A septic tank should not be considered if the lot size is under 15,000 square feet. If a drinking water system is on the property, the minimum lot size for a septic tank consideration is 20,000 square feet provided percolation is satisfactory.
Texas Administrative Code.
| TITLE 25 | HEALTH SERVICES |
|---|---|
| RULE §265.82 | Minimum Standards |
3
- Answer: The smallest 2‐compartment septic tank that the state allows is a 750 gallon tank. For a 1 or 2 bedroom residence, a minimum 750 gallon tank is required. A minimum 1,000 gallon tank is needed for a 3 bedroom structure and 1,250 gallon for a 4 bedroom residence. Keep in mind these are minimum tank sizes. Both the state of Texas and U.S. Environmental Protection Agency recommend that larger tank sizes be installed. They have historical information that shows if you have a larger sep
How do I know what size septic tank I need?
Consider the Size of Your Property The larger your home, the larger the septic tank you’re going to need. For instance, a house smaller than 1,500 square feet usually requires a 750 to 1,000-gallon tank.
Is it legal to install your own septic system in Texas?
It is legal under Texas law to install your own septic tank. However, certain systems cannot be sold to property owners individually and must be sold to factory representatives. Exceptions to this rule are licensed electricians and the person who delivers the tank or septic system to the installation site.
How big should a septic tank be for a 3 bedroom house?
The correct size of the septic tank depends mostly on the square footage of the house and the number of people living there. Most residential septic tanks range in size from 750 gallons to 1,250 gallons. An average 3-bedroom home, less than 2500 square feet will probably require a 1000 gallon tank.
How many septic tanks can you have per acre in Texas?
(Q) How many houses can I put on my property with septic? (A) You may have one single family dwelling per acre that utilize public water supply and on-site sewage facilities. Where a private water supply is used and on-site sewage facilities, you must maintain one single family dwelling per one and a half acres.
How often does a 1000 gallon septic tank need to be pumped?
For example, a 1,000 gallon septic tank, which is used by two people, should be pumped every 5.9 years. If there are eight people using a 1,000-gallon septic tank, it should be pumped every year.
How deep should a septic tank be?
Septic tanks are typically rectangular in shape and measure approximately 5 feet by 8 feet. In most cases, septic tank components including the lid, are buried between 4 inches and 4 feet underground.
Are septic tanks still legal?
Septic Tanks Explained… Septic tanks cannot discharge to surface water drains, rivers, canals, ditches, streams or any other type of waterway. you are required to upgrade or replace your septic tank treatment system to a full sewage treatment plant by 2020, or when you sell a property, if it’s prior to this date.
How much does it cost to install a septic system in Texas?
Installation of a septic system costs between $2,800 and $8,000 with an average of $5,000. Between $5,000 and $22,500 is the range for total expenses for well and septic system drilling and installation.
How much does it cost to pump a septic tank?
How much does it cost to pump out a septic tank? The average cost is $300, but can run up to $500, depending on your location. The tank should be pumped out every three to five years.
How do I calculate the size of my septic drain field?
Drainfield Size
- The size of the drainfield is based on the number of bedrooms and soil characteristics, and is given as square feet.
- For example, the minimum required for a three bedroom house with a mid range percolation rate of 25 minutes per inch is 750 square feet.
How many bedrooms can a 1500 gallon septic tank have in Massachusetts?
Existing approved design flow shall be used to determine potential number of bedrooms. Systems with a leaching area designed for 1000 gallons shall be approved for a maximum of 5 bedrooms with a 1500 gallon septic tank, 4 bedrooms with a 1000 gallon tank.
How far does a septic tank have to be from a property line in Texas?
A well shall be located a minimum horizontal distance of one hundred (100) feet from an existing or proposed septic system absorption field, septic system spray area, a dry litter poultry facility and fifty (50) feet from any adjacent property line provided the well is located at the minimum horizontal distance from
How do I maintain my septic tank in Texas?
Take Care of Your Drainfield
- Maintain plants and vegetation that are near your system to ensure roots do not block drains.
- Park cars and heavy vehicles away from your drainfield and tank.
- Keep roof drains, sump pumps, and other rainwater drainage systems away from your drainfield area.
Can you have a septic tank without a leach field?
The waste from most septic tanks flows to a soakaway system or a drainage field. If your septic tank doesn’t have a drainage field or soakaway system, the waste water will instead flow through a sealed pipe and empty straight into a ditch or a local water course.
Basics for Septic Systems
On-site sewage facilities, also known as OSSFs, must be developed on the basis of a site evaluation that takes into consideration the specific requirements of the location. The system of choice for around 20% of new homes being built in Texas is the radon mitigation system. An On-Site Sewage Facility (OSSF), sometimes known as a “septic system,” is a sewage treatment system that is located on a property. As a result of the unexpected surge in new housing construction in suburban and rural regions, more Texas families are reliant on an OSSF for the treatment and disposal of their domestic sewage.
Systems that accomplish their jobs well while also protecting the environment are made possible by new methods to design and oversight of OSSFs.
