- A simple solution to this is to build a hybrid floating deck: using buried footings like a normal deck, but keeping them short and separate from the dwelling like a floating deck. This will give the appearance of a floating deck without forcing the soil above the septic tank to support additional weight.
Can you build a high deck over a septic tank?
You should never build a deck over a septic field; doing so will prevent the natural draining and dissipation of the effluent. This can ruin the septic system, not to mention releasing foul smells into the air all around your deck. The dissipating effluent can also rot the deck from underneath.
Can you build over a septic tank?
Building over septic tanks It is never recommended to build a structure over any portion of your septic system. No permanent structures should be built over any portion of the system, but at least in this case the homeowner can pump out their septic tank.
How do you build a patio with a septic tank?
You can’t build a paver patio on top of a septic tank, and doing so could be against the planning laws of your state or local area. Septic tanks can take very little weight without getting damaged, and you’ll also need access to the tank in the future too. You shouldn’t build a deck on one either.
What is a floating deck?
A floating deck is a deck that isn’t attached to a building and they “float” above the ground. Generally, floating decks are low to the ground and don’t require handrails or even staircases. They are sometimes called “grade-level” or “freestanding” decks because they’re built just above the ground level, or grade.
Can you put anything over a drain field?
To maintain the integrity and longevity of your drainfield, you should never put anything heavy on top of any part of it. You shouldn’t even drive over the drainfield, as the vehicle can crush the drainfield lines. Heavy items cause soil compaction.
Can you build a deck over a water tank?
Yes. You sure can. This is a very common request. In fact, not only can you build a deck over a concrete patio, doing so provides a moisture barrier.
Can you put a concrete patio over a septic tank?
You should not build a patio over or near a septic tank. Septic tanks are not built to withstand the weight of a concrete slab or pavers and you risk damaging the tank or the waste lines. You should make sure there is a 5 foot distance between the edge of the septic tank and any heavy materials.
Can you put concrete around septic tank?
For many years, concrete has been the preferred material for septic tanks. However, concrete is a very heavy material. This creates higher costs when installing a septic system. The need for a bigger truck and a crane is only the beginning costs of working with concrete septic tanks.
What can you put over a septic tank?
Put plastic sheets, bark, gravel or other fill over the drainfield. Reshape or fill the ground surface over the drainfield and reserve area. However, just adding topsoil is generally OK if it isn’t more than a couple of inches. Make ponds on or near the septic system and the reserve area.
Can you put mulch over septic tank?
Gardens. Landscape fabric, plastic, bark, or mulch should not be used over your septic system. These materials reduce air exchange while bark and mulch also retain excess moisture. Adding more than a few inches of soil over the drainfield, such as for raised beds, limits air exchange and can lead to compaction.
Can you put hot tub over septic tank?
Installing a hot tub above septic components can cause significant damage, easily dislodging or even crushing the pipes in your septic drainfield.
Is a floating deck legal?
Most floating decks cannot be attached to your house. In Edmonton, Alberta, their research has shown that you can attach a floating deck to the house without damaging the house. Before you run out and start attaching a floating deck to your house check to see if the same rules apply to where you live.
Do floating decks need footings?
When it comes to floating decks, which are decks that are built very close to the ground, they don’t need any sort of footing. You can either use small concrete blocks and planks, or you can use a post that sets into a pre-formed hole.
Are Floating decks a good idea?
Yes, a floating deck is a good idea if the deck is low, not attached to the house or built close to trees. A floating deck will save you both time and money during construction. But a floating deck is a bad idea if the deck is tall or is attached to the house.
Can You Build Deck Over Septic Tank?
It is one of the most exciting and gratifying home remodeling tasks you can undertake to create an outside living space. A finished deck, no matter how complicated or basic, is a wonderful location to spend time with friends and family while also enjoying your house. What might put a kink in your deck-building plans, though, is the question of whether or not you can build a deck on top of a septic tank. Although it is possible to construct a deck over a septic tank, this does not automatically imply that it is a good idea.
Creating a deck over a septic tank requires careful planning and execution.
In this tutorial, you will study the fundamentals of construction.
Can You Build a Deck Over a Septic Tank?
