How Far From Septic Tank To Build In Ny State? (Question)

NYC Department of Environmental Protection The DEP Watershed Rules Regulations that affect new development the most include: No septic systems allowed within 100 feet of a watercourse or wetland, or 300 feet of a reservoir, or reservoir stem.

How close to a septic tank can I build?

– A full foundation must be 10 feet from the septic tank and 20 feet from the leaching area. – A slab foundation such as a garage must be 10 feet from the septic tank and 10 feet from the leaching area.

What is the minimum safe distance from the septic tank?

At least 15m from the nearest water supply. This is a minimum and should be more if the ground is rocky and fissures could take the outflow further. It should be at least 3m from the nearest building. Avoid areas where rainwater would stand or flow over the tank or vehicles could drive over it.

Can you put a garden over a septic field?

Planting over a septic leach field (drain field) is possible if it is done with care. If you have limited space on your property where you can garden, the leach field may be the only spot for landscaping. Vegetable gardening over a leach field is not recommended.

Can you put a deck over a septic tank?

You should never build a deck over a septic field; doing so will prevent the natural draining and dissipation of the effluent. This can ruin the septic system, not to mention releasing foul smells into the air all around your deck. The dissipating effluent can also rot the deck from underneath.

How far down is a leach field?

A typical drainfield trench is 18 to 30 inches in depth, with a maximum soil cover over the disposal field of 36 inches.

How close can leach field be to house?

Common guidelines require at least 50′ clearance distance between a well and a septic system tank or 150′ between a well and a septic drainfield or leaching bed but you will see that different authorities may recommend different distances. Local soil and rock conditions can make these “rules of thumb” unreliable.

What can I plant around my septic tank?

Plants Safe to Grow Over Septic Tanks and Drain Fields

Dogwood trees.
Japanese maple trees.
Eastern redbud trees.

Cherry trees.
Azalea shrubs.
Boxwood shrubs.

Holly shrubs.

Can you plant arborvitae near septic?

A common hedging plant for narrow spaces is pyramidal arborvitae (Thuja occidentalis ‘Fastigiata,’ or its greener cultivar ‘Emerald Green’). From my observation, it forms a dense root mass that would run into the septic field unless contained, but could provide a decent screen with a confined root run.

Can you build a greenhouse over a septic field?

A greenhouse can be erected on a septic field to grow certain types of plants. The greenhouse should not have permanent foundations, which could easily damage the septic system. Do not plant directly into the ground over a septic field, as the plants could absorb contaminants released by the system.

Can you put hot tub over septic tank?

Installing a hot tub above septic components can cause significant damage, easily dislodging or even crushing the pipes in your septic drainfield.

Can you build a patio over a leach field?

A common question homeowners ask when building a patio is, “can you build a patio over a septic field?” The answer to this question is no. The reason for this is that the weight of the concrete in the foundation will cause too much pressure on your septic system and can lead to flooding or a damaged septic tank.

Can I put pavers over septic tank?

You can’t build a paver patio on top of a septic tank, and doing so could be against the planning laws of your state or local area. Septic tanks can take very little weight without getting damaged, and you’ll also need access to the tank in the future too. You shouldn’t build a deck on one either.

Septic System Operation and Maintenance

It is possible to download Septic System Operation and Maintenance in Portable Document Format (PDF, 935KB).

If a septic system is properly installed, designed, constructed, and maintained, it will provide a long period of service to a home. Even the best-designed and-installed septic system will ultimately fail if it is not maintained on a regular basis. A basic description of septic system components and how they should be maintained is provided in this guide.

Septic System Components

In addition to the home sewer drain, the septic tank, the distribution box, and the soil absorption (leach) field are all components of a septic system, which is also known as an onsite wastewater treatment system (OWTS).

The house sewer drain gathers all of the waste from household fixtures such as toilets, sinks, showers, and laundry, and links them to the septic tank for disposal. The septic tank gathers all of the waste generated by domestic plumbing and gives the necessary time for wastes to settle or float in the tank. Heavy solids settle to the bottom of the tank, where they are broken down by bacteria to generate sludge. Heavy solids settle to the bottom of the tank. Eventually, the lighter materials, such as fats and grease, breakdown and rise to the surface, where they produce a layer of scum. This procedure allows for the discharge of partly treated wastewater into the absorption field. The distribution box is responsible for distributing wastewater from the septic tank to pipes in the trenches of the absorption field in an even and consistent manner. It is critical that each trench receives an equal volume of flow in order to avoid overloading of one portion of the absorption field over another. Trenches receive sewage that has been partially treated. Wastewater is biologically treated by the soil around the absorption (leach) field, which is a system of trenches and distribution pipelines. The gravel, stone, or gravelless product used to partially fill the system is cleaned and screened. To ensure optimal functioning and long life, the absorption field must be correctly sized, built, and maintained. Theventallows gases that have accumulated in the pipework to be released from the system.

Septic Tank Maintenance

Once every two to three years, you should have your septic tank emptied out. Septic tank pumpers who are licensed by the New York State Department of Environmental Conservation may examine, measure tank layers, and pump out the tank when it is required.