A number of soil tests are ruling out traditional systems, which separate liquids from solid waste in a holding tank and then distribute them throughout a drainfield using underground pipes or other proprietary items in many regions of the state.
However, because the majority of Texas soils are incapable of adequately absorbing contaminants, different treatment procedures are necessary.
Any work on an OSSF must be done by a licensed installer or, in the case of a single-family property, by the homeowner himself or herself.
Who checks to make sure the requirements are followed?
Local governments in most parts of the state have taken on the obligation of ensuring that OSSFs in their jurisdictions comply with all applicable state regulations and procedures. There are several local governments that serve as “authorized agents” (AA) of the Texas Commission on Environmental Quality, which is in charge of managing the OSSF Program. A “designated representative” (DR) assists the AA in carrying out their tasks, which include examining plans for constructing, changing, extending, or repairing each OSSF; granting permits; and checking the system’s installation, among others.
The OSSF’s authorized agents and representatives also investigate and respond to complaints to verify that the OSSF is in compliance with minimal requirements.
After that, the agent can file a criminal complaint with the local judge of the peace, who will then investigate the matter.
Industrial or hazardous waste cannot be introduced into an OSSF; instead, this waste will be handled in the soil, destroying the OSSF by actually killing the microorganisms that break down the biosolids and causing it to fail.
Keep in mind that septic systems are intended to manage human waste rather than chemicals.
Maintenance
All OSSFs will require maintenance at some point in their lives. Conventional anaerobic systems require the septic tank to be pumped out on a regular basis in order to remove sediments and prevent the system from backing up. It is advised that you pump your septic tank once every three to five years in order to avoid short circuiting the treatment process and causing damage. To acquire a list of registered sludge transporters in your region, go to theSludge Transporter Queryonline. Aerobic systems are more complicated and require more upkeep than anaerobic ones do.
- A number of regulatory authorities have enacted more strict rules, which may include homeowner training or even prohibiting homeowners from performing upkeep on their properties.
- In order to guarantee that the system runs appropriately, it is recommended that you contract with a licensed maintenance provider to verify, debug, and test the system as required by 30 TAC 285.91(4).
- Once every six months if the system employs an electronic monitor, automated radio, or telephone to alert the maintenance provider of system or component failure as well as to monitor the quantity of disinfection remaining in the system, reporting might be lowered to once every six months.
- If any needed repairs are not completed, the permitting authority will be notified of the failure.
- The pills are extremely reactive, and within 10 minutes, they will have killed 99 percent of the germs present in the effluent.
- AVOID USING TABLETS DESIGNED FOR SWIMMING POOL USE DUE TO THE POSSIBILITY THAT THEY MAY RELEASE A HIGHLY EXPLOSIVE GAS KNOWN AS NITROGEN CHLORIDE.
- Please contact us at (800) 447-2827.
Where can I find more information and assistance?
The Small Business and Local Government Assistance Section of the Texas Commission on Environmental Quality (TCEQ) provides free, confidential assistance to small enterprises and local governments seeking to comply with state environmental requirements.
Call us at (800) 447-2827 or visit our website at TexasEnviroHelp.org for more information.
Texas Septic Tank Requirements
Photograph courtesy of Valerie Loiseleux/E+/Getty Images.
In This Article
- Site evaluation for a septic tank
- Types of septic systems
- Do-it-yourself (DIY) septic tank installation
- Septic Tank Permits
In Texas, they say that everything is larger, and this is certainly true in terms of septic tank standards. To have an aseptic tank constructed in the Lone Star State, you’ll have to go through a number of hoops, including site inspections, permits, and permitted installation processes, to name just a few of them. If you’re building a home on the range, here are some things to bear in mind while establishing a septic system: Making sure you have the right permits in place before constructing a new septic tank or updating an existing one is the first step to taking care of business.
There are, however, certain exceptions to this rule.
- In order to qualify, the tank must serve a single-family dwelling located on a property with a minimum of 10 acres in size (and this residence might be the sole residence on the site)
- The tank must not be a source of public nuisance or harm groundwater. Neither the tank nor the property can be more than 100 feet apart from each other. The tank is unable to dispose of the wastewater on the land
- As a result,
Emergency septic tank repairs are another exemption, and they are not required to get a permit in this case. Even if you complete the repairs within 72 hours after starting them, you must still submit them to the appropriate permitting authorities. In addition to the state criteria, licenses issued by local authorities may be subject to more strict regulations.
Grandfathered Septic Tank Systems
If the following conditions are satisfied, a house septic tank in Texas may be grandfathered and exempt from some regulatory procedures, depending on the circumstances:
- The system must have been installed before to September 1, 1989, or prior to the establishment of an authorized installation program by a local dealer The tank must be equipped with a treatment and disposal system. The tank is not being utilized to treat a bigger volume of sewage than it was when it was initially constructed.
