What Is Your Septic Tank Perked For In Viriginia? (Solution found)

What are the regulations for onsite sewage systems in Virginia?

  • The new owner is required to install a new system that fully complies with the regulations. In 2011, the General Assembly of Virginia approved legislation which amended Va. Code Section 32.1-164.1:1 and added Va. Code Section 32.1-164.1:3 to allow for the voluntary upgrade of onsite sewage systems and alternative discharging sewage systems.

What does perked for septic mean?

A perk test is done on vacant land that does not have access to a public sewer system. The test determines the ability of the land to absorb and process the material from an onsite septic sewer system.

Is a perc test required in Virginia?

Although some states may still require a water percolation test, they are no longer required in Virginia for approval. For about twenty five years, a soil evaluation is completed and has to pass the evaluator’s judgment.

How long are perc tests good for in Virginia?

Test results are usually good for two to five years, and in some cases can be renewed. However, with all things perc, rules vary greatly from town to town so don’t make any assumptions. Always check with the town health department before proceeding.

How is a perk test done?

A perc test is conducted by drilling or digging a hole in the ground, pouring water into the hole and then observing the rate at which the water is absorbed into the soil.

What does it mean to be perked?

1a: to thrust up the head, stretch out the neck, or carry the body in a bold or insolent manner. b: to stick up or out jauntily. 2: to gain in vigor or cheerfulness especially after a period of weakness or depression —usually used with up he’s perked up noticeably.

What does PERC mean for land?

A perc test is simply a test of the drainage — or percolation — ability of the patch of ground being assessed. But a perc test is not a perk of ownership for people developing land for residential and commercial use: It’s usually a requirement.

How much does it cost to perk land in Virginia?

Perc testing typically costs $750 to $1,850 or $1,300 on average. On the high end, you might pay as much as $3,000 depending on local regulation and the size of the leach field or infiltration basin needed. A basic assessment costs $150 to $300 for a hand dug hole without specialized equipment.

Who pays for septic inspection in Virginia?

In Central Virginia, the standard purchase agreement contract states that it’s the home seller’s responsibility to get the septic inspected within 30 days of the closing date.

How deep is a perc test hole?

Basically, a perc-test is conducted in the following manner: A small hole, approximately 12″ in diameter (18″ deep in some states, 3′ deep or deeper in others), is dug in the area of the proposed septic field. The perc-hole is kept full of water for a period of time.

What happens if my land doesn’t perk?

NO PERC, NO HOUSE On rural sites without municipal sewage systems, a failed perc test means that no house can be built – which is why you should make any offer to purchase land contingent on the site passing the soil and perc tests.

What is a good perc rate?

A good perc rate for a septic system is between 1 and 30 minutes per inch. Between 30 and 60 minutes per inch might require hydraulic analysis for installing a septic system. Anything under 1 minute per inch or over 60 minutes per inch is not an ideal perc rate.

What is the alternative to a septic tank?

Mound systems work well as alternatives to septic tanks when the soil around your home or building is too dense or too shallow or when the water table is too high. Although they are more expensive and require more maintenance than conventional systems, mound systems are a common alternative.

What happens if you fail a Percolation Test?

Failing the percolation test If you still fail after that, you’d either have to discharge very well treated water to a watercourse (only an option in NI) or avail of a ‘zero discharge’ system (constructed wetlands that do not require emptying).

How much does a mound system cost?

Mound Septic System Cost A mound septic system costs $10,000 to $20,000 to install. It’s the most expensive system to install but often necessary in areas with high water tables, shallow soil depth or shallow bedrock.

What You Should Know When BUYING A HOUSE WITH AN ONSITE SYSTEM

There are no requirements for actions associated with the purchase or sale of property with septic systems, according to the Virginia Department of Health. However, when it comes to real estate transactions involving homes with septic systems, inquiries from buyers, sellers, and lenders are frequently raised by all parties involved. To begin, it is important for everyone involved to understand how septic systems function as well as what the property owner’s duties are when it comes to septic systems.

More information on the obligations of the property owner may be found HERE.

On request, you may obtain septic system records from your local health department by contacting them.

The design capacity is expressed in gallons per day, and it is an important consideration to consider when purchasing a home or building.

Residences are developed using a peak design flow of 150 gallons per day per bedroom as the basis for their design.) The use of the system at a rate greater than the peak design flow may result in the system failing prematurely.) It is possible to find out if the system has been fixed or updated in the past by receiving copies of the permits on file.

  • When acquiring commercial property, the waste strength is an extremely significant issue to consider since the waste strength for the anticipated use may be more or lower than the waste strength that the system was built to manage, depending on the situation.
  • EXAMPLES: Construction Permit for On-Site Construction Onsite Construction Permit (2) Older Construction Permit (Example) Permits from the past should be examined.
  • The inspector will make a note of any modifications made to the original design, as well as the types of particular building materials utilized (for example, Sch 40 PVC for the conveyance line), as well as any faults discovered and the steps taken to repair such shortcomings.
  • Among the information contained on the operating permit is the system’s permissible capacity (for example, 450 gallons per day for a three-bedroom home), as well as any ongoing operational needs (e.g.
  • As an illustration, consider the following: AS-BUILT DRAWINGS “Drawings of the structure as it will be built It depicts the placement of critical system components as they were originally put on the as-built design.
  • The as-built will help you to locate the component in a short period of time.

