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Today 9:37:40 AM EDT
For 15-20 years I've wanted an off-grid cabin.  One day we'll buy the parcel of acreage.  However, the sewer was the one thing that presented a challenge as my wife isn't using an outhouse in the middle of winter with circulatory issues, but I digress.  A septic tank seems to be the way to go.  

This guy's route seems super simple and relatively easy...

https://www.facebook.com/reel/802228837606139

However, I'm wondering how long something like that would last before it has a problem and/or needs to be pumped?  High school science teacher said you could flush yeast tabs to keep the organic matter down.  And the water drains out.  

Anyone have experience with these systems?  How does it handle a ton of gray water from dishes/showers?  

Thanks!
Today 9:46:25 AM EDT
[#1]
I don't know what it is.
Got a non facebook link?


Even out in the sticks where I am with pretty much no zoning, you still need a permit to install a septic system and it has to be a legit one.

OTOH, you can have an outhouse if you get a permit and build it to their minimum spec.

Those who ignore history are doomed to repeat it..
Today 9:47:56 AM EDT
[#2]
A barrel or two, some T's and couplings and some perforated pipe for the drain field.

Tons of videos on you tube.
Gray water shouldn't be a problem if the ground perc's like it should for that type system.
It could overload it though with washing clothes and long showers.  You could just route the gray water away to the surface somewhere or a whole other system just for that.
Today 9:48:54 AM EDT
[#3]
An old school septic setup can run for decades without any problems assuming it is designed properly and the leech field isn't compromised by roots or heavy vehicle traffic over it.

The problem is many jurisdictions don't allow for simple systems like that anymore and require really annoying high maintenance setups with pumps and stuff.
Today 9:51:49 AM EDT
[#4]
Quote History
Originally Posted By Waldo:
I don't know what it is.
Got a non facebook link?


Even out in the sticks where I am with pretty much no zoning, you still need a permit to install a septic system and it has to be a legit one.

OTOH, you can have an outhouse if you get a permit and build it to their minimum spec.
View Quote



+1. In back woods KY you can build a house with no permit but you have to install an approved septic system.  I have heard of some requirements that removed that if you were so far from the property edge.  But why bother?  Just install a septic with a drain field.
Gaston: Where is my Practical Tactical 45 with no damn finger grooves?
Today 9:52:48 AM EDT
[#5]
Quote History
Originally Posted By Waldo:
I don't know what it is.
Got a non facebook link?


Even out in the sticks where I am with pretty much no zoning, you still need a permit to install a septic system and it has to be a legit one.

OTOH, you can have an outhouse if you get a permit and build it to their minimum spec.
View Quote


Andy's Little Homestead is the youtube channel.  Can't find the vid on youtube but the label on FB is Installing a home made septic system for only $100.  He uses 4" pvc, an old heating oil tank and cuts one end of a 55gal plastic drum as the dry well.  That's pretty much it.  

So even in places with relaxed zoning regs they still want to inspect and dictate septic?  

I figure solar and maybe generator for electricity.  Filtered rain, if not already a well or stream, for water.  But if the locality is going to require something super expensive for septic, might make the whole venture cost prohibitive.
Today 9:53:51 AM EDT
[#6]
There's a book "Wells and Septic Systems" with the plans to enable someone to build one off grid including casting in place to avoid having to haul a tank.  You might also look into incinerator toilets.
Today 9:53:57 AM EDT
[#7]
I've had septic tanks for decades. Keep grease and chlorine out of it and it will go many years. Go with a 1000-gallon tank and run plenty of lateral.
Have cleanout between the cabin and the tank and another downstream from the tank. Don't flush feminine hygiene products or condoms and I try not to pour very much salty water such as from boiling new potatoes or shrimp boil.

