Who Do I Contact To Report A Leaking Septic Tank? (Solution found)

As a starting point, you should contact your local health department to determine if they are aware of the situation and have ordered repairs to your neighbor’s waste treatment system. You can also talk with them about procedures for filing a complaint.

What to do if your septic tank is leaking?

Solutions for a Leaking Septic Tank

Do Not Pump Water Out.

Determine the Exact Location of Your System.
Inspect for Damage.
Measure the Depth of the Groundwater.

If You Have a Mound System, Turn off the Power.
Reduce Water Use.
If You Continue to Experience Problems, Hire a Licensed Professional.

What can I do if my neighbor’s septic smells?

In general, septic effluent must be disposed of on the property from which it originates. It’s always best to ask a neighbor to consider and address a problem before calling the authorities, but if a neighbor is unwilling or perhaps unable to act, the second step of involving the health department may be necessary.

Who is responsible for maintaining a septic tank?

You have a legal and social responsibility to maintain your septic system in good working order. A neglected septic tank is a serious health risk and causes harm to the environment. Your tank will have to be emptied (de-sludged) less often, saving you money. If the system fails it will be expensive to repair.

Why is my septic tank leaking outside?

The most common cause of leaks and failures are clogs from solids. Blockages can be caused by broken pipes, tree roots or sludge in the distribution system. Some tanks fail because they’re poorly designed. For instance, a system with a drain field won’t work in areas with a high groundwater table or too much slope.

How do you fix a septic tank that backs up when it rains?

After a major rain event, the only way to relieve pressure on the system is by using it less. If possible, reduce or eliminate water going down the drains until the drainfield dries out. An emergency septic service cleaning can provide temporary relief, but this is often a futile exercise in battling mother nature.

How do you fix a leaky concrete septic tank?

To repair large cracks, your septic repair technician will pump out and clean the tank. They will let it thoroughly dry and then apply concrete crack filler to the cracks. Finally, once cured, then the tank can safely be used again.

Should I be able to smell my septic tank?

A properly-maintained septic tank should be odor-free, so if you notice a bad smell inside your home or outside near the leach field, it’s a sign that there’s a problem. Septic odors are caused by gases in the system, including carbon dioxide, hydrogen sulfide, and methane.

Why does my house smell like septic when it rains?

Raining often causes atmospheric pressure changes, which can lead to the air becoming heavy. As such, the methane gases typically found in the septic tank don’t flow through the vent as they normally would. Instead, they stay low to the ground, causing a foul smell similar to rotten eggs.

Why does my yard smell like sewage when it rains?

When it comes to a sewage smell in your home after rain, the most common culprits are cracked pipes and clogged drains. If you have trees in your yard, roots are a common cause of cracked or broken pipes. In addition, tree roots can also crack your septic tank.

Do I have to replace my septic tank by 2020?

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

Do septic tanks need servicing?

Septic tanks should be inspected every 1 to 3 years. Whenever you move into a home with a septic tank, the tank should be pumped and inspected. Septic Tank maintenance is important because continued neglect of a tank may result in system failure or the need for replacement of the soil absorption area.

Who pays to empty septic tank?

It is not unusual for the tenant (you) to be responsible for the upkeep of the tank. That is, you will be responsible for ensuring you maintain the septic system and pay for pump-outs. This is, generally speaking, perfectly normal.

Do concrete septic tanks leak?

The most common problem with concrete septic tanks is that they crack, which causes leaks and problems with soil contamination. If the leaks are only minor, usually they can be repaired and sealed; allowing you to get more life out of your tank.

Do septic tanks leak into the ground?

When ground water inundates the septic tank, water will leak in through any opening such as the manhole cover, the inlet/outlet pipes or the tank cover and fill the tank with groundwater instead of waste water from the house. Remember, don’t pump out more than half the volume of the tank.

Is it normal for septic tanks to leak?

A septic tank can develop a leak at just about any location but here are some common ones. A septic tank cover or cleanout port, especially one that is below ground may permit surface water to enter the septic tank. (Make sure septic tank covers are sound – falling into a septic tank is likely to be fatal).

What to Do If Your Septic System Fails

The majority of septic systems fail as a result of faulty design or inadequate maintenance practices. On certain locations with inadequate or unsuitable soils, excessive slopes, or high ground water tables, soil-based systems (those with a drain field) are erected whereas others (those without) are not. Hydraulic failures and pollution of neighboring water sources are possible outcomes of these situations. Regular maintenance, such as pumping the septic tank on a regular basis (usually every three to five years), can prevent sediments in the tank from migrating into the drain field and clogging the system.

Whom to contact if you have problems with your septic system

Contact a local septic system service provider, your local health department, or the regulatory agency in charge of onsite wastewater treatment systems. You may look up the phone number for your local health department online or in your phone book to find out more information. Find a professional in your region by searching online searchable databases of installers and septic system service providers:

The National Onsite Wastewater Recycling Association’s Septic Locator

The National Association of Wastewater Technicians
And the National Association of Onsite Wastewater Recycling Association

What to do if your home floods

It is important not to come into direct touch with sewage if it has backed up into your home from your plumbing fittings or onsite system since it may contain hazardous bacteria. For further information, speak with your local health department or regulatory body. Personnel involved in cleanup should be outfitted in safety gear (e.g., long rubber gloves, face splash shields). Immediately following the completion of the cleanup, carefully wash all of the equipment, tools, and clothing that were used during the cleanup, as well as the flooded area.

The area should be totally dried out and not utilized for at least 24 hours after it has been entirely dried off.

