Where Are Septic Tank Installation Records Kept? (Best solution)

The county should have a copy of your property’s septic tank installation permit records on file. This file should have a diagram or map of the property with the septic tank location. Depending on when the septic tank was installed, it may or may not be on file. Call Around to the Local Septic Tank Pumping Companies.

Keep Records Keep accurate records of your septic system. Know where the system is and keep a diagram of its location. Records of its size and location may be available at your local health department.

Are septic tank locations public record?

Contact your local health department for public records. These permits should come with a diagram of the location where the septic system is buried. Depending on the age of your septic system, you may be able to find information regarding the location of your septic system by making a public records request.

Where can I get a diagram of my septic system?

The contractor who designed and installed the septic tank on your property should have filed an as-built diagram at the local health authority. If you have the contact information of the contractor, you can request them for the diagram and then you can use it to locate your septic tank.

Do old septic tanks need to be registered?

Many homes are not connected to mains drainage, instead having sewage treatment systems or septic tanks or occasionally cesspools. If your sewage treatment system or septic tank discharges to a river or stream it must be registered immediately.

How do I find out if my septic tank is registered?

Check if your septic tank is already registered You can check if your tank has already been registered by contacting your environmental regulator. If you are unsure then it is best to check and avoid making an unnecessary payment. The NIEA and SEPA have records of all registered septic tanks.

How do I know if my house has a septic tank?

One way to determine whether or not your home has a septic system or is served by the public sewer system is to look at your water bill. If you are using a septic system for wastewater management, then you’re likely to see a charge of $0 for wastewater or sewer services from the utility company.

How far down is a leach field?

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

Can you walk on a leach field?

Your family can walk on a well-maintained drain field without fear of encountering puddles of affluent and dangerous bacteria. Bicycles and tricycles are also acceptable because they are not heavy enough to compress or disturb the soil.

Can a metal detector find a septic tank?

If it’s Concrete or Steel, Use a Metal Detector. Based on your conclusions in Step 3, if your septic tank is likely made from concrete or steel, a metal detector can make the task of locating it much easier. But not just any metal detector will do.

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 do you find a buried septic tank lid?

You can locate the lid of your septic tank by poking the ground every few feet with a metal probe. Lids can be buried up to a foot deep on average, so be sure to investigate any bumps that may indicate something is buried underneath.

Are septic tanks still legal?

Septic Tanks Explained… Septic tanks cannot discharge to surface water drains, rivers, canals, ditches, streams or any other type of waterway. you are required to upgrade or replace your septic tank treatment system to a full sewage treatment plant by 2020, or when you sell a property, if it’s prior to this date.

Can you sell a house with an old septic tank?

If you’re selling a property with a septic tank, then you must be transparent with buyers about the fact the property uses a one and provide a detailed specification of the system. In fact, You are required by law to inform a buyer in writing about the presence of a septic tank.

Does heavy rain affect septic tank?

It is common to have a septic back up after or even during a heavy rain. Significant rainfall can quickly flood the ground around the soil absorption area (drainfield) leaving it saturated, making it impossible for water to flow out of your septic system.

Find Septic soakaway / drainfield location using documents

The frequency with which my septic tank should be pumped is not specified. Is it necessary to get your septic tank drained on a regular basis It is recommended that you pump and empty your tank every 3 to 5 years, as a rule of thumb. Septic-disposal tanks are often used by houses located outside of urban areas since they do not have access to municipal sewer systems. Household waste may be managed in an ecologically acceptable, safe, and natural manner using a septic tank system. A septic tank system may endure for many years if it is cared for, maintained, and pumped regularly. Septic systems remove wastewater from your home and transport it to a holding tank, where it is separated into three categories: particles, liquid waste (known as effluent), and residual. Given their greater density, solids (or sludge) will sink to the bottom of the tank, where germs and bacteria will consume them and decompose their residues. It will float to the top because it is made up of fats, oils and grease, which are lighter than water. The middle layer of watery effluent will depart the tank by way of perforated subterranean tubes and into a drain or leach field, respectively. Water is cleansed when it returns to the groundwater system thanks to the filtering system created by gravel, rocks, and soil. As a result of building up too much waste, the bacteria’s capacity to break down the trash will diminish, and the garbage will overflow into the drainage field. Septic tank cleaning is therefore quite important. When should you get your septic tank pumped, you might wonder. When determining how frequently your septic tank should be cleansed, there are a few things to bear in mind. Chart illustrating the schedule for pumping septic tanks. It is important to have a large septic system. In general, the majority of sewage-disposal tanks have capacities ranging from 1,000 to 2,000 gallons. if you are unsure of the exact size of your septic tank, you may get it checked by a professional from a septic tank cleaning business to find out. Pumping frequency is influenced by a number of factors, one of which being the size of the tank. It is recommended that a 1,000-gallon tank be pumped every 2.6 years for a family of four
However, a 1,500-gallon tank can be pumped every 4.2 years and a 2,000-gallon tank can be pumped every 5 years for a family of four. It is important to have a large family. The size of the septic tank is determined by the size of the house. In order to accommodate a 3-bedroom house, the size of the tank must be bigger than that required for a 2-bedroom home. Even your next-door neighbors might be a valuable source of knowledge. If you chat with them, you might want to inquire about the size of their septic tank in relation to the number of people that live in their residence. The frequency with which you should schedule septic tank pumping for your system will become much clearer. Generally speaking, increasing the number of people living in a house results in increased waste production, which affects the frequency with which a septic tank must be cleaned. Other factors that impact the timing of septic pumping include the kind of detergents, cleansers, and chemicals that you use in your house and how frequently they cause the drain to clog. Take into consideration the whole amount of wastewater generated, which includes laundry, dishwashing, and shower usage. Each person consumes 70 gallons of water each day, according to the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA). Water consumption that is efficient will help to extend the life of a septic system while also reducing the chance of clogging, supporting, and leaking the system. Choose the appropriate load size for your washing machine and only do laundry when you have a full load to help regulate the amount of water that drains down the toilet. Instead of performing many loads in one day, it is preferable to spread washing machine usage over the week. Excessive use of the cleaning machine in a single day can cause damage to a septic tank by preventing waste from being properly treated and increasing the likelihood of overflowing the drain field. Make your septic tank last longer by using environmentally friendly detergents throughout your house, purchasing an energy-efficient cleaning gadget that uses less water, and installing a filter to collect artificial fibers that the bacteria in your tank can’t digest. For those who have a septic tank, it’s highly suggested that you never use the trash disposal under the kitchen sink. In order for the food to flow through the septic tank filter, it must be broken down by the disposal. You will increase the quantity of solids by as much as 50% if you use a disposal, and you will run the danger of clogging the system and causing it to go into support mode. Other strategies to assist the septic tank include taking shorter showers and installing low-flow shower heads or shower circulation restrictors to lower the amount of water entering the septic tank and allowing it to drain more quickly. An average septic tank has to be pumped every 3 to 5 years, depending on the circumstances. Maintaining a septic tank system is not very expensive, but collecting and repairing or replacing a system that has ceased operating as a result of neglect is far more expensive. Depending on the size of the tank, the number of people living in the house, and the volume of wastewater produced, some septic systems may require pumping once a year. There are certain systems that may last up to 5 years between septic tank pumps. In order to prolong the life of your septic tank, it is often recommended that you hire a professional every 3 to 5 years. Tank cleaning should be performed on a regular basis, rather than at set intervals, depending on the amount of waste in the tank. You may find a professional to assist you in maintaining and extending the life of your septic system by searching online for “septic tank pumping near me.” As a reminder, South End Plumbing provides a wide range of plumbing services, and we are only a click away. You may also reach out to us if you need help detecting leaks. One of the few plumbing firms that will provide you with a free estimate is South End Plumbing. Make an appointment by calling 704-919-1722 or using the online form.

