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1. What is SDMP?

An SDMP, also known as an LMP (Land Management Plan), is a type of private sewage disposal system for poorly drained soils. It is a means for soils to accept sewage where the soils respond to artificial drainage. An SDMP requires a lot area of three acres (excluding wetlands), surface grading in the subsurface soil absorption area of .5% and drainage ditches that surround the soil absorption area.

2. Where do I start?

If the property is zoned for single-family but cannot be served by City sewer, then fill out an Application for a Sewage Disposal or Water Supply Permit (PDF) from the Chesapeake Health Department. The Health Department will:

• Perform a soils evaluation on the property.
• Issue a CHS-201A form that prescribes type of sewage disposal system.

If the CHS-201A indicates an SDMP is required, then a plan is submitted to Public Works.

3. Who may prepare an SDMP?

• CLS - Certified Land Surveyor
• Professional Engineer
• Property Owner (May not be able to perform exhibits for easements)

4. What are the minimum submittal requirements?

• Transmittal letter
• Two and/or Three Party Septic Tank Drainage Easement
• CHS-201A
• Submit online through eBUILD
• Review fee

5. What are the SDMP Plan requirements?

SDMP Criteria (PDF)

6. Where do I apply for final plan review?

Submit to:

Via Electronic (Review only) - eBUILD

Via Delivery (Approval only - Submit 5 Paper Copies):
Development and Permits Department
Development Engineering
City Hall Building, 3rd Floor
306 Cedar Road, Chesapeake, Virginia

For questions contact Development and Permits at 757-382-6101.

Also: Development Contact List

7. What happens after I receive plan approval?

• Obtain a Right-Of-Way Permit.
• Notify Development Construction Administrator 48 hours in advance to inspect rough grading (PDF) of lot and ditches.
• Development Construction Administrator sends letter to Health Department that ditching and rough grading is complete (valid for 6 months).
• Obtain a Sewage Disposal and/or Water Supply Permit (PDF) from the Chesapeake Health Department.
• Building Permit can then be obtained from Department of Development and Permits.
• Once the sewage system and final grading have been completed and inspected, obtain a Sewage Disposal System Operation Permit from the Chesapeake Health Department.
• Obtain Certificate of Occupancy.

8. How is a New Residential Permit obtained?

Follow this link to the New Residential Permit FAQ for more information.