Visit the Environmental Protection Agency’s website. Flooding and Septic Systems: What to Do After the Flood
See also The Following Questions and Answers Regarding Septic Systems: What to Do After a Flood

In the event that you have a private drinking water well, find out what to do with it after a flood.

Whom to contact for information on septic systems

Those seeking technical support can contact the National Environmental Services Center’s technical assistance hotline at (800) 624-8301 or (304) 293-4191, which is available toll-free.

Problems with a Neighbor’s Septic System

SUBMIT YOUR ASK OR COMMENT about how to deal with septic system odours, odors, or problems on nearby properties.

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. Problems with the septic system of a neighbor: A guide to researching, diagnosing, and addressing problems caused by odors, seepage, or well pollution that appear to have originated on a neighbor’s property is presented in this article. 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.

Advice for Investigating Septic Odors, Seepage, Failures, on Neighboring Lands

Hi, My next-door neighbor’s house has a septic tank in front of it; the house is around 30 years old. When I go down the street, I can smell her septic system, but my main issue is that it is extremely close to our property line, and their land is around 8 feet higher in elevation, so I believe that the waste is seeping into our yard.

Originally, the yards were quite level, but we had to tear away some of the banking in order to build a driveway. What is the best way to detect if that garbage is present in the soil around our driveway? Oh, and the banking doesn’t freeze over there during the winter months. Thanks, C

Check with your Neighbors First

In most cases, septic effluent must be disposed of on the same site where it was generated or collected. Whenever possible, it is preferable to urge a neighbor to evaluate and remedy an issue before engaging the authorities. However, when a neighbor is hesitant or possibly unable to act, the second step of involving the health department may be essential. The health department would get involved and enforce action when an owner’s property was dumping raw septic effluent onto a neighbor’s land and the offender refused to take responsibility for the situation.

Explain your worries to your neighbors, ask for their aid, and offer them the opportunity to react.

If you have the unfortunate experience of encountering a neighbor who is unable or unwilling to ensure that their septic system is not contaminating a neighbor’s property, you may need to take additional actions.

Check the distances between the neighboring septic system and property boundaries, wells, etc

Perhaps you might begin your investigation by examining atCLEARANCE DISTANCES, SEPTIC SYSTEMand then reviewing the distances between the adjacent septic system and your property borders and whether or not anybody is in compliance with your local health department’s requirements. Clearancedistances from wells, property lines, waterways, and other sources of contamination must all be observed.

Investigate the source of septic odors

When it comes to sniffing out scents on your own property, it can be difficult, and you should avoid going into a neighbor’s property unless you have been invited. Odors might indicate that a neighbor’s system is failing, that their piping and venting are wrongly placed, or that there is another odor source (which is less likely). Most health authorities, in my experience, will compel action if septic effluent is actually entering a neighbor’s property, but they will not need action if smells are present on the property.

Here is the link to our article on how to identify septic odors:

Investigate the source of wet areas that might or might not be due to someone’s septic system failure

Excavation for an above-ground pool revealed sewage wastewater running to the surface at an adjacent property in this photograph. If you see any damp places on your property, or, for that matter, on your neighbor’s property nearby, it is possible that their septic system is failing and needs to be repaired for both health and functional reasons. The following is a list of septic system failure indicators: It is possible that the health department will employ a septic dye to try to determine whether the effluent is from a septic system rather than another groundwater source when effluent is discovered.

This is due to the failure of the septic system.

Sometimes the septic system is failing but the color does not appear to be there — this might be due to dilution by other waters or the use of bleach by the owner. An explanation of why septic dye may not show even when a septichas has failed may be found at this link.

If there are no wet areas but you still suspect a septic problem

An uphill adjoining septic field, whose effluent ran beneath the earth into the drive drainage system of the property in the foreground of the photograph, is shown in this photograph. This photograph depicts the appearance of septic dye in the area drain basin in the driveway. If there are no wetareas emerging but the ground exhibits signs of close effluent passage, such as scents or warmth in the winter, it is reasonable to predict that effluent will eventually surface and the issue will become unambiguous – repair will be necessary.

The absence of wetareas on your property means that effluent is not accumulating at the groundsurface, which means that there is no visible evidence of septic failure.

Soil testing for evidence of septic failure

Testing soil for the presence of coliformbacteria or colibacteria, which can indicate that the soil has been contaminated with sewage effluent, can be done by a local water testing laboratory. Instead of testing water or groundwater samples, I’d call the lab and ask them what process they want you to use to test soil samples instead. I’d also inquire about the standards of comparison that are employed. (And I would appreciate it if you could share that information with me.)

Whom Should You Contact For Septic System Failure or Neighbor Encroachment Disputes?

Keep in mind that, in the interest of maintaining good relationships among neighbors, it is usually always preferable to first approach your neighbor personally, calmly, and respectfully to address your complaint before approaching the septic system in question.

Contact your local building and zoning officials about a septic system dispute if:

A violation of your property line occurs when your neighbor’s septic system contains components that were placed on your land. An attorney and/or a surveyor may be necessary to help you in confirming the boundaries of your property and reviewing the required septic system setbacks from property lines or other site features.

Contact your local health department officials about a septic system dispute if:

Leaving a septic system failure unaddressed: The sewage or sewage effluent from your neighbor’s septic system is being discharged to the ground surface on anyone’s property, including yours. If a neighbor’s septic system is clearly failing and you have not received a satisfactory response from speaking directly with your neighbor, or if doing so would be unsafe in your opinion, contact your local health department and request that a health inspector inspect the properties involved in the failure. Septic systems that are too close to rivers, property boundaries, and other sensitive areas: If you notice a septic system that has been built or is being built in evident violation of the normal clearance distances from community or private wells, lakes, streams, or other bodies of water, please report it toCLEARANCE DISTANCES, SEPTIC SYSTEM.