InspectAPedia does not allow any form of conflict of interest. The sponsors, goods, and services described on this website are not affiliated with us in any way. Using records to locate a septic drainfield or soakbed is described as follows: How to get records and revew papers in order to locate a septic tank, drainfield, or soakaway bed in a home or business. How to request paperwork that can document the septic system design “as approved” as well as that which was “as built” is explained in detail.

We also have anARTICLE INDEX for this topic, and you can use the SEARCH BOXes at the top and bottom of the page to obtain the information you need quickly and easily.

How to Use Septic System Records to Find the Drainfield – Whom to Ask – How to Find the Septic Leach Fields – Part 3

Conflicts of interest are not tolerated at InspectAPedia.com. No affiliation exists between us and any sponsors, products, or services mentioned on this website. Finding the septic drainfield or soakbed by consulting records: Finding the septic tank, drainfield, or soakaway bed requires the acquisition of records and revision of papers. How to request records that can document the septic system design “as approved” as well as that which was “as built” are explained in detail. As a consequence of discoveries made during site excavation for the installation of a septic system tank or drainfield, we caution that the “as built” outcomes may not necessarily be consistent with the design “as authorized” or “as planned.” We also have anARTICLE INDEX for this topic, and you can use the SEARCH BOXes at the top and bottom of the page to obtain the information you need quickly and efficiently.

Reader CommentsQ A

@Joseph Coburn, please display the records regarding your septic system. Yes, Joseph, I’d be delighted to assist you in locating the leach bed on your property: Simply follow the “how to identify the drainfield” techniques and procedures outlined in the articles listed above under “Recommended Articles” labeled “How to Find the Drainfield.” LOCATION OF THE SEPTIC DRAINFIELD – BEGIN HERE PRECISE DRAINFIELD PIPE LOCATION – follow these procedures if you need to be precise with your drainage pipe location.

More drainfield choices and approaches are available, including: It is necessary to excavate in order to locate drainage fields.
REMARKING DRAINFIELD LOCATIONS OUT OF THE BOUNDS OF THE POSSIBLY UNLIKELY CLUES FROM THE VISUAL WORLD LOCATE THE DRAINFIELD VIA VISUAL INSTRUCTIONS LOCATE THE SEPTIC TANK IN ORDER TO FIND THE LEACH BEDS LOCATE @Dan Dyer, thank you for your comment.

also have a look at the comments on your identical post at The location of my drain field has been discovered, and I need to figure out where the rest of it is before I can proceed to complete the task on time.
As well as this, see THE LOCATION OF THE SEPTIC TANK AND THE LOCATION OF THE SEPTIC D-BOX Attempting to locate a septic system Septic drain field is located at 13368 East 49th Drive in Yuma.
I’m looking to discover if there is any public information on a septic tank located at 5391 Hollis Goodwin rd.

in Alabama. Continue reading at an SURPRISING DRAINFIELD LOCATIONALITY Select a topic from the closely-related articles listed below, or browse the entireARTICLE INDEX for more information. Alternatively, consider the following:

Septic Drainfield Location Articles

Clearance Disturbances, Septic System
Odors, Septic or Sewer
Locations of Septic Components

