What Are The Nc Requirements For Septic Tank Construction? (Perfect answer)

Setbacks. Septic tanks must be at least 100 feet away from private or public water supplies, streams, and reservoirs. Keep them at least 50 feet away from coastal waters, canals, marshes, storm water retention ponds, lakes, and ponds.

What are the new regulations for septic tanks?

Under the new rules, if you have a specific septic tank that discharges to surface water (river, stream, ditch, etc.) you are required to upgrade or replace your septic tank treatment system to a full sewage treatment plant by 2020, or when you sell a property, if it’s prior to this date.

Does a septic tank require building regulations?

Any new septic tank/sewage treatment unit must have both planning permission and building regulations approval. From 1 January 2020 if your waste discharges directly to a river or stream from a septic tank, your apparatus must be updated to take in a small sewage treatment plant or make some other arrangements.

How much land is needed for a septic system in NC?

A typical 4-bedroom septic system and repair area will need about 1/4 to 1/3 of an acre of acceptable soil.

Can I install my own septic system in North Carolina?

QUESTION: Is a homeowner allowed to install his or her own system? ANSWER: A homeowner may install the system for a property that will used as his or her primary residence as long as the system is gravity fed, pipe and gravel system and is limited to two systems within a five year period.

Do I need a certificate for my septic tank?

The General Binding Rules were designed to simplify the regulation of small sewage discharges. Septic tanks and small sewage treatment plants no longer need to be registered and there is no legal requirement to keep records of maintenance (although this is advisable).

How far should a septic tank be from a house?

Most importantly, a septic tank must be at least seven metres from a house, defined as a ‘habitable property’. Septic tanks are built underground and release wastewater slowly into the surrounding environment. For this reason, they must be a set distance away from a home.

Is planning permission required to replace a septic tank?

Absolutely. However for the replacement system to meet the EPA CoP (and likely the planning conditions) the site must have been deemed suitable for a septic tank based on the Site Suitability Assessment results.

Do you need planning permission for a water tank?

Planning permission is not usually required for systems as they are covered by ‘permitted development’ rights, though it is always a good idea to check with your local planning officer before proceeding with an installation.

What are the general binding rules?

The General Binding Rules is a term given to legally binding requirements in regulations that set the minimum standards or conditions that apply. A septic tank is an underground tank where the solids sink to the bottom and the liquid flows out and soaks through the ground.

How close can you build to a septic tank in NC?

Maintain 15 feet between septic tanks and basements, embankments, drainage system side-slopes, and swimming pools. Septic tanks also must be at least 10 feet away from property lines, water lines, and the up-slope portion of drainage systems.

Can you have a septic tank without a leach field?

The waste from most septic tanks flows to a soakaway system or a drainage field. If your septic tank doesn’t have a drainage field or soakaway system, the waste water will instead flow through a sealed pipe and empty straight into a ditch or a local water course.

How big should my septic tank be?

The larger your home, the larger the septic tank you’re going to need. For instance, a house smaller than 1,500 square feet usually requires a 750 to 1,000-gallon tank. On the other hand, a bigger home of approximately 2,500 square feet will need a bigger tank, more than the 1,000-gallon range.

Does NC require septic inspection?

Septic system installers and inspectors MUST now be certified by the North Carolina On-site Wastewater Contractors and Inspectors Certification Board (NCOWCICB) in order to install or inspect septic systems in NC. The legislation does NOT require a septic system inspection as part of a real estate transaction.

How far apart are septic lines?

Septic drainfield trench spacing: The trenches are dug about 6 feet apart on center (center of pipe to center of next pipe) which allows, in good design, space for a set of replacement trenches to be placed between the original ones when the first set fails.

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.

Septic System Owner’s Guide

What kind of computer system do you have? In North Carolina, there are many distinct types of septic systems in use, but the vast majority of the over 2 million systems in use throughout the state are minor variations of the typical septic system. This system includes a septic tank as well as a drainfield that is filled with gravel (usually two to six trenches). Since the mid- to late-1990s, classic gravel aggregate trenches have been phased out in favor of innovative gravel-less trench designs, which have become increasingly popular.

Some of the most often used gravel-free trenches nowadays are either long and narrow, tunnel-shaped chambers in the trenche, or gravel replacements such as expanded polystyrene aggregate.

A booklet from the Cooperative Extension Service, AG-439-13, Septic Systems and Their Maintenance, outlines the typical system, easy adjustments to it, and the most significant maintenance requirements.

The application of these technologies is now widespread, whether in new housing projects or in the replacement or repair of malfunctioning septic systems in residences and businesses.

• In order to address this, state regulations provide specified maintenance requirements for a number of these more advanced technology.
• Furthermore, state regulations mandate that the health department examine these systems on a regular basis.
• Are you familiar with the location of your septic system and repair area?
• If you do not have a copy of your septic system permit or a soil evaluation document, contact your local health department.

This Septic System Owner’s Guidefile folder should contain the following items: It is normally possible to establish the location of a septic tank and drainfield by looking at a copy of the permit and consulting with a septic contractor, a consultant, or the local health department A “repair area or replacement area,” in which a second drainfield might be constructed if necessary, has been required on nearly all home sites approved since the early 1980s, according to state law.

It should be noted on your septic system permit that this repair area was designated by the health department when the site was allowed.