If it's just you and your Wife and especially if it's weekend retreat you should be good for decades. You can buy little flushable enzyme pods to help. We use one every 2 months with no issues but a while back someone on this forum said that if your lateral went near trees the enzymes were bad. I don't know but I've seen no problems.
Today 9:54:31 AM EDT
[#8]
Originally Posted By Emt1581:
For 15-20 years I've wanted an off-grid cabin.  One day we'll buy the parcel of acreage.  However, the sewer was the one thing that presented a challenge as my wife isn't using an outhouse in the middle of winter with circulatory issues, but I digress.  A septic tank seems to be the way to go.  

This guy's route seems super simple and relatively easy...

https://www.facebook.com/reel/802228837606139

However, I'm wondering how long something like that would last before it has a problem and/or needs to be pumped?  High school science teacher said you could flush yeast tabs to keep the organic matter down.  And the water drains out.  

Anyone have experience with these systems?  How does it handle a ton of gray water from dishes/showers?  

Thanks!
View Quote


It’s going to depend on your soil. I know deer camps that had those setups and never had an issue because they were in what most people consider a desert. I just had to install an aerobic septic at the family ranch because the clay soil and high water table doesn’t allow for leech fields.

There’s also a big difference in use between a couple guys on the weekend and an extended family stay with little kids or women.
Today 9:54:53 AM EDT
[#9]
Quote History
Originally Posted By GlocksareGood:



+1. In back woods KY you can build a house with no permit but you have to install an approved septic system.  I have heard of some requirements that removed that if you were so far from the property edge.  But why bother?  Just install a septic with a drain field.
View Quote


Not understanding that last sentence.  Seems like you're saying if an approved septic system is required.....just install a septic system with a drain field.  To avoid an approval process?
Today 9:55:36 AM EDT
[#10]
Quote History
Originally Posted By Coati:
There's a book "Wells and Septic Systems" with the plans to enable someone to build one off grid including casting in place to avoid having to haul a tank.  You might also look into incinerator toilets.
View Quote


Incinerator toilets....expensive and require a ton of energy/time to function last I checked (~10yrs ago).
Today 9:57:57 AM EDT
[Last Edit: lumper][Edited] [#11]
There is no reason to run your sink water into an off grid septic system, and a lot of good reasons not to.  Ideally, you will run your sink, shower, washer (if you have) in a separate drain line to a hole you dug and filled with clean 2b stone.  There is no reason to run that soap and chemicals into a septic system.  It only hurts the life of your system and the bacteria you want in it.

It should be asked, are you needing a permit for this?  That changes things.  If the permit is needed, you may be better off with a holding tank instead.  Make sure it has a large base of 2B stone under it.  After the inspection, in the old days it was common to get in the tank and bust a hole in the bottom with a sledge hammer to allow for drainage.  This is probably not legal anymore, but it is really common in rural areas.

One more thing, if you are making a drain field, purchase schedule 40 pipe and drill your own holes at 135 degrees & 225 degrees from the top of the pipe.  Use ground cloth above your pipe in the trench.  Don't save money by using the pre drilled thin wall pipe, and absolutely do not use the black flexible corrugated pipe.  It will collapse over time particularly if equipment drives over it - and your system is screwed.  If you are not using a permit and the state would rather you would, it might be wise to wipe off the manufacturing date on the pipe with acetone.

If you are not local to the area, it is likely that doing this without a permit will not work out well for you.  Most contractors are not going to work for you without the paperwork since they don't want that reputation with the inspectors, and if you are not already well known and liked, you will likely be turned in by neighbors who really don't want new people in "their" area.  If you are building rural, everyone local will know what is going on.  It's just how it works unless you are very careful.
It's true no matter who you are, the worst thing you can do for someone is give them something for nothing. - 3rdpig

Do not handicap your children by making their lives easy. - Heinlein
Today 9:58:25 AM EDT
[#12]
Facebook video doesn't play well for non-facebook users.  FB popup blocking the image after half a minute.