Maintain Your System

When necessary, pump out your septic tank on a regular basis. Document all pumps, inspections, and maintenance/repairs that take place. Plan the location of the septic tank and other system components. Either use a map or use permanent pegs to mark the locations of the various components. This is useful for gaining access to the system and will protect system components from being damaged when performing home maintenance or yard chores. Parking or driving big trucks or equipment on the septic system or any of its components is not permitted. It is not permissible to construct constructions such as decks, patios, or swimming pools that would cover the absorption field or restrict access to the septic tank or distribution box

Flush or use powerful chemicals and bacteria-destroying items such as drain cleaners, solvents, paint, paint thinners, floor cleaners, sink cleaners, motor oil, antifreeze, pesticides, and photo chemicals, which can damage or destroy the environment. These have the potential to interfere with the operation of a septic tank or absorption system. When used in regular domestic applications, household bleach, disinfectants, cleansers, and antibacterial soaps should have no adverse effect on system operation. Paper towels, cotton swabs, personal hygiene items, condoms, pharmaceuticals, disposable diapers, coffee grounds, cat litter, cooking fats/oils, face tissues, dental floss, cigarette butts, plastics, grease, and bones should not be flushed. Septic tank additives should be avoided. A properly designed and maintained septic tank will effectively handle residential wastewater without the need for chemical additions. Keep garbage disposals and grinders out of the septic tank and absorption field since they significantly increase the buildup of solids in the tank and absorption field. If they are employed, the capacity of the septic tank should be raised, and the tank should be drained out more frequently. If at all feasible, direct water treatment system outputs to a separate soil absorption system in order to reduce the amount of water that enters the septic system. Many water treatment system outputs can, however, be sent to the septic tank if the system is in good working order and can handle the increased flow
Again, this is only true in certain circumstances. Roof, cellar/footing (sump pump), and surface water run-off should be diverted away from the septic system. Plant grass and other shallow-rooted plants over the absorption field to help absorb excess moisture. Keep trees, long-rooted plants, and shrubs away from the absorption area and away from the surrounding area of the absorption area. Roots can grow into the pipes and cause them to get clogged. Water should be conserved. Repair leaky fixtures and appliances, and install appliances and fixtures that use less water and eliminate water-wasting behaviors. If you have a septic system, make sure to regularly examine and repair any effluent pumps and alarms that may be installed.

Find Out More

If you have any questions, please contact your local health agency or the New York State Department of Health, Residential Sanitation and Recreational Engineering Section at (518) 402-7650 or [email protected].

Septic System Design & Build Regulations & Specifications: Examples based on New York State Regulations

If you have any questions, please contact your local health agency or the New York State Department of Health, Residential Sanitation and Recreational Engineering Section at: (518) 402-7650, E-mail: [email protected]

InspectAPedia does not allow any form of conflict of interest. The sponsors, goods, and services described on this website are not affiliated with us in any way. Septic system design requirements and regulations include the following: In this article series, we will use the New York State wastewater treatment standard for individual household septic systems (Appendix 75-A) to demonstrate how to design and install state-regulated septic systems, including conventional tank and leach field systems as well as alternative septic system designs such as raised septic systems, septic mound systems, intermittent sand filter septic systems, and evaportion-transpiration septic systems.

The following section provides an overview of the complete septic system design specificationsregulations process, with hyperlinks to particular specialized subjects.

Use the SEARCH BOX to discover the information you’re looking for quickly.

Example Septic System Design RegulationsDesign Specifications

BASICS OF SEPTIC SYSTEM DESIGN may be found here. ln order to get a description of the characteristics and attributes of the most typical septic systems, including tank and drainfield designs, soilperc tests, septic tank pumping tables, septic system treatment chemicals, and steep slope system designs. SEPTIC SYSTEM DESIGN ALTERNATIVES provides a description of alternative septic system designers, products, and design specifications, including cesspools, disinfection systems, evaporation/transpiration, filters, fixed film gravelless, greywater, holding tanks, lagoons, media filters, mound septic designs, outhouses, peat filters, pressure dosing, raised beds, sequencing batch, steep slope, toilet alternatives, vegetated submerged beds, and wetland