Some Important Facts to Understand About Your Septic System

• In what form of septic system do you have
• Where is it situated
• And where is the repair area situated? Is the septic system up and running? In the past, has it been kept up to date? What can you do on a day-to-day basis to ensure that your system continues to function properly? What kind of maintenance will be required in the future

On the grid labeledSeptic System Layout, draw a rough sketch of your home, septic system (including both the tank and drainfield), repair area, and any other essential features (such as your driveway). The distance between the home and the access port on the septic tank should be measured and recorded when having your septic tank drained. This will assist you in locating it again. You may also want to indicate the position of your tank as well as the limits of your drainfield in your yard. If you do not have a riser installed over the access port for your septic tank, you may want to consider having one put in.

• Even when properly maintained, septic tanks can contain harmful gases and pollutants, as well as bacteria and other germs that can cause major health problems if not addressed.
• Is your septic system in proper functioning order?
• Many individuals are unaware that untreated sewage that has accumulated on the surface of the ground might be a health threat.
• Before fixing a malfunctioning septic system, you must get a permit from the local health authority, according to state regulations.
• What kind of upkeep has been carried out?
• If you are purchasing an existing house, you should ask the seller a few critical questions, such as the following:

• What is the age of the system
• What is the location of the tank and drainfield (they may or may not be on the same property or even on the same parcel of land)
• When was the last time the tank was pumped
• What is the frequency with which it has been pushed
• Is it necessary to clean the “effluent filter” in the septic tank on a regular basis (effluent filters are required for systems established after 1999)
• Has there been any indication of a likely failure? In what location can I get a copy of the permit and documentation proving how effectively (or poorly) the system has been maintained
• Do you know whether any improvements have been made to the house that would necessitate expanding the capacity of the system? Is the system still operational, and if so, when and by whom was it repaired?

If the house has only recently been constructed, request that the septic system contractor give you with a “as built” schematic, which may include elements that were not included in the permit. If the house is equipped with a pump, request that the contractor and the local health agency supply specifics on how the pump was initially installed. In order to properly care for your septic system, you must manage it on a day-to-day basis as well as perform periodic maintenance and repairs. Layout of a septic system.

• However, the drainfield does not have an indefinite capacity. The average daily water use per person is 50 gallons. Even for brief periods of time, the soil drainfield has a maximum daily design capacity of 120 gallons per bedroom, which is routinely exceeded. Overloads can occur at any time of year, on a daily basis, or on weekends. Fix any leaky faucets or toilets you may have. Water conservation will help you get more use out of your system.

Keep waste disposal to sewage alone.

• It is not acceptable to utilize your septic tank as a garbage can for items such as cigarette butts, tissues, feminine hygiene products, cotton swabs, cat litter, coffee grinds, or disposable diapers. Reduce the amount of time you use your garbage disposal. These contribute a significant amount of additional solids. It is not recommended to throw fat or cooking oil down the drain. You should avoid putting toxic chemicals into your system, such as solvents and oils. You should avoid using paint thinners and paint thinners that have been dumped. You should avoid disinfectants and pesticides. Conserve your funds. Most of the time, commercial septic tank additives are not required.

Ensure that the system is protected against physical harm (site maintenance).

• Maintain a layer of plants on the soil over the drainfield to prevent soil erosion from occurring. Don’t drive your car above the system’s limits. Try to avoid building over the system or in the repair area. The natural shape of the terrain immediately downslope of the system should be preserved, and this region should be protected against excavation (cutting and filling). Neither asphalt nor concrete should be used to cover the tank or drainfield.

All wastewater should be disposed of in a system that has been authorized.

• You shouldn’t install a separate pipe to transport washwater to a side ditch or into the woods. This is against the law

The house and the yard (site maintenance)

• Conserve and preserve the area where your septic tank and drainfield are located
• Trees that thrive in moist environments should be cut down and removed. Willows, elms, sweetgums, and certain maples are examples of such trees. Surface water should be diverted away from the tank and drainfield by landscaping the yard. Inspect the system to make sure that water from the roof, gutter, and foundation drains does not overflow
• It is recommended that if your system is located at the base of a slope, you build a french drain to channel subterranean water. Ensure that drainage ditches, subsurface tiles, and drainage outlets are kept in good condition so that water may readily flow from them.

Sewage treatment system (Septic tank)

• Tanks should be elevated if they are 6 inches or deeper below the surface. They offer quick and convenient access for solids measurement and pumping, as well as for cleaning the effluent filter. The rate at which sludge and scum build in the tank is measured. Make a note of this information and provide it to your expert pumper. Solids should be pushed out of the tank as necessary. Most septic tanks have two sections
• It is necessary to have them drained out. More information about pumping frequency can be found in the Cooperative Extension Service document AG-439-13, Septic Systems and Their Maintenance, which is available online. It is not necessary to wait till your drainfield collapses before having your tank pumped. By that time, the drainfield may have been completely destroyed. An ounce of prevention is worth a pound of cure when it comes to septic systems.

Preventive Maintenance Record
Date	Work Done	Firm	Cost

Your Septic System Installer

Name:

Address:

Phone:

Date System Installed:

• Tanks should be elevated if they are 6 inches or deeper below the ground. They offer quick and convenient access for solids measurement and pumping, as well as for cleaning the effluent filter
• The rate at which sludge and scum build in the tank is being measured here. Make a note of this information with your expert pumper. Keep the tank clean by pumping solids out of it as necessary. Get both compartments of your septic tank pumped because most of them do. Additional information about pumping frequency can be found in the Cooperative Extension Service article AG-439-13, Septic Systems and Their Maintenance. Don’t put off having your tank pumped until your drainfield collapses. This may be too late to save the drainfield. It is said that an ounce of prevention is worth a pound of cure when it comes to septic systems.