Is there a reason why you couldn't get a septic company to install a system?  If the soil and other factors are not going to support it, DIY might not be a good idea.  Also, a system without a permit might be an issue when you eventually go to sell the place.
Today 9:59:08 AM EDT
[#13]
Outhouse when seasonable, composting toilet for winter?
Never sued them, just aware of their existence. https://www.biolet.com/products/kopie-von-biolet-composting-toilet-65a
Today 9:59:13 AM EDT
[Last Edit: ZeeGermans][Edited] [#14]
Quote History
Originally Posted By Emt1581:

 

So even in places with relaxed zoning regs they still want to inspect and dictate septic?  

View Quote


Yes. Human sewage is nasty and can mess up a lot of water wells when Billy bob decides to make his own septic tank for a family of 8.

Basically, 95% vegetable recalls are due to human waste coming into contact with the vegetables. Added- Not saying this is a septic issue, more just highlighting the risks of human waste.
Today 10:00:07 AM EDT
[Last Edit: Coati][Edited] [#15]
Quote History
Originally Posted By lumper:
There is no reason to run your sink water into an off grid septic system, and a lot of good reasons not to.  Ideally, you will run your sink, shower, washer (if you have) in a separate drain line to a hole you dug and filled with clean 2b stone.  There is no reason to run that soap and chemicals into a septic system.  It only hurts the life of your system and the bacteria you want in it.
View Quote


I ran mine to a separate pipe and a 3 way valve that can decide between septic and grey water.  If I want to dump it straight to septic I can, but I can also dump it out a grey water pipe to inedible agriculture, etc, if desired.
Today 10:03:23 AM EDT
[#16]
Originally Posted By Emt1581:
For 15-20 years I've wanted an off-grid cabin.  One day we'll buy the parcel of acreage.  However, the sewer was the one thing that presented a challenge as my wife isn't using an outhouse in the middle of winter with circulatory issues, but I digress.  A septic tank seems to be the way to go.  

This guy's route seems super simple and relatively easy...

https://www.facebook.com/reel/802228837606139

However, I'm wondering how long something like that would last before it has a problem and/or needs to be pumped?  High school science teacher said you could flush yeast tabs to keep the organic matter down.  And the water drains out.  

Anyone have experience with these systems?  How does it handle a ton of gray water from dishes/showers?  

Thanks!
View Quote



PA is not the place to be installing non permitted septic systems.  Don’t do it.
Today 10:10:45 AM EDT
[#17]
Quote History
Originally Posted By ZeeGermans:


Yes. Human sewage is nasty and can mess up a lot of water wells when Billy bob decides to make his own septic tank for a family of 8.

Basically, 95% vegetable recalls are due to human waste coming into contact with the vegetables.
View Quote

Mostly bird waste.

Today 10:29:11 AM EDT
[#18]
Quote History
Originally Posted By DaveM4K:



PA is not the place to be installing non permitted septic systems.  Don’t do it.
View Quote


If you need a permit, and don't get one, and you are caught, expect the local SEO (Sewage Enforcement Officer) to be quite unreasonable to deal with afterwards.  You would really rather not be in this position, and your system will probably end up costing you quite a bit more than it would have otherwise - if they even allow it.  There is quite a bit of discretion in their position, and if you are going the permit route, talk to him (it's always a him) politely, give your building location and ask him what he would like to see as far as a system.  He will know the local and state ordinances - and know what is actually necessary for your area.  This is where the holding tank and separate drain area for gray water might be helpful.  I most definitely would not mention a separate gray water system to be installed later to him.  And most, most defiantly do not mention busting out the bottom of the holding tank to him.  He might mention it to you, however depending on how he feels about you.