Septic Drainfield Inspection Test at Home
Septic Drainfield Location
Septic Drainfield Inspection Test at Work

LOCATION OF THE DRAINFIELD PIPE, EXACT
EXCAVATE TO LOCATE THE DRAINFIELD
REASONS FOR LOCATION OF THE DRAINFIELD

Recordings to LOCATE the DRAINFIELD
SURPRISING DRAINFIELD LOCATIONS
UNLIKELY DRAINFIELD LOCATIONS

VISUAL CLUES LOCATE the DRAINFIELD
VISUAL CLUES LOCATE the SEPTIC TANK

SEPTIC DRAINFIELD RESTORERS

SEPTIC DRAINFIELD SIZE
SEPTIC DRAINFIELD SHAPE
SEPTIC TANK, HOW TO FINDfor information on locating the septic tank, chamber, drywell, or seepage pit

SEPTIC DRAINFIELD RESTORERS
SEPTIC TAN SEPTIC VIDEOSon the location of the septic system

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It is necessary to keep records in order to locate the drainfieldDatInspect A pedia.com- online encyclopedia of building environmental inspection, testing, diagnosis, repair and guidance on issue avoidance. Alternatively, have a look at this.

INDEX to RELATED ARTICLES:ARTICLE INDEX to SEPTIC SYSTEMS

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Technical ReviewersReferences

Citations can be shown or hidden by selecting Show or Hide Citations. InspectApedia.com is a publisher that provides references. Daniel Friedman is an American journalist and author.

Keeping Well and Septic System Records

It’s critical to keep track of your own well and septic data. Photograph courtesy of George Hurd of Penn State Extension Being prepared with a “Well File” and a “Septic File,” or other written documents including information on your water system, is a crucial step in safeguarding the health of your family and your water resources. In addition to making it simpler to arrange well, water treatment system, or septic system maintenance, good records may also aid in identifying the root causes of water quality variations.

You should keep track of the following: well and septic system installation, permits, maintenance, inspections, pumping, repairs, and water testing.

Keep records of service visits if you have water treatment equipment and follow a maintenance plan.
Also, keep the manufacturer’s information for any water treatment equipment you use with your well file on hand for reference.
Copies of all water quality test results should be maintained on hand in order to track any changes that may occur over time.

Your records must also contain a map indicating the position of your well as well as the location of your septic system, which should include the septic tank and drainfield.
Locate the location of your well head on your property and mark it.
If you do not have access to blueprints, locate the point at which your sewer line exits your home.

Your septic tank pumper may also be able to assist you in locating all of the components of your system.

Create several plot plan diagrams with measurements that include a rough sketch of your house, a rough sketch of your septic tank cover, a rough sketch of your drainfield area, a rough sketch of your well, and any other permanent reference points such as trees or large rocks and keep them with your well and septic system records.

It is important to note that a well log is an important source of information for documenting the building of a water supply well, according to the Iowa Department of Natural Resources.

In-depth well logs contain information such as the types and thickness of each geological sequence encountered, the types of materials used in the well’s construction, the construction techniques employed during the well’s installation, and the water levels of the aquifer(s) while at rest and when pumping.

The well log is a valuable tool for the well owner, since it may be used to troubleshoot any difficulties that may arise with the well in the future.
Individual water well and spring reports, as well as data package downloads, are available online through the PaGWIS.

Beginning in 1966, drillers have been obliged to report water well completion information, which includes the location of water wells drilled in Pennsylvania as well as the criteria used in their construction.
Go to the PaGWIS website and look for the link that says “Groundwater Records Online” to see if your well records are available on the internet.
Records of your well and septic system are essential for maintaining and safeguarding both the health of your home’s water system as well as the health of your family.

If the quality of your water deteriorates, you can take steps to improve it. Your well’s historical water quality data can be used to illustrate the water quality of your well in the past. Having this information will be useful if you ever decide to sell or transfer your property.

How to locate a septic tank

A home’s construction year and whether a copy of the septic permit is accessible determine the procedure for locating a septic tank on a property, which might take many weeks or months. Please choose one of the scenarios listed below and follow the instructions.

For homes built in the last five (5) years or less

Obtain a copy of your septic tank permit from your local Department of Health and Human Services office. Please fill out as much of the information below as possible to help us expedite the search:

Number of the tax map

Lot number
Block number
Address in the physical world

When the system was installed or when the house was built (if this information is available)
Name of the original permit holder (if any information is available)
Name of the subdivision (if the property is located within a subdivision)

A copy of a septic tank permit can be obtained from a local DHEC office by any individual or group, regardless of whether or not they own the land in question.

For homes older than five (5) years or if a copy of the septic permit was not able to be located.

It is recommended that you call an experienced septic contractor who will come to the site and assist you with the identification of the current septic system. You may find a list of licensed septic installers by clicking here.

Department of Environmental Quality : About Septic Systems : Residential Resources : State of Oregon

In areas where houses and businesses are not linked to a municipal sewage system, a septic system is the most popular type of sewage treatment for those areas. When simplified to its most basic form, a septic system is comprised of two parts: a septic tank in which solids settle and decay and a drainfield in which liquid drained from the tank is treated by bacteria in the soil. Septic systems that are more sophisticated are constructed in places with high groundwater levels and/or poor soils.

Septic systems that are properly operating treat sewage in order to reduce groundwater and surface water contamination.

Learn more about how septic systems function by reading this article.