Regulations and safeguards are necessary.

• Any system that includes a pump should be operated by a state-certified subsurface system operator. In the case of low pressure pipe (LPP) systems erected or repaired after July 1, 1992, as well as underground drip irrigation systems, aerobic treatment units (ATUs), peat biofilters, sand biofilters, textile biofilters, and other sophisticated systems, a permit will be required by law. Those interested in obtaining a list of state-certified subsurface system operators should contact the North Carolina Water Pollution Control System Certification Commission at 919-707-9089. Between planned maintenance visits, check to see that the pump and electrical components are still in proper operating order. Germs found in sewage have the potential to cause disease. Never go into a septic tank unless absolutely necessary. Toxic and explosive gases are present in the tank, posing a threat. Tanks that are more than a decade old may collapse. Electrical controls provide a risk of electric shock and sparking. Children should not be able to open the septic tank lid, hence it should be secured. Do not attempt to repair a malfunctioning system on your own time. Obtain a repair permit and employ a contractor with extensive expertise

For further information about septic systems, speak with an Extension agent in your county or the local public health agency. This paper is an updated version of a previous publication. It is with gratitude that we acknowledge Tom Konsler (Orange County Health Department), Deanna Osmond, Mitch Woodward, and Grace Lawrence (North Carolina Cooperative Extension) for their contributions to the document’s peer review, as well as Debra Ireland for her work on the document’s graphic design, layout, and editing.

Discrimination and harassment are prohibited at North Carolina Cooperative Extension, regardless of age, color, handicap, family and marital status, gender identity, national origin, political opinions, racism, religion, sex (including pregnancy), sexual orientation, or veteran status.

Septic Systems

• Consult your county Extension agent or the local health agency for further information about septic systems. In this publication, a previous version has been revised and updated. We would like to express our gratitude to Tom Konsler (Orange County Health Department), Deanna Osmond, Mitch Woodward, and Grace Lawrence (North Carolina Cooperative Extension) for their contributions to the document’s peer review, as well as to Debra Ireland for her graphic design, layout, and editing work on the document. Discrimination and harassment are prohibited at N.C. Cooperative Extension regardless of age, color, handicap, family and marital status, gender identity, national origin, political opinions, racism, religion, sex (including pregnancy), sexual orientation, or veteran status.

• Seek the services of an installation or inspector who is NC Certified and Orange County Registered. Locate a soil scientist who is licensed to practice. Obtain the services of a competent engineer for wastewater design
• Find a subsurface operator (open an excel spreadsheet and sort by county)
• Locate a septic tank pumper (open an excel spreadsheet with septage companies and sort by county)

WTMP INSPECTIONS

Make an appointment for your WTMP inspection HERE.

Other Septic System Links

• On-Site Water Protection from the North Carolina Division of Environmental Health
• Septic Smart from the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA)
• General Operation and Maintenance publications
• And Septic Smart from the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA).

• In addition to the On-Site Water Protection publication from the North Carolina Division of Environmental Health, Septic Smart from the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) is available, as are publications on general operation and maintenance.

Contractor Resources

• Register for the Annual Installers Workshop in 2022
• Draft Installers Handbook in 2021
• And more.

FAQ about Septic Systems

What is the recommended frequency of septic tank pumping? A septic tank should be pumped out on a regular basis to ensure that the system is operating correctly. Pumping frequency is determined by the volume of sewage generated by the household as well as its population size and tank capacity. In general, a septic tank should be examined every 5 years to determine whether or not it requires pumping. More information may be found on the Septic Systems and Maintenance page maintained by North Carolina State University.

• A septic system should be inspected at least once every five years to see whether the septic tank needs to be pumped and whether there are any other operating issues.
• You should contact our office to have someone come out and inspect the system if you feel there is an issue, such as damp patches in that region of your yard, sluggish draining plumbing, or sewage stench.
• To keep your septic system in good working order, you should save water, avoid flushing chemicals or grease down the drain, keep the ground cover over the drain field in good condition, and have the tank inspected every five years.
• What permissions are required for the construction of a house?

• Improvement Permission: This is a permit that is provided for areas that have soil that is suitable for the installation of a sewage treatment system. Some of the properties that have recently been subdivided have already been granted with an upgrade permit. To obtain a copy of the improvement permit, please contact our office. Installation of Septic System: The construction authorization permit, which is required prior to the issuance of a building permit, authorizes the installation of the septic system. A construction permit application must be submitted with a floor plan of the building and a site plan of the land in order to be approved for construction. Water Well Permission: If your property does not have access to public water, you will also need to apply for a well permit.

What if I already have a property that I wish to renovate or expand? What should I do? The Existing System Authorization is required if you are not expanding the number of bedrooms in your home and the addition does not intrude on your septic system or well. To be considered, you will need to submit an application as well as floor plans and a site plan. Our office will conduct a site inspection and, if there are no issues, will grant the authorisation prior to the issuance of the construction permit.