It is feasible to construct a deck over a septic tank, but it is not necessarily a smart idea. There are a variety of factors that should cause you to stop before deciding to build your deck over a septic tank. Building a deck without disrupting your septic system is a difficult task, and you will need to be resourceful. However, it is not impossible or difficult; it simply takes more preparation and adjustment. Consider it a one-of-a-kind design challenge that will push you to be more creative and strategic in your planning!
Risks of Building Over a Septic Tank
The construction of a deck directly over the tank will make it difficult, if not impossible, to pump out the tank. The tank’s upkeep is extremely vital, and covering the tank with a wood framework makes that task much more difficult to complete. Every three to five years, your septic tank should be drained and emptied, and older tanks may require more frequent maintenance. This makes it unwise to construct a deck over a septic tank unless you are forced to do so by circumstance. It is also critical to preserve the septic lines and drain field in their original condition.
This liquid, which is referred to as effluent, drains out into the drain field and dissipates in the environment.
Guidelines for Building Decks Over Septic Tanks
Construction of a deck over a septic tank should be avoided wherever possible. If there is absolutely no other option, construct your deck as high as possible to provide yourself and service employees with plenty of space to work. Adding a trap door or hatch onto the deck directly will make pumping and emptying the tank much less of a headache in the long run. When designing your deck, make a note of the precise positions of your septic lines and drain field and mark them off with flags to ensure that you do not construct over them.
A map or diagram indicating the location of your property should be included if you have recently acquired your home or have the papers from inspections! If your house has an old, empty, or decommissioned septic tank that is no longer in service, it is necessary to have it removed and replaced.
Deck Over Septic Tank: Footings and Framing
If you want to build a deck over a septic tank, you should be aware that each deck footing must be at least 5-10 feet away from the septic tank at all times, depending on where you live in the world. However, doing so may result in the footings being too widely apart to allow for the construction of a structurally sound deck that complies with code. Decks that are too widely apart will droop, and they won’t survive more than a few of years if the footings are placed too far apart. If you discover that your deck layout necessitates the placement of footings that are too far apart, you might want to consider framing the deck with steel rather than wood.
How Big Is a Septic Tank?
Septic tanks are available in a variety of sizes depending on the size of the residence; for example, a two-bedroom ranch will have a significantly smaller tank than a six-bedroom country estate. The Environmental Protection Agency advises sizing the septic tank depending on the number of users and the size of the home, as well as the amount of water that will be used. The usual size of a septic tank is between 750 and 1250 gallons in capacity. This is enough to allow the tank to filter and treat a few years’ worth of water and waste before it has to be replaced.
Tanks extend approximately one foot in each direction for every 250 gallons that the capacity required rises.
How Deep Are Septic Tanks Buried?
Contrary to popular opinion, septic tanks are not buried particularly deeply in the ground, as is commonly assumed. Septic tanks that are dug too deeply might be cracked or collapsed by soil weight, causing the effluent to leak and soak into the soil around the tank rather than draining into the drainage field. The majority of septic tanks are buried between 4 inches and 4 feet below ground level. This is dependent on the kind of soil, the slope of the yard, the tank design, and a variety of other factors.
This will assist you in avoiding the placement of deck footings in areas where they might cause harm.
Rules and Codes Regarding Septic Tanks
Before you begin construction on your deck, you should research the building rules in your area that pertain to septic tanks. Construction of a floating deck over an existing septic tank is permitted in some locations. In others, it is prohibited, and violating the law can result in penalties and the removal of the deck. Septic tanks, drain lines, and drain field must be positioned at least 10 feet away from building slabs, roadways, decks, and other buildings in some jurisdictions, such as Ohio.
You will never be permitted to build over septic lines or drain fields; these regulations are only applicable to construction near tanks.
Constructing over lines and fields is a disaster waiting to happen; you should never contemplate building over the lines or drainage field of your septic system! These rules do not apply in this case.
How Close Can a Deck Be to a Septic Tank?
If possible, the footings of the deck should be at least 5-10 feet away from the tank at all times, depending on where you reside. This might result in the deck’s size being reduced or increased in order to fit these regulations. You may use this site to gather information on septic systems at the state level. Consult your local building codes or chat with a professional plumbing contractor or house inspector to have a better understanding! If your municipality permits footings closer than 5 feet to the tank, it is still advisable to maintain the deck footings at least five feet away from the tank.
Can You Build a Floating Deck Over a Septic Tank?
