OWTS (RI Onsite Wastewater System)

OWTS stands for Onsite Wastewater Treatment System, which is Rhode Island's term for a private septic system and the rules that govern it through the state Department of Environmental Management. Unlike Massachusetts Title 5, Rhode Island does not impose an identical universal pass-or-fail inspection at every sale, though inspections, permits, and system requirements still apply and vary by situation. Buyers of homes on OWTS should still inspect the system and confirm its permit history. See Title 5 vs RI OWTS.