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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

In accordance with the Americans with Disabilities Act, this material is available in alternative formats upon request. Please contact your University of Minnesota Extension office or the Extension Store at (800) 876-8636.