Contact the township you are looking to buy land in and ask for the SEO's contact info.  They will have some one they use.
It's true no matter who you are, the worst thing you can do for someone is give them something for nothing. - 3rdpig

Do not handicap your children by making their lives easy. - Heinlein
Today 10:33:55 AM EDT
[#19]
Originally Posted By Emt1581:
For 15-20 years I've wanted an off-grid cabin.  One day we'll buy the parcel of acreage.  However, the sewer was the one thing that presented a challenge as my wife isn't using an outhouse in the middle of winter with circulatory issues, but I digress.  A septic tank seems to be the way to go.  

This guy's route seems super simple and relatively easy...

https://www.facebook.com/reel/802228837606139

However, I'm wondering how long something like that would last before it has a problem and/or needs to be pumped?  High school science teacher said you could flush yeast tabs to keep the organic matter down.  And the water drains out.  

Anyone have experience with these systems?  How does it handle a ton of gray water from dishes/showers?  

Thanks!
View Quote



I cant see facebook.... but installed my anaerobic system.

Its really easy.
"Out of every one hundred men, ten shouldn't be there. Eighty are just targets. Nine are the real fighters, and we are glad to have them. For they make the battle. Ah! But THE one! The One is a WARRIOR, and he will bring the others home." -Heraclitus
Today 10:35:22 AM EDT
[#20]
Quote History
Originally Posted By ZeeGermans:


Yes. Human sewage is nasty and can mess up a lot of water wells when Billy bob decides to make his own septic tank for a family of 8.

Basically, 95% vegetable recalls are due to human waste coming into contact with the vegetables.
View Quote View All Quotes
View All Quotes
Quote History
Originally Posted By ZeeGermans:
Originally Posted By Emt1581:

 

So even in places with relaxed zoning regs they still want to inspect and dictate septic?  



Yes. Human sewage is nasty and can mess up a lot of water wells when Billy bob decides to make his own septic tank for a family of 8.

Basically, 95% vegetable recalls are due to human waste coming into contact with the vegetables.


That’s not a sewage issue.  It’s a pickers issue.  
Preferred Pronoun: Space Lord Mutherfucker
Today 10:37:03 AM EDT
[#21]
All septic is off grid.
RIP Jeff Reed. Tennessee Squire, Ga. Carry member, NRA,Non-puking 72 ounce drinker 2 of 6 Norcal call sign, Forgotten.
Today 10:39:34 AM EDT
[#22]
In twenty five years I have never needed to pump my tank.
Today 10:44:14 AM EDT
[#23]
Quote History
Originally Posted By Canoeguy:
In twenty five years I have never needed to pump my tank.
View Quote


He is in PA.  They are going to mandate a pumping every three years.
It's true no matter who you are, the worst thing you can do for someone is give them something for nothing. - 3rdpig

Do not handicap your children by making their lives easy. - Heinlein
Today 10:52:26 AM EDT
[#24]
"In twenty five years I have never needed to pump my tank."

1100 gallon 300' drain, 2 people.
Today 10:54:47 AM EDT
[#25]
Quote History
Originally Posted By HeavyMetal:


That’s not a sewage issue.  It’s a pickers issue.  
View Quote


Updated my post. I wasn't trying to say that it's caused by septic systems, just highlighting that human waste causes lots of issues when it's not properly dealt with.
Today 10:55:53 AM EDT
[#26]
Quote History
Originally Posted By lumper:


If you need a permit, and don't get one, and you are caught, expect the local SEO (Sewage Enforcement Officer) to be quite unreasonable to deal with afterwards.  You would really rather not be in this position, and your system will probably end up costing you quite a bit more than it would have otherwise - if they even allow it.  There is quite a bit of discretion in their position, and if you are going the permit route, talk to him (it's always a him) politely, give your building location and ask him what he would like to see as far as a system.  He will know the local and state ordinances - and know what is actually necessary for your area.  This is where the holding tank and separate drain area for gray water might be helpful.  I most definitely would not mention a separate gray water system to be installed later to him.  And most, most defiantly do not mention busting out the bottom of the holding tank to him.  He might mention it to you, however depending on how he feels about you.

