derry, septic work is guided by both state standards and local rules. The NH Department of Environmental Services (NHDES) sets statewide requirements for onsite wastewater systems, while the Town of Derry handles local permits, inspections, and enforcement. If you're planning a repair, replacement, or new installation, start with the Derry Building Department to confirm which permits apply and whether a separate transfer-inspection or site evaluation is needed for your property.

Permits you may need

• New system installation: a local Onsite Wastewater System permit (through the Town) plus any state approvals or plan submittals required by NHDES.
• Major repair or replacement: a permit is typically required; work may involve redesign, excavation, or replacement of tanks/leach fields per code.
• Alterations or expansions: any changes that affect the wastewater system generally require a permit.
• Routine maintenance: pumping and cleaning do not usually require a permit, but keeping detailed maintenance records helps with future inspections or sales.

Inspection steps you can expect

1. Confirm permit requirements with the Town. Contact the Building Department to determine which permits and plans are needed before work begins.
2. Hire licensed professionals. Use a licensed septic designer/installer and, if needed, a certified hauler for pumping and a licensed inspector for final checks.
3. Submit the permit package. Include site plans, system design, and fees as required by the Town.
4. Schedule on-site inspections at key milestones. Common milestones include after installation of components and before final approval.
5. Receive final approval. A certificate of compliance or equivalent final document is issued once the system meets local and state standards.

Real estate transfers and disclosures

• Real estate transactions often trigger a septic-focused step in the closing process. Buyers frequently request a septic inspection or transfer report to avoid surprises after purchase.
• The seller may be asked to provide a disclosure and any available maintenance records. Lenders or title companies may require a current inspection or certification.
• If concerns arise during sale, the Town's inspector or an independent inspector can perform a transfer or performance check to confirm system status before closing.

How to contact the Town of Derry for oversight

• Building Department: use the Town's official site to locate current contact information, hours, and permit forms. Visit:
• Planning & Zoning (for site planning, variances, or approval pathways): visit the Town site for the latest links and staff contacts:
• General Town information and directions to regulatory offices:

Helpful official resources

• NH Department of Environmental Services – Onsite Wastewater (des.nh.gov): overview of state rules, design standards, and how to obtain state approvals.
• Derry, NH – Building Department (permit applications, inspections, and local requirements): https://www.derrynh.org/departments/building-inspections'>https://www.derrynh.org/departments/building-inspections
• Derry – Planning & Zoning information (land-use processes that can impact septic projects): https://www.derrynh.org/departments/planning-zoning'>https://www.derrynh.org/departments/planning-zoning

Septic Maintenance for Homes in Derry

Derry-specific conditions and challenges

Derry's mix of cold winters, clay-rich soils in parts of town, and seasonal groundwater fluctuations can stress septic systems. Freeze-thaw cycles, shallow bedrock in some neighborhoods, and road-salt runoff from winter de-icing practices can affect soil infiltration and drain-field performance. Many Derry yards also have tree roots nearby or sloped terrain that influences wastewater movement and drainage. Taking these local factors into account helps you plan maintenance and catch problems early.

Regular maintenance you should do every year

1. Pump the tank on a schedule appropriate for your household. For a typical 3–4 bedroom home, a professional pump every 3 years is common; more often if you have a garbage disposal, heavy water use, or an older system. Keep a file with pumping dates for tax and warranty purposes.
2. Schedule an annual inspection by a licensed septic contractor. The inspector should check tank components (baffles, inlet/outlet tees), look for cracks, verify the sludge/scum levels, and confirm whether the distribution system shows signs of trouble. Request a written report and recommendations.
3. Inspect the drain-field area for signs of distress. Look for damp, soggy spots, strong odors, or lush green growth that isn't explained by rainfall. Note any changes in the yard that could indicate compromised drainage.
4. Practice protective use habits. Avoid pouring fats, oils, and grease down drains; minimize chemical cleaners and solvents; don't flush non-degradables (wipes, diapers, chemicals); and limit garbage disposal use if your system is older or operating near capacity.
5. Keep good records. Record pumping dates, inspection findings, repairs, and any observed changes in performance. These notes help you time future maintenance and assist any local inspectors reviewing your system.

Winter and seasonal considerations for Derry

• Protect access to the tank and lid from snow, ice, and freezing temperatures. Clear around the lid so service visits aren't delayed and freezing doesn't trap access.
• Space out heavy water use during the coldest weeks. Short, frequent showers, and washing loads across the day reduces the risk of pressurizing a system with little soil absorption in winter.
• Avoid vehicle or snow-removal equipment driving over the drain-field or septic area; compacted soil and frozen ground hinder infiltration.
• Be mindful of road-salt and winter runoff that can affect nearby soil and groundwater over time; prevent salt-laden runoff from entering the drain-field area.

Signs your septic may need attention (common in Derry)

• Slow drains, frequent backups, or gurgling sounds in plumbing.
• Bad odors around the system, yard, or septic components.
• Standing water or unusually green, healthy grass over the drain-field.
• Sump pumps or basement backups after heavy rain or rapid snowmelt.
• Recent landscaping changes or tree roots near the tank or lines.

Protecting your leach field in Derry

• Use water-efficient fixtures and spread out laundry loads to avoid peak pressure on the system.
• Plant only shallow-rooted vegetation over the drain-field and keep trees/large shrubs away from tanks and lines.
• Direct roof and runoff water away from the drain-field to prevent saturation.
• Maintain a buffer zone around the system; don't build structures or install a driveway over it.
• Schedule proactive inspections after major weather events or landscaping work.