Septic System Design CodesRegulations Articles

SEPTICSEWAGE TREATMENT REGULATIONS, OTHER
SEPTIC SOILPERC TESTS
U.K. OFF-GRID SEPTIC REGULATIONSSEWAGE SYSTEMS

U.S. SEPTIC AUTHORITIESDESIGN SPECIFICATIONS
SEPTICSEWAGE TREATMENT REGULATIONS, OTHER
S

THE DESIGN OF SEPTIC SYSTEMS
SEPTIC SYSTEM DESIGN: INTRODUCTION
SEWAGE FLOW DESIGN FLOW ESTIMATES

SOILSITE EVALUATION FOR SEPTIC SYSTEMS
SEWER LINE SPECIFICATIONS
SEPTIC DELIVERY LINE DESIGN SPECIFICATIONS

SEPTIC DISTRIBUTION LINES, BOXES, AND TYPES: GRAVITY, PRESSURE

SEPTIC CONSULTANTS, DESIGNERS, AND ENGINEERS
SEPTIC DRAWINGS

SEPTIC SOILPERC TESTS
SEPTIC

PERC HOLE SPECIFICATIONS

PERC TEST STANDARDS
SOAKBED SOIL CONDITIONS
SOILSITE EVALUATION FOR SEPTIC SYSTEMS

PERC HOLE SPECIFICATIONS
PERC

ALTERNATIVES TO SEPTIC SYSTEM DESIGN – Home

SEPTIC SYSTEM DESIGN BASICS – Home
SEPTIC SYSTEM DESIGN GUIDELINES – Online e
SEPTIC DESIGN MANUAL – Online e

SEPTIC SYSTEM DESIGN GUIDELINES SEPTICREFERENCES
ALTERNATIVE DESIGN SEPTIC SYSTEM SUPPLIERS
SEPTIC TANK PUMPING SCHEDULE

TREATMENT LEVELS, WASTEWATER
TYPES OF SEPTIC SYSTEMS-master list
WATER QUANTITY USAGE TABLES

SEPTICREFERENCES
SEPTIC TANK PUMPING SCHE

Reader CommentsQ A

Ken The final legal authority on any code concern is always the local building code compliance officer, whose word is final and conclusive in all matters pertaining to the code. However, in most jurisdictions, new work is performed in accordance with current code; “repair” of a leach field, such as the replacement of a damaged pipe, should not be considered a code violation. However, “repair” of a failing leachfield really entails the installation of a new one, which will have to comply with current requirements.

Agreed On Long Island, New York, we adhere to the International Building Code, which stipulates venting requirements for each fixture in the building (shower sink toilet etc).

These vents can be used separately or in combination to provide a single roof or side wall penetration (attic) Dee Local plumbing rules or building standards, which may or may not be fashioned after the Uniform Mechanical Code, may state fairly precisely the criteria for effective venting of the building drain system, depending on where you reside.

See NOISES FROM PLUMBING VENTS IN THE HOME AND PLUMBING VENT CODES When it comes to venting plumbing in homes such that no SEPTIC GASES infiltrate or vent into the residence, is there a code in place?

However, every time anything drained, we could smell the fumes.
No matter how much I air the house out, everyone in our home suffers from constant uppwr respiratory infections.
I was told that my husband, who has two leukemias, had acquired double pneumonia and was admitted to the hospital in September.

Due to the fact that the older generation does not feel there are any rules or codes that demand specific VENTING of plumbing to the outside of the basement ONLY venting is NO LONGER permissible as a consequence of such health risks as this, there is a conflict between the two generations.
What is the minimum size of a tank IOC for a three-bedroom residence in Erie County, Pennsylvania?
In accordance with Appendix 75-A, is it necessary to treat “grey” water through a home’s septic system, or may that water be routed to a different system entirely?

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How Far Should You Put the Septic Tank From the House?

Image courtesy of Kwangmoozaa/iStock/Getty Images.

For those who don’t have access to a municipal sewage system, an alternate solution, such as a septic tank and field lines, will be required. The design and operation of these systems are fairly straightforward. When designing a septic system, you must keep in mind the requirements of local construction codes as well as public health concerns.

Tip

Depending on where you live, local ordinances and regulations that specify the distance between the septic tank and the home vary. However, the normal minimum distance is 10 feet between the two structures. Consult your local ordinances and regulations for a detailed answer as to how far your septic tank must be installed from your home. Requirements differ from one location to the next, although the standard minimum distance from the home is 10 feet in most cases. In the case of a private well for drinking water, however, keep in mind that many state departments of health demand a minimum distance of 50 feet between a new septic tank and a well.

It is possible that the septic tank will be placed considerably closer to the structure since it will be easier and require less plumbing in some cases.

Basic Safety Considerations

The distance between the septic tank and the home is dictated by local ordinances and regulations, which vary depending on where you live. However, the common minimum distance is ten feet. You should check with your local ordinances and regulations for a particular answer on how far your septic tank must be located from the house. The requirements vary from one location to another, but the standard minimum distance from the home is ten feet in most instances. If you want to use a private well for drinking water, however, keep in mind that many state departments of health mandate a minimum distance of 50 feet between a new septic tank and a well, according to APEC Water & Wastewater.

It is possible that the septic tank will be placed considerably closer to the structure since it will be easier and require less plumbing in some circumstances.

It is ultimately your responsibility as a homeowner to determine where your tank will be installed; thus, keep a careful eye on the issue as your house is being built.

Tips for a Successful Installation

Plan ahead of time to get your water supply switched on prior to installing your septic tank. You must fill the tank with water as soon as it is placed in its final position for this to be possible. This has absolutely nothing to do with the septic system itself, but it is a prudent precaution. In the event of a heavy downpour, the groundwater may swell and a septic tank may float out of the ground, even if it has been buried. If this occurs, contact a qualified professional immediately. Repairing any damage done to the lines or to the tank itself, as well as putting the tank back in its original location, may be a costly and time-consuming endeavor.

Initially, you may be confident that you will remember the exact location of the marker when it is time to top up the tank — which is generally every three to five years — but your memory may fade over time.