Septic Tank Site Evaluation
Since September 2002, the state of Texas has mandated a site review of any place where a septic tank system will be constructed before it will allow the system to be implemented. The suitable evaluation may only be carried out by a licensed site evaluator or a qualified professional engineer who are both licensed. A septic system evaluation is performed to evaluate the soil quality, including percolation rates, groundwater levels, and other characteristics that will be used to identify which septic system is most appropriate for the site’s conditions.
Evaporative-transpiration (E-T) systems, for example, are acceptable for the vast majority of installations, provided that the slope of the field does not exceed 30 percent.
Mound systems, low-pressure dosing, absorptive drain fields, and leaching chambers are all subject to the same limits and criteria as the others.
DIY Septic Tank Installation
Under Texas law, it is permissible to construct your own septic system. Certain systems, on the other hand, cannot be marketed to individual property owners and must instead be sold through manufacturing representatives. Additional requirements include that if you pay for any work done by contractors while installing the tank yourself, the contractors must be licensed to do so by the State of Texas.
One such instance would be the hire of a contractor to dig a hole for the installation of the septic tank. The only people who are exempt from this regulation are licensed electricians and the person who transports the tank or septic system to the location where it will be installed.
What Size Septic Tank Do I Need
The size of an underground septic tank is referred to as its total volume handling capacity in this article, and it will be discussed in further detail later in this article. For additional information on above-ground septic tanks and systems, see our page on above-ground septic tanks. The minimum septic tank capacity requirements are determined by a variety of variables. State, county, and/or city regulations may specify permitted tank sizes, as well as tank materials and installation.
The size of the septic tank will vary depending on whether it is intended for domestic or commercial usage; in this section, we will cover residential use.
Shortly stated, the required size of a septic tank will be determined by the following factors: (1) the specific septic system type; (2) local government requirements; (3) the compatibility of the ground geology; and (4) the anticipated volume of wastewater depending on the size of the residence.
However, this is not true.
Furthermore, plastic septic tanks will not corrode, are weatherproof, are waterproof, are less expensive, are lighter, and are easier to build.
1) The Specific Septic System Type
There are seven different types of septic tank systems, and the size of the tank required will vary depending on the system you choose. The scope of this article does not allow for a comprehensive discussion of each system type and its associated size requirements. We are referring to traditional gravity-fed anaerobic septic systems in this context when we say “system type.” The anaerobic septic system is the most prevalent type of septic system, and it is the one that most people think of when they imagine a septic tank.
- The following systems are available: conventional, gravity-fed, anaerobic systems
- Above-ground septic systems
- Pressure systems
- Anaerobic systems
- Mound systems
- Recirculating sand or gravel filters systems
- Bottomless sand filters systems
If your septic tank system is anything other than a traditional, anaerobic system, the instructions in this page may not be applicable in their entirety to your situation.
2) Local Government Regulations
The laws for septic tanks imposed by local governments vary greatly across the United States. In part, this is due to the significantly diverse soil geography and water features that exist from state to state and can even differ by a few miles in some cases. For example, the New York State Department of Health provides an informative overview of codes, rules, and regulations that are frequently put forth by governing departments, as well as common terminology and definitions. For an example of and an informational overview of codes, rules, and regulations that are frequently put forth by governing departments, as well as common terminology and definitions, review theWastewater Treatment Standards – Residential Onsite Systemsdocument from the New York State Department of Health.
3) Suitability of the Ground Geology
The subterranean soil type has a significant impact on the efficacy of the system and, consequently, the size of the septic tank. This topic is highly tied to the rules of the local government. In most cases, it is related to the standards and recommendations of a designated authority that regulates septic tank installations, which is typically the department of health. In order to determine whether or not the ground is suitable for a septic tank system, a trained specialist must come out to the prospective installation site and conduct a series of tests.
A perc test will assess whether or not the subterranean soil is capable of handling and filtering septic tank effluent in an appropriate manner.
Whether you are hiring an experienced professional or doing it yourself, it is your obligation to contact your local oversight agency and arrange for perc tests and/or ground area evaluations to be performed.
4) The Expected Volume of Wastewater
A significant factor influencing system efficacy and, thus, septic tank capacity is the subterranean soil type used. In this case, local government rules have a significant role. In most cases, it is related to the standards and recommendations of a designated authority that regulates septic tank installations, which is usually the department of health. It is necessary to have a trained specialist come out to the potential installation place to undertake specific tests in order to determine whether or not the ground is acceptable for the construction of a septic tank system.
A perc test will assess whether or not the subterranean soil is capable of handling and filtering septic tank effluent in a safe and effective manner.
Whether you are hiring an experienced professional or doing it yourself, it is your obligation to contact your local oversight agency and arrange for perc tests and/or ground area evaluations.