Example Manuals of operation and maintenanceReports on the operation and maintenance of equipment “Consider the purchase of a vehicle: > OPERATION AND MAINTENANCE MANUALREPORTSThink about it: When you acquire the vehicle, you should obtain the operator’s handbook so that you will be aware of when the manufacturer suggests that maintenance be conducted on important components.

  1. When you purchase a system, you should get and examine a copy of the system’s manual so that you can determine when and what sort of maintenance the manufacturer suggests.
  2. The same may be said for septic systems as well.
  3. Traditional onsite sewage systems located inside the Chesapeake Bay Preservation Area are actually required to have pump outs performed on a regular basis.
  4. You may find out more about those criteria by visiting this page.
  5. ACTION RECORDS FROM THE ENFORCEMENT “> ACTION RECORDS FOR LAW ENFORCEMENT Also ensure sure there aren’t any outstanding enforcement actions against the property related to the septic system, such as a Notice of Violation asking the property owner to replace a failing system, on the books.
  6. Among the most important documents are those for alternative onsite sewage systems, which include conditional permits, waivers, easements, and notices of recordingation.

The issuance of conditional construction permits authorizes the installation of systems that do not fully comply with certain parts of the Sewage Handling and Disposal Regulations, provided that conditions are placed on the permit to ensure the system will function without putting the public’s health in jeopardy.

  • It is essential to understand these criteria and limits before to acquiring a property in order to verify that they are compatible with the usage of the property for which you want to use it.
  • Waivers given under Virginia Code Section 32.1-164.1:1 to repair a failing system are not transferable (with a few exceptions) and become null and invalid upon the transfer or sale of the property in which they were granted.
  • A bill passed by the Virginia General Assembly in 2011 that altered Va.
  • Code Section 32.1-164.1:3 to allow for the voluntary upgrade of onsite sewage systems and alternate discharge sewage systems passed by the state legislature.

Code Section 32.1-164.1:1 has been amended to allow system owners who voluntarily upgrade their system to request a waiver from requirements for treatment levels greater than those provided by the existing system, or requirements for pressure dosing, in a manner similar to the waivers granted to system owners who repair failing systems.

  • The waiver listed on the deed of the property you are interested in purchasing must be for a repair or a voluntary upgrade.
  • Easements An easement in perpetuity is required to be recorded under Section 700.E.2 of the Sewage Handling and Disposal Regulations when all or part of an on-site sewage system is proposed to be installed on property other than the owners’ property, as defined in the regulations.
  • It is possible that the system predates the requirement for recording, or that the property owner owned both properties at the same time, in which case an easement is not required.
  • Preliminary Notice of Recordation Owners of alternative onsite sewage systems are required to record a letter with the deed of their property notifying future owners that their property is served by a backup system prior to receiving an operation permit for the system.
  • INSPECTIONS OF RESIDENTIAL PROPERTY “> INSPECTIONS OF RESIDENTIAL PROPERTY Inspection PurposeVDH does not mandate that onsite sewage systems be examined prior to the transfer of ownership of a property.
  • While it is not mandatory to have the system examined, VDH suggests that you do so in order to ascertain if the system is in good operating condition and to prevent future problems.

If the inspection reveals significant flaws in the system, the owner may be required to do the following: hire a private sector consultant to design a system repair; obtain a construction permit from VDH to repair the system; have a licensed service provider install the repairs; have the system inspected by the designer; and submit all necessary paperwork to VDH in order to receive a new operations permit from the agency.

  • This process can take several weeks to complete, which can cause a delay in the closing process if the inspection is performed late in the process of transferring ownership.
  • The sort of inspection that is done is determined by a variety of parameters, including the age of the system, the type of system, and so on.
  • It is also possible that your service provider will perform a loading test by injecting a predetermined volume of water into the system to check for signs of a blockage or failure.
  • In the case of alternative systems, the owner is required to have the system inspected at least once a year by a licensed operator.
  • What should you do if your system does not pass inspection?

However, for more important repairs, the owner will be required to have the repair planned by a qualified designer and acquire a construction permit from your local health authority before the repair may be completed.

Septic Systems: What is Required?

The Legal Hotline has received an increase in the number of questions about what sellers are expected to provide in terms of septic systems, so we wanted to take this opportunity to go into greater detail about what is required by law and by the Virginia REALTORS ®contract, as well as what you can do in order to keep your transactions moving forward smoothly. A septic system is not required to be tested or pump prior to the sale of real estate; however, some municipalities may require proof that the septic tank has been pumped within five years of the sale of the property, and some lenders may require a septic inspection prior to the approval of a mortgage loan.