Reader Q A – also see the FAQs series linked-to below

@Anonymous, The majority of coliform bacteria are not pathogenic. However, some uncommon forms of E. coli, notably the strain 0157:H7, have the potential to cause severe disease. – New York State Department of Health and Mental Hygiene Overall, total coliforms are an unrelated category of bacteria that are not dangerous to humans (with a few notable exceptions). Pathogens are bacteria, parasites, and viruses that have the potential to cause health issues in people if they are ingested by them.

It is necessary to measure total coliforms in order to assess the effectiveness of water treatment and the integrity of the distribution system.
Environmental Protection Agency – Revised Total Coliform Rule See the REVISED TOTAL COLIFORM RULE SUMMARY SHEET for further information.

E.Coli is a pathogen.
@Chuck, It’s understandable that what you’ve reported has been upsetting and frustrating.
“My (sewage effluent) spray head is virtually at the bottom of this creek,” a new neighbor says on the conversation: “I just moved in next door.” That stream then flows over my 5 acres of land in Oklahoma, where I’ve resided for the past 30 years.

There’s nothing he can do about it.
Obviously, this isn’t the case.

The E.coli count in this stream has reached as high as 24,190 bacteria per 100 milliliters of water at times.

That is 120 times the maximum permissible level of skin contact.

Those who should be concerned as well as those who don’t want to be concerned have all been contacted by me.

I can only hear crickets at this point.

What a tragedy!

@Debbie, Make a phone call to your local health department.

Thank you for taking the time to check through it and please do not hesitate to contact me if you have any questions or comments.

It stinks when the neighbors come on, and it has been stinking for over 10 years, and I am tired of smelling it when I sit outside.

I believe they should as well, so please let me know who I may report them to in order to get them repaired.

We moved into our house in North Carolina nearly 6 months ago and noticed the odor almost immediately after moving in.

We’ve attempted to communicate with the neighbor, but they don’t appear to be interested in addressing the issue of raw sewage in their yard, which is caused by both a damaged tank and a broken leech line.

Is there anyone in North Carolina who can give me some advice?

Additionally, check with your local health agency.

There are seven apartments hooked up to this system, is it legal for them to put drain fill lines in the front of my property?

@Justin, your department of health has confirmed that they crossed the creek with the septic lines and that their drain fill lines are in the front of your property.

My neighbor is pumping septic sewage into their yard, and it smells terrible.

In your situation, it appears that you should seek assistance from your local health department.

There is a strong odor of fecal excrement coming from the building across the street from me.

Hoarders are people we’ve met.

@Jo, if the landowner is unwilling to fix the raw sewage discharge into the ground, you will need to seek assistance from your local health authority.

It is, of course, a health hazard as well.

We have continual running water into our driveway and yard (we are on a small slant), causing it to become filthy and muddy.

For the time being, it does not smell.

What can I do to help?

It’s difficult to tell where you’re coming from when you’re properly situated.

Perhaps you might elaborate a little more on your description.

Ocn This is a question for your attorney: what happens if you just exercise your power over your own property by stopping the septic lines of a neighbor who is located on your land after warning the neighbor in writing in advance?

We acquired a building lot and were unaware that the neighbor was connected to a septic tank at the time of purchase.

On my property, several of the leach lines are located.

Our Home Builder is ready to begin construction, but he will be unable to do so until the City issues the necessary permits.

However, although the Health Department is aware of the situation, it will not compel the neighbor to connect to the sewer system.

I’ve attempted to communicate with the neighbor, but he has refused to open his door.

Is there anything I can do legally to compel this individual to connect to the sewer system so that I may begin construction?

Do you have any suggestions?

Alternatively, view theNEIGHBORING SEPTIC SYSTEM FAQs- questions and answers that were originally provided at this article. Alternatively, consider the following:

Articles on Site Plumbing or Mechanical System Clearances

THE FINDING OF BURIED OIL TANKS
CLEARANCE DISTANCES, SEPTIC SYSTEM
NEIGHBORHOOD SEPTIC SYSTEM PROBLEMS

PLANTSTREES OVER SEPTIC SYSTEMS
SEPTIC COMPONENT LOCATIONS
SEPTIC DRAINFIELD LOCATION

SEPTIC VIDEOS
SEPTIC TO POOL DISTANCE
WELLS CISTERNSSPRINGS-

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INDEX to RELATED ARTICLES:ARTICLE INDEX to SEPTIC SYSTEMS

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Backups, Leaks and Odors

In the event that sewage is backing up within your home’s drains or surfacing outside your property, or if you detect foul odors in and around your home, it is possible that your septic system is malfunctioning. The most likely perpetrators are as follows:

Absence of maintenance – If solid waste accumulates in the tank to an excessive level, it may be forced out of the tank and into the drainfield, where it can cause clogging of the gravel and soil. The result might be a backup of wastewater or an eruptive eruption from the earth. Fittings that are missing, broken, or worn – Tee fittings and baffles are tank components that are used to slow down the inflow and outflow of wastewater, respectively. The goal is to give bacteria enough time to digest waste while also allowing for the separation of solids, grease, and scum from liquids during the process. If any of these fittings are damaged, the system will not function as it should. Because of the outdated “perc” soil testing method, some septic tanks have been installed in soils that would not pass a site review today under the current standards. There are also several factors that can influence the longevity of a septic system, including routine maintenance. A septic system is not intended to last indefinitely. Incorrect installation – tanks installed backwards, drainfield sections that are not level, soil that has been compacted by heavy equipment – there are many things that can go wrong during the installation process. Misuse – When more people live in a home than the home was designed to accommodate, it can lead to problems in the future. In the case of a three-bedroom home that is later converted into a rental property that “sleeps 12,” a septic tank designed for that home will be prone to failure.