• Please consult with a member of our team in order to make this judgment.
• In septic systems, the term “conventional septic system” refers to the type of drain field used.
• An underground drain field is made out of a trench filled with gravel and a pipe or some other material that allows the liquid from a septic tank to seep into the surrounding soil.
• The size of a septic system is determined by the number of bedrooms in a residence.
• To extend the size of your home from a three-bedroom to a four- or five-bedroom home on a site that already has a permit for a three-bedroom home, you will need to apply for a new improvement permit and building permission, as well as a new septic system.
• A typical 4-bedroom septic system and repair area will require around 1/4 to 1/3 of an acre of appropriate soil for installation and maintenance.
• Repair areas are areas of appropriate soil that are set aside in case the original drainfield fails for a variety of reasons.
• While one drainfield is hard at work, the other is taking a well-deserved break and rejuvenating.
• What kinds of trees may I plant in the vicinity of the septic tank?
• Planting trees near the drain field area is not encouraged, although it is an option available to property owners.
• A common misconception is that most modern drain fields have just 6 to 12 inches of back fill over them, and that planting trees too near to or on top of the drain line may cause harm to the pipe and trench.

If trees are to be planted near the drain field, it is best to avoid planting species that are known to have problematic roots in the soil. These are some of the species:

• Elms, maples, sweet gum, and willows are examples of trees having fibrous roots.

North Carolina Onsite Wastewater Contractor Inspector Certification Board (NCOWCICB)

QUESTION:Is it permissible for a homeowner to establish his or her own security system? ANSWER:A homeowner may build a system on a property that will be used as his or her principal house as long as the system is gravity fed, pipe and gravel system, and the homeowner is limited to installing no more than two systems in a five-year period. INQUIRY: Does holding a subsurface operators license relieve me of the requirement to hold an inspector license? The answer is negative, just as an inspector cannot run the system with just an inspector license, an operator cannot inspect the system with only an operator license, and vice versa.

ANSWER:At the moment, tests are required for grade levels III, IV, Combo, and Inspector.

Answer: A single septic tank with a conventional (gravel) gravity system is installed.

Multiple tanks, grease traps, a single pump or single siphon, a fill system, a sand-lined trench, and any other acceptable gravity or single pump dispersal system that is not specified in Grade Level III or Grade Level IV are all included in Grade Level I plus the following: If I have a grade level III certification, what sort of system am I allowed to install?

1. If I have a grade level IV certification, what sort of system am I allowed to install?
2. QUESTION: What are the criteria for continuing education for each grade level in your school?
3. Grade levels I and II require 3 hours of education, Grade levels III and IV require 6 hours, and Grade levels V and VI require 6 hours of education.
4. ANSWER:No, the fee paid to the NCOWCICB is only for the purpose of certification.

Graham County Health Dept, NC

The following information must be given before a property lot may be examined for a septic permit:

• The existence of any easements or rights of way on the land
• The position of the driveway has been indicated
• Formalizedseptic application by visiting the Environmental Health office or submitting an online form
• Fees related with permissions are shown in full below. Existing septic systems on the site and their locations
• The location of existing wells or springs on the land of adjoining parcels, as well as their condition. The location of any future constructions or modifications to the land will be considered. Property borders must be clearly delineated on the premises
• The proposed placement and size of the home on the property
• Please provide a survey plat or a site plan
• The location must be reasonably accessible.

On the land, any easements or rights of way; Indicated where the driveway is to be; Comprehensive a complete septic application by contacting the Environmental Health office or submitting an online application; Permit costs are detailed in the following table: Existing septic systems on the site and their location; The location of existing wells or springs on the property of adjoining properties, if any.

the proposed location of any future constructions or enhancements to the land; There must be a suitable marking of property borders on the premises; The proposed placement and size of the home on the property; Please provide a survey plat or a site plan; the location should be easily accessible.

Setback Requirements for Septic Systems

On the land, any easement or right of way; The position of the driveway has been indicated. Fill out a complete septic application by contacting the Environmental Health office or submitting an online application; Fees related with permissions are listed in detail below. On-property location of existing septic systems; On nearby parcels, the location of existing wells or springs; The location of any future constructions or upgrades to the property; Property lines must be clearly delineated on the ground; The proposed placement and size of a home on the property; Provide a survey plat or a site plan; the location must be conveniently accessible;

• Any property line is 10 feet away, any water line is 10 feet away, any interceptor drain is 10 feet upslope or 25 feet downslope, and any class I or II impounded reservoir utilized as a source of drinking water is 100 feet away from the typical high water line is 10 feet away. It must be at least 100 feet from any private or public water supply source, as well as 15 feet from any basement, 15 feet from any swimming pool, 15 feet from the top of any embankment or cut with a vertical height of two feet or greater, and 20 feet from any other nitrification field. It is necessary to keep 25 feet away from ground water lowering and surface drainage ditches, as well as 5 feet away from any building foundation (including a deck), 50 feet away from all streams, canals, marshes, and coastal waters, and 50 feet from the normal high water line of any other lake or impoundment.

Resources

.1900 Rules and Regulations

Septic and Wastewater Management FAQs

The Accessory Structure Permitting (ASP) process for Wake County Environmental Services is designed to ensure that any proposed house additions, decks, pools, sheds, storage buildings, garages, patios, trenching, or other work will not negatively impact the existing septic system, repair area, or well, if one is already in place. The ASP procedure evaluates any extension project that extends beyond the footprint of a residential building’s existing structure. The applicant is required to submit an application for a construction permit in the jurisdiction in which the property is situated.