  • Home inspection contingency addendum (Form 600D), as well as paragraph 17 of the Virginia REALTORS ®sales contract (Form 600), address septic system difficulties in two places: the Home Inspection Contingency Addendum (Form 600D) and the Home Inspection Contingency Addendum (Form 600).
  • Septic system inspections are included in the addendum, which gives a non-exclusive list of the types of inspections that may be performed.
  • The septic inspection, like other inspections, must be performed by someone who possesses the necessary credentials.
  • Something that is extremely essential to notice is that the Virginia REALTORS ®Home Inspection Contingency Addendum makes it crystal clear that any damage produced as a consequence of an inspection is the buyer’s responsibility.
  • In addition to the Home Inspection Contingency, paragraph 17 of the Contract discusses septic systems and their installation.
  • According to the Contract, this certificate must be issued by an appropriate governmental entity – such as the Virginia Department of Health or a local health department – or by a private organization that meets certain criteria.
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It is not required by this paragraph that a specific type of inspection be performed, but we have heard more and more that there are few licensed or accredited professionals who are willing to provide a certificate of any type without first conducting an inspection that is more extensive than a “walkover,” and that the cost of these more extensive inspections is significantly higher than buyers and sellers, or their agents, had expected.

In response to the concerns we’ve been hearing about, the Virginia REALTORS®Standard Forms Subcommittee is evaluating possible remedies to the problems.

If you are representing a buyer in a transaction in which this paragraph has been removed, and you are using the Home Inspection Contingency Addendum as part of your contract, the buyer will still have the option of obtaining a septic inspection at their own expense, based on the inspection language included in the Home Inspection Addendum, even if the paragraph has been removed.

Make sure to clarify the need of a septic check with your customer in order to guarantee that they are properly safeguarded from harm.

Onsite Sewage Disposal and Private Well Water Systems

Local on-site sewage systems (OSSes), also known as septic systems, are an environmentally friendly and cost-effective method of wastewater disposal provided they are planned, constructed, and maintained appropriately. System failures, on the other hand, can and do occur. An OSS failure can be caused by a number of factors, including poor system design, poor maintenance, or simply because the system has reached the end of its useful life. In the event of a malfunctioning septic system, raw sewage can be discharged into surrounding yards, local creeks, and ditches, posing serious health dangers to humans, pets, and the environment.

The activities that we engage in to carry out this supervision are many and include the following:

  • The process of reviewing installation designs and obtaining building permits. Inspection of installed systems to ensure that they comply with the regulations Provide homeowner education when it is required. Taking enforcement action when it is deemed necessary.

Loudoun VA Perc Test: The First Step to Buying Land for a Home

When you are contemplating purchasing property in Loudon VA for the purpose of building a home, one of the first actions you should do is to have a perc test performed on the site before purchasing it. A perc test evaluates whether or not you will be able to install a septic system on your land. The criteria for a septic system may not be adequate for your property, and you may be denied permission to build. A perc test should be performed by a licensed, respected septic system installation professional who collaborates closely with the local board of health to ensure that any particular requirements to the testing process are fully understood prior to the procedure’s initiation and completion.

These criteria should be well understood by a septic system professional.

To be specific, the goal is to determine whether the site chosen for a septic system is capable of supporting a drain field (also known as a leach field), which receives the liquid discharge from the septic system and aids in the elimination of bacteria as the water drains to lower levels of the soil.

  1. Location and depth of the excavation will be chosen in cooperation with the local health agency in Fairfax Virginia.
  2. The next day, there should be no more than 6 inches of water standing.
  3. Even though the percolation test is straightforward, it must be exact.
  4. The findings of the perc test will establish whether or not the site is suitable for the construction of a septic system and, eventually, a home.

The Environmental Services (SES) professionals are specialists in septic systems, soil management, and other environmental sciences that are important to residential and commercial construction. Please contact us to ensure that the circumstances are appropriate to meet your requirements.

FAQ – Septic Systems, Percing Land

Septics and Percing Q ABelow is a QA covering the most common questionsabout septic systems and percing lots.View my current listings forlandbuilding lots