Building in the NYC Watershed

Property owners in Greene County should be aware of the following: If you own land inside the New York City water supply watershed and want to construct a structure on it, you should get familiar with the material on this page.

What Are the Rules and Regulations?

The implementation of laws and regulations regarding stormwater, soil erosion, septic system location, and streamwetland effects is the responsibility of a variety of authorities. Whether you’re building a single family house, a company, or a big lot subdivision, development activities are closely regulated to ensure that they have the least possible impact on water, air, and wildlife, all of which have an influence on human populations.

Regulatory Agencies

The following is a list of regulatory authorities that are responsible for monitoring and issuing licenses for development projects.

NYC Department of Environmental Protection

The Department of Environmental Protection Watershed Rules The following are the regulations that have the greatest impact on new development:

Rules for Watershed Management by the Delaware Department of Environmental Protection The following regulations have the greatest impact on new development:

The Department of Environmental Protection (DEP) mandates that a Stormwater Pollution Prevention Plan (SWPPP) be established for the following activities:

Development or disturbance of land with a total land area more than 5 acres (which does not have to be continuous) is prohibited. Clearing or grading property containing two or more acres that is within 100 feet of a watercourse or that has a slope greater than 15%
Subdivisions consisting of 5 or more lots each with a land area of 5 acres or less

Construction of a new facility that will have an impervious surface area of more than 40,000 square feet
Building an impermeable surface in a village, hamlet, or commercially designated area is a permitted use.

NYS Department of Environmental Conservation

The Department of Environmental Conservation (DEC) enforces regulations affecting streams, stormwater runoff, and wetlands with an area more than 12.4 acres or of local significance. An SPDES General Permit for Stormwater Discharges from Construction Activity is necessary for any soil disturbance of one acre or more, as determined by the State Pollution Discharge Elimination System (SPDES). It is necessary for the developer to have a Stormwater Pollution Prevention Plan in order to receive this permit (SWPPP).

Disturbing stream beds and banks of some classed streams necessitates the acquisition of a Permit for the Protection of Waters.

In nature, disturbances can be either transitory or permanent in their duration.

You can find out whether or not your project affects a designated stream by contacting the regional DEC offices or the Greene County SoilWater Conservation District (see below for contact information). Prior to engaging in any of the following actions, please contact us:

Structures in or over a stream (such as bridges, culverts, or pipelines) are placed in this manner. Installation of fill for bank stabilization or to isolate a construction site (for example, the placement of rip-rap or coffer dams)

Gravel excavation
Lowering stream banks to facilitate the construction of a stream bridge
In-stream construction or the use of machinery in a stream to clear waste or aid with in-stream construction

Construction activities must be pre-approved by the DEC before any work can commence. A Notice of Intent (NOI) must be submitted with the DEC stating that an SWPPP has been established and is being implemented. It is possible that you will be liable to a fine of up to $37,500 per violation per day if you begin building before submitting a NOI and acquiring insurance.

United States Army Corps of Engineers

The United States Army Corps of Engineers (USACE) controls effects to all streams and wetlands. Projects that normally necessitate the use of a USACE permit involve the discharge of dredged or fill material into bodies of water (including wetlands).

NYS Department of Health

In addition to water well site, building, and design criteria, the NYS Department of Health (in collaboration with the DEP) enforces rules for individual residential water treatment systems (septic placement).

Local Building Code Rules

A code enforcement officer (CEO), who is employed by each municipality, is responsible for enforcing the Uniform Building Code. The New York State Uniform Building Code controls the construction of structures as well as the influence on adjacent lots. The responsibility for ensuring that facilities are in place to manage water run-off and erosion during building or demolition operations falls on the shoulders of property owners and CEOs. List of Common Activities that need the acquisition of a permit

Contact Information

Permits for stream disruption, stormwater prevention, and wetlands of 12.4 acres or greater in size or of local significance are subject to the following requirements: Division of Environmental Permits, New York State Department of Environmental Conservation, 65561 State Highway 10, Stamford, NY 12167 In order to see this message, you must have JavaScript enabled on your computer.Kent Sanders, Deputy Regional Administrator,This email address is being protected from spambots.

Permits affecting rivers and wetlands less than 12.4 acres in size that may be impacted by development are subject to the following requirements: Albany Field Office, United States Army Corps of Engineers, 1 Bond Street, Troy, New York 12180 (518) 270-0589 The Enforcement Officer, Amy Gitchell, For permits relating to septic placement approval, stormwater prevention plans, individual residential stormwater permits, and watercourse identification, contact the New York City Department of Environmental Protection’s Water Supply Bureau at 71 Smith Avenue in Kingston, New York 12401.

This email address is being protected from spambots because it is associated with Joe Damrath, Stormwater Program Supervisor, (845) 340-7234.

Christopher Costello, (845) 340-7235, This email address is being protected from spambots because it contains information about septic system approval.

Greene County SoilWater Conservation District 907 County Office Building Cairo, NY 12413 (518) 622-3620 For stream restoration, riparian planting advice, soil studies, wetland identification, and aerial maps: Greene County SoilWater Conservation District Contact the New York State Department of Health’s Bureau of Water Supply Protection at 547 River Street, Troy, NY 12180 (518) 402-7650 or (800) 458-1158 for guidelines related to water well location, construction, and protection, as well as wastewater treatment.