Before you buy

In areas where houses and businesses are not linked to a municipal sewage system, a septic system is the most popular method of sewage treatment. Essentially, a septic system is comprised of two parts: an inlet tank, where solids settle and degrade, and a drainfield, where liquid released from the tank is treated by bacteria in the soil. When groundwater is high and/or the soil is poor, more sophisticated septic systems are built. As an example, and filteroralternative treatment technology systems, which treat wastewater to a greater extent before discharging it into a drainfield, are available.

Having a dysfunctional system puts your family and neighbors’ health at risk while also causing environmental damage.

Well construction, fill, roads, and other modifications can all have an impact on appropriateness. Is the land suitable for your development needs, taking into account the kind of system stated as acceptable on the report and the placement of the septic system that has been approved?

If the property has not yet been examined, you may choose to request that the present owner arrange for an evaluation to be done. Application for a site review can be made through either the Department of Environmental Quality or a local government contract agent. Before deciding to acquire the land, you must determine what sort of septic system will be necessary, as well as whether or not the permitted system site will fit your development requirements.

Existing sewage treatment systems- If you are considering acquiring a home with an existing septic system, you should engage a trained inspector to assess the system before making the purchase. Here’s what you need to know to find out more about:

Is it true that the system was implemented without a permit? If not, it is possible that the system is very old (permits have been necessary since 1972, and in certain counties even earlier), or that it was unlawfully built. Systems that have been illegally developed may pose a threat to public health or produce pollution. In the future, you may be forced to upgrade or replace the system, and you may be held accountable and penalized if the system malfunctions or poses a concern to public health and safety. If your family or business has a large number of members, is the system the correct size to meet their needs? Permit documents often include information on the system’s capacity in gallons per day. Typical household water use is 450 gallons per day for a four-bedroom home. How old is the system, and has it been adequately maintained over its lifetime? Is there documentation demonstrating that the septic tank was pumped on a regular basis? Have there been any difficulties or complaints that have been brought to your attention in the past? It is possible that your local permitting agency has records of complaints or infractions that have not been addressed yet. Before you moved here, how many people lived in the house? Perhaps the approach works well with a single person but not so well with four individuals. Is the septic tank connected to all of the plumbing fittings

And Is there evidence of a septic system failure, such as puddles over the septic tank or flooded drainfields? If the property is next to surface waterways, check to see that there are no direct discharges from the property. When it comes to septic system replacement, is there a suitable location if the existing system fails? In the event that there are any septic permit documents, they will show the replacement area that should still be “laid aside” for this purpose. What is the role of a qualified inspector? Some septic installers and pumpers have received training in the inspection of existing systems, while others specialize in the installation of new septic systems or pump tanks, as appropriate. Certified maintenance providers may also have the qualifications of a qualified inspector. The goal is to find out what their credentials are in septic system assessments (as opposed to only septic tank evaluations), as well as to obtain some recommendations. Verify the credentials of the references before hiring a contractor.

Signs of septic system failure

Pools of water or wet places, unpleasant aromas, and/or dark gray or black soils in the vicinity of your drainfield are all signs that something is wrong. Water from the sewer overflows into the lowest drains in the home. The sound of drains gurgling and poor draining (first check for obstructions)
Soapy flows onto the ground surface, into ditches, or into surface waterways It is impossible to mow over the drainfield because the earth is too soft.

Installing a new system

In order to have a new septic system installed, a two-step procedure must be followed. 1. Submit an application for a site review. The tests pits you give on your property will be evaluated by a DEQ or county agent, who will decide the size and kind of septic system that will be required, as well as the placement. 2. Submit an application for a building permit. For application forms, contact your local DEQ office or county agent, or you can obtain DEQ application forms from this website. There is a cost for both the site appraisal and the issuance of the building permit.

Maintaining septic systems

By having your septic tank tested for solids accumulation on a regular basis, you may prevent having to pay for expensive repairs. When the solids buildup in your septic tank exceeds 40%, you should have it pumped by a pumper who is licensed by the DEQ. For advice on how often to get your septic tank examined, contact the Department of Environmental Quality. Maintaining the condition of your septic tank on a regular basis (every 5 to 7 years) and checking for solids accumulation will save you money on costly repairs.

If you follow the basic septic system DO’s and DON’Ts, a properly designed and maintained system may survive for a very long period.

Septic Tanks- Onsite Sewage Treatment & Disposal Systems

The installation, monitoring, and maintenance of onsite sewage treatment and disposal systems (septic systems) are critical components of maintaining a safe environment for people and animals. A septic system inspection, evaluation, and permitting process is carried out by the Polk County Health Department for all new and repaired septic systems in the county. These services are critical to the public’s health because they help to ensure that microorganisms that cause disease do not enter our drinking water supply.

In order to install or perform repairs to these systems, you must first acquire permission from the health department.

Septic tanks, which may be an environmental source of illness, are monitored and cleaned by the Polk County Health Department’s Onsite Sewage Program to protect the health of inhabitants in the county.
Bartow Environmental Health Office is located at 2090 East Clower St.
to 5:00 p.m., Monday through Friday.

Complaints about illegal septic tank contracting should be reported.

Florida Department of Health in Volusia

How can a new business determine whether or not it need an examination of its septic system? In order to add a room to my house, why do I need to get the current septic tank system authorized first? Who determines whether or not I require a mound septic system
What exactly do I need to do in order to fix my drainfield? Does the government offer any help programs for septic system repairs?

1. What is the reason for an inspection of the septic tank system for a new business?

A shop in the appropriate size and location has been discovered for my new business, which I want to launch shortly after. When I went to receive my Business Tax Receipt (BTR), (formerly known as an occupational license), they informed me that I needed to get the septic tank system certified by the Florida Department of Health in Volusia County. I agreed to this. A: According to Florida Statute 381.0065, all companies that rely on a septic tank system for sewage disposal are required to acquire clearance from the local health authority whenever the company owner, the kind of business, or a tenant changes.