Minimum Septic Tank Capacity Table
For further information on the minimum septic tank capacity dependent on the number of residential bedrooms, please see the following table:
| Number of Bedrooms | Minimum Septic Tank Size | Minimum Liquid Surface Area | Drainfield Size |
|---|---|---|---|
| 2 or less | 1000 – 1500 Gallons | 27 Sq. Ft. | 800 – 2500 Sq. Ft. |
| 3 | 1000 – 2000 Gallons | 27 Sq. Ft. | 1000 – 2880 Sq. Ft. |
| 4 | 1250 – 2500 Gallons | 34 Sq. Ft. | 1200 – 3200 Sq. Ft. |
| 5 | 1500 – 3000 Gallons | 40 Sq. Ft. | 1600 – 3400 Sq. Ft. |
| 6 | 1750 – 3500 Gallons | 47 Sq. Ft. | 2000 – 3800 Sq. Ft. |
Take note of the following in relation to the table above:
- As defined by the State of New York, the Minimum Liquid Surface Area is the surface area given for the liquid by the tank’s width and length measurements. The range of Drainfield Sizes is depending on the kind of groundwater present. The State of Michigan provides the above-mentioned drainfield recommendations, which might vary greatly depending on local standards and terrain.
Additional Thought: Can a Septic Tank Be Too Big?
In the absence of consideration for cost, it is reasonable to ask: “Can a septic tank be too large?” The answer is a resounding nay. As long as the septic tank is placed appropriately, it is impossible for a septic tank to be too large; the only thing that can happen is that it is too little.
According to the majority of suggestions, constructing a larger-capacity septic tank is frequently the safer and more preferable solution. The following are the reasons behind this:
- With a bigger septic tank, you can adapt for changes in household consumption, such as those caused by parties or long-term guests. In the event that your family grows in size or you want to make improvements to your house, such as adding more bedrooms and bathrooms or installing new plumbing fixtures, having a bigger septic tank can save you the expense of installing a new tank.
Takeaways | What Size Septic Tank Do I Need
The septic tank size recommendations offered here are merely that: suggestions. They are built on a foundation of information gathered from government and academic sources. The actual size of the septic tank you require will vary depending on the factors discussed in this article. There is no “one-size-fits-all” solution when it comes to determining the appropriate septic tank size for your property. There is a great deal of variation depending on where you reside. With addition to providing a basic insight into the septic tank and system size that may be most suited to your application, the providedMinimum Septic Tank Capacity Tablecan also assist in cost estimations.
Before beginning any septic tank installation project, check and double-check with the state, city, or local county’s agency that is in charge of septic tanks, soil testing, and permissions.
If you’re searching for a chart of tank sizes, have a look at our page on the many sizes and quantities of septic tanks available.
They are available in both single chamber and double chamber designs.
Frequently Asked Questions about Septic Systems
To read more about the many types of septic systems, including: click here.
- System types that are conventional include passive systems with drainfields, gravelled or stone systems, chambered system leachfields, low-pressure dosing systems, evapotranspiration systems, and aerobic wastewater treatment systems.
Questions Applicable to All Types of Septic Systems
Is it necessary for me to seek a permit in order to repair my septic system? Yes. Repairing any form of septic system in Texas requires a permit that has been granted by the state, with limited exceptions. In order to ensure that the individual performing the repairs has sufficient expertise and knows the proper methods and protocols for fixing the system, this law was enacted. Environmental protection, as well as the protection of the homeowner and his neighbors, are the goals of the law. What is the procedure for getting a permit for a repair or an installation?
- The kind of soil, the location of the system in relation to creeks, rivers, lakes, and property lines, as well as the type of septic system to be repaired or rebuilt, as well as the installation or repair plan, are all taken into consideration in the permit application.
- In light of the possible problems associated with acquiring permits, the majority of service providers ask that the homeowner complete and submit the application on their behalf.
- Is it safe to flush toilet paper down the toilet?
- Based on the number of bedrooms in the house, the size of the holding tank is determined.
- Because of this, using toilet paper should not pose an issue as long as the system is not needed to process more wastewater than it was designed to manage.
In what intervals do I require pumping of my system? This answer is dependent on the size of the system as well as the amount of individuals that are utilizing the system to provide it. For the average household, the answer is every three to five years, depending on the circumstances.
| Household size (number of people) | |||||||||
| 1 | 2 | 3 | 4 | 5 | 6 | 7 | 8 | 9+ | |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Tank Size (gallons) | Duration (in years) Between Pumpings or Inspections | ||||||||
| 1, 750 | 19.1 | 14.2 | 12.6 | 1.8 | 1.3 | 1.0 | 0.7 | 0.6 | 0.4 |
| 1,000 | 12.4 | 15.9 | 13.7 | 2.6 | 2.0 | 1.5 | 1.2 | 1.0 | 0.8 |
| 1,250 | 15.6 | 17.5 | 14.8 | 3.4 | 2.6 | 2.0 | 1.7 | 1.4 | 1.2 |
| 1,500 | 18.9 | 19.1 | 15.9 | 4.2 | 3.3 | 2.6 | 2.1 | 1.8 | 1.5 |
| 1,750 | 22.1 | 10.7 | 16.9 | 5.0 | 3.9 | 3.1 | 2.6 | 2.2 | 1.9 |
| 2,000 | 25.4 | 12.4 | 18.1 | 5.9 | 4.5 | 3.7 | 3.1 | 2.6 | 2.2 |
| 2,250 | 28.6 | 14.0 | 19.1 | 6.7 | 5.2 | 4.2 | 3.5 | 3.0 | 2.6 |
| 2,500 | 31.9 | 15.6 | 10.2 | 7.5 | 5.9 | 4.8 | 4.0 | 3.5 | 3.0 |
The Texas Commission on Environmental Quality contributed the information in the table above. Is it necessary for me to add any supplements to my system? The majority of the time, additives are not required to keep a well functioning septic system running. However, there are occasions when a system becomes overwhelmed with organic material, and the enzymes and bacteria found in additives might actually be beneficial. The possibility of this occurring arises when a system is temporarily forced to process more garbage than it was designed to handle, as in the case of repeated big parties or an influx of guests for a prolonged period of time.