The application for a Wastewater ASP must be submitted through the permit portal if the project falls within the authority of a local municipality in order to begin the evaluation process.

According to the State of North Carolina wastewater and well laws and guidelines, as well as Wake County wastewater and well regulations, the site design will be examined for environmental compliance.

In the event that a site visit is necessary, the applicant must have all utilities found and the $200 site visit fee paid prior to the site visit.

Septic System Use and Maintenance ​

The proper maintenance of the complete septic system is essential for the efficient treatment and disposal of residential sewage. A system that has been correctly sited and installed can provide reliable service for many years if it is used appropriately and maintained properly over time. The fact that a traditional septic system has no moving parts and therefore does not require weekly or monthly maintenance should not be overlooked. However, there are certain fundamental maintenance rules that should be followed.

1. Reduce your water consumption to a bare minimum. 4.Ensure that there is enough site drainage. 5. Pump the septic tank on a regular basis
2. Maintain adequate landscaping around the system
3. And inspect the septic system after each pumping. Sound garbage disposal techniques should be followed.

Septic systems are planned and approved depending on the amount of wastewater that may be produced in a single day. It is critical that the design flow of a septic system is not exceeded under any circumstances.

Reducing the quantity of wastewater that enters a septic system is one of the most straightforward and vital things that homeowners can do to extend the life of their septic system. Some suggestions for minimizing the quantity of wastewater you create are as follows:

• Fix dripping faucets and leaking toilets as soon as possible. Showers should be brief, and the amount of water used for baths should be reduced. Reduce the quantity of water that is utilized for toilet flushing and other household activities. The amount of water required to fill the toilet tank is reduced when an object is placed in the toilet’s water closet for the toilet. Dishwashers and washing machines should only be used when they are completely loaded. To avoid overflowing the drainfield, spread out your clothes washing throughout the course of the week
• Turn off the water while shaving, brushing your teeth, cleaning dishes, and so forth. Install water-saving faucets and showerheads to conserve water. When purchasing new appliances, look for ones that include water-saving features. Prevent the entry of backwash from water treatment equipment, water softeners, and HVAC condensate lines into the septic system
• And Family members, particularly youngsters, should be educated on water conservation techniques.

The primary purpose of a septic tank is to remove particles from entering wastewater by settling them in the tank. Over time, these sediments will collect at the bottom of the tank and cause it to overflow (sludge). If the solids are not collected on a regular basis, they will continue to build up inside the septic tank until it is completely depleted. The collection of these particles shortens the retention period for wastewater entering the tank while simultaneously increasing the likelihood that solids will depart the tank during the retention time.

• Regular septic tank pumping is one of the most common causes of septic system damage, and failure to do so is one of the most common reasons of system failure.
• When the tank is pumped out on a regular basis, the significant price of creating a new drainfield can be avoided or postponed.
• Telephone directories provide listings for companies that pump septic tanks on their pages.
• It is advised that various pumping cost estimates be acquired prior to awarding the contract to complete the task.

​Tank Size (gallons)

​ Number of Persons using the septic system

Given that your septic tank will need to be opened in order to be pumped, now is an excellent opportunity to do a visual assessment of your whole septic system. Cracks, leaks, and any other apparent symptoms of damage to the septic tank should be looked for and repaired. The plumbing lines should be checked for leaks and obstructions, as well as watertight seals. Each time the tank is pumped, the effluent filter (which was installed on systems installed after 1999) should be removed and cleaned.

1. The distribution box should also be checked for evidence of damage such as shifting or other symptoms of wear and tear.
2. In addition, a visual inspection of the drainfield region should be performed.
3. It is critical that the drainfield drains properly in order for the earth to absorb wastewater properly.
4. It is possible to enhance site drainage by rerouting gutters and downspouts away from the septic tank and the drainfield.
5. Improvements such as the installation of french drains, interceptor drains, swales, and berms are examples of what may be done to enhance drainage.
6. In order to minimize soil erosion, it is necessary to maintain a healthy grass cover over the drainfield.
7. The installation of an irrigation system in the vicinity of a septic drainfield is severely opposed by the EPA.
8. Construction of constructions, sheds, swimming pools, patios, or paved surfaces over the septic tank or drainfield area is strictly prohibited.
9. Septic systems are intended for the disposal of human bodily wastes as well as the water used for laundry, dishwashing, and bathing.
10. It is also recommended to avoid using a trash disposal in the kitchen sink if the septic system was not initially intended to accept one.
11. When using the septic system on a daily basis, it is important to take the necessary safeguards.

Please keep in mind that everything that goes down the drain or is flushed down the toilet eventually ends up in the septic tank. The following compounds should not be flushed down the toilet or disposed of through the plumbing system in the home:

• Coffee grounds, dental floss, disposable diapers, cat litter, sanitary napkins, cigarette butts, and plastics are all examples of waste. Tissues of the face
• Towels made of paper
• Bulky wastes
• Fat, grease, or oil
• And household hazardous wastes are all examples of waste that should be avoided.