Check out our septic tank maintenance recommendations. Water Flooding – What to DoWhen grass surrounds a tank or drainfield, it indicates the presence of a leak or other issue. A septic tank pit that had been exposed to the elements and was full to ground level with disgusting-looking backed-up sewage tank garbage.

Your Legal Responsibility

If the Department of Health and Human Services receives a complaint about a failing septic system or links a pollution problem to a failing septic system, the owner will be served with a notice informing them that they are in violation of Regulation 61-56, Onsite Wastewater Systems, and that they must repair their failing septic tank system immediately. For individual households, the South Carolina Department of Health and Environmental Control (DHEC) does not provide any funding or financing alternatives to assist with the repair or replacement of failing septic systems or the construction of new residential septic systems.

Save Money

Regular inspections and pumping (by DHEC-licensed septic tank contractors or pumpers) of your septic system are the most effective and least expensive methods of keeping your septic system in good functioning condition.

Environmental Concerns with Leaking Septic Tank and Issues with Nitrate & Nitrite

It is the “Infiltration Zone” that refers to the soil strata just under a leaky septic tank or leach field because they are a biologically active zone, according to environmental specialists. The infiltration zone is approximately one to three inches thick, and it is a source of environmental contamination concern in many areas of the country. In reality, when there is enough oxygen present, the nitrification process takes place, resulting in the conversion of ammonium nitrogen to nitrate.

Furthermore, according to environmental protection agencies at the municipal, state, and federal levels, both nitrate and nitrite represent substantial risks and threats to human health in the subterranean environment. On April 26, 2020, we made some changes.

Nitrate from a Leaking Septic Tank – Into the Soil

Nitrate is a kind of nitrogen that may be found in the soil beneath septic systems, and it is toxic. Nitrate is also found in agricultural settings, particularly in fertilizer and animal dung heaps, among other places. The presence of elevated amounts of nitrate and chloride in the soil surrounding a septic system indicates that the soil has been contaminated by leaking septic tanks. In fact, in the California water resources business, operators indicate that excessive nitrate concentrations have caused more groundwater production wells to be shut down than any other chemical ingredient.

Nitrate From a Leaking Septic Tank – Into the Groundwater

Nitrates may also easily pass through soil and into groundwater, where they can cause huge pollution plumes to emerge. Typical naturally occurring quantities of nitrate in groundwater vary between 0.1 and 10 milligrams per liter. In addition, nitrate is soluble in groundwater (see Figure 1). Aquifers are capable of transporting it quickly, as a result of its great mobility. Furthermore, depending on the geology and soil properties of an aquifer, Nitrate might build in certain areas of the aquifer.

After “Nitrification” – Nitrate Can Become Nitrite

Nitrate is transformed into nitrite as a result of percolation, time, and the assistance of natural microorganisms found in the subterranean environment. It is also true that the bacterial population within the septic system itself contributes to the nitrification process. Prior to the building of the underground tank, environmental specialists take into account the depth of groundwater, the geology of the surrounding area, and the results of a percolation test to determine whether or not nitrification will occur.

Nitrite From a Leaking Septic Tank – Into to Soil and Groundwater

Nitrite is a substance that quickly passes through subterranean soil layers. In fact, environmental scientists refer to this as “sorbtion” when describing this process. As part of the seepage process, phosphorous and different pathogens separate from the material, as well as all of the other septic tank debris, which is then flushed away. Groundwater contamination will occur, however, since nitrogen dioxide (together with nitrate) will travel across these zones while largely retaining concentration.

Environmental Evaluation of a Leaking Septic Tank

The United States Environmental Protection Agency (USEPA) develops Maximum Contaminant Levels (MCLs) as a protective drinking water standard based on the danger to human health and the amount of exposure. MCLs include nitrate and nitrite, which are both toxic at high concentrations. Even when carrying out a Phase I Environmental Site Assessment, septic tank spills are often identified as Recognizable Environmental Conditions (RECs) that necessitate aPhase II Subsurface Investigation to determine the cause of the leak.

Moreover, throughout the environmental due diligence process, MCLs are used as Phase 2 Environmental Screening Levels for groundwater test samples, which are based on the results of the tests.

C8, PFAS, PFOSPFOA Soil Contamination

Perfluorooctanoic acid (PFOA) and perfluorooctane sulfonate (PFOS) are two more compounds that have raised concerns in relation to leaky septic tank pollution at industrial locations (PFOS). The chain structure of these compounds consists of eight carbons. As a result, they are referred to as C8 and are members of the perfluoroalkyl and polyfluoroalkyl compounds families (PFAS). Industrial septic tanks and clarifiers that contain C8 chemical pollution can pose a serious threat to the environment since the material can move via soil and groundwater and is extremely difficult to degrade.