DEP Septic and Well Regulations

Permits for stream disruption, stormwater prevention, and wetlands of 12.4 acres or greater in size or of local significance are subject to the following conditions: The New York State Department of Environmental Conservation’s Division of Environmental Permits is located at 65561 State Highway 10 in Stamford. It is necessary to have JavaScript enabled in order to display this email address, which belongs to Kent Sanders, Deputy Regional Administrator. Permits affecting rivers and wetlands that are less than 12.4 acres in size that may be affected by development are subject to the following requirements: 1 Bond Street Troy, NY 12180 (518) 270-0589 Albany Field Office of the United States Army Corps of Engineers The Enforcement Officer is Amy Gitchell For permits relating to septic system approval, stormwater prevention plans, individual residential stormwater permits, and watercourse identification, contact the New York City Department of Environmental Protection’s Water Supply Bureau at 71 Smith Avenue in Kingston, New York 12401.

This email address is being protected from spambots because it is being used by Joe Damrath, Stormwater Program Supervisor, (845) 340-7234, To view it, you must have JavaScript enabled.

Greene County SoilWater Conservation District 907 County Office Building Cairo, NY 12413 (518) 622-3620 For stream restoration, riparian planting advice, soil studies, wetland identification, and aerial maps: Contact the New York State Department of Health’s Bureau of Water Supply Protection at 547 River Street in Troy, New York 12180 (518) 402-7650 or (800) 458-1158 for information on water well placement, construction, and protection, as well as wastewater treatment regulations.

DEP SEPTICWELL WATERSHED REGULATIONS

NatashaFred Ruckel contributed to this article. There have been numerous difficulties and tribulations associated with our Septic system, which have proven to be more complex and expensive than we had anticipated! Let us offer our extensive knowledge and expertise in this area. Our property is situated inside the New York watershed*. Simply explained, the water in this area supplies the drinking water for millions of New Yorkers who live in the surrounding area (ourselves included). This implies that any water found on your property is subject to extremely tight regulations.

If you prefer the definition provided by the Commissioner of Health under Section 201(1)(I) of the Public Health Law, Appendix 75-A of Part 75 of the Administrative Rules and Regulations contained in Chapter II of Title 10 of the Official Compilation of Codes, Rules, and Regulations of New York states: “An area of drainage for a body of water that serves as a source of drinking water and for which watershed rules and regulations have been adopted by the commissioner.” More definitions can be found in the free PDF document titled “Wastewater Treatment Standards,” section 75-A.1 (b).

Many of us are fascinated by the prospect of owning a river, stream, or other body of water.

When selecting a piece of property for purchase, be certain that it is not dotted with watercourses or other obstacles.

As defined by the Commissioner of Health, a watercourse is “a visible channel through which surface water is transported on a regular basis.” It is not acceptable to regard drainage basins that contain water just during and soon after a thunderstorm to be a watercourse.” After all, we do appear to have a number of spots of water run-off on our property that, to the untrained eye, do not appear to be part of a defined “watercourse.” We recommend that you contact your local Department of Environmental Protection so that they can clearly define what they regard to be ‘official watercourses.’ They have personnel who have been trained and understand what they are searching for.

There is nothing more frustrating than constructing a structure beside what appears to be a water ‘run-off,’ only to discover later that it is much more than that.

Anyway, returning to your land purchase, once you have determined that it is located within the watershed area and that your post-storm dribbles are in fact ‘defined watercourses,’ and that you are not permitted to build within one hundred feet of those, do you still have enough space to construct your home on it?

This requires more space (which we shall discuss in greater detail later).

Let’s add one more variable to our calculation for the total amount of land needed to build your home: the well must be more than one hundred fifty feet away from your septic system.
It doesn’t stop there, though.
Your septic system (also known as the on-site wastewater treatment system) is comprised of a pipe that transports waste from your property to a septic tank.

Our home will have three bedrooms, so our tank’s minimum capacity will be one thousand gallons and its minimum liquid area will be twenty-seven square feet (refer to Table 3 from the Commissioner of Health by Section 201(1)(I) of the Public Health Law, Appendix 75-A of Part 75 of the Administrative Rules and Regulations contained in Chapter II of Title 10 of the Official Compilation of Codes, Rules, and Regulations of the State of New York).

We will have a total of three bedrooms Downloadable PDF ‘Wastewater Treatment Standards’ is an abbreviation for Wastewater Treatment Standards.

Solids settle to the bottom and produce a layer of’sludge,’ while oil and grease rise to the surface and form a layer of’scum.’ While the sludge and scum stay in the tank, the partially digested waste and wastewater are transported out of the tank through a pipe to a distribution box.

(Be sure to keep the phrase DRAINAGE FIELD in mind since we will be discussing them in greater detail shortly, especially given the fact that they take up a significant amount of space).

Additional dirt is necessary at the drainage field; the amount required is determined by the pace at which the soil drains (as established during the percolation test), as well as the amount of permeable soil type present at your site in comparison to rock and less permeable soil types (if any).