According on the kind of septic system that has been built and/or the geography of your property, an effluent pump may be necessary to transport wastewater to the drainfield. If your system is equipped with a pump, you should be aware of the following:

• The effluent pump is housed in a separate pump tank for convenience. A control panel or junction box, as well as an audible alert, will be included in the pump system. All of these components can be installed near the pump tank, within the house, or in the crawl space area. The pump is automatically controlled by float devices that switch the pump on and off when the water level in the tank drops. There should be no need to operate the pump manually
• The pump should be equipped with an audible high water alert that will ring if there is a problem with the pump. Once you’ve heard the alarm, you’ll be able to turn it off manually. This will NOT make the problem go away. Because the pump tank has a limited storage capacity, you should utilize water carefully and contact a septic repair provider as soon as possible to identify and remedy the problem. It is possible that sewage will back up into the house or surface on the ground around the pump tank if this problem is not addressed. North Carolina law requires that certain types of septic systems with effluent pumps have a maintenance contract in place between the system owner and a licensed management organization. The local health agency is also in charge of undertaking periodic inspections of systems that use effluent pumps to ensure that they are operating properly. A price is charged for each of the services listed above. Septic systems that have been approved by the health department are recorded in the agency’s records. Information contained in these files contains, among other things, the size of the septic tank and drainfield, the placement of system components, and any repairs or adjustments that have been done to the original system. Our office may be reached at 980-314-1680 if you have any particular inquiries concerning your septic system.

Septic System (Wastewater Disposal)

This pump is positioned in a separate pump tank from the rest of the equipment. In addition to a control panel or junction box, the pump system will contain an audio warning system. It is possible to put these components near to the pump tank, within the house, or in the crawl space region; the pump is automatically controlled by float devices that switch the pump on and off at the appropriate times. Manual operation of the pump is not necessary; nevertheless, if there is a problem with the pump, an audible high water warning should ring, alerting the homeowner.

• Neither of these options will resolve the issue.
• It is possible that sewage will back up into the house or surface on the ground around the pump tank if this problem is not addressed.
• System with effluent pumps must also be inspected on a regular basis, and this is the responsibility of the local health department.
• Septic systems that have been approved by the health department are recorded in the department’s database.
• In the event that you have particular questions concerning your septic system, please call our office at 980-314-1680.

North Carolina Department of HealthHuman Services Regulations

The North Carolina Department of Health and Human Services is in charge of environmental health regulations in the state (DHHS). Environmental Health maintains the Department of Health and Human Services’ laws on a local level by ensuring that human waste is disposed of through permitted wastewater systems. All houses, places of business, and places of public assembly must be equipped with wastewater systems that have been authorized.

Procedures

The property owner (or his or her authorized representative) is responsible for completing an application and preparing the property for evaluation. Upon completion of the application and site preparation, an Environmental Health Specialist will visit the site and conduct a site review to evaluate whether or not the location is suitable for a wastewater treatment system. The Scope of the Evaluation The following six major elements are considered:

• Space available
• Horizons with restrictions
• Soil properties
• Soil depth
• Soil moisture
• Topography and landscape location

It is recommended that a daily wastewater flow and soil criterion be used in the design of the wastewater system. When designing a residential system, the planned daily wastewater flow is determined by the number of bedrooms and/or the number of occupants in the home. Non-residential flows are determined by a variety of parameters, including the square footage of the building, the number of hours it is in use, the number of employees, and the maximum occupancy.

It is necessary to have the wastewater system designs assessed and authorized by DENR engineers if the design flow is larger than 3000 gallons per day. The results of the site evaluation will be sent to the property owner following the completion of the evaluation.

Reuse of Existing Septic Systems

After an existing wastewater system has been assessed and a permit has been obtained by an Environmental Health Specialist, it cannot be put back into service. A current system permit must be obtained before electrical service may be supplied (or reconnected) to any structure in North Carolina, according to the state’s general statutes. As an additional requirement for mobile homes, if the home has been detached from the wastewater system, it is necessary to get a permit for the site’s existing wastewater system before another home may be transported there.

Final Wastewater System Approval

Following completion of a wastewater system’s construction, an Environmental Health Specialist will conduct a final inspection to verify whether or not the system has been installed in conformity with applicable state laws, regulations, and permit conditions.

Complaints for Wastewater

If you have a complaint about wastewater (failed systems, unlawful sink and washer drains, etc.), you can register it with the Environmental Health department. To file a complaint, the complainant must include his or her name and a valid telephone number. Each complaint will be investigated by a certified Environmental Health Specialist. A violation notice is given to the owner of the property where the infraction has been noticed. The infringement is not repaired within a certain time frame and legal action is initiated against the violator.

Complaint Investigation

Consumer complaints against food and/or lodging businesses are investigated by the Environmental Health Division of the Department of Public Health.

Septic System Program – AppHealthCare

Detailed information on the services provided by our department, as well as the application procedure necessary for each, may be found on the instruction sheets that are included with the application. There is a distinct permission procedure for each sort of construction project, whether it is a new construction, an extension, a reuse project, or a repair project. Please read the application instructions completely, and if you have any problems, please do not hesitate to contact the health department.

New Construction

For any new septic system construction, make sure to follow the instructions in the application packet. This booklet outlines all of the processes needed in submitting an application for a new septic system. Before submitting an application, it is critical that all of the processes have been thoroughly thought out and accomplished. This will substantially aid in the expediting of the procedure.

