BENZIE-LEELANAU DISTRICT HEALTH DEPARTMENT

If your home in Benzie or Leelanau County has a well or septic system, a Time of Transfer (TOT) evaluation is required before the sale is final. 

This inspection makes sure the systems are working properly and helps protect health and the environment. 

✅ Plan ahead—the process can take 3–4 weeks. 
✅ Don’t delay your closing—apply online today! 

Learn more:  https://bldhd.org/sewagewell-evaluation-form/  

Many homes in northern Michigan rely on septic systems to treat wastewater, making regular maintenance important for protecting your home, groundwater, and nearby lakes. The EPA recommends having a septic system inspected at least every 3 years and pumping the tank every 3–5 years, depending on household use. SepticSmart Week is a good reminder to check your maintenance records and schedule service if needed.

Fall is a great time to get your flu vaccine before flu activity increases in our communities. Flu vaccination is recommended every year for everyone 6 months and older and can lower your risk of serious illness. You can also help prevent the spread of flu by washing your hands often, covering coughs and sneezes, improving indoor air, avoiding close contact with people who are sick, and staying home when you are sick. 

• Monday, September 7th, 2026- Labor Day
• Wednesday, November 11th, 2026- Veterans Day
• Thursday, November 26th and 27th, 2026- Thanksgiving
• Thursday, December 24th and 25th, 2026- Christmas
• Thursday, December 31st, 2026- New Year's Eve

Michigan parents/guardians who opt not to fully vaccinate their children before they enter school or childcare must receive education and request an exemption from their local public health department. BLDHD is transitioning to a virtual format for non-medical immunization exemption education. Review the new process below: https://bldhd.org/immunizations/immunization-waiver-education/

Safe firearm storage helps prevent accidental injuries, suicides, and unauthorized access by children and teens. Firearms should be stored unloaded, locked, and separate from ammunition. To help promote safe storage, free gun locks are available at all Benzie-Leelanau District Health Department offices while supplies last. 

Learn more about safe firearm storage at Be SMART for Kids: www.besmartforkids.org/ 

As children head back to school, families may hear more about head lice. An estimated 6–12 million head lice infestations occur each year among U.S. children ages 3–11, and head lice are most often spread through direct head-to-head contact.

Remind children not to share hats, brushes, combs, towels, or other items that touch the hair.