Maintaining your septic field in an area with “standing water” or “wetland” is another important consideration to bear in mind.

The soil cleanses wastewater by draining/filtering out any dangerous bacteria, nutrients, chemicals, and viruses that may have gotten into the system.
This will help to facilitate the transfer of wastewater from the septic tank to the drainage field.
The fact that you must utilize your septic system if you have a suitable space on your property (i.e., one that is large enough with at least nineteen inches of permeable soil) that is at least two hundred and fifty feet away from a watercourse has just been revealed.

And this one isn’t in the Commissioner of Health’s office, according to Section 201(1)(I) of the Public Health Law, Appendix 75-A of Part 75 of the Administrative Rules and Regulations contained in Chapter II of Title 10 of the Official Compilation of Codes, Rules, and Regulations of the State of New York, Appendix 75-A of Part 75 of the Administrative Rules and Regulations (See ‘Wastewater Treatment Standards’, a downloadable PDF document.) To put our drainage field in the ‘designated preferred location,’ we will have to build a trench that is more than eight hundred feet long, which will be an inconvenience.

What is the estimated cost of this?
The fact is that we have discovered that we may use the same trench that was previously used to run our electrical line.

Okay, so there are various costs piling up right now, and the buildable amount of land is reducing, but it doesn’t end there.
Can you recall how we talked about the size of the drainage field earlier in the discussion?
The principal septic field will be the first of these locations.
The reserve field serves as a failsafe in the event that your primary field fails in the future.
In this case, the true question is: how much room do you require for your drainage fields to operate?

We will use the following project as an example: It was determined that our soil percolation rate was five minutes per inch, which is sufficient for us to build three bedrooms.

A minimum of eighty by eighty feet is required for our drainage field, and a similar minimum size is required for our reserve field.

We understand your concerns.

In addition, it is crucial to highlight that the selected primary and reserve fields must not be more than fifteen percent higher or lower than the ten-year flood level, among other things.

For the same reason, getting quotes and shopping around is important; budget for this early in the planning process.

To be certain, obtain a thorough estimate.

There is one more important lesson to be learned!

If you, like us, require the distribution of your home and septic system over one or more of your plots, you will be required to seek for an easement from the landowner to do this.

(Please keep in mind that you will need to budget for the filing and legal expenses associated with this.) Another six hundred dollars was required for this.

You will require the services of a licensed engineer to design and plan your system based on the size of your home, the soil type, and the permeability rates in your area.

BEFORE PURCHASING YOUR PLOT, they must be able to confirm that you have at least nineteen inches of usable soil and a percolation rate greater than or equal to thirty minutes per inch – both of which must be verified (so as to avoid disappointment at a later date).

We were advised by our land seller that we may clear one acre each plot for a home site, driveway, garden, septic field, and other improvements such as a pond.

The fact that we were not in the watershed area was also revealed to us; however, that is a story for another day.

If you disturb more than two acres of land that is on a slope of fifteen percent or higher, or if you disturb more than one hundred feet from a watercourse, you must produce a comprehensive storm water management plan (SWMP) and submit it to the DEP’s Storm Water Design Review Section for approval.

Our best recommendation is to call local DEP agent and work closely with them; they will assist you and advise you on the most effective ways to pass your septic application through the system.

Also, ask for recommendations for a qualified engineer and surveyor to ensure that your submitted plans are to scale, properly annotated, and well-designed before submitting them. WISHING YOU THE BEST OF LUCK! a link to the page’s load

Health EH OWTS (Sewage) Systems: Procedure for Obtaining a Permit

The application for an OWTS Construction Permit must be completed and signed by the applicant. Complete just the sections on page 1 and the sketch plan of the property on the Site Plan Sheet, and do not include any other sections (page 2). It is not necessary to make any entries on the following pages. If an up-to-date survey map is available, it should be supplied with the application together with the application. Detail information requested in the site sketch can be sketched out on the survey map, and the Site Plan Sheet will not need to be completed in this situation. If your application is not complete, it will be returned to you
If you require assistance, please contact us. If the lot is a part of a subdivision that has been authorized, please include a copy of the subdivision’s approved lot plan. Major deviations from the authorized design will need the preparation of a new plan by a Professional Engineer. Return the completed application and money to the Tompkins County Health Department. It is not possible for the Health Department to take any action until the charge has been paid. Make an appointment with the Health Department to have a site inspection and soil tests performed. We make every effort to schedule appointments for undeveloped lots or building conversions within one week, and for replacement systems within 48 hours, wherever possible. Fill in the soil test holes according to the instructions provided below
If at all feasible, the applicant should meet with the inspector on the job site. If it is not practicable, mark the positions of test holes and the four corners of the proposed building site with stakes or other markings. Also, make a note of the position of the well. Place a sign or marking visible from the road to indicate the location of the lot to assist the inspector in locating the property.

Instructions for Preparing Soil Test Holes

Before you dig, drill, or blast, make a call to Dig Safely New York at 1-800-962-7962.

