Sewage disposal pump-out measure for SML properties begins [Video]

Starting Jan. 1, the Bedford County Department of Community Development began implementing a new mandatory sewage disposal system pump-out for properties around Smith Mountain Lake.

The measure the Bedford County Board of Supervisors approved last year after much discussion requires properties within 500 feet of the full pond elevation of the lake and Leesville Lake with homes served by private sewage disposal to have those systems pumped out once every five years.

Each year in January, landowners will be notified if their property is required to complete a pump out in the calendar year, according to the county. This notification will include information on how to comply with the new requirement.

Anyone with questions can contact the community development department at (540) 586-7616.