Leaking Septic Tank in Industrial or Commercial Properties

It is possible that nitrate, nitrite, and C8 are not the only compounds of concern affecting the subsurface at industrial sites. Industrial sites have traditionally been used for a variety of purposes, including the disposal of hazardous chemical waste into the onsite sewage system. For example, used oil and solvent waste, as well as paint and varnish dust particles. When this occurs, a leaky septic tank acts as a conduit for different toxins to reach soil and groundwater after they have been discharged on the property.

Additional Information

In order to obtain further information regarding leaky septic tanks and the environmental risks associated with soil and groundwater pollution, contact an environmental specialist at (888) 930-6887.

References:

List of Drinking Water Contaminants published by the United States Environmental Protection Agency’s Office of Ground Water and Drinking Water in July 2002. MCLs: geologists, engineers, and contractors!

Septic Tank Maintenance

All septic tank installers and pumpers in Alabama are required to hold a license issued by the Alabama Onsite Wastewater Board, according to state law. Licensed technicians may be located on the Alabama Onsite Wastewater Board website, which can be accessed here. Every three to five years, you should contact a professional specialist to clean your septic tank and effluent filter. Groundwater pollution may be prevented by performing routine maintenance on your system. This will extend the life of your system and prevent costly repairs.

When the filter detects that the system requires maintenance, it will alert you.

Septic tank systems that are failing can cause the following problems:

Health of you and your family

Damage the environment, lowering the value of your home
And being difficult and expensive to fix

Signs of Potential System Problems

Wet places in the yard

Toilets or drains that are slow to drain
Gurgling sounds coming from your drains
Sewage aromas

And more.

Do’s and Don’ts

Do – Conserve water in order to limit the quantity of wastewater that must be processed and disposed of by your wastewater treatment and disposal system. Doing laundry over a period of many days will reduce the amount of stress placed on your system. Do – Fix any leaking faucets or toilets that you may have. In order to discover toilet leaks, place few drops of food dye in the toilet tank and see whether any dye ends up in the bowl. Don’t forget to divert roof drainage, downspouts, and any other surface water away from your drain field as well! Water in excess prevents the soil from fully cleaning the wastewater
Excessive water Do – The next time your tank is pumped, install an effluent filter to catch the waste. Carry out an annual inspection and frequent pumpouts of your septic tank with the help of an experienced, certified septic tank contractor. For recommended pumping frequencies, please see the chart on our website. Make your septic tank cover easily accessible for inspections and pumping by constructing waterproof risers to ground level with secure lids. What to Do – Contact your county health department or a qualified septic tank contractor anytime you have difficulties with your system or notice any indicators of system failure

Make sure to keep meticulous records of all repairs, pumpings, inspections, and other maintenance tasks. These should be passed on to the future homeowner
The following items should not be flushed or dumped: coffee grounds
Disposable diapers

Wipe
Sanitary napkins
Medicine

Cigarette butts
Fats
Grease

Oil
Paint
Thinner

Kitchen scraps
Dental floss
Cat litter

Tampons
Condoms
Paper towels
Varnishes
Waste oils
Or pesticides. You should not: – Drive over your drain field or compress the dirt in any manner
And Keep it out of the ground – Do not dig in your drain field or construct anything on top of it, and do not cover it with a hard surface such as concrete or asphalt. Also, avoid putting in subsurface utilities or sprinkler systems in the vicinity. Not to Plant Anything Other Than Grass – Do not plant anything else over or near the drain field. Branches and roots from adjacent trees and bushes may obstruct and harm the drain pipes. Installing a swimming pool near your system is not a good idea. Don’t use a garbage disposal, or at the very least minimize your use of one. Disposals increase the amount of solids in your tank by around 50%, requiring you to pump your tank more frequently than is generally recommended. Using your toilet as a trash can, or poisoning your system and groundwater by dumping dangerous chemicals and cleaners down the drain, are also prohibited practices. Chemicals that are too harsh might kill the microorganisms that aid in the purification of your wastewater. Don’t – Spend money on septic tank chemicals that aren’t necessary. The microorganisms required for wastewater treatment can be found in abundance in sewage. Additives can cause sediments to re-suspend, resulting in a blockage in your drain field. Pumping your tank on a regular basis is still necessary even if you use additives. It is not permissible to allow backwash from household water softeners to enter the septic system. Entering a septic tank is not recommended. Toxic gases emitted from the tank have the potential to kill. Obtain counsel from your county health agency or a certified septic tank contractor in the event that your system begins to malfunction.

View our Homeowner’s Guide and Record Keeping Folder to keep track of your maintenance and for additional information on how to maintain your septic system. The most recent update was made on May 13, 2021.

Septic Tank Systems

Septic tank systems are small-scale wastewater treatment systems that collect, treat, and dispose of wastewater. They are used to collect, treat, and dispose of wastewater. They are dependable, cost-effective, and efficient in their operation. Septic tank systems are utilized in areas where municipal sewers are not accessible or are prohibitive to install. They are also used in rural areas. Generally speaking, your septic tank system is made up of four parts: the septic tank, the effluent filter, the distribution box or Flow Divider (if applicable), and the effluent disposal field (also known as the drain field).

It is beneficial to have an effluent filter installed in your septic tank because it allows the partially digested solid solids to remain in the tank longer.

When you have wastewater in your distribution box, it is divided into equal halves and sent to a drain field for treatment.

Wastewater is channeled into level trenches that are lined with gravel and pipes. These ditches serve as a conduit for wastewater to seep into the surrounding soil. The soil purifies the wastewater, allowing it to be recycled back into the groundwater underneath it.

Where is Your Septic Tank?