Expansion of an Existing System

When making improvements to a facility, such as adding a bedroom to a house or expanding the number of employees in a business, the design capacity of the septic system is often the limiting issue. For example, if the original septic system was intended to handle a three-bedroom house and the owners desire to add a fourth bedroom, an extension of the current septic system will be necessary to meet the additional bedrooms. The application procedure for an expansion is quite similar to the application process for a new building project in most respects.

It will be easier to locate each of them if the original licenses granted by this agency are retained, as would any descriptions of soil conditions on the land.

When planning an extension of any facility, our office recommended that a copy of the Operation Permit be obtained so that the septic system may be taken into consideration during the design stage.

Although it is not always essential, it may be important for this department to inspect the site before any holes are dug on the property in order to prevent the current septic system from being disrupted.

Reuse of Existing Systems

Recycling an existing system, such as replacing an old mobile house with a new mobile home, is an example of system repurposing.

• Our department should be able to assist you in locating the original permit. In order to do so, the applicant must determine the year the system was established as well as the name under which the septic system was installed. However, in other situations, the permit number will suffice
• However, the applicant must first identify the size and location of the new construction that will be linked to the existing septic system
• And then apply for the permission. The location of the planned construction on the site must be marked with stakes
• The septic tank must be identified, exposed, and drained out. This will allow our staff to check the tank’s condition and make any necessary improvements if they determine that they are necessary. As soon as the tank has been drained out, it is best to arrange an examination of the septic tank and drain field to ensure that there are no problems. This is done in order to avoid having to pump out the tank more than once.

Repairing a Failing System

In most cases, a malfunctioning septic system is not something that most people want to deal with for an extended period of time. Slow drains from the toilet, shower, or sink located in the part of the dwelling closest to the septic tank may be the first signs of a problem. In most cases, this symptom arises during periods of heavy water use and might be resolved by having the septic tank drained out and the effluent filter thoroughly cleaned. If this occurs, the first thing our department will propose is that the tank be pumped completely.

• In reality, all tanks should be emptied every three to five years, depending on their age.
• If this is the case, it is likely that the problem may be resolved quickly; for example, by repairing a leaking shower or toilet or by adjusting the distribution box.
• There are a variety of reasons for a system to fail, and discovering which one is the cause might take considerable time and effort.
• Permits are required for any work performed on an on-site septic system, even if the system is in poor working order.
• It is possible that some work will be required in order to locate historical permits and property lines.

Types of Septic Systems

Septic system design and size can differ significantly from one neighborhood to the next, as well as throughout the country, due to a variety of variables. Household size, soil type, slope of the site, lot size, closeness to sensitive water bodies, weather conditions, and even municipal ordinances are all considerations to take into consideration. The following are 10 of the most often encountered septic system configurations. It should be noted that this is not an exhaustive list; there are several additional types of septic systems.

• Septic Tank
• Septic System System that is often used
• System of Chambers
• Drip Distribution System (also known as a drip distribution system)
• Unit for Aerobic Treatment
• System of mounds
• System with recirculating sand filtering
• A system for evapotranspiration
• Wetland System that has been constructed
• System of Clusters and Communities

Septic Tank

This tank is underground and waterproof, and it was designed and built specifically for receiving and partially treating raw home sanitary wastewater. Generally speaking, heavy materials settle at or near the bottom of the tank, whereas greases and lighter solids float to the surface. The sediments are retained in the tank, while the wastewater is sent to the drainfield for further treatment and dispersion once it has been treated.

Conventional System

Septic tanks and trench or bed subsurface wastewater infiltration systems are two types of decentralized wastewater treatment systems (drainfield). When it comes to single-family homes and small businesses, a traditional septic system is the most common type of system. For decades, people have used a gravel/stone drainfield as a method of water drainage. The term is derived from the process of constructing the drainfield. A short underground trench made of stone or gravel collects wastewater from the septic tank in this configuration, which is commonly used.

Effluent filters through the stone and is further cleaned by microorganisms once it reaches the soil below the gravel/stone trench, which is located below the trench.

In terms of total footprint, gravel and stone systems are very substantial, and therefore may not be appropriate for all residential sites or situations.

Chamber System

Gravelless drainfields have been regularly utilized in various states for more than 30 years and have evolved into a standard technology that has mostly replaced gravel systems. Various configurations are possible, including open-bottom chambers, pipe that has been clothed, and synthetic materials such as expanded polystyrene media. Gravelless systems can be constructed entirely of recycled materials, resulting in considerable reductions in carbon dioxide emissions during their lifetime. The chamber system is a type of gravelless system that can be used as an example.

• The key advantage of the chamber system is the enhanced simplicity with which it can be delivered and built.
• This sort of system is made up of a number of chambers that are connected to one another.
• Wastewater is transported from the septic tank to the chambers through pipes.
• The wastewater is treated by microbes that live on or near the soil.

Drip Distribution System

An effluent dispersal system such as the drip distribution system may be employed in a variety of drainfield configurations and is very versatile. In comparison to other distribution systems, the drip distribution system does not require a vast mound of dirt because the drip laterals are only placed into the top 6 to 12 inches of soil. In addition to requiring a big dosage tank after the sewage treatment plant to handle scheduled dose delivery of wastewater to drip absorption areas, the drip distribution system has one major disadvantage: it is more expensive.