Contact the township you are looking to buy land in and ask for the SEO's contact info.  They will have some one they use.
View Quote


So if this isn't a DIY-able project, I'm wondering what all goes into "approved" systems?...and at what cost?  I do know someone that works on and pumps the tanks for a living so I'll run it by him to see what is involved in their construction.  I'd like to have a general idea of the spectrum of requirements/costs before looking into different municipalities.
Today 11:00:48 AM EDT
[#27]
Quote History
Originally Posted By lumper:


If you need a permit, and don't get one, and you are caught, expect the local SEO (Sewage Enforcement Officer) to be quite unreasonable to deal with afterwards.  You would really rather not be in this position, and your system will probably end up costing you quite a bit more than it would have otherwise - if they even allow it.  There is quite a bit of discretion in their position, and if you are going the permit route, talk to him (it's always a him) politely, give your building location and ask him what he would like to see as far as a system.  He will know the local and state ordinances - and know what is actually necessary for your area.  This is where the holding tank and separate drain area for gray water might be helpful.  I most definitely would not mention a separate gray water system to be installed later to him.  And most, most defiantly do not mention busting out the bottom of the holding tank to him.  He might mention it to you, however depending on how he feels about you.

Contact the township you are looking to buy land in and ask for the SEO's contact info.  They will have some one they use.
View Quote View All Quotes
View All Quotes
Quote History
Originally Posted By lumper:
Originally Posted By DaveM4K:



PA is not the place to be installing non permitted septic systems.  Don’t do it.


If you need a permit, and don't get one, and you are caught, expect the local SEO (Sewage Enforcement Officer) to be quite unreasonable to deal with afterwards.  You would really rather not be in this position, and your system will probably end up costing you quite a bit more than it would have otherwise - if they even allow it.  There is quite a bit of discretion in their position, and if you are going the permit route, talk to him (it's always a him) politely, give your building location and ask him what he would like to see as far as a system.  He will know the local and state ordinances - and know what is actually necessary for your area.  This is where the holding tank and separate drain area for gray water might be helpful.  I most definitely would not mention a separate gray water system to be installed later to him.  And most, most defiantly do not mention busting out the bottom of the holding tank to him.  He might mention it to you, however depending on how he feels about you.

Contact the township you are looking to buy land in and ask for the SEO's contact info.  They will have some one they use.


One of our companies designs and installs septic. That is why I said screwing around with non permitted septic installs are not worth it. You will pay dearly if caught.
Today 11:07:46 AM EDT
[Last Edit: Coati][Edited] [#28]
Quote History
Originally Posted By Emt1581:


So if this isn't a DIY-able project, I'm wondering what all goes into "approved" systems?...and at what cost?  I do know someone that works on and pumps the tanks for a living so I'll run it by him to see what is involved in their construction.  I'd like to have a general idea of the spectrum of requirements/costs before looking into different municipalities.
View Quote View All Quotes
View All Quotes
Quote History
Originally Posted By Emt1581:
Originally Posted By lumper:


If you need a permit, and don't get one, and you are caught, expect the local SEO (Sewage Enforcement Officer) to be quite unreasonable to deal with afterwards.  You would really rather not be in this position, and your system will probably end up costing you quite a bit more than it would have otherwise - if they even allow it.  There is quite a bit of discretion in their position, and if you are going the permit route, talk to him (it's always a him) politely, give your building location and ask him what he would like to see as far as a system.  He will know the local and state ordinances - and know what is actually necessary for your area.  This is where the holding tank and separate drain area for gray water might be helpful.  I most definitely would not mention a separate gray water system to be installed later to him.  And most, most defiantly do not mention busting out the bottom of the holding tank to him.  He might mention it to you, however depending on how he feels about you.

Contact the township you are looking to buy land in and ask for the SEO's contact info.  They will have some one they use.