In order to keep your system in good working condition, the tank must be accessible for pumping and the drain field must be well covered. The challenge of locating your system is not always straightforward. You should call your county health department to obtain a copy of your septic tank system permit, which will specify the approximate location of the system as well as the size and capacity of the tank. It is expected that the completed permit (also known as the Approval for Use) would include a schematic of the actual system installation as well as additional information regarding your system.

Septic Tank Maintenance offers advice on how to keep your septic tank system in good working order.

Septic Systems

To ensure that your system is properly maintained, the tank must be easily accessible for pumping and the drain field must be well-protected. The challenge of locating your system is not always simple. Assuming you do not already have one, speak with the county health department to obtain a copy of your septic tank system permit, which will include information on the system’s approximate location and capacity. It is expected that the completed permit (also known as The Approval for Use) would include a schematic of the actual system installation as well as additional information regarding your system.

Septic Tank Maintenance provides detailed information on how to keep your septic tank system in good working order.

What is a septic system?

Sewage treatment systems (septic systems) are underground wastewater treatment facilities that you own and maintain. Septic systems are common in rural regions lacking centralized sewage systems. Septic systems clean wastewater from residential plumbing, including that produced by bathrooms, kitchen drains, and laundry, using a combination of nature and time-tested technology to do so.

Why should I maintain my septic system?

Sewage treatment systems (septic systems) are underground wastewater treatment facilities that you own and control. Septic systems are common in rural regions lacking centralized wastewater systems. Septic systems clean wastewater from domestic plumbing, including that produced by bathrooms, kitchen drains, and laundry, using a combination of nature and time-tested technology to get the best possible results for the environment.

External Resources

A septic system inspection can be performed by your local health department, which can also give a list of qualified septic pumpers and, if available, certify you to perform your own septic system inspection.

SepticSmart– The Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) provides information on appropriate septic care, as well as pamphlets and factsheets for homeowners. Clean Water Loans from Craft3- Craft3 provides funding for the replacement of septic systems in a number of locations around Washington.

Septic System Replacement Fund

A septic system inspection can be performed by your local health department, which can also give a list of licensed septic pumpers and, if available, certify you to conduct your own septic system inspection. For homes, the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) provides information on appropriate septic maintenance in the form of booklets and fact sheets. In many parts of Washington, the Clean Water Loan program from Craft3 is available to help with septic system replacement.

A septic system inspection can be performed by your local health department, which can also give a list of licensed septic pumpers and, if available, certify you to perform your own inspections. SepticSmart– The Environmental Protection Agency provides information on appropriate septic care, as well as pamphlets and factsheets for homeowners. Clean Water Loans from Craft3- Craft3 provides funding for the replacement of septic systems in a number of places around Washington.

In future financing rounds, the DEC and the Department of Health and Human Services will re-evaluate priority waterbodies.

Eligibility

In accordance with program requirements, participating counties are responsible for assessing and analyzing the applications and determining whether or not to offer financial assistance. In making this determination, the following factors are taken into account: the position of the property in respect to a waterbody, the influence on groundwater that is utilized for drinking water, and the state of the property owner’s present septic system Following the evaluation of the applications and the determination of funding decisions, the participating counties notify the property owners of their grant awards by mailing them grant award letters.

Eligible Projects

Installation, replacement, or upgrading of a septic system or septic system components
Or, replacement of a cesspool with a septic system
Or Installation of modern treatment technologies, including a nitrogen removal system, to improve water quality.

Eligible Costs

Costs associated with system design and installation
System costs
System components
Enhanced treatment methods
Costs of design (limited exclusively to the effort required to complete the approved design)
And

Ineligible Costs

Maintenance on a regular basis, such as pumping out a septic tank
Expenditures that have not been properly reported
Fees charged by the government
Interest and late fees
Fines and penalties are levied. Payment of sales tax
Site beautifying or internal plumbing changes that aren’t absolutely necessary
The engineer is in charge of the administrative tasks. if the engineer, or a business owned, managed, or employed by the engineer, is also responsible for the repair or replacement, the engineer will observe the construction process

Participating Counties

County participation in the Septic System Replacement Fund is limited to the following counties: Funding is only available for the counties and priority waterbodies that have been identified by the DEC and are shown in the table below. If you have any queries regarding whether your property is eligible for grant financing, please contact the local program contact listed on your grant application.