There is a lot of misunderstanding about septic systems and “percing”, what it is, when and why it needs to be done, and how muchit will cost. So here is a QA covering some of the most common questions I hear.Note that this is for informational purposes only, and you should talk to the local Health Department if you intend to rely upon theinformation.Also, while many of the comments below should apply generally to the State of Virginia, they are based on my experiences withWarren County in particular. There can be local variations.
Q. What is “percing”?A.Percing is the process of obtaining a septic approval for a lot. Perc is an abbreviation of “percolation”, dating back to when tests were carried out by pouring water into a hole and seeing how long it took to seep away into the ground. It is a much more sophisticated process these days, involving measuring slope and soil depth, analysis of the soil itself, and setting out the septic layout on the ground.
Q. What is a Septic Permit?A.An actual Septic Permit is the final approval to operate a septic system, following installation and final inspection. But to get to thatpoint from undeveloped land, you need a septicapproval, which will take one of the following forms:- aCertification Letter- no expiry date, usually recorded at the Court House andtransferable with the land, granting approval in principle for a septic system but notguaranteeing the specific system to be installed- aConstruction Permit- valid for 18 months, not transferable, granting permission toinstall a septic system to a specified design.A Certification Letter has to be converted into a Construction Permit before installation of the septic system can begin. If an owner has no plans to buildimmediately, he will normally request a Certification Letter.
Q. What is meant by a 3 Bedroom Perc?A.There are a couple of “rules of thumb” in operation – (1) that 2 people in a home use approx 150 gallons per day (gpd) ofwater; and (2) that maximum occupancy of a home will be 2 people per bedroom.Thus, a “regular” 3 BR septic approval assumesconsumption of 450 gpd and maximum 6 person occupancy of the dwelling. A “regular” 4 BR approval assumes 600 gpd andmaximum 8 person occupancy.There can be variations on this, the most common of which would be, for instance, aconditional3 BR approval.Thismay state that it is for a 3 BR home, but maximum 4 person occupancy – because the system is only designed to deal with 300 gpdof wastewater. It is understood that some jurisdictions will not grant conditional approvals
Q. What is the difference between a “conventional septic” and an “alternative system”?A.Aconventionalseptic is basically a good “old-fashioned” gravity system that your parents and yourgrandparents knew. Wastewater from the house goes into a large septic tank where bacterial action breaks it down. From there itpasses through a distribution box into a gravity-fed drainfield, where it simply seeps into the ground. Nature itself is the filter. Avariation is apumpedconventional system, where pumping is required to move the wastewater to the top of the drainfieldabove or alongside the house, but the drainfield still operates under gravity.Analternativesystem can be one of several types, but is broadly designed to pre-treat the wastewater so that it isless of a pollutant by the time it gets into the ground. Early examples were the “sand mounds”, but more modern systems includePuraflo �(peat moss filter), AdvanTex �(syntheticfilter), Aquarobic �and FAST �(aeration systems).Dispersal into the ground may also be more “hi-tech”, such as a low pressure drip (LPD) system. Whatever the system, some formof pumping is always involved.These days, conventional systems are much more difficult to obtain, especially on smaller lots. On the west side of Warren County,for instance, new approval for a conventional system is almost unheard of.
Q. What decides the type and specification of the system?A.The $64,000 question! There is a whole range of factors, including depth of soil, composition of soil, amount of slope,proximity of other drainfields and wells, proximity of streams, springs or drainage channels, and location of the drainfield relative tothe house site. These factors also apply to the “reserve area” which is a backup area in case of future failure of the main drainfield. Inmost cases, this reserve area has to be the same size as the primary drainfield area and meet all the same criteria.
Q. Can I perc my lot myself?A.You can, while coordinating with the Health Department, but unless you really know what you are doing and have the time andability to attend site visits etc, it is notadvised.I only recommend employing an AOSE (Authorized Onsite Soil Evaluator), also sometimes referred to as a Soil Scientist,who is recognized and approved by the Health Department.
Q. What does the percing process entail?A.First, the boundaries and corners of the lot need to be clearly marked (which may entail a fresh survey). Then the AOSE,accompanied by a backhoe and its driver, will dig “perc holes”, take soil samples and other readings, and work out the optimumlocation and design of a septic system. He will stake this out on site, along with the proposed well location and likely house site.Next, a surveyor needs to “survey in” all the stakes, and produce a final plat. Finally, the AOSE will put together the application andsubmit it to the Health Department for approval.If a Certification Letter is requested, it is recommended that it is recorded at the Court House once issued.
Q. How long does the percing process take?A.Realistically you need to allow six to eight weeks, though it can depend on weather and ground conditions, etc.
Q. How much does the percing process cost?A.For a Certification Letter, around $3,500 +/- in Warren County, but this will vary by jurisdiction (for instance FauquierCounty has a much higher application fee, and costs will be around $1,000 more). Costs include the AOSE’s time, surveying andplat, backhoe rental, and the application fee itself.For a Construction Permit for aconventional(non-engineered) septic, there is no additional cost.But for a Construction Permit for analternativeseptic, the system first has to be “engineered”,i.e technical plans drawn up for the installation. This is performed by a firm specializing in engineering septic systems, and thecost could be another $1,500 to $2,500, depending on the system and features of the location.
Q. If I want to sell my lot, do I have to get it perced?A.Technically no, but in practice no one is going to buy your land at fair market value without knowing that it is perced,and the terms upon which the approval is granted. And it is rare to find a buyer who is prepared to spend his own money on theprocess prior to owning the land. Sorealistically, you need to get the land perced with a Certification Letter in orderto sell, or at least to start the process at the same time as it is marketed.I am generally only prepared to market an unperced lot ifthe owner is committed to having it perced as part of the process.
Q. My lot was perced back in the 1980’s or 1990’s. Can I revive the old permit?A.Unfortunately, no. The rules changed in 2000/2001, and any older permits are now dead and gone. Basically, you willneed to go through the complete process described above to perc your lot again, though sometimes the original soil analysis(if available) can be re-used.
Q. My lot has not been perced (or it has an old, expired permit), and I have no plans to sell it or build for the time being. Should Iget it perced now?A.My answer to that is an emphatic YES, especially if it is a smaller lot. If you do not do so, then you run the risk that other lotsaround it may be perced in such a way as to make it impossible to get a septic approval on your own lot in the future.For example, all wells typically have to sit at least 100 ft from any drainfield, and smaller lots in particular can struggle to meet that requirementif neighboring lots have their well sites close to your boundary. This applies regardless of whether those approved septics and wells haveactually been installed.My strong advice is to perc the lot with a recorded Certification Letter to protect your investment, and to ensure that your land will remain buildable.Once you have that Certification Letter it is grandfathered in, and effectively forms part of the title to the land.