Flooding Related Questions Applicable to All Types of Septic Systems
Water overflowing from a traditional drain field might cause a septic system to flood if the field has been saturated by rain or rising stream, creek, or river water. Flooding happens in an aerobic system when the aerobic tanks become overflowing with runoff rain water and the system ceases to operate. In any instance, the first indicator that there is a problem is generally the fact that the toilets are no longer flushing correctly. In addition, because shower and bath drains are typically positioned at the lowest gravity point in the home, raw sewage may back up into these drains first.
- Whenever a typical drain field becomes saturated with rain or rising stream, creek, or river water, a septic system floods, this is known as septic system flooding. Flooding happens in an aerobic system when the aerobic tanks become overflowing with runoff rain water and the system ceases to operate as a consequence. In any instance, the first sign of a problem is generally the fact that the toilets are no longer flushing correctly. In addition, because they are often positioned at the lowest gravity point in the home, raw sewage may back up into shower and bath drains first, causing flooding. When dealing with a flooded septic system, it is normal practice to follow the following measures. If I have a suspicion that my septic system is flooding, what should I do?
What should I do once the floodwaters have receded from my home?
- If you have an in-ground well, wait until the water has been tested by your county health agency before drinking it. Please refrain from making use of your sewer system until the water level in your soil absorption field is lower than any water level everywhere else in your home. If you feel that your septic tank has been damaged, you should get it professionally inspected and maintained. Damage can be detected by the presence of apparent settling or settlement of the ground above the tank, as well as the incapacity of the system to absorb extra water. Because most septic systems are below ground and entirely protected, flooding does not do significant harm to them. Septic tanks and pump chambers, on the other hand, can get clogged with silt and dirt, necessitating their cleaning. A new system may be required if the soil absorption field becomes clogged with silt due to the fact that there is no practical means to clear up the buried lines in an absorption field. In order to avoid the risk of harmful gases and germs being released into the environment, get your tanks fixed or cleaned by skilled professionals. Cleaning and disinfecting the basement floor should be done if sewage has backed up into the space. A chlorine solution containing half a cup of chlorine bleach per gallon of water should be used.
Questions Specific to Aerobic Wastewater Treatement Systems
What is the process for renewing my Aerobic System maintenance contract? Upon installation, each aerobic system is accompanied with a complimentary two-year maintenance contract, which begins the day after the installation procedure is complete. The installation business is first responsible for providing this service. Because most systems are reasonably simple to maintain during their first two years of operation, several installers do not provide maintenance services after that initial two-year period.
- Every year after you sign a maintenance contract with Septic Solutions, your agreement will be automatically renewed.
- The homeowner is responsible for all costs related with maintenance, chlorine, and pumping (as needed) of the pool.
- Our customers may select the contract that is most appropriate for their needs.
- The following activities are carried out during a normal maintenance visit: This will differ depending on the service provider.
- Aside from that, we also examine the amount of sludge in your holding tank.
- What role do the air and water pumps play in an aerobic system, and how significant are they?
- The air pump is used to aerate the wastewater and speed up the breakdown processes in the wastewater treatment plant.
If one of these systems fails to function correctly, the wastewater will become septic.
Is the water that is released from an aerobic system safe to consume?
Before the water is sprayed via the spray field, it is treated to destroy or eradicate germs, and then it is discharged again.
How much does chlorine cost on an annual basis?
We give our clients the option of installing a Smart=Chlor Liquid Chlorinator, which may be run at a far lower cost of chlorine than a traditional liquid chlorinator.
The most common causes of aerobic system odors are: 1) an excessive amount of chemicals being introduced into the system, 2) the presence of a restriction in the air supply, 3) more wastewater being introduced into the system than the system was designed to handle, and 4) an insufficient supply of disinfectant.
When should I add chlorine to my water?
You should keep an eye on your system to ensure that there are always a minimum of 2-3 chlorine pills in the tube at any one moment.
According to Texas law, homeowners are permitted to maintain their own wastewater systems if they have completed a 6-hour, state-approved Basic Wastewater Operations Course, passed the state test, obtained a Class D Wastewater Certificate, and obtained a certification from the manufacturer of their specific wastewater system.