Modifications to company activities may result in an increase in sewage flow or a change in sewage characteristics.

Who is in charge of completing and submitting the application? The Existing Commercial Inspection of Septic System Applicationcan be filed and paid for by the owner or renter of the property in question. Section 1: Introduction

2.What is the reason to have the existing septic tank system approved before I add a room onto my home?

I intend to expand my current residence by adding a room. The building department informed me that they would not grant a building permit unless the current septic tank system had been authorized by the department. Because it will not be air conditioned, I do not believe that I will be required to do so. If you are planning to build an addition to your current house, you will need to have your existing septic system inspected first. This inspection technique is required in order to establish whether or not the current septic system has sufficient capacity to accommodate the extension.

This criterion is not affected by whether or not the addition has air conditioning or heating.

Applications and guidelines for a Residential Inspection of Septic System Application for an Existing Septic System Section 1: Introduction

3. Who determines if I need a mound septic system?

I possess a piece of land on which I intend to build a house. According to a buddy of mine, I will most likely require a mounded septic system in order to properly dispose of waste. My lot is high and dry, and it never flooded during the recent torrential rains, thus I do not want a mound built on top of it. The Florida Administrative Code, Chapter 64E-6, mandates a 24 inch buffer between the wet season water table and the bottom of the drainfield during the rainy season. It is possible for water tables to change dramatically between wet and dry seasons.

As soon as the water table has been determined, a permit is drafted in accordance with state law requirements.

If sod is to be used on the slopes, a 2:1 slope is necessary for mounds up to 36 inches in height, and a 3:1 slope is required for mounds higher than 36 inches in height; if hay and seed is to be used on the slopes, a 5:1 slope is required regardless of the height of the mound.

Application for a New Septic System Construction Permit, as well as instructions on how to complete the application

4. What do I need to do to fix my drainfield?

My drainfield isn’t performing as expected. A septic system repair permit must be obtained before any work on your septic drainfield may be done.

5. Are assistance programs for septic system repairs available?

If you qualify, the Volusia County Community Assistance Division may have cash available to you.

Contact them for more information. Please email [email protected] or call 386-736-5955 for further information. Section 1: Introduction

Sewage System Records

Those that qualify may be eligible to get assistance through Volusia County’s Community Assistance Division. Call 386-736-5955 or send an email to [email protected] for further information. Section IX: FINAL

Listed here are the names of the property owners(s)
The Tax Parcel ID:

The physical address of the system or the name of the road:

In the case that your location was originally a “route, box,” please list the roads and streets that the property is located on and around. According to this example, “the property is located on 30th Avenue between Spruce and Verbena.”

In the case of a requestor, the name of the person who is making the request is

Phone number of the requestor: (So we can call you if there is a question or need for more information.)
What method would you want to have your “as-built” delivered to you:

Mail? Please provide your mailing address so that I may pick it up. Email

Please keep in mind that before to 1975, permits were not necessary by law. If your system was implemented prior to 1975, it is possible that no records are accessible. If your system was installed prior to 1975 and there are no records accessible, the following suggestions may be useful in locating your system:

In general, a 1000-gallon tank measures 5 feet by 8 feet.

Those tanks built after 1976 are two-compartment tanks, and both compartments will need to be emptied.

The tank’s lids are circular in shape, 20″-24″ in diameter, and 5′-5 12′ apart
They are 20″-24″ in diameter and 5′-5 12′ apart

Because the tanks are composed of concrete reinforced with rebar and the handles on the lids are often made of metal wire, you may be able to discover them with the use of a metal detector

However, this is not always the case.

3 Easy Ways To Find Your Septic Tank

If you’ve recently moved into a new house, finding the location of the septic system is definitely at the bottom of your list of things to accomplish. In any case, being aware of the location of your septic tank will help you save both time and money in the long run. Being able to pinpoint the position of your tank might make it simpler to diagnose septic tank problems more quickly. It can also assist you in avoiding complications that may arise as a result of property improvements such as landscaping and renovation.

When it comes to septic tank repairs and replacements, you can rely on the professionals at Jones PlumbingSeptic Tank Service for all of your requirements!

Check Property Records

The installation of an aseptic tank is often subject to a construction permit requirement in most counties. Accessible through the county website, permits and other septic tank placement documents give detailed information on the system’s size as well as the tank’s exact position. It’s possible that you acquired this information at the time of your purchase of the property. When examining these records, take close attention to the small facts, such as the relative distance between your home and the tank.

Look For Telltale Signs

A bald area on your grass might serve as an obvious clue of the position of your septic tank. In contrast, an area of lush grass beside the septic tank might be a symptom of a deteriorating drain field, which would indicate that the tank is collapsing. It is possible that an unexpected rise in the terrain indicates the location of your septic tank. If there are no visible traces of the tank, you can carefully probe the earth with a metal probe to detect any subsurface pipes or lids that may be leading to it.

Ask A Professional

If you are unable to locate the septic tank on your own, consulting with a local septic tank firm might be a convenient and cost-effective solution. Who knows, they could have even performed maintenance on your property’s tank before you purchased it. In any case, a septic tank specialist will be able to find your tank in a short amount of time. It is also beneficial to establish a relationship today since it will be beneficial in the future should you want Septic Tank Cleaning or Septic Tank Repair services.