A. Deep Hole

It will be necessary to drill a test hole to a depth of three (3) feet below the lowest component of the subsurface leaching system in order to determine how far down the water table, rock, and hard pan extend. A backhoe will be required to dig this hole. The hole must be excavated in the presence of a representative from the Department of Health. When installing a tile field at a depth of two (2) feet or greater, a test hole at least five (5) feet deep is necessary in the area of installation. All test holes must be appropriately covered to prevent accidents and must be refilled after the inspection.

B. Percolation Test Holes

To avoid confusion, drill three (3) holes one (1) foot square, to a depth of 24 inches, and spaced 30 feet apart in a triangle, in the area of the proposed absorption trenches, unless otherwise instructed. Always keep at least 100 feet away from any well area or stream, even those on neighboring properties. Percolation holes that are 24 inches deep must be excavated using a hand shovel, not a backhoe. If the lot is in a subdivision, the inspector may need handdug holes of varying depths, which may be required by the inspector. Repair any smeared soil surfaces on the sides and bottom of the test holes with scratching motions. This increases the accuracy of the exam
Make sure to clean out all of the loose debris from the holes and presoak them the day before the test by filling the holes halfway with water and letting it to leak out
To protect each test hole from severe rain or freezing weather, cover each one with plastic, plywood, or a comparable material. Make sure there are water containers available on the premises. For each test hole, a minimum of five (5) liters of water is required. In some cases, depending on the soil profile found in the deep hole, these test holes may prove to be ineffective. However, it is advised that these test holes be prepared regardless of the outcome in order to avoid delays and schedule issues.

Procedure for Obtaining a Certificate of Completion

During installation of the sewage disposal system, it is essential that it adhere to the authorized plan or building permit. Prior to using the system and/or occupying the building serviced, the system must be examined and approved by the appropriate authorities. Make arrangements for a final inspection of the system prior to covering any component of the installation with a protective covering. Appointments for final inspections must be scheduled with the Health Department at least 24 hours ahead of time. Installations that have been approved will get a Certificate of Completion in the mail.

Additional Information for the Homeowner

If you hire a contractor to perform the construction work, it is in your best interests to insist on a set price for the completed system, which is subject to final approval of the system and issuing of a Certificate of Completion by the Department of Health and Human Services. Septic system for a typical residential property. Septic tank with two compartments; soil absorption field; perforated pipe for wastewater disposal; gravel; sand and loam soil; geotextile fabric A,B,C,D,E,F,Geotextile fabric Important– A septic tank that is not cleaned every 2 to 4 years (or yearly if garbage grinders are used) may fail and need the replacement of your new sewage treatment system, depending on the quantity of grease, soap scum, toilet waste, and other solid items that are discharged to the tank.

Every year, if at all feasible, the depth of the sludge and scum should be measured.
Septic tanks are best cleaned in the spring or summer since they are more easily re-adjusted when the temperature is higher.
For further information, contact the Department of Health and Human Services.
It will be in your best interests to insist on a set fee for cleaning or, at the very least, to receive a specific maximum estimate before employing a septic tank pumping company.
Do not go into any excavations or deep holes unless you are instructed to do so.
Use of so-called septic tank cleansers or conditioners should be avoided since they have not been proven to be effective and may instead cause harm to the system.

Water Supply Systems

If you intend to use a well for your water supply, it is advised that you use a drilled well. As a last resort, other sources of water such as natural springs, hand-dug wells, and surface water such as streams should be considered. Requests for information on the design of these water systems will be fulfilled by the Health Department upon receipt of the request. Well drillers must be registered with the New York State Department of Environmental Conservation (DEC). Drinking water should be free of pathogens and substances that are hazardous to human health.

The New York State Department of Health maintains a list of New York State Certified Laboratories. There is also a well disinfection process that may be obtained from the Health Department. 10/11/2005 (Revised 10/11/2005)

SUFFOLK HEALTH OFFICIALS OUTLINE CHANGES TO WASTEWATER PRACTICES TO TAKE EFFECT ON JULY 1, 2019

Cesspools, which have been prohibited in new construction since 1973, will no longer be permitted as a replacement for old cesspools in the future. The replacement of old systems is not mandatory, but any voluntary replacements must satisfy the 1973 criteria for new systems in order to qualify. Replace existing cesspools or septic systems will need the submission of new registrations with the local health authority, marking the first time this has happened. The Suffolk County Department of Health Services is preparing to implement changes to the Suffolk County Sanitary Code that were approved in 2017 and will take effect on July 1, 2019, according to Suffolk County Health Commissioner Dr.

The changes are part of a broad, multi-pronged effort to combat nitrogen pollution of groundwater and local bays.
Replaced cesspools and septic systems will now be required to be registered with the Department of Health and Human Services, marking the first time that this has been done in the United States.
Nevertheless, because the laws did not address replacement systems, owners of cesspools had been free to just swap out an ineffective one for a working one, instead of having to install a septic tank in order to comply with the code requirements for new systems.
Obtaining approval can be accomplished by the submission of an electronic registration form completed by a licensed liquid waste contractor hired by a homeowner to replace a cesspool or septic system that is already in existence.
The amendments are codified in Article 6 of the Suffolk County Sanitary Code, which is available online.
Registered liquid waste contractors can inform the department of their intention to replace or upgrade a property owner’s existing cesspool or septic system using a specialized county web portal, which can be found at.
Staff from the Department of Health and Human Services will be on hand to help licensed liquid waste contractors with any concerns that may arise during the installation of a replacement or retrofit system.

