Soil Drainage Management Plan

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 (3) acres (excluding wetlands), surface grading in the subsurface soil absorption area of .5% and drainage ditches that surround the soil absorption area.

First Step – Where do I start?

If the property is zoned for single family, however cannot be served by City sewer, then fill out an Application for a Sewage Disposal and/or Water Supply Permit (form) 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.

Who may prepare an SDMP?

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

Review & Approval Process

What are the minimum submittal requirements?

1. Transmittal letter
2. Two and/or Three Party Septic Tank Drainage Easement
3. CHS-201A
4. Seven (7) sets of plans.
5. Review fee

What are the SDMP Plan requirements?

• SDMP Criteria

What other processes may be necessary?

• Subdivision – Subdivision Plan requirements may apply if two or more parcels are created.

Where do I apply for final plan review?

Submit to:

Via Mail:
Development Engineering
Department of Development & Permits
P.O. Box 15225
Chesapeake, Virginia 23328

or Via Delivery:
Development Engineering
Development & Permits, 3rd Floor
City Hall Building
306 Cedar Road, Chesapeake, Virginia.

For questions contact:
Contact the Department of Development & Permits at
757-382-6101
Fax 757-382-6310
Fax 757-382-8537

Also: Development Contact List

Post Approval

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
  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 from the Chesapeake Health Department


• Building Permit can then be obtained from Department of Development & 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.

How is a New Residential Permit obtained?