When to call a professional

1. You notice persistent odors, backups, or sewage in the yard.
2. The drain-field shows persistent wet spots, soggy soils, or an unusual green patch for long periods.
3. You're unsure about tank access, baffle integrity, or pipe conditions, or it's been several years since pumping.
4. You see cracking, settling, or obvious damage to components or the lid.

Official resources

• NH Department of Environmental Services (NHDES) Onsite Wastewater Treatment Systems (OWTS) program:
• U.S. EPA Septic Systems page: https://www.epa.gov/septic

Cost Expectations for Septic Services in Derry

Septic Tank Pumping

• What it includes: removal of sludge and scum from the tank, inspection of baffles and outlets, and a general check of accessible components. In Derry, most residential tanks are commonly 1,000–1,500 gallons, so pumping frequency depends on household size and water use.
• Typical cost in Derry: roughly $350–$650 per pump-out, with larger tanks or difficult access edging toward the higher end.
• What affects price: tank size, accessibility (tight spaces, long driveways), need for dye testing or additional inspections, disposal fees, and whether risers/crypts are present for easier access.
• Planning note: pumping is typically the most cost-effective preventive measure to avoid unexpected field problems.
• Quick planning steps:
  1. Find out your tank size and access point status (riser availability helps).
  2. Check your last pump date and schedule ahead of peak seasonal demand (spring/fall).
  3. If you have an aerobic system or high-effluent load, expect slightly higher pump-out costs.

Septic System Inspections and Assessments

• What it includes: visual inspection of tank condition, access risers if present, inspection of pipes and baffles, and an overall assessment of system function. For buyers, sellers, or before major renovations, this is especially important in Derry.
• Typical cost in Derry: about $250–$450 for a standard onsite wastewater system assessment; more thorough inspections (including camera work or dye tests) can run higher.
• What affects price: depth and condition of the tank, access (above-ground risers vs. buried tanks), whether an aeration unit or advanced treatment unit is present, and whether you request a dye test to verify processing.
• Resource note: NH DES and EPA guidance support regular inspections to prevent failures.
• Quick planning steps:
  1. Schedule an inspection before buying or significant renovations.
  2. Ask for a written report with recommendations and estimated repair or replacement costs.
  3. Consider combining with a pumping to get a full health check.

Drain Field / Leach Field Evaluation and Repair

• What it includes: soil infiltration assessment, dye tests if needed, surface grading review, moisture observations, and an assessment of field performance. In Derry's climate, soil conditions and drainage can strongly influence field health.
• Typical cost in Derry: field evaluations start around $2,000–$4,000; small repairs (e.g., outlet blockage, piping fixes) can be $2,000–$6,000; more extensive repairs rise to $8,000–$15,000; full replacement is often $15,000–$40,000+ depending on site.
• What affects price: field size, soil permeability, presence of restrictions (clay, bedrock), need for excavation, and accessibility to the system.
• Quick planning steps:
  1. Get a detailed site assessment to understand failure scope.
  2. Obtain multiple repair or replacement bids.
  3. Confirm any required permits and potential setbacks with town officials.

System Installation or Replacement (Conventional and Alternative Systems)

• What it includes: site evaluation, design, permitting, installation of a septic tank and drain field (or an alternative system like mound or aerobic treatment), backfill, and final testing.
• Typical cost in Derry: conventional new systems generally range from $12,000–$28,000; more complex designs or mound systems can push $40,000–$60,000+.
• What affects price: soil tests and percolation rates, system type (conventional vs. mound vs. aerobic), lot size, access constraints, and local permit fees.
• Quick planning steps:
  1. Hire a qualified designer or contractor experienced with NH soils.
  2. Get multiple design bids and confirm permit timelines.
  3. Plan for long-term maintenance costs beyond installation.

Aerobic Septic System Service and Maintenance

• What it includes: routine servicing of aerobic units (pump-outs, diffuser and filter cleaning, alarm checks, and system diagnostics).
• Typical cost in Derry: service visits commonly $150–$350 per call; annual maintenance plans often $400–$800 total.
• What affects price: frequency of service, filter cleaning needs, alarm/monitoring features, and the complexity of the aerobic unit.
• Quick planning steps:
  1. Set a service schedule aligned with manufacturer recommendations.
  2. Consider a maintenance contract for predictable costs.
  3. Keep a spare parts plan for filters and membranes.

Maintenance Contracts and Preventive Care

• What it includes: scheduled pump-outs, inspections, filter maintenance, performance checks, and priority scheduling for emergencies.
• Typical cost in Derry: $150–$350/year, depending on service intervals and included tasks.
• What affects price: number of visits per year, whether dye tests or camera inspections are included, and the presence of advanced treatment components.
• Quick planning steps:
  1. Compare annual costs and included services across providers.
  2. Confirm what happens if components fail between visits.
  3. Ensure contract aligns with long-term replacement planning.

Emergency and After-Hours Service

• What it includes: rapid response to backups, overflows, or system failures outside normal business hours.
• Typical cost in Derry: call-out fees plus labor and parts; expect premiums for after-hours service and urgent repairs (often $150–$300 minimum plus repair costs).
• Quick planning steps:
  1. Keep on-hand emergency contact numbers from your service provider.
  2. Maintain basic backups and a plan to minimize water use during outages.

Resources

• NH Department of Environmental Services (NHDES) Onsite Wastewater Program:
• EPA Septic Systems: https://www.epa.gov/septic

Additional notes

• Local requirements vary by town in New Hampshire. Check with Derry's building or health departments for any transfer, permitting, or upgrade guidelines that may apply to your property.