BU-07040 2007

To Order

Taking Care of Your Septic System – Management Basics

NOTE: This is a Web Sampler. Information about the complete publication and how to order it is available here.

Household Plumbing
Septic Tank
Trench Septic System
Mound Septic System
Soil Treatment System
Improperly Treated Sewage
Resources

More than 30 percent of Minnesota's households use septic sytems (onsite sewage treatment systems) to treat their wastewater.

Septic systems protect human health and the environment by safely recycling wastewater back into the environment.

While government regulation ensures proper design and installation of permitted septic systems, you are responsible for properly operating and maintaining your septic system to protect people's health and the environment.

Septic Tank

Functions

Separates solids from liquid.
Allows friendly bacteria to decompose organic solids.
Stores solids until removed by pumping.
Delivers liquid to soil treatment area.

Best Management Practices

Never enter the septic tank.
Pump/clean solids from tank's manhole (not inspection pipes) regularly.
Have baffles inspected at time of cleaning.
Install and insulate risers to manhole access.
Identify whether your tank has an effluent screen, and service as necessary.
Do not use septic tank additives or cleaners.

Resources

Publications

Septic System Owner's Guide #06583
Landscaping Septic Systems #06986
Choosing an Alternative Septic System for a Homesite
- With Thin Soil over Bedrock #07569
- With a Steep Slope #07570
- With a High Water Table #07571

Videos and DVDs

Septic Systems Revealed: Guide to Operation, Care and Maintenance #06768 (VHS)
Septic Systems Revealed: Guide to Operation, Care and Maintenance #08243 (DVD)
Septic System Video and Guide (VHS & Septic System Owner's Guide) #06769

City, Township or County Offices

Planning and Zoning
Environmental Health
Public Health
Water Plan Coordinator
Soil and Water Conservation District

Regional or State Offices

Minnesota Pollution Control Agency, (800) 657-3864
Minnesota Department of Health

Other Assistance

Contact a Licensed/Bonded septic system professional

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