Participating County	Eligible Waterbodies	Local Program Contact
Allegany	*Canacadea Creek, Upper, and minor tribs (0503-0005)	Tyler J. Shaw585-268-9254
Broome	Park Creek and tribs (0601-0031)Whitney Point Lake/Reservoir (0602-0004)Fly Pond, Deer Lake, *Sky Lake (1404-0038)	Creig Hebdon607-778-2863
Cayuga	Owasco Lake (0706-0009)Lake Como (0705-0029)Cayuga Lake, Main Lake, Mid-South (0705-0050)Cayuga Lake, Main Lake, Mid-North (0705-0025)Cayuga Lake, Northern End (0705-0030)Skaneateles Lake (0707-0004)	Eileen O’Connor315-253-1244
Chautauqua	*Findley Lake (0202-0004)Chautauqua Lake, North (0202-0072)	William T. Boria, P.G.P: 716.753.4772F: 716.753.4344
Chenango	Chenango Lake (0601-0013)Guilford Lake (0601-0012)	Isaiah SuttonP: 607-337-1673 F: 607-337-1720
Clinton	*Upper Chateauguay Lake (0902-0034)Isle LaMotte (1000-0001)	Ryan Davies518-565-4870
Columbia	Robinson Pond (1308-0003)Copake Lake (1310-0014)	Edward Coons
Cortland	Skaneateles Lake (0707-0004)	Michael J. Ryan
Delaware	Susquehanna River, Main Stem (0601-0020)	Nick Carbone607-832-5434
Dutchess	Hillside Lake (1304-0001)Sylvan Lake (1304-0029)	Marie-Pierre Brule845-486-3464
Essex	Willsboro Bay (1001-0015)Lake George (1006-0016)	Hannah Neilly518-873-3686
Genesee	Tonawanda Creek, Middle, Main Stem (0102-0002)Bowen Brook and tribs (0102-0036)Bigelow Creek and tribs (0402-0016)Oatka Creek, Middle and minor tribs (0402-0031)	Thomas Sacco585-344-2580 Ext. 5496
Hamilton	Lake Eaton (0903-0056)	Erica Mahoney
Herkimer	North Winfield Creek and Tribs (0601-0035)	Jim Wallace
Jefferson	Moon Lake (0905-0093)Guffin Bay (0303-0025)Saint Lawrence River, Main Stem (0901-0004)Red Lake (0906-0039)Indian River, Lower, and minor tribs (0906-0021)Indian River, Middle, and minor tribs (0906-0005)Indian River, Middle, and minor tribs (0906-0030)Indian River, Middle, and minor tribs (0906-0031)Indian River, Middle, and minor tribs (0906-0032)	Sara Freda315-785-3144
Lewis	Beaver River, Lower, and tribs (0801-0187)	Casandra Buell
Livingston	Conesus Lake (0402-0004)	Mr. Mark Grove585-243-7280
Monroe	Irondequoit Bay (0302-0001)Mill Creek and tribs (0302-0025)Shipbuilders Creek and tribs (0302-0026)Minor Tribs to Irondequoit Bay (0302-0038)Hundred Acre Pond (0302-0034)	Gerry Rightmyer585-753-5471
Nassau	County Wide	Brian Schneider516-571-6725
Onondaga	Skaneateles Lake (0707-0004)Seneca River, Lower, Main Stem (0701-0008)	Jeffrey Till315-435-6623 Ext. 4503
Ontario	Honeoye Lake (0402-0032)Canadice Lake (0402-0002)Canandaigua Lake (0704-0001)Hemlock Lake (0402-0011)Seneca Lake, Main Lake, North (0705-0026)*Seneca Lake, Main Lake, Middle (0705-0021)	Megan Webster585-396-1450
Oswego	Lake Ontario Shoreline, Eastern (0303-0030)Lake Ontario Shoreline, Eastern (0303-0031)Lake Ontario Shoreline, Eastern (0303-0017)Lake Ontario Shoreline, Oswego (0302-0040)*Lake Ontario Shoreline, Central (0302-0041)	Donna Scanlon315-349-8292
Otsego	Goodyear Lake (0601-0015)Susquehanna River, Main Stem (0601-0020)	Tammy Harris607-547-4228
Putnam	Oscawana Lake (1301-0035)East Branch Croton, Middle, and tribs (1302-0055)Palmer Lake (1302-0103)	Joseph Paravati845-808-1390 Ext. 43157
Rensselaer	Nassau Lake (1310-0001)	Richard Elder
Saint Lawrence	Saint Lawrence River, Main Stem (0901-0004)Raquette River, Lower, and minor tribs (0903-0059)Little River and tribs (0905-0090)	Jason Pfotenhauer315-379-2292
Saratoga	Dwaas Kill and tribs (1101-0007)	Dustin Lewis518-885-6900
Schoharie	Summit Lake (1202-0014)	Shane Nickle518-295-8770.us
Schuyler	Waneta Lake (0502-0002)Lamoka Lake and Mill Pond (0502-0001)	Darrel Sturges607-535-6868
Seneca	Cayuga Lake, Main Lake, Mid-North (0705-0025)Cayuga Lake, Northern End (0705-0030)Cayuga Lake, Main Lake, Mid-South (0705-0050)	Tom Scoles315-539-1947
Steuben	Smith Pond (0502-0012)Almond Lake (0503-0003)Waneta Lake (0502-0002)Lamoka Lake and Mill Pond (0502-0001)*Keuka Lake (0705-0003)	Matthew Sousa607-664-2268
Suffolk	County Wide	Joan Crawford631-852-5811
Tompkins	Cayuga Lake, Southern End (0705-0040)Cayuga Lake, Main Lake, Mid-South (0705-0050)	Liz Cameron607-274-6688
Warren	Lake George (1006-0016)	Claudia Braymer
Washington	Cossayuna Lake (1103-0002)Lake George (1006-0016)	Corrina Aldrich
Wayne	Blind Sodus Bay (0302-0021)Lake Ontario Shoreline, Central (0302-0044)	Lindsey Gusterslagn315-946-7200
Westchester	Lake Meahagh (1301-0053)Truesdale Lake (1302-0054)	Heather McVeigh
Wyoming	Java Lake (0104-0004)Silver Lake (0403-0002)Oatka Creek, Middle, and minor tribs (0402-0031)	Stephen Perkins585-786-8857 ext. 5163

The Septic System Replacement Fund is being administered in the following counties: Funding is only available for the counties and priority waterbodies that have been identified by the DEC and are mentioned in the following table. If you have any queries regarding whether or not your property is eligible for grant money, please contact the local program contact listed above.