Contact us immediately if you need assistance locating your septic tank or if you would like an estimate for our services. Check out our septic system maintenance guidelines for more information on how to keep your home’s sewage system functioning smoothly and efficiently.

Frequently Asked Questions on Septic Systems

What types of septic systems are approved in San Diego County?

The Department of Environmental Health and Quality and the California Regional Water Quality Control Board consider the combination of a septic tank connected to leach lines (with gravel and pipe or plastic chambers), horizontal seepage pits, or vertical seepage pits as conventional septic system design applications. Leach lines can be installed anywhere in the county where the site meets design criteria. Vertical seepage pits are restricted to coastal sedimentary basins where groundwater is degraded by salt-water intrusion. Horizontal seepage pits are restricted to sites that have deep, permeable soil, with uniform good percolation rates. All septic system designs are required to meet the Regional Water Quality Control Board’s (RWQCB) requirement of at least 5 feet of separation between anticipated high groundwater levels and the bottom of the disposal system.Supplemental Treatment Systems (OWTS-STS’s) offer higher treatment than a standard conventional system and can reduce the separation required between the treatment system and high groundwater to 2 feet. As of Aug 2015, the County of San Diego adopted the Local Area Management Plan (LAMP) in agreement from the RWQCB.The LAMP allows OWTS-STS’s to be used for the purposes of developing existing undeveloped lots and creating new lots with parcel and subdivision maps.

What is the concern with groundwater regarding a septic system?

Groundwater is a resource for drinking water and the sole source of drinking water in many rural San Diego communities. Septic systems can be a source of contamination to groundwater. Conversely, groundwater can also cause a septic system to fail from both soil saturation, and groundwater intrusion into the septic system. Conventional septic systems must have at least 5 feet of unsaturated soil depth for the soil to provide treatment to the sewage effluent being discharged from the septic tank to the disposal field.For these reasons, a minimum separation of no less than 5 feet must be maintained from the bottom of the sewage disposal system and the highest anticipated groundwater levels at the conventional disposal system location. Supplemental Treatment Systems must have at least 2 feet of unsaturated soil.Numerous factors within a watershed basin affect the depth to groundwater, including development, agricultural use, soil depth, soil permeability, the amount of surface flow into the basin, and the rate water flows out of the basin in addition to rainfall.

Where are records maintained that show the location of septic systems?

The DEHQ Land and Water Quality Division office located in San Diego at 5500 Overland Ave, Suite 210; maintain records of septic systems that have been installed since the late 1970’s. These are filed by the tax assessor parcel number. The phone number for the San Diego office is (858) 565-5173.

Who can install a septic system?

The installation or modification of any septic system within the county of San Diego, including all incorporated cities will be within the jurisdiction of the Department of Environmental Health and Quality. The property owner can obtain a septic tank permit for installing a septic system on his or her property. In all other situations a licensed C-36, C-42, Class A, or Class B contractor would be required to obtain permits to install a septic system.

What criteria are used to size a septic system?

For septic systems serving private residences, the size of the disposal field is a combination of percolation test data and the number of bedrooms within each dwelling unit. Septic tanks are sized according to the number of bedrooms.For commercial designs, the size of the disposal field is a combination of percolation test data and the peak daily sewage flows based on the type of usage and occupancy of the site. Septic tank sizes are also based on the peak daily sewage flow.

Who can design septic systems?

Licensed civil engineers, registered geologists, and registered environmental health specialists are currently recognized to be qualified to design septic systems.

Septic Systems

Systems for Septic TanksClaire Ninde2022-01-21T14:04:13-07:00Septic Systems La Plata, Archuleta, and San Juan counties, as well as the southern half of Hinsdale County, are all regulated by the San Juan Basin Public Health (SJBPH). The SJBPH is the regulatory authority for on-site wastewater treatment system (OWTS) permits (by Williams Reservoir). Since 1967, the South Jersey Board of Public Health has controlled OWTS, commonly known as septic systems. Transfer of Title (property sales), Permitting, Inspections, Installers and Cleaners, and the availability of Personal Information in our database may all be discovered by clicking on the respective tabs to the right.

(Preferred) Open the form in Adobe Acrobat, complete the form, then sign it digitally using the “Fill and Sign” function in Acrobat (see Resources). Save a PDF copy of the form and send it to [email protected] with the subject line “Name of Form and Address of Property” in the body of the email. Print the form and fill it out by hand, then scan the completed and signed form and send the scanned PDF file [email protected] with the subject line “Name of Form and Address of Property” in the body of the email. To make a submission in person, please bring the completed and signed form to any of our office locations: 281 Sawyer Drive in Durango or 502 South 8th Street in Pagosa Springs. Send the completed and signed form to San Juan Basin Public Health, ATTN: Environmental Health, 281 Sawyer Drive, Durango, CO 81303

Or mail it to the address shown above.