If you are looking to sell land, whether or not it is percedplease don’t hesitate to call me oremail meView my current listings forlandbuilding lots

Perc Testing and Soil Testing – What You Need to Know

This Article Discusses If you don’t have a perc, you don’t have a house. Test with a Deep Hole Testing with Percs SetbacksClearances Alternatives in the Event of a Site Failure View and post commentsQuestions Septic System Frequently Asked Questions SEPTIC SYSTEM articles can be found here. Traditional septic systems can only function well if the soil in the leach field region is sufficiently porous to allow the liquid effluent flowing into it to be readily absorbed by the soil. A failure to do so will result in untreated wastewater backing up and pooling on the surface.

  • It is in this soil layer that the majority of the treatment takes place.
  • This happens less frequently.
  • Depending on the municipality, particular criteria may differ, however any of these qualities may exclude the installation of a basic gravity-fed septic system.
  • A percolation test (often referred to as a “perc test” or “perk test”) is necessary to assess if a construction site is appropriate for a septic system installation.
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NO PERC, NO HOUSE

A failed perc test on a rural site without municipal sewage services implies that no home may be built, which is why you should make any offer to acquire property contingent on the site passing both the soil and the perc tests before proceeding with the purchase. Percolation or perc tests are becoming increasingly popular in rural areas as prime building sites become increasingly uncommon (or prohibitively costly) in many sections of the country. Rural sites that do not pass the percolation or perc test are becoming increasingly common.

  1. Soils are often classified as either coarse sand and gravel particles or microscopic silt particles, with minuscule clay particles — the tiniest – making up the majority of their composition.
  2. Before investing time and money in testing, dig down to the lighter soil beneath the first few inches of topsoil (loam) and get a handful of it to have a good notion of what you’re dealing with.
  3. It shows that the soil has a high clay content and that it may fail a typical perc test if you are able to construct a ribbon of dirt 2 inches or longer in the ribbon test.
  4. Testing requirements differ significantly from state to state and frequently from town to town, since most governments let small municipalities to develop their own laws within the framework of state regulations.

a. Though not all of these tests require the services of a certified professional, it’s a good idea to engage a seasoned expert with extensive local knowledge because many of these tests have some wiggle space.

DEEP HOLE TEST

The majority of studies begin with a deep hole test that is excavated by machine to a depth that is considerably below the bottom of the planned leach field – often 7 to 10 feet deep or more. High water tables, as well as the presence of rock ledges or impermeable soil that will prevent water from being absorbed, are sought for by the testers. In certain regions, testers are also looking for drainage features in the soil. It may not be necessary to carry soil samples back to the lab; instead, visual observations of the soil strata may be adequate.

  1. It requires a trained eye to spot soil mottling, which is a sign of a seasonal high water table – at a depth of about 2 feet here, the water table is around 2 feet deep.
  2. Actual observations are utilized to determine the “limiting zone,” which is the area of soil where the soil is unsuitable for sewage treatment.
  3. The existence of a seasonal high water table may be visually determined by checking for “mottling,” which are splotches or streaks of color in the soil that indicate the presence of water on occasion.
  4. For situations when the limiting zone is too close to the surface to be accommodated by a normal leach field, a mound or other alternate septic system may be necessary.
  5. However, while the vast majority of soil specialists think that soil observation may offer sufficient information for the design of a functional septic system, most states now mandate perc testing to directly quantify the rate at which water percolates through the soil (perc testing).
  6. The results indicate whether or not a septic system can be implemented in a given community, and the results are used by system designers to calculate the size of the leach field.

SEASONAL HIGH WATER TABLE

Under specific situations, certain towns may additionally require direct testing of the seasonal high water table to be performed. For example, this may be necessary for some types of alternative energy systems or in places where the water table is known to be high. The most common method is to dig tiny monitoring wells, which are also known as piezometers. The monitoring wells are simply plastic pipes that are screwed into holes that have been dug into the earth.

Water is monitored in the pipes during the wettest time of the year, which is between June and September. It is necessary to have appropriate clearance between the bottom of the drain field trenches and groundwater in order for a system to be certified by the city.

PERC TESTING

To conduct a perc test, first consult with a representative from the local health department. Requirements can differ significantly from town to town in terms of who can conduct the test, the minimum number of holes, the depth of the holes, the required absorption rates, and the time period during which the tests can be conducted. In general, tests cannot be performed in frozen or disturbed soil, and some regions only allow tests to be performed during specific months of the year – so prepare ahead of time.