Program SummaryOutline

Last updated on October 19, 2021

Frequently Asked Questions

The program is handled by participating counties, and each county has a Local Program Contact who can assist in determining eligibility and the following stages in the program’s administration and implementation. Please refer to the Participating Counties section of this website to identify your county’s Local Program Contact and make contact with them directly.

My county is not listed on the eligible county list, am I eligible?

You are not eligible for the program if your county is not mentioned in the Participating Counties section of the website. However, you may wish to contact your local County Health or Planning Department to see if there are any additional services available to you that the county may be able to provide.

I do not see my waterbody listed as one of the Eligible Waterbodies, can it be added to the program?

The finalized list of qualifying waterbodies for Round 2 has been released. The law that established the program was aimed at improving water quality in waterbodies that had recorded deficiencies due to septic system contamination at the time of its inception. In order to comply with the legislative intent of the program, the New York State Department of Environmental Conservation developed screening criteria for Round 2 that were focused on documented water quality impairments and the potential for septic replacement to improve water quality to improve water quality.

How do I provide NYSDEC water quality data that my local group collects?

Please keep in mind that the links in this response will take you away from the EFC website. During the data solicitation period, all information should be sent to the New York State Department of Environmental Conservation. The data solicitation period for the 2020/2022 Integrated Report/(303(d) List) is now ongoing. Making Waves, a monthly e-newsletter from the DEC Division of Waters, published an announcement in the Environmental Notice Bulletin on May 19th and the Environmental Notice Bulletin on May 21st.

Making Waves will be delivered to your inbox on a regular basis.

I live in one of the five NYC Boroughs, is my property eligible for the program?

Because New York City is still in the process of expanding its sewage infrastructure, none of the five boroughs (Bronx, Brooklyn, Manhattan, Queens, or Staten Island) are eligible for the State Septic Replacement Program at this time. Sewerage is the most effective method of improving water quality. People who have septic systems on their properties or who are considering installing septic systems are invited to contact the New York City Department of Environmental Protection to learn about their alternatives.

SEWER CERTIFICATION AND CONNECTION PERMITS FROM THE NYCDEP (EXternal Link)

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Service and maintenance

The upkeep of a septic system is the responsibility of the system owner. A septic system’s life can be extended if it is properly maintained. In order to keep septic systems in proper working order, owners must hire state-licensed maintenance companies to pump out sediments from septic tanks on a regular basis. It is possible for sediments to build and migrate into the drainfield, causing it to collapse or even backing up into the dwelling or company if the debris is not removed on time.

Minnesota regulations require that the system be assessed at least once every three years, while municipal legislation may be more rigorous or include extra criteria. Minnesota regulations are available here. The following elements must be considered in the evaluation:

Testing the sewage tank to see if there are any leaks below the designed operating depth or whether the sewage tank tops, riser joints, or riser connections are leaking
Determining the depths of accumulations of scum and sludge

Tank contents must be withdrawn through the maintenance hole rather than the inspection pipes in order to guarantee that all particles are removed and that the tank baffles are not damaged during the removal process. When the tank is pumped, the baffles should be checked for damage. It is possible to use the Sewage tank maintenance reporting form (see page three) to confirm compliance with the requirements of the Sewage tank maintenance reporting form (see page three). The form must be completed and signed by a competent professional.

Form for Reporting Sewage Tank Maintenance (wq-wwists4-38)
Sewage Tank Maintenance Reporting Form

Septage storage

Maintenance personnel who hold an MPCA-issued SSTS permit are permitted to temporarily store up to 50,000 gallons of septage in registered underground storage tanks without needing a state permission, provided that the following requirements are met:

Septage is kept in tanks that hold no more than 50,000 gallons
At the municipal level, building licenses are issued, which may also include operational permits, depending on the circumstances. Land application of septage requires the services of an SSTS maintenance company that has been licensed by the MPCA. Under Minnesota Revised Statutes ch. 7080, storage tanks utilized for subterranean storage must be verified and listed by the MPCA. It is necessary for the tanks and facility to fulfill the standards of Minnesota Rules Chapter 7080.2290. If a maintenance business intends to store materials at more than one location, the MPCA permit threshold will be determined in accordance with the provisions of Minn. R. ch. 7081.0040, subp. 1(B)
All other municipal criteria (such as setbacks, zoning issues, and so forth) must be satisfied.

It is a temporary septage storage operating permit template that has been designed for use by local bodies of government, with the ability to amend it as necessary. More information may be found at: The MPCA’s policy on septage storage is available here.

Septage disposal

Septage may be disposed of in allowed wastewater treatment plants for further processing, but only if the treatment company has given them permission. The maintenance (pumper) must contact the wastewater treatment plant to find out if the plant would accept septage, how much it will cost to dump at the facility, and any other requirements that may be necessary.

Wastewater treatment facilities that accept septage (wq-wwists4-83)
Wastewater treatment plants that accept septage

Septage land application

Those who apply septage to land in Minnesota must adhere to the following U.S. Environmental Protection Agency land application regulations:

The Federal Land Application of Septage Regulations (40 CFR part 503) regulate the application of septage on federal land. Regulations for the application of solid waste on federal land – 40 CFR Part 257 — Regulates the application of biosolids on federal land.

The MPCA does not control the land application of septage directly, but it does so through the SSTS licensing scheme, which requires that all relevant state and local government regulations be followed. Before applying septage, licensed maintainers are responsible for verifying that the application does not conflict with local regulations.

Minnesota septage guidelines

Wq-wwists4-20: Septage and restaurant grease trap waste management standards (state guidelines integrate federal 503 regulations)
SSTS Maintenance Forms (University of Minnesota)