Aerobic Treatment Unit

Aerobic Treatment Units (ATUs) are small-scale wastewater treatment facilities that employ many of the same procedures as a municipal sewage plant. An aerobic system adds oxygen to the treatment tank using a pump. When there is an increase in oxygen in the system, there is an increase in natural bacterial activity, which then offers extra treatment for nutrients in the effluent. It is possible that certain aerobic systems may additionally include a pretreatment tank as well as a final treatment tank that will include disinfection in order to further lower pathogen levels.

ATUs should be maintained on a regular basis during their service life.

Mound Systems

Using mound systems in regions with short soil depth, high groundwater levels, or shallow bedrock might be a good alternative. A drainfield trench has been dug through the sand mound that was erected. The effluent from the septic tank runs into a pump chamber, where it is pumped to the mound in the amounts recommended. During its release to the trench, the effluent filters through the sand and is dispersed into the native soil, where it continues to be treated. However, while mound systems can be an effective solution for some soil conditions, they demand a significant amount of land and require regular care.

Recirculating Sand Filter System

Sand filter systems can be built either above or below ground, depending on the use. The effluent is discharged from the septic tank into a pump compartment. Afterwards, it is pushed into the sand filter. The sand filter is often made of PVC or a concrete box that is filled with a sand-like substance. The effluent is pushed through the pipes at the top of the filter under low pressure to the drain. As the effluent exits the pipelines, it is treated as it passes through the sand filtering system.

However, sand filters are more costly than a standard septic system because they provide a higher level of nutrient treatment and are thus better suited for areas with high water tables or that are adjacent to bodies of water.

Evapotranspiration System

Evaporative cooling systems feature drainfields that are one-of-a-kind. It is necessary to line the drainfield at the base of the evapotranspiration system with a waterproof material. Following the entry of the effluent into the drainfield, it evaporates into the atmosphere. At the same time, the sewage never filters into the soil and never enters groundwater, unlike other septic system designs. It is only in particular climatic circumstances that evapotranspiration systems are effective. The environment must be desert, with plenty of heat and sunshine, and no precipitation.

Constructed Wetland System

Construction of a manufactured wetland is intended to simulate the treatment processes that occur in natural wetland areas. Wastewater goes from the septic tank and into the wetland cell, where it is treated. Afterwards, the wastewater goes into the media, where it is cleaned by microorganisms, plants, and other media that eliminate pathogens and nutrients. Typically, a wetland cell is constructed with an impermeable liner, gravel and sand fill, and the necessary wetland plants, all of which must be capable of withstanding the constant saturation of the surrounding environment.

The operation of a wetland system can be accomplished by either gravity flow or pressure distribution. As wastewater travels through the wetland, it may escape the wetland and flow onto a drainfield, where it will undergo more wastewater treatment before being absorbed into the soil by bacteria.

Cluster / Community System

Construction of a manmade wetland is designed to imitate the treatment processes that occur naturally in wetland areas. Wastewater is discharged from the septic tank into the wetland cell. Afterwards, the wastewater goes into the media, where it is cleaned by microorganisms, plants, and other media, which remove pathogens and nutrients. The wetland cell is normally comprised of an impermeable liner, gravel and sand fill, and the required wetland plants, all of which must be able to thrive in a constantly flooded environment in order to function properly.

In other cases, wastewater may depart the wetland and flow onto a drainfield, where it will be treated further before being absorbed into the soil.

Central Permitting: Frequently Asked Questions

In Central Permitting we are dedicated to providing the best customer service available. Use this questionanswer sheet to help guide you through the permit process. Instruction sheets are available on our webiste under InformationHow To. If you have further questions, please call Central Permitting at 910-893-7525 option 1.

• What if I am building a house in Harnett County that has or requires a septic tank
• What if I am building my house in Lillington, Angier, Coats, Dunn, or Erwin
• What if I want to move a manufactured home in Harnett County
• What if I want a septic system installed or inspected
• What if I want County sewer or water
• And what if I want to move a manufactured home in Harnett County?

Q What if I am building a house that has or needs a septic tank in Harnett County zoning? A A. I must complete a residential land use application and a septic check list application and bring it in with a proposed site plan and deed or offer to purchase.(seeResidentialLandUse Application under Central Permitting Applications) B. I must submit my building plans for review by the Building Codes Administrator.(see New Home Instruction Sheet under InformationHow To) C.

A A.

I must apply for a septic system inspection by submitting a proposed site plan to Central Permitting with the required letter/zoning permit and complete the necessary Municipalities Application.(see Application for Permits in Town Zoning under Central Permitting Applications).C.

I must get building permits from Angier, Dunn, Lillington or Erwin municipalities after obtaining my septic permit through Central Permitting.

A A.

I must apply for a Setup permit by bringing in my setup application completed by all of my contractors.(see Manufactured Home Setup Application).C.

If buying from an individual, I must provide a moving permit from the county the home is being moved from.

I must purchase permits for the home after everything is approved.

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Q What if I want a septic system installed or inspected?

I must complete the residential land use application or the municipalities application and also complete a septic check list.(see Central Permitting Applications).B.

A A.

If I am in Angier, Dunn, Lillington, or Erwin zoning, take a copy of the plumbing permit from the town directly to Public Utilities to purchase the tap there.

I must complete a Harnett County Residential Water/Sewer User Agreement application and bring it in with a deed or offer to purchase and a copy of my drivers license to purchase the tap at Central Permitting if water is available to the parcel.

(seePublic Utilitiessection for application).