For most homeowners, state septic tank regulations are not common knowledge. In fact, if you hire an expert plumber to install and maintain the septic system, you should never need to know the regulations set forth by the state of Georgia. To ensure that you hire someone who will follow regulations and that your septic system operates efficiently and safely, here’s an overview of the state regulations.
An Overview of Georgia’s Septic Tank Regulations
Siting and installation procedures ensure a proper, functioning septic tank. In order to choose the right location for the system to operate well, the installers should:
- Employ procedures to find the best location, using processes to test the soil and its capacity to absorb effluent (waste).
- Conduct calculations and tests to determine the right size for the septic tank and the drainfield, too.
Regulations Up Close
The septic expert will follow these regulations to locate and install the tank:
- The tank must be able to hold the amount of waste collected in 24 hours and be constructed to retain the volume of waste generated during this time period.
- The actual location of the tank must be at least 50 feet from any water sources, like springs, wells, or sink holes. Additionally, the tank should be on a downgrade from these water sources to avoid contamination.
- Other distances that determine the installation site include regulations that restrict the tank from being 10 feet from water supply lines or a property lines, 15 feet from an embankment or drainage ditch, and 10 feet from any building’s foundation.
- The total waste supply generated over the course of the year must be within 1000 gallons for a four-bedroom or smaller home. The capacity of the tank may be increased for homes that employ a garbage disposal, and/or additional bedrooms.
- Two septic tanks may be used if they are equal or greater to 1000 gallons in size each and connected by a sewer line that’s sealed.
- To avoid settling problems, the tank must be installed on a solid foundation and leveled. The backfill must not stress the tank but provide a stable ground above the tank, with at least 6 inches of ground covering the tank.
For more about septic tank regulations, contact a local septic provider. Ask about sizing and installation procedures as well as ways to follow regulations, and maintenance and service plans, too. For answers to your questions, contact the Pink Plumber today.
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