  • If the test fails, you may be forced to invest in a more expensive alternative technology, or the site may be deemed unusable.
  • A typical perc test consists of two or more holes drilled around 30 to 40 feet apart in the planned drain field region, with the holes being approximately 30 to 40 feet apart (see illustration).
  • After that, either you or the technician should fill the bottom of the hole with 2 inches of clean gravel.
  • Remove any loose soil from the bottom of the hole with a sharp tool as well.
  • Continue to add water until there is approximately 12 inches of water in the hole for at least 4 hours.
  • The next day, carefully wipe away any loose dirt that has fallen to the bottom of the holes and gently fill each hole with water to a depth of 6 inches over the level of the gravel in each hole.
  • The timings are then meticulously recorded and used to compute the percolation rate, which is the amount of time it takes for one inch of water to descend into the ground.
  • When using a normal gravity-flow septic system, a 60-minutes per inch (MPI) rate is commonly used as the cutoff point, indicating that the water dropped one inch in 60 minutes.
  • Some municipalities demand extra “hydraulic” soil testing for locations that test higher than 30 minutes per inch in some instances.
  • Water absorbs too quickly below that level to be efficiently treated before it reaches the groundwater table.

The hole with the weakest performance is the one that matters. The presence of a town official to witness the test is required in certain communities. Perc test regulations differ significantly from one municipality to the next. The following are some general ranges for soil permeability:

  • Lower than 5 MPI: Extremely porous soil. Alternative systems, such as pre-treatment of effluent, pressured dosing, or the addition of denser soil surrounding trenches, may be permitted. A conventional leach field with a flow rate of 5 to 60 MPI is authorized. 60 – 120 MPI: Soil with a low water-holding capacity. Alternative systems, such as pre-treatment of effluent, pressurized dosing, improved treatment, mound systems, and other alternative systems, may be permitted. When the MPI is more than 120, the soil is said to be very low-permeable. It may be possible to use alternative technologies that provide improved wastewater treatment under certain situations.

In most circumstances, test findings are valid for two to five years, and in some cases they can be extended. However, like with all things perc, rules vary significantly from town to town, so don’t make any assumptions about what to expect. Always check with the local health department before embarking on a project.

OTHER SITE CONDITIONS

Test findings are normally valid for two to five years, and in rare situations, they can be extended further under certain circumstances. Don’t make any assumptions when it comes to Perc, because the rules differ drastically from town to town. Whenever possible, consult with the local health agency before starting.

  • Slope with a lot of incline. Typically, the maximum permitted slope for a conventional system varies between 20 and 30 percent
  • Filled land Most of the time, native soils are necessary, while manufactured fill may be acceptable in rare instances. Wetlands and floodplains are two terms that are used to describe the same thing. This is not suitable for the leach field. Site drainage is important. During rain storms, the leach field should not be in the path of runoff, which might result in system erosion or flooding.

SETBACKSCLEARANCES

It is necessary to maintain a minimum distance between the septic tank and leach field and any structures, property lines, water pipelines, wells, or bodies of open water. In the case of tiny locations, a variance may be necessary in order to provide adequate space. It is possible that you will be required to find adequate area for both the current leach field and a replacement field, which will be used in 20 or 30 years after the original field has been depleted of its capacity. The number of clearances varies from one town to the next.

SEPTIC SYSTEM MIN. CLEARANCES (typ.)
Distance to Septic Tank Leach Field
House 10 ft. 10-20 ft.
Property line 10 ft. 10 ft.
Private well 50 ft. 50-100 ft.
Potable water piping 10-25 ft. 25 ft.
Open water(stream,pond, wetland, etc.) 50-100 ft. 100 ft.
Dry gulch/stream bed 10 ft. 25 ft.
Subsoil drains 10 ft. 25 ft.
Note:Always check with local codes

OPTIONS IF SITE FAILS

Even if your site fails a perc or deep-hole test, it is not always doomed to failure. It may be possible to “de-water” the drain-field area on sites with high water tables by strategically constructing gravel-filled trenches and subsurface drain pipes to divert water away from the drain-field region. To complete this project, you’ll need the services of a highly skilled earthwork contractor, as well as the assistance of a civil engineer or geotechnical engineer. Additionally, in recent years, a diverse range of alternative septic systems have been created for use on a variety of different types of sites.

  • In general, these systems are more expensive, and many of them require additional components such as pumps, alarms, and other devices that necessitate more monitoring and maintenance than a normal sewage system.
  • Building lots that were formerly considered unbuildable may become authorized building lots when alternative solutions become more prevalent and broadly recognized.
  • Look for a contractor that has previous expertise installing the precise system you are considering as a second option.
  • A clogged septic system is not a pleasant sight or scent to see.
  • In order to do a perc test, who should I hire?
  • Is It Possible for Septic Systems to Last a Lifetime?

How Much Slope Do You Need for a Septic Line? Performing an Inspection on a Septic System When Is the Best Time to Take a Perc Test? Should I use a Sand Filter with my existing septic system? Examining the condition of the wellSEPTIC SYSTEMView all articles

Perc Test

Prior to the issue of permits, zoning permission must be obtained. The following documents must be submitted to the Zoning Permitting Counter in order to acquire zoning approval:

  • An application for Zoning Approval that has been completed
  • Payment of the processing charge in cash, cheque (made payable to PWC), or credit card (Visa, Mastercard, or Discover) in line with the currentFee Schedule. One of the following items must be included in the written statement from the Service Authority:
  • There is no public sewer accessible within a 1,000-foot radius of the subject property
  • In the vicinity of the subject site, public sewer is accessible within 1,000 feet of the site, but it is not capable of being linked in compliance with the Comprehensive Plan and other applicable laws.
  • A formal statement from the Department of Health and Human Services declaring the following: Currently, the structure has a broken septic system and there is no on-site rehabilitation
  • Nevertheless, it is located within three hundred (300) feet of a public sewage system with available capacity. Copy of the plot (drawn to scale), indicating the intended perc test area’s location.