Given the time commitments required to obtain a certificate, the inherent unpleasantness of checking sludge levels, and the requirement that only licensed septic providers perform all necessary repairs, the majority of customers prefer to have their system’s maintenance performed under contract with a certified sewer contractor.
Questions Specific to Non-Aerobic Wastewater Systems
What is the best way to determine the source of a problem with my non-aerobic septic system? On our website, we provide a diagnostic tool that will assist you in identifying the portion of your system that is causing the problem. Septic Solutions of Texas retains ownership of the copyright and reserves all rights.
On-Site Sewage Facilities – Frequently Asked Questions
A homeowner may build traditional septic systems under specific conditions, according to the guidelines for On-Site Sewage Facilities (OSSFs). A typical septic system is a suitable method of sewage treatment, but only if it is suited for the soil characteristics at the site in question. Water absorption is inadequate in locations with a high concentration of clay material in the soil, making it impossible for that sort of system to function correctly. This can result in runoff from the system, which can damage groundwater (wells and aquifers) or surface water (lakes and rivers) (creeks, rivers, andlakes).
The soil type influences whether or not a conventional system may be employed, and whether or not an aerobic OSSF is necessary.
Unfortunately, the great majority of the soil in this location has an excessive amount of clay, making it impossible for a typical system to work correctly.
What are the rules related to On-Site Sewage Facilities?
Our organization, the Angelina Neches River Authority, is the Authorized Agent for the purpose of administering and enforcing the State of Texas’ laws pertaining to OSSFs; however, we did not develop those rules. Please keep in mind that the great majority of the rules that regulate OSSFs are governed by the laws of the State of Texas, not the federal government. The following are the state rules that apply:
- Chapter 366 of the Texas Health and Safety Code
- Title 30,Texas Administrative Code Chapter 285
- Title 30,Texas Administrative Code Chapter 30, Subchapters A and G
- Title 30,Texas Administrative
Those regulations may be found in a document published by the Texas Commission on Environmental Quality (TCEQ) titled On-Site Sewage Facility Rules Compilation (RG-472) In addition to the state regulations, the AngelinaNeches River Authority’s Order Adopting Rules of the AngelinaNeches River Authority for On-Site Sewage Facilities has a few extra regulations. Certain revisions to that Order are tougher than the state’s standards, and we have them in that Order. Section 10 of the Order contains the extra requirements that must be followed.
What are the proper steps to obtaining a permit to construct a wastewater system in ANRA’s OSSF jurisdiction?
Those guidelines may be found in a document published by the Texas Commission on Environmental Quality (TCEQ) titled: On-Site Sewage Facility Rules Compilation (on-site sewage facilities) (RG-472) ANRA’sOrder Adopting Restrictions of the AngelinaNeches River Authority for On-Site Sewage Facilities, which was issued in December, has a few more standards in addition to the state rules.
Certain revisions to the Order are tougher than the state’s standards, and we have included them in the Order. Section 10 of the Order contains the additional rules that were mentioned above.
What number should I call if I have a question about my septic system or the ANRA permitting process?
ANRA OSSF Coordinator at 936-632-7795 will be able to assist you with any inquiries you may have about on-site wastewater septic system permitting, inspections, license transfers, or nuisance complaints.
Will my new wastewater system be inspected by an ANRA staff member?
Yes. The ANRA will inspect all new wastewater systems before they are put into service. The inspection must be conducted with the presence of the septic system installer.
Is a homeowner required to transfer ownership of a wastewater license when property is sold?
Yes. The ANRA will inspect all new wastewater treatment systems. Attendance at the inspection is mandatory for the septic system installer.
Can a licensed wastewater system be modified?
No. Modifications to any wastewater system are prohibited under Texas State Law. It will be necessary to obtain a new permission.
Is there a minimum lot size to install a wastewater system in the ANRA’s OSSF jurisdiction?
Yes, according to Texas State Law, a 12-acre site with a public water supply connection is required as a bare minimum. In the event that all setbacks on the septic system design have been satisfied, the ANRA may provide a deviation to this rule. The requirements may differ from one county to the next.
Is there a minimum distance required from a water well to a wastewater system?
Yes. If the water well has a concrete lined casing, a fifty-foot separation distance is necessary; otherwise, a hundred-foot separation distance is required.
Does ANRA investigate wastewater nuisance complaints?
Yes, provided a formal complaint form is filed with precise instructions, wastewater nuisance concerns will be examined in a timely manner. Downloadable versions of the nuisance complaint form are available on ourForms and Instructions Page.
What is a Licensed Installer?
Someone who has been granted a permit by the Texas Commission on Environmental Quality (TCEQ) to construct on-site sewage treatment plants (OSSF). There are two types of licenses available. Traditional OSSF systems can be installed by Installer Class I (OSI), who is allowed to do so (septic tanks, absorptive drainfields, unlined ET drainfields, leaching chambers, gravel-less pipe, and pumped effluent drainfields). Operator Class II (OSI II) is permitted to install ALL kinds of OSSF systems, save for those that are specifically excluded (including aerobic systems).