So if this isn't a DIY-able project, I'm wondering what all goes into "approved" systems?...and at what cost?  I do know someone that works on and pumps the tanks for a living so I'll run it by him to see what is involved in their construction.  I'd like to have a general idea of the spectrum of requirements/costs before looking into different municipalities.


In AZ you pay someone to "design" it (they basically do the perc and use your plumbing units to calculate the drain field and tank) but you can build it yourself.  Has to be inspected after construction but it can be DIYd with not much more than a shovel for capital equipment if that's all you got.  Might be similar where you are.

For reference the design is only about $500-100 here after which you can DIY everything and the inspector signs off that your construction matches the design.  At that price it's worth it to just pay someone to be legal.
Today 11:14:44 AM EDT
[#29]
Quote History
Originally Posted By GraboidHunter:
An old school septic setup can run for decades without any problems assuming it is designed properly and the leech field isn't compromised by roots or heavy vehicle traffic over it.

The problem is many jurisdictions don't allow for simple systems like that anymore and require really annoying high maintenance setups with pumps and stuff.
View Quote



This ^^^

I have a old system, Ive been on the land 15 years now, so older. Similar situation.


I had it pumped out last year . It wasn't full, but I just wanted to know what I had.  The guy who came out said a new system my size would require a pumping about 3/4 times a year
Today 11:31:21 AM EDT
[#30]
Is there a cabin there?  If so, claim you are using the existing system.
Today 11:38:41 AM EDT
[#31]
Quote History
Originally Posted By Emt1581:


So if this isn't a DIY-able project, I'm wondering what all goes into "approved" systems?...and at what cost?  I do know someone that works on and pumps the tanks for a living so I'll run it by him to see what is involved in their construction.  I'd like to have a general idea of the spectrum of requirements/costs before looking into different municipalities.
View Quote


What is required is dependent on the soils of the property you plan on buying.  First, it will have to be perc tested.  Personally I will not make an offer on rural property that hasn't been perc tested buy the seller as it's worthless to me without that.
If the Realtor doesn't know if it has, call the county health department. Ask for the county sanitarian ( that's usually the title), give them the parcel # and they can tell you if it has been perc'd in the last 10 years (which is what they are usually valid for)

Get the facts on what you need before you buy. They also usually have a list of licensed installers.

Septics are usually sized by # of bedrooms, not your wishes.  Soil type and perc results will decide what system you need to install. If you're lucky it will be a simple and less expensive one.


Those who ignore history are doomed to repeat it..
Today 11:42:31 AM EDT
[Last Edit: Ilikepieman][Edited] [#32]
Quote History
Originally Posted By Emt1581:


So if this isn't a DIY-able project, I'm wondering what all goes into "approved" systems?...and at what cost?  I do know someone that works on and pumps the tanks for a living so I'll run it by him to see what is involved in their construction.  I'd like to have a general idea of the spectrum of requirements/costs before looking into different municipalities.
View Quote

It really depends on what the state requires.  Call a local septic installation company for rough pricing. I’ve seen septic systems run anywhere from $8.7k - $87k
Today 11:44:41 AM EDT
[#33]
I used two totes.
SOCIALISM COMMUNISM AND FACISM ONLY WORK WHEN BOOT HEEL OF A POLITICAL CLASS IS ON THE NECK OF THE WORKING CLASS, PICKING POCKETS FOR THE LEISURE CLASS
Fighting Commies since 1969
Today 11:45:10 AM EDT
[Last Edit: Coati][Edited] [#34]
Quote History
Originally Posted By Ilikepieman:

It really depends on what the state requires.  Call a local septic installation company for rough pricing. I’ve seen septic systems run anywhere from $8.7k - $87k
View Quote View All Quotes
View All Quotes
Quote History
Originally Posted By Ilikepieman:
Originally Posted By Emt1581:


So if this isn't a DIY-able project, I'm wondering what all goes into "approved" systems?...and at what cost?