What is a Percolation Test? A percolation test, also known as a perc test, is a method of assessing the absorption rate of soil for the purpose of installing an onsite sewage disposal system. It is necessary to get a Certificate of Zoning Approval for the purpose of carrying out a perc test before submitting an application to the Health Department for the purpose of receiving approval for the installation of an individual septic disposal system. In order to establish a private septic system, what is the minimum size of the property required?

See also:  How Do I Get The Lid Off My Septic Tank?

Notes: Prior to awarding Zoning Approval, the planning department will conduct a verification to ensure that the lot is a legally recorded lot.

The approval of the perc test is subject to the permission of the Health Department.

Water & Sewer Application Process

An application is required for all on-site sewage and water permits/certification letters before any work may commence. An application can be filed by any party acting as an agent for either an existing owner or a prospective owner. State form C.H.S. 200, Application for a Sewage Disposal and/or Water Supply Permit, is used as the standard application for sewage disposal and/or water supply permits. Applications are accessible from the Environmental Offices of the local Health Departments. Applicants should be aware of the information that is expected of them in the application.

Application Types

  • Permits to build any new construction are required. All of these permits are granted to the individual (owner, agent, or builder) who will have their name included on the building permit. There is no transferability of these licenses, and they are only valid for 18 months from the date of issuance. Certification letters are required. Certificates attesting that a certain place on a property (determined by a plat of survey) is appropriate for the installation of an on-site sewage disposal system with a specified capacity (either by bedroom count or gallons per day) and an on-site water supply. Certification letters do not certify what sort of system or technology will be required in a particular situation. Certification letters are transferrable and can be redeemed for construction permits at no cost provided the permit is applied for within 18 months of the date of issuance of the certification letter
  • Other requests for on-site permits and approvals
  • And other requests for information. These requests will be based on the applicant’s wish to extend, relocate, build, or replace a structure, as well as the applicant’s desire to make use of existing well and sewage facilities. Before granting an Occupancy Permit, the local building authority will often want VDHconfirmation of the system’s adequacy, which will be obtained during the application process. A new Sewage Operations Permit, as well as well approved as confirmation, will be issued by VDH when it has been thoroughly documented.

The fees charged are determined on what has to be allowed or certified. Please keep in mind that the costs for state and local applications changed on July 1st. Please call the Spotsylvania County Health Department at 540-507-7386 if you have any questions or concerns.

Bare Applications

Previously examined sites by either the Department or private consultants are included in the definition of lots of record (which are those that are not part of a subdivision; a subdivision is defined as several construction lots originating from a single parcel or parcels of land).

  • The applicant/agent is responsible for completing and submitting a full application to the local Health Department. CHS200 or an equivalent course, a site sketch, and/or a suggested development plan are all required (survey plat if available). See the checklist for a breakdown of what constitutes a complete application. Staff will do a basic assessment of the application and any attachments, and they will certify that the application package has been completed. Permit/certification fees are determined and stamped on the application
  • Fees for the requested permits/certifications are determined and stamped on the application
  • The applicant/agent brings the completed, stamped application to the Code Compliance counter, where he or she receives the following: aCBPAchecklist that confirms what RPA and Reservoir features may be present or need to be considered
  • The proper tax map and parcel number are confirmed
  • And a copy of the RPA and Reservoir features checklist. In order to complete the application, it must be delivered to the Spotsylvania Treasures Office, where payments are paid and the application is stamped as complete. The applicant/agent returns to the Health Department, where staff gives a permit number to the application and delivers a copy of the application cover sheet to the applicant for his or her records. It is entered into the computer database, any necessary files pertaining to the property are searched for, and the package is submitted to the Environmental Supervisor or designee, who checks the application for completeness. If the application is complete, it is allocated to an Environmental Health Specialist who will do a field evaluation and finish the processing. If the application is not complete, the applicant is advised by phone or mail of the shortcomings, and the application is placed on hold for a maximum of 90 days. When the defects have been corrected, the application will be withdrawn from the hold pile and placed in the “new” application stack, where it will continue to be processed. It is denied if the relevant information is not provided during the 90-day “hold” period, and a new application fee and fee schedule must be submitted.) Whenever possible, the Environmental Health Specialist strives to organize a time and date for a site visit with the applicant or the property owner in order to validate the applicant’s purpose as well as to define the lot layout and planned development plan. It is sometimes more efficient for the EHS to visit the site over the course of the day’s activities than than scheduling a special appointment that may be disrupted by higher priority duties
  • However, this is not always the case. When an EHS comes on the scene, it is important to establish that the lot and development site are clearly and easily distinguishable. Property corners have been marked, lot lines have been well defined, and the development site has been clearly and completely designated on-site and can be easily linked to the site drawing that was provided with the application. If this is not the case, the EHS is instructed to leave the property and place the application on hold
  • The owner/agent is notified by phone or mail of specific issues, and the application is placed on hold until the Department is notified that the defects have been addressed. The application will be denied if this does not take place within 90 days, and a fresh set of fees and application will be required. Applicants who have their applications taken from the hold pile are relegated to the bottom of the EHS’s individual assignment stack, where they will be considered when they reach the top of the stack.