The construction of floating decks, which are essentially free-standing wooden platforms that are placed at or slightly above grade, should not take place over an existing septic tank. The weight of the deck on the supports might cause the septic system’s ability to properly process and drain waste to become displaced and disrupted. It is possible that you may become the proud owner of the stinkiest floating deck in the city if you ignore this warning. Construction of a hybrid floating deck, which uses underground footings similar to that of a traditional deck while remaining short and distinct from the home, is a straightforward option.
Can You Build a Deck Over a Septic Field?
It is never recommended to construct a deck over a septic field. In order for sewage to flow out into the groundwater or evaporate into the air, septic fields must be built to allow for this. When you disturb the septic field, it causes backup, which causes the ground to become murky with tainted wastewater. The stink and look will be quite visible, and it is possible that the entire septic system will need to be repaired. Even if you are planning to construct on top of an existing septic field, you should properly evaluate the soil to ensure that it is no longer dripping with water.
What Can You Put Over a Septic Tank?
Septic tanks cannot be immediately overtopped except for decks or pergolas that are built on footings more than five feet away from the tank’s inlet and outlet. In addition to septic system components such as concrete slabs, foundations, and shrubs, other constructions can have a negative impact on the system’s health and performance.
Conclusion
It might be difficult to construct a deck over a septic tank. It is feasible, but it is not always a sensible decision. Even if you decide to create the deck, there are a number of considerations to bear in mind. Before you begin construction on a deck over a septic tank, conduct thorough study and planning, and always keep the septic system in mind. Have you ever constructed a structure over a septic tank? Do you have any further questions concerning your forthcoming deck project? Please let us know.
Feel free to share your ideas in the comments area below. Eugene has been a DIY fanatic for the most of his life, and he enjoys being creative while also motivating others to be creative. He has a strong desire to learn about house remodeling, renovation, and carpentry from the ground up.
Can You Build a Deck Over a Septic Tank?
Previously, we explained how to construct a deck over a manhole or drain; but, what about constructing the same structure over an onsite septic tank? The ability to provide space for a manhole cover or a drain, or to construct an easily accessible hatch, is one thing; but, what does the code say about building a deck on top of a septic tank? In the event that you have a septic tank in your backyard, you may have a slew of questions running through your head at any given time. Is it possible to construct a deck over a septic tank?
What, if any, threats does it provide, and what should you do if you have no choice but to construct it there?
What Is a Septic Tank?
Previously, we explained how to construct a deck over a manhole or drain; but, what about constructing the same structure over an aquifer? The ability to provide space for a manhole cover or a drain, or to construct an easily accessible hatch, is one thing; but, what does the code say about putting a deck over an underground septic tank? If you have a septic tank in your backyard, you may have a slew of questions on your mind. Here are some answers. A deck can be built on top of an existing wastewater treatment system (sewage treatment system).
Are there any hazards associated with it, if any, and what should you do if you really had to put one there?
Dangers of Building Over a Septic Tank
The risks associated with septic tanks may be separated into two categories: those associated with inadvertently puncturing the tank or its pipes, and those associated with not doing so. Unlike the latter, the former are active threats, whilst the latter are passive threats. In spite of technical advancements, it is critical to remember that septic tanks pose a threat to human health and will most likely continue to do so in the foreseeable future. As a consequence of the sewage gases that have been trapped within the structure, notably carbon monoxide (which is produced as a result of bacteria eating organic materials), it is potentially dangerous to humans.
After 15 to 40 years of use, the average lifespan of a septic tank is reached, at which point the tank begins to degrade.
These infections are typically not restricted to a single individual and have the potential to spread to everyone in the vicinity.
Can You Build a Deck Over a Septic Tank?
With the exception of the hole around the perimeter of the septic tank, In the event that you must construct a deck on posts or bricks, we propose that you construct a floating deck, as we discussed in our earlier article. However, this is only applicable to the construction of a deck over a septic TANK, not a drain field or other drainage system. This is due to the fact that the drain field is immediately absorbing water from the tank. Although the water has been treated, this does not imply that it is fully safe.
Furthermore, floating decks lessen the likelihood of someone falling into the tank in the event that a deck board fails to support it. Keep in mind to plan for the worst-case scenario.
Can You Build a Deck Over a Septic Field?
Image courtesy of Eric Vega/E+/Getty Images & Images.