What is a Site Designer?
A person must first be recognized as a certified sanitarian by the Texas Department of State Health Services or as a professional engineer by the Texas Board of Professional Engineers in order to lawfully deliver a site design.
Heres a look at texas septic system regulations
Take a look at the regulations for septic systems in Texas. If you’re intending to build a home on the outskirts of San Antonio or elsewhere in east Texas, a septic system is likely to be the most cost-effective and environmentally friendly option for wastewater treatment. Ultimate Construction have the equipment and knowledge necessary to complete all of the excavation work required. Contact us now to learn more. The following are some of our services: demolition hauling, waste removal, landscaping, excavation, pool removal, and more.
- Here’s a peek at the entire procedure from start to finish.
- An engineer or a professional site assessor evaluates the site and its soil to determine its suitability for development.
- For example, an on-site sewage system must be at least 10 feet away from a private water line and 50 feet away from streams, ponds, rivers, and lakes in order to be considered safe to use.
- The soil conditions of your property are taken into consideration while selecting a system.
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- Homeowners can occasionally complete this task on their own; but, more often than not, the services of a qualified sanitarian or professional engineer are required.
- The design, as well as an application for a permission, are submitted to the appropriate authorities.
To guarantee that proper hygienic and environmental procedures have been followed, this procedure must be performed.
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The installer is responsible for notifying the appropriate authorities of the date on which work will commence.
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For example, if the incorrect soil type was reported, the procedure will have to be repeated from the very start.
During the course of the building process, an officially approved inspector must be permitted to check the work at various stages.
Overall, the goal of these Texas septic system rules is to safeguard the general public from environmental risks.
8. Once the construction has been finished in accordance with all applicable rules and regulations, the authority will provide a final permission to the construction project. After that, the system can be utilized in the manner intended.
Penalties for Non-Compliance
According to Texas septic system legislation, a homeowner who deviates from the approved plan may face legal consequences. He or she may also be subject to legal consequences if they use an insufficient septic system. Site evaluators, installers, and apprentices may have their licenses revoked if they are found guilty of any of the following violations: Information or paperwork that has been falsified. Not exercising sound, professional judgment when carrying out their responsibilities Contravening the provisions of applicable rules or state legislation.
It is possible to find out who is responsible for providing permits, completing inspections, and granting final approval of on-site sewage systems in your region by consulting your local health department or the Texas Commission on Environmental Quality office in your area.
Standard Septic Systems
When it comes to treating residential wastewater, a regular wastewater system combined with a soil absorption system is the most cost-effective technique currently available. However, in order for it to function correctly, you must select the appropriate septic system for your home size and soil type, and you must keep it in good working order on a regular basis.
What size septic tank do I need?
Septic tank size requirements are determined by the number of bedrooms in a house, the number of people who live there, the square footage of a house, and whether or not water-saving gadgets are installed. If you want to obtain a general sense of what size septic tank your home requires, look at the table below.
| Bedrooms | Home Square Footage | Tank Capacity |
| 1 or 2 | Less than 1,500 | 750 |
| 3 | Less than 2,500 | 1,000 |
| 4 | Less than 3,500 | 1,250 |
| 5 | Less than 4,500 | 1,250 |
| 6 | Less than 5,500 | 1,315 |
How often should my tank be pumped?
A regular pumping of the tank is required to maintain your system operating properly and treating sewage efficiently. Sludge collects at the bottom of the septic tank as a result of the usage of the septic system. Because of the rise in sludge level, wastewater spends less time in the tank and solids have a greater chance of escaping into the absorption region. If sludge collects for an excessive amount of time, there is no settling and the sewage is directed directly to the soil absorption region, with no treatment.
You can find out how often you should get your tank pumped by looking at the table below.
If you fail to maintain the tank for an extended period of time, you may be forced to replace the soil absorption field.
Solids can enter the field if the tank is not pumped on a regular basis.
Wet soils that have been saturated by rains are incapable of receiving wastewater. Planting cool-season grasses over the soil absorption field in the winter can aid in the removal of water from the soil and the maintenance of the system’s appropriate operation and performance.
Other maintenance
A regular pumping of the tank is required to maintain your system operating properly and efficiently processing sewage. At addition to the normal usage of the septic system, sludge builds up in the bottom of the tank. Because of the rise in sludge level, wastewater spends less time in the tank and solids have a greater chance of escaping into the absorption region. Because there is no settling when sludge builds for an extended period of time, sewage flows directly into the soil absorption region with minimum treatment.
- Make use of the table below to determine how frequently you should get your tank emptied.
- The soil absorption field, on the other hand, is no longer protected from particles by the septic tank.
- Protecting soil absorption fields from solids and rainwater is essential for their long-term effectiveness.
- Rainwater runoff from rooftops or concrete surfaces should be diverted away from the soil absorption field to avoid the field becoming overflowing with liquid.