Make a payment for septic system applications, inspections, or other services by completing any one of the following procedures:

(Preferred) Pay using a credit card or an e-check through the internet. Select “Onsite Wastewater” in the Payment forfield, type the name of the form in theDescriptionfield, and provide the address of the property in the Invoice Number/Customer Namefield

Then click “Submit.” Make a payment in person at any of our office locations: 281 Sawyer Drive in Durango or 502 South 8th Street in Pagosa Springs. You can pay by check, credit card, or cash. Send a check to San Juan Basin Public Health, ATTN: Environmental Health, 281 Sawyer Drive, Durango, CO 81303 or mail it to the address shown above. On the note line, provide the name of the form and the address of the property

Beginning on January 1, 2019, all properties in Archuleta, La Plata, and San Juan Counties that are served by a septic system will be required to undergo an examination prior to being sold. This requirement aids in the identification of defective and potentially hazardous systems, as well as the protection of property buyers from unexpected repair responsibilities. You should perform the following measures if you are selling property that has a septic system that is more than four years old (as of the anticipated closing date):

Use the green banner link above to get a copy of your current septic system permit before putting your house on the market. The approved use should be checked, as should the permitted number of dwellings, bedrooms, and other details. Look for a final signature at the bottom or bottom-right corner of the permit (typically under “this system has been inspected and found to conform to the above requirements” or similar language). If the system is officially allowed for the uses currently on site (as stated by the County Assessor), or if the system looks to be older than 1967, have it examined by a third-party NAWT-certified inspector (seeour courtesy list of local inspectors).

Please see the “Permits” tab on this page to discover how to apply for a valid permit for the system if the system is not legally allowed for the purposes that will be carried out on site. If the inspection cannot be completed prior to closing due to snow cover, frozen ground, or other factors, you may still be able to legally sell the property if the buyers agree to have the inspection performed as soon as conditions allow and to be financially responsible for any deficiencies that are discovered. To apply for a Conditional Transfer of Title Acceptance Document (see submission instructions above), complete and submit this form, with a fully executedBuyers Agreement to Inspect, as an attachment.

Please see the “Permits” tab on this page to discover how to apply for a valid permit for the system if the system is not legally allowed for the uses that will be performed on site. If the inspection cannot be completed prior to closing due to snow cover, frozen ground, or other factors, you may still be able to legally sell the property if the buyers agree to have the inspection performed as soon as conditions allow and to be financially responsible for any deficiencies that are discovered during the inspection.

As a result, if the inspection reveals that your system is not operating properly, you should consult the “Permits” tab on this website to determine if you need to submit an application for a repair or alteration permit, or whether you merely need to do routine maintenance on the system. You should have the indicated maintenance conducted by a certified expert and submit proof showing the work is complete together with your Application for a Transfer of Title Acceptance Document if you just need to undertake maintenance that does not necessitate a permit. Provided repairs or renovations are unable to be performed prior to closing, you may still be able to lawfully sell the property if the buyers agree to make the required repairs or modifications themselves. To apply for a Conditional Transfer of Title Acceptance Document (see the submission requirements above), complete and submit this form, together with a copy of your Inspection Report and a fully executedBuyers Agreement to Repair or Alter (if applicable).

Once you have submitted your application for an Acceptance Document, you must pay a $90 administrative charge (see payment instructions above). Paying online? Fill out the “Description” area with “Transfer of Title,” then provide the property’s address in the “Invoice number/Customer Name” field to complete the transaction. It typically takes SJBPH around three business days to analyze an Application for a Transfer of Title Acceptance Document and determine whether to issue an Acceptance Document or seek further information from the applicant in response to the application.

Acceptance Documents are sent out through email to all of the email addresses that were supplied on the application for consideration. Once the document has been issued, bring it to your closing or give it to your title firm to complete the transaction.

Depending on the age of the septic system (as of the planned closing date), you may be able to avoid the Transfer of Title Inspections Requirement if you are selling a property with a system that is less than four years old. To obtain a copy of your current permit, click on the green banner link provided above. Additional inspections are not required at the time of sale if the date of the final signature at the bottom right is less than four years old on the closing date.

Recognize the possibility that some buyer’s agents will include an obligation to get a Transfer of Title Acceptance Document in real estate contracts, even though the property is exempt from the legal necessity to obtain one.

Transactions that fall under the following categories are excluded from the Transfer of Title Inspections Requirement:

A transaction in which the parties are not at arm’s length (for example, an inheritance that includes a spouse)
When a transfer occurs, joint ownership is established or terminated, with one original owner remaining on the title. Trusts and limited liability companies (LLCs) with the same name as the original owner

Foreclosure

A transaction in which the parties are not at arm’s length (for example, an inheritance that includes a spouse)
And When a transfer occurs, joint ownership is formed or terminated, with one original owner remaining on the title. Incorporating trusts and limited liability companies under the same name as the original proprietor
And Foreclosure

The following is a comprehensive collection of Transfer of Title forms and supporting documentation:

Transfer of Title Inspections: A Guide for Buyers and Sellers
Application for a Transfer of Title Acceptance Document
SJBPH Transfer of Title Inspection Form
Transfer of Title Inspections: A Guide for Buyers and Sellers
Transfer of Title Inspections: A Guide for Buyers and Sellers Buyers’ Agreement to Repair or Alter an OWTS (attach this form to an application if identified repairs/alterations will not be completed before closing)
Buyers’ Agreement to Inspect an OWTS (attach this form to an application if an inspection could not be performed before closing)
Buyers’ Agreement to Repair or Alter an OWTS (attach this form to an application if identified repairs/alterations will not be completed before closing)
Buyers’ Agreement to Repair or Alter an OWTS (attach this form to an application A register of local certified inspectors is maintained by the SJBPH as a convenience to the public. This is not an official or comprehensive list, and you should always check to see whether an inspector’s certificate is still valid before hiring them to do an inspection on your property. Additionally, there may be other qualified inspectors listed on the NAWT website who are not included on SJBPH’s courtesy list.

On the NAWT website, you may look for an inspector by clicking here.