In This Article
- What a Septic Field Does
- How a Septic Field Works with Structures
- What Kind of Plants and Trees Are Appropriate for Septic Fields
- What Kind of Plants and Trees Should Be Avoided
You can enjoy the outdoors in complete comfort when you have a raised deck. If, on the other hand, the greatest location for a deck is directly over the septic field, you might reconsider your intentions for enhancing your property. An effective septic drain field requires exposure to sunlight and air movement to allow liquids to soak through the soil and evaporate into the atmosphere. In addition to interfering with the two tasks, a deck has the potential to reduce the lifespan of the septic system and drain field.
Tip
For a septic field to work correctly, it requires air movement and sunlight. A deck interferes with both, making that particular location an unsuitable location for a deck or any other construction. Septic systems are a type of sewage treatment and disposal system that is commonly seen in rural and semi-rural settings. It is necessary to transport all of the liquids and waste from the home into a tank. The solids sink to the bottom of the container and liquids disseminate into an aleach field, which is also known as a drain field or aleach field.
After flowing from the septic tank into the drain field, liquids slowly soak into the soil and evaporate into the air as they pass through the system.
Structures and Septic Fields
It is not advisable to build a deck or other building on top of a drain field. A deck provides protection from the sun and restricts air movement. Even if the supports are set with care between the leach lines, you run the chance of destroying the field, which is an expensive error that affects the entire household while the system is being fixed or replaced. An additional disadvantage of a deck is that it limits access to the septic system, which includes the concrete or polyethylene tank, which should be examined every three years and emptied every three to five years.
Because of the additional dirt in a raised bed and the base of a shed, there is a substantial amount of weight on the field, which can crush the pipes and cause evaporation to be impaired.
Plants Appropriate for Septic Fields
While constructing a deck or other structures to the property is not permitted due to the septic field’s design, creating a wildflower meadow or lawn is. Shallow-rooted grasses and flowers absorb moisture and nutrients from the leach lines, increasing the ability of the system to distribute the wastewater into the environment and reduce the amount of time it takes. Wildflowers such as native grasses and clover that attract butterflies and hummingbirds, as well as poppies and salvias, as well as a range of other flowers that attract butterflies and hummingbirds, improve the scenery while preventing human activity over the septic field.
Planting deeper-rooted plants, shrubs, and certain trees along the perimeter of the septic field is permissible as long as they are kept at least 10 feet away from the drainfield lines.
A root barrier should be installed to prevent root incursion, which can cause clogging and damage to the pipelines. Choose smaller bushes and flowers.
Plants and Trees to Avoid
Planting water-loving plants in close proximity to septic fields is discouraged. While the roots of most trees spread out to around twice the width of the canopy, the roots of willow trees seek find water to the extent that they spread out three to four times the average root spread of other species. Beech, elm, and red maple trees are among the other species that should not be planted near a septic system, according to the EPA. Planting a vegetable garden above drain lines is not recommended, even if the field is the sole sunny location in the environment.
Furthermore, avoid growing bulbs in the drain field, since this will need the digging of holes in the overlying soil.
Building Near and Over Septic Tanks
Posted on a regular basis In most cases, minimum setback rules imposed by the Texas Commission on Environmental Equality (TCEQ) preclude the building of a new residence from occuring over any point of an existing sewage disposal system. Foundations, pools, property lines, wells, and other structures must be kept at a certain distance from the septic tank and drainfield in order to meet these setback requirements. It is possible that some homeowners will install objects such as patio decks or house additions over their systems, whether by accident or design.
Building over septic tanks
Construction of a building over any section of your septic system is not recommended. The most typical issue we see is when someone wants to pump out their septic tank but is unsure of where their tank is situated on their property. Tanks hidden beneath a hardwood deck, pool patio, driveways, or even room extensions are not unusual for us to discover and investigate. The majority of the time, this occurs because the homeowner is uninformed of the tank’s location and/or does not have a plan in place for future tank maintenance.
Permanent buildings should not be constructed over any component of the system, but at the very least temporary structures should be constructed.
Building over drainfields
In order for the drainfield to function, water in the solids and some evapotranspiration must be absorbed. In order for bacteria in the soil beneath a drainfield to treat wastewater from a drainfield, the soil beneath the drainfield must have sufficient oxygen. In contrast, if a permanent structure is constructed over a drainfield, it can hinder the passage of oxygen into the soil as well as the evapotranspiration process. A significant danger of constructing a structure over a drainfield is the possibility of the lines collapsing.