AOSE Application Process

An application is completed and submitted to the local Health Department by the applicant or his or her authorized representative. CHS200 or an equivalent course, a site sketch, and/or a suggested development plan are also recommended (survey plat if available). A full application includes of the items listed on the checklist. Personnel will do a basic assessment of the application and any attachments, and they will certify that the application package has been completed. Permit/certification fees are decided and stamped on the application; fees for the requested permits/certifications are calculated and stamped on the application; After bringing the completed and stamped application to the Code Compliance counter, the applicant/agent will receive the following: aCBPAchecklist that confirms what RPA and Reservoir features may be present or to be considered; confirmation of the correct tax map and parcel number; confirmation of the proper tax map and parcel number; and confirmation of the proper tax map and parcel number.

In order to complete the application, it must be delivered to the Spotsylvania Treasures Office, where the payments are paid and the application is stamped paid.

The completed application is entered into a computer database, any necessary files pertaining to the property are searched for, and the package is submitted to the Environmental Supervisor or his designee, who checks the application for completeness; and The application is allocated to an Environmental Health Specialist for field assessment and processing if it is completed in its entirety.

Upon completion of the corrections, the application will be withdrawn from the hold pile and placed in the “new” application stack, where it will be processed.

It is sometimes more efficient for the EHS to visit the site over the course of the day’s tasks than than scheduling a special appointment that may be disrupted by higher priority duties; however, it is not always more efficient.

Property corners have been marked, lot lines have been well defined, and the development site has been clearly and completely recognized on-site and can be easily linked to the site sketch that was included with the application.

The application will be denied if this does not take place within 90 days, and a fresh set of fees and application will be required; Applicants who have their applications taken from the hold pile are relegated to the bottom of the EHS’s individual assignment stack, where they will be examined when they reach the top of the stack;

AOSE Process

It is quite similar to the method described above for submitting a plain application, with the following exception:

  • Three full copies of the proposal will be included in an AOSEpackage for use by the Department
  • AOSEs provide varied levels of service. The applicant, surveyor, engineer, and builder all work together to coordinate the entire procedure, and some even walk the permit through the full application process. Others may just supply the most rudimentary of services. Just like with any other consumer issue, anybody seeking services from an individual or company should examine references and the level of pleasure shown by previous customers.

Other On-site Permit Requests

As previously stated, there are several instances in which applicants wish to make significant changes to their application. It is possible that the construction of a new or replacement structure, an extension, or any alteration will have an influence on the current SDS (sewage disposal system) or water supply. The Rappahannock Area Health District has a policy in place regarding the examination and approval of current systems for the purpose of allowing them to be used indefinitely or extended.

  • According to the information provided above, there are several instances in which applicants wish to make significant changes to their applications. It is possible that the construction of a new or replacement structure, an addition, or any other alteration will have an influence on the current SDS (sewage disposal system) or water supply. For the purpose of evaluating and approving current systems for ongoing and expanded use, the Rappahannock Area Health District has adopted a policy. In the case of accessory structures or uses on a property with an approved drainfield and water supply, when owners file for permits with the local building official for those structures or uses, the local building official will frequently request confirmation of the following information:

Record Copies

Upon request, VDH will give copies of its records. In order to review current systems, VDH does not have the regulatory authority or a mandated program in place. Wastewater Disposal Systems that have been properly approved and recorded are allowed to run, and VDH will not violate that permission until the system fails or until the owner chooses to make changes to the system or the structure that it is linked to. It is at this point that a new permission is necessary, and a new Sewage Operations Permit will be granted once all of the permit conditions have been fulfilled.

Incomplete Records

Numerous requests are made for lots with systems that are more than 10 years old, and in other cases, requests are made for lots with data that are partial or nonexistent. The Rappahannock Area policy on reviewing existing systems outlines the procedures to be followed when requests are received for systems that satisfy the criteria outlined in the preceding paragraph. Septic tank and distribution box will be exposed, and an EHS will conduct a site visit to confirm the location and condition of the systems (an as-built construction drawing will be created that defines the exact location of the house, well, septic tank and distribution box as well as the absorption field will be created).

Any time an owner or a local building official requests final permission fromVDH, a permit must be requested for, costs paid (save for repairs), and a SO.P.

Prior to issuing Operation Permits or other permits, final inspections and extra paperwork (such as well logs or completion statements) may be required to ensure that the file is complete.

Repair Permits

Repair permits (for which there are no payments) are given when site surveys, complaints from owners, or other sources demonstrate that maintenance is required or that a system is malfunctioning.

More Information

For further information, please see the website of the Virginia Department of Health’s Division of On-site Sewage and Water Services for more details.

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