The San Juan Basin Public Health Department requires that anybody who desires to build, construct, amend, or repair an on-site wastewater treatment system (OWTS) in Archuleta, La Plata, or San Juan Counties first get a permission from the department. Learn more about how to get an on-site wastewater system permit and how to prepare for a site review by visiting the following websites:

How to Obtain an OWTS Permit
Como Obtener un Permiso para un Sistema de Tratamiento de Aguas Residuales in el Lugar
OWTS Permit Application
How to Obtain an OWTS Permit
Como Obtener un Permiso para un Sistema de Tratamiento de Aguas Residuales en el Lugar
SJBPH Regulations for 2018
Regulation 43 of Colorado (which provides the majority of the design rules for OWTS)
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) regarding OWTS

Remember that submitting an application for the installation of an OWTS does not guarantee the approval of a permit on marginal lots; marginal lots may be small in size, contain steep slopes, have shallow bedrock or shallow groundwater, or do not comply with setback requirements; please keep this in mind. Professional engineering must be included in the design of OWTS that will service commercial premises or multifamily houses, as well as all OWTS that will be positioned on unsuitable soil, high groundwater, high bedrock, or steep slopes.

Site and soil evaluations must be carried out by Soil Technicians who are registered with the state.

Professionally Certified Soil Technicians (as of January 2020)

Regulations require that all OWTS be installed by a System Contractor who is currently licensed and that the Contractor has a permit to build, amend, or repair the OWTS that has been signed by SJBPH before breaking ground. Please keep in mind that contractor licenses expire on December 31 and may not have been renewed promptly. Check with your contractor to ensure that their license is valid for the year 2020. Construction inspections of new OWTS facilities are planned as part of the permitting procedure for the facility.

Click on theTransfer of Titletab above to learn more about the obligatory inspections of existing systems required for the purpose of transferring ownership of the property.

A new construction permit application or modular house permit application that plans to utilize an existing OWTS must be accompanied by a request for inspection. For the aim of gathering information or investigating a potential problem, a voluntary inspection of an existing system may be requested. To request an inspection for the purpose of concluding an expired permit (be sure to check with SJBPH first to ensure that a new permit is not necessary prior to continuing)

If you find yourself in one of these circumstances, take the steps outlined below. First and foremost, a qualified system cleaner must pump out the septic tank (if the tank was pumped within the last year, provide SJBPH that receipt and do not re-pump the tank). The cleaner will conduct a check of the system and provide a report on its current state. This report will include a description of the activity(s) performed, the volume of the septic tank, the number of chambers in the septic tank, and any system deficiency(s), malfunction, or broken equipment that was observed, such as cracks, infiltration, overflows, or equipment that was not in accordance with industry standards.

To request an examination of the surface characteristics of your septic system, fill out the form below and submit it to the SJBPH. Additionally, a check of the SJBPH permits records for the subject property is conducted in conjunction with this inspection.

Form for requesting an OWTS inspection (Do not use this form for transfer of title inspections. ) (See “Transfer of Title” above for further information.)

Please keep in mind that for both volunteer inspections and inspections for construction permit applications, a five-day notice is necessary. Additionally, inspections of existing systems with an Inspector who has been qualified by the National Association of Wastewater Technicians might be planned (NAWT). You may find a list of qualified inspectors in your area by visiting theTransfer of Titletab above. SJBPH requires that anybody planning to install an OWTS in 2022 get a license from the SJBPH.

The System Contractors Class is offered by SJBPH on a regular basis throughout the year.

If you did not receive one, please contact SJBPH at (970) 335-2054.

February 25, March 25, April 29, May 27, June 24, September 30, and October 28 are the dates to remember.

For the foreseeable future, lessons will be conducted online as a result of COVID-19. It is necessary to register in advance! To register, please call 970-335-2054 or email [email protected]. After enrolling, you will get an email with a link that will allow you to participate in the online training session on the designated day. Licenses expire at the end of the calendar year in which they are issued.

Licensed contractors by license
Licensed contractors alphabetically(updated May 2021)
Installation Fundamentals
Las bases de la Instalacion de Sistemas Septicos
Registered Soil Technicians(updated April 2021)
Licensed contractors by license
Licensed contractors by license, alphabetical(updated May 2021)
Licensed contractors, alphabetical(updated May 2021)
Licensed contractors,

Cleaners who are licensed by the SJBPH include:

Septic companies in the area include: Superior Septic Services (Durango, CO), Ball Septic Tank Service (Durango, CO), Alpine Septic Service (Pagosa Springs, CO), Rocky Mountain Sanitation (Pagosa Springs), Southwest Septic (Mancos, CO), Mountain Septic (Durango, CO), Durango Septic (Durango, CO)
Mountain Septic (Durango, CO)
Durango Septic (Durango, CO)
Mountain Septic

Information on On-site Wastewater Treatment System permits (including the name of the original permittee and their address) is available on our website, thanks to a grant from the San Juan Basin Public Health Department. We will accept written requests from law enforcement officials who wish to have their personal information withheld from our website in order to comply with Colorado Revised Statutes 18-9-313 regarding the online availability of a law enforcement official’s (and their live-in immediate family’s) personal information on our website.

Permits will only be removed from the public database if they are related with the name of a law enforcement officer or the name of their live-in immediate family, according to the SJBPH.

You may request that your personal information be removed from our website.

You can request that your personal information be removed from our website.

Postal correspondence should be addressed to San Juan Basin Public Health, ATTN: EH, 281 Sawyer Drive Suite 300, Durango, CO 81303
Email should be addressed to [email protected].

The most recent version of the OWTS rules.

For services offered by San Juan Basin Public Health, including all OWTS permit, licensing, and transfer of title costs, please see the current pricing structure below.