Repairing or moving the drainfield may necessitate the installation of a completely new system, depending on the age of your system and the regulations of your local authority.
For more than 80 years, Van Delden Wastewater Systems has stood the test of time as the leading Wastewater System manufacturer.
Can you build a deck over a septic tank?
In most cases, it is not a good idea to construct a deck near or on top of an aseptic tank. You will be required to maintain a minimum of a 5′ setback from an underground septic system under most zoning regulations. In some cases, placing deck loads over a septic tank and installing frozen footings might cause damage to the tank and waste pipes. When building a carport or other slab foundation, it must be at least 10 feet from the septic tank and 10 feet from the leaching area. The deck’s concrete columns must be at least 5 feet away from the leaching area and must not interfere with the septic system.
In addition to the front axle, the vehicle must have one or more rear axles weighing 32,000 pounds (14,500 kg) apiece and being at least 14 feet (4.3 m) apart on the back axles.
It is not the case.
Can Patios, Decks, and Pavers Be Over A Septic Tank?
It is possible that this content contains affiliate links. It is possible that I will receive a commission if you make a purchase after clicking on an affiliate link. In addition, as an Amazon Associate, I receive a commission from qualifying orders. The topic of whether or not it is possible to build a patio over a septic tank is one that we receive frequently from homeowners. The practice of constructing directly on top of an existing septic field is not encouraged unless you have first sought permission from your local building department.
When constructing a structure on top of an existing septic system, things may and frequently do go wrong.
As a result, it is never used
Can You Build A Patio Over A Septic Tank?
When it comes to creating a patio, one of the most often asked questions is “can you build a patio over a septic field?” In the case of this question, the answer is no. For the simple reason that the weight of the concrete in the foundation will put too much pressure on your septic system, which can result in floods or a broken septic tank, it is necessary to do so. The weight tolerance of a septic tank or leach field is extremely low, and even a small amount of weight can cause the tank or leach field to fail.
However, if you already have a patio and want to expand it, there are several options available to you.
The weight will increase.
Can You Put Pavers Over A Septic Tank?
A septic tank should not be covered with pavers, and doing so may be a violation of your state or municipal construction rules, according to the EPA. Septic tanks are capable of withstanding just a little amount of weight without being harmed, and you’ll require access to the tank in the future. A septic tank is not designed to support a large amount of weight, and it can be destroyed if it is overloaded. Building a deck over the top of your septic tank may potentially cause issues in the future since you will need access to the tank in order to monitor or maintain it.
A septic system is a self-contained tank, and a drain field system is a system that is meant to treat domestic sewage. Tanks, pipelines, and absorption fields are among the components of this system. Building codes have particular standards that must be met.
Can You Build a Deck Over a Septic Field?
The construction of a deck on top of a septic field is not recommended since it will hinder the effluent from naturally draining and dispersing. This can cause damage to your septic system as well as the release of unpleasant aromas into the air around your deck area. It is possible that the evaporating wastewater will corrode the deck from below. There is nothing worse than spending time on a deck that smells like a sewer! Consider installing the deck over a part of your yard that isn’t currently being used for anything else if you have a septic field on your property.
It’s also important to remember to allow enough of space around your pipes and septic tank so that personnel may readily reach them if repair is necessary in the future.
Rules and Codes Regarding Septic Tanks
Construction around or on top of your septic tank should be done in accordance with local building codes, which should be checked before you begin work. The construction of a floating deck on top of a septic tank is permitted in some places. The practice is unlawful in some jurisdictions and can result in penalties and the removal of the deck. Depending on where you live, you may be required to have your septic tank, pipes, and drain field installed at least 10 feet away from building slabs, roadways, decks, and other buildings in Ohio.
These regulations apply not just to decks, but also to other forms of construction such as walls and trees, foundations, slabs, and other sorts of landscaping.
How Much Weight Can Go On Top of a Septic Tank?
Generally speaking, when it comes to an old-fashioned steel septic tank, the answer is “not much at all.” Modern septic tanks are often constructed of concrete, which makes them far more robust. Some versions have a “traffic rating” and axle weights, whereas others are just heavier. Most people, on the other hand, advise against parking on or driving across a septic tank in any situation. The collapse or partial collapse of a building or structure can create major accidents, resulting in significant harm to the driver, the car, the tank, and the surrounding environment.