- Planting cool-season grasses over the soil absorption field in the winter can aid in the removal of water from the soil and the maintenance of the system’s correct operation and functionality.
Two critical components
A septic tank and a soil absorption system are the two primary components of a standard treatment system.
Tank
The septic tank is an enclosed, waterproof container that collects and treats wastewater, separating the particles from the liquid. It is used for primary treatment of wastewater. It works by retaining wastewater in the tank and letting the heavier particles (such as oil and greases) to settle to the bottom of the tank while the floatable solids (such as water and sewage) rise to the surface. The tank should be able to store the wastewater for at least 24 hours in order to provide time for the sediments to settle.
Up to 50% of the particles stored in the tank decompose, with the remainder accumulating as sludge at the tank bottom, which must be cleaned on a regular basis by pumping the tank out.
Drainfield
Ultimately, the soil absorption field is responsible for the final treatment and distribution of wastewater. Traditional systems consist of perforated pipes surrounded by media such as gravel and chipped tires, which are then coated with geo-textile fabric and loamy soil to create a permeable barrier. This method depends mainly on the soil to treat wastewater, where microorganisms assist in the removal of organic debris, sediments, and nutrients that have been left in the water after it has been treated.
As the water moves through the soil, the mat slows its passage and helps to prevent the soil below the mat from being saturated.
The water must be able to go into unsaturated soil in order for the bacteria present there and in the mat to feed on the trash and nutrients in the effluent. The grass that grows on top of the soil absorption system takes use of the nutrients and water to flourish as well.
Septic tank types
There are three primary types of septic tanks used for on-site wastewater treatment: cisterns, septic tanks, and septic tanks with a pump.
- Concrete septic tanks are the most popular type of septic tank. Fiberglass tanks – Because they are lightweight and portable, they are frequently used in remote or difficult-to-reach sites. Lightweight polyethylene/plastic tanks, similar to fiberglass tanks, may be transported to “difficult-to-reach” sites since they are one-piece constructions.
It is necessary for all tanks to be waterproof in order to prevent water from entering as well as exiting the system.
Factors in septic maintenance
A critical consideration in the construction of a septic tank is the link between the amount of surface area it has, the amount of sewage it can hold, the amount of wastewater that is discharged, and the rate at which it escapes. All of these factors influence the effectiveness of the tank as well as the quantity of sludge it retains. The bigger the liquid surface area of the tank, the greater the amount of sewage it can hold. As more particles accumulate in the tank, the water level in the tank grows shallower, necessitating a slower discharge rate in order to give the sludge and scum more time to separate from one another.
An aperture must be utilized on the tank lid if it is more than 12 inches below the soil surface, and a riser must be used on the openings in order to bring the lid to within 6 inches of the soil surface.
It is quite simple to do maintenance on the tank thanks to these risers.
Soil types
There are three types of soil textures: sand, silt, and clay, and each has an impact on how quickly wastewater filters into the soil (a property known as hydraulic conductivity) and how large an absorption field is required. Sand transports water more quickly than silt, which transfers water more quickly than clay. According to Texas laws, these three soil textures are subdivided into five soil kinds (Ia, Ib, II, III, IV). Sandy soils are classified as soil type I, whereas clay soils are classified as soil type IV.
- The Hydraulic Loading, which is the quantity of effluent applied per square foot of trench surface, is also significant in the design.
- For this reason, only nonstandard drain fields are suitable for use in clay soils due to the poor conductivity of clay soils.
- The Texas A&M University System’s Agricultural Communications department.
- L-5227 was published on April 10, 2000.
What laws in Texas apply to septic systems?
In most cases, a permit is necessary to establish a septic system in Texas, with a few exceptions. As set down in the Health and Safety Code, the Texas Legislature designated the Texas Commission on Environmental Quality (TCEQ) as the official agent responsible for investigating permit requests and determining whether or not to grant them. The commission is also responsible for ensuring that septic tanks continue to work correctly, and it has the authority to order the property owner to make repairs if necessary.
Depending on the circumstances, this authority might be the municipal or county health department or a river authority, among other things.
Finally, the Texas Administrative Code has information on the state’s minimum requirements, which may be found here.
Septic systems, also known as on-site sewage facilities, are generally governed by a section of the Texas Health and Safety Code, which can be found here, as well as the Texas Water Code, which can be found here.
Can you put in your own septic system in Texas?
Do It Yourself Installation Under Texas law, it is permissible to construct your own septic tank. Certain systems, on the other hand, cannot be marketed to individual property owners and must instead be sold through manufacturing representatives. An aseptic tank is a mechanism that is used to dispose of sewage in a safe manner. Installing a septic tank often necessitates the acquisition of a permit, and most jurisdictions require that septic tank installers obtain a license or certification. As a result, the question arises as to how much acreage is required in order to install a septic system in Texas.
To put it another way, how much does it cost to install an underground septic system in Texas?
A typical septic tank installation in Texas will cost $4,872 dollars.
In the state of Texas, aerobic septic systems are required to be examined three to four times a year by a qualified septic technician.