In the past decade, it has been shown that cesspools and septic systems are the principal source of nitrogen pollution, which contributes to toxic algal blooms, beach closures, and fish deaths, all of which have grown increasingly widespread.

Cesspools account for around 250,000 of these systems, which dump raw, untreated human waste into the environment.

Installation of a complete conventional septic system, which includes a septic tank and a leaching structure, can cost anywhere between $6,000 and $8,000 per installation, depending on the situation.

Incentives of up to $30,000 are being offered by Suffolk County to homeowners who choose to replace their existing wastewater systems with innovative advanced treatment systems.

“Over the past few years, the county has made historic progress in the effort to address longstanding concerns about the environmental impacts that result from the reliance on cesspools and septic systems,” said Dr.

“The county has made historic progress in the effort to address longstanding concerns about the environmental impacts that result from the reliance on cesspools and septic systems,” he added.

A homeowner may opt to improve their system if their old system is in need of replacement or if they need to replace their existing system.” Homeowners can contact the Department of Health Services Office of Ecology by email at [email protected] or by phone at (631)852-5811 for additional information about the new standards and the County’s Septic Improvement Program.

The new criteria are effective immediately. Detailed explanation of the 2017 Article 6 Amendments pertaining to the elimination of in-kind cesspool replacement Keep up with us suffolkcountyny.gov Facebook.com/SuffolkCountyHealth Twitter.com/SuffolkCoHealth

What size of septic tank do I need?

Probably one of the last things on your mind when you are constructing a new house is the location of your septic system. After all, shopping for tanks isn’t nearly as entertaining as shopping for cabinetry, appliances, and floor coverings. Although you would never brag about it, your guests will be aware if you do not have the proper septic tank placed in your home or business.

septic tanks for new home construction

The exact size of the septic tank is determined mostly by the square footage of the house and the number of people who will be living in it. The majority of home septic tanks have capacities ranging from 750 to 1,250 gallons. A 1000 gallon tank will most likely be required for a typical 3-bedroom home that is smaller than 2500 square feet in size. Of course, all of this is dependent on the number of people who live in the house as well as the amount of water and waste that will be disposed of through the plumbing system.

For the most accurate assessment of your septic tank needs, you should speak with an experienced and trustworthy sewer business representative.

planning your drainfield

Here are some helpful hints for deciding where to locate your drainfield when you’re designing it.

Vehicles should not be allowed on or around the drainfield. Planting trees or anything else with deep roots along the bed of the drain field is not recommended. The roots jam the pipes on a regular basis. Downspouts and sump pumps should not be discharged into the septic system. Do not tamper with or change natural drainage features without first researching and evaluating the consequences of your actions on the drainage field. Do not construct extensions on top of the drain field or cover it with concrete, asphalt, or other materials. Create easy access to your septic tank cover by placing it near the entrance. Easy maintenance and inspection are made possible as a result. To aid with evaporation and erosion prevention, plant grass in the area.

a home addition may mean a new septic tank

Do not make any big additions or renovations to your house or company until you have had the size of your septic system assessed. If you want to build a house addition that is more than 10% of your total floor space, increases the number of rooms, or necessitates the installation of new plumbing, you will almost certainly need to expand your septic tank.

For a home addition that will result in increased use of your septic system, your local health department will require a letter from you that has been signed and authorized by a representative of your local health department confirming that your new septic system is capable of accommodating the increase in wastewater. It is not recommended that you replace your septic system without the assistance of a certified and competent contractor.

how to maintain your new septic system

Septic tank cleaning and septic tank pumping services are provided by Norway Septic Inc., a service-oriented company devoted to delivering outstanding septic tank cleaning and septic tank pumping services to households and business owners throughout the Michiana area. “We take great delight in finishing the task that others have left unfinished.” “They pump, we clean!” says our company’s motto. Septic systems are something we are familiar with from our 40 years of expertise, and we propose the following:

Make use of the services of a qualified specialist to develop a maintenance strategy. Make an appointment for an annual examination of your septic system. Utilize the services of an effluent filter to limit the amount of particles that exit the tank, so extending the life of your septic system. Waste items should be disposed of properly, and energy-efficient appliances should be used. Make sure you get your septic system professionally cleaned every 2 to 3 years, or more frequently if necessary, by an experienced and qualified expert
If you have any reason to believe that there is an issue with your system, contact a professional. It is far preferable to catch anything early than than pay the price later. Maintain a record of all septic system repairs, inspections, and other activities

common septic questions

Here are some of the most frequently asked questions by our septic customers.

How do I determine the size of my septic tank?

Our septic clients frequently ask us the following questions:

How many bedrooms does a 500-gallon septic tank support?

How deep in the ground is a septic tank?

Your septic system is normally buried between four inches and four feet underground, depending on the climate.