If you are installing a new one, be certain that it is constructed of sturdy concrete and that it fits all of the requirements.
What Can You Put Over A Septic Tank?
Generally speaking, when it comes to an old-fashioned steel septic tank, the answer is “not much.” In most cases, modern septic tanks are constructed of concrete, making them far more robust. In addition to axle weights, certain models offer “traffic ratings.” Septic tanks should never be parked on or driven across, according to the bulk of the advise. Collapsing or partially collapsing structures can cause major accidents, leading in significant injuries to the driver, other passengers, and the tank.
Ensure that the one you are installing is built of sturdy concrete and that it adheres to all of the standards if you are replacing an existing one. The septic tank is an additional feature.
| Object | Yes | No |
|---|---|---|
| Patio | No | |
| Deck | No | |
| Pavers | No | |
| Gravel | No | |
| Plants | Yes | |
| Tarp | Yes | |
| Trees | No | |
| Flowers | Yes | |
| Driveways | No | |
| Grass | Yes |
Was wondering what you could put over a septic tank.
Can You Put A Paver Patio Over A Septic Tank? (Must Read!)
Consider the following scenario: you’ve found the ideal location in your yard for your new patio, but there’s a septic tank in the way. What do you do? Can you just go ahead and build the patio on top of the existing structure? You are not permitted to construct a paver patio on top of a septic tank, and doing so may be in violation of the planning regulations of your state or local jurisdiction. Septic tanks are capable of withstanding just a small amount of weight without becoming damaged, and you will want access to the tank in the future.
The purpose of this post is to provide you with additional information so that you can remain on the right side of local planning restrictions when it comes to building or renovating a patio.
Should I Ever Pave Over My Septic Tank?
The practice of constructing a structure over a septic tank is not advised, and in fact, some counties may have rules against it. If you are aware of the location of your septic tank, you will need to plan your patio around it. What is the reason behind this? First and foremost, why make life difficult for yourself? This means you must have access to your septic tank, and ideally without the need to lift concrete slabs. Sometimes you’ll notice paved sections over tanks with an access hatch in between the pavers.
This will, without a doubt, help to alleviate the accessibility issue, but it is still far from perfect.
Immediately after, we’ll go through the various sorts of tanks and their weight-bearing capabilities.
How Much Weight Can Go On Top of a Septic Tank?
When it comes to an old-fashioned steel septic tank, the answer is usually “very little.” Modern septic tanks are often constructed of concrete, which makes them much more durable. Some have a “traffic rating” and axle weights, whereas others do not. But the majority of the advise is to avoid parking on or even driving across a septic tank at all costs. A collapse or partial collapse can result in a devastating accident, with the driver, the car, the tank, and the surrounding property all suffering severely as a result of the incident.
If you are installing a new one, make sure to choose a durable concrete tank that satisfies all of the specifications.
What Can You Put Over a Septic Tank? (Can You Cover Them At All?)
So, what are your plans for this parcel of property that has been delineated? Keep the hatch open to allow for easy access (you can always put a lightweight plant pot over it). Over the cover, we’ve also heard of light sculptures and bird feeders being used (these are also a good way to remind people not to park cars or mowers directly over the tank). You could even make a highlight of the hatch itself by decorating it with mosaic tiles or painting a pattern on it. There’s an unexpected amount of information on this on Pinterest!
The good news is that there’s more you can do with the drain field area to make it feel more like a natural extension of your yard and landscape. Plant grass over the drain field since it helps to keep the soil around the septic tank in good condition. In order to comprehend how grass may
How Deep Should Septic Lines Be Buried?
Every drain field is unique due to the variations in soil and water table found in different parts of the country. If you’re building new septic lines, consult with a professional first (and as much as we love a DIY yard project, the whole septic tank thing is best handled by the professionals). The overall norm appears to be at least six inches deep, according to the evidence. This appears to be a shallow depth to us, and according to our study, the optimal depth is between 18 and 36 inches below the surface of the water.
Where Should Your Septic Tank Be Located?
The requirements for septic tank placement differ from one location to the next, but the general guideline appears to be that the tank should be at least 10 feet away from your residence. According to what we’ve previously discussed, you’ll want to choose a location that won’t impede with your driveway or parking because a car of that weight shouldn’t be able to pass over the tank. Additionally, you will require an area for the septic tank’s drain field and lines, which you will not want to plant anything on or build on in the future.
Again, consult with an experienced drainage engineer who can assist you in determining the ideal location for the tank and drain lines.
Conclusion
The bottom line is that because septic tanks are not weight bearing structures, you cannot construct a patio or deck on top of them. Aside from that, you’ll require continual access, which is another reason why this is a horrible idea. Because it may be against state and municipal planning rules to construct a paver patio over your tank, the last thing you want is to find yourself in trouble with the authorities – or literally in trouble if your patio furniture falls through and into the tank!
r/HomeImprovement – Building a Deck Near Septic System
Hello and welcome to everyone. I’d want to have a deck built onto my house, and I’m now working with a contractor to make that happen. I’ve run into a problem with the position of the deck and wanted to hear what everyone’s thoughts were on the matter. First and foremost, here is a floor plan of my home for your consideration. The risers of the septic tank are shown by the circles towards the top of the first illustration. The red lines in the first image are also doors, as can be seen. While the bottoms of both doors are approximately 4 feet above ground level, the right side door now has cement stairs going out to the parking lot, but the other door does not have stairs, thus the door is simply sort of floating there, heading nowhere.
- I may submit an application for a deviation to the code to see if I can construct a structure closer to the tank. I was under the impression that we would only need to come out about 5 feet from the rear of the house, which would leave us with a 6 foot setback from the tank. When it comes to granting a variance, how probable is it that the county will do so? In fact, is it even wise to build that near to the sewer line? If I can’t construct the deck on the right side owing to the septic tank, can I still construct the deck on the left side of the house? Do you think there is a problem with the deck being built on top of the waste line that runs from the home to the tank? Are there any other choices that I have overlooked?
Thank you to everyone.
How close can a deck be to a septic tank?
Asked in the following category: General The most recent update was made on the 7th of February, 2020. – It is necessary to have a slab foundation for a structure such as a garage 10 feet away from the septic tank and 10 feet away from the leaching area. The deck’s concrete columns must be at least 5 feet away from the leaching area and must not interfere with the septic system. In most cases, it is not a good idea to construct a deck near or on top of an aseptic tank. You will be required to maintain a minimum of a 5′ setback from an underground septic system under most zoning regulations.
A similar question concerns how much weight may be placed on top of a sewer tank. In addition to the front axle, the vehicle must have one or more rear axles weighing 32,000 pounds (14,500 kg) apiece and being at least 14 feet (4.3 m) apart on the back axles. Furthermore, how near can you get?
Can You Put a Patio Over a Septic Tank System?
It’s a very pleasant summer. Autumn is on its way. Cool mornings and nights, the sound of birds singing in the distance. What could be better than a cup of coffee on the terrace in the early morning? Alternatively, how about an evening spent around a fire on the patio? That patio that you’ve been wanting to build but haven’t gotten around to it yet is finally finished.
Where exactly are you going to put that patio?
Make sure you don’t forget about your septic tank! Just because something is underground does not imply that it is unimportant! If you don’t think about it now, it might cost you a lot of money later on. Is it OK to build a new patio or deck on top of my septic tank?
The short answer isno.
You must first get a permit from your county zoning board in order to lawfully construct a patio or deck in the state of Indiana. They will almost always need you to obtain a letter from the Health Department (who is in charge of overseeing your septic tank) granting authorization for the precise area on your property where you wish to construct your patio. It is customary for the Health Department to request that you provide a drawing of your land, indicating the position of your house and any other structures on the site, as well as the placement of your well and septic system.
The Indiana Building Code enables a patio with no foundation to be built right up to the edge of the house.
Our drivers report that approximately 5% of our customers have patios or decks over their septic tanks.
Depending on the circumstances, this might result in costly repairs owing to a lack of forethought throughout the construction process. Recently, a customer’s septic tank required repairs to the outflow baffle, which were completed successfully. It was necessary to cut through the cement patio and dig down to the septic tank in order to replace the baffle, as there was a patio built on top of the tank. Needless to say, this work ended up costing them far more money than it would have if there hadn’t been a patio built on top of the septic tank.
If you’re thinking of building, we say, “Go for it”!
You prevent making costly mistakes down the line, make sure to check with your local county building and planning commissions, obtain all necessary permissions, and consult with the Health Department. If you need assistance locating your septic tank, please contact Shankster Bros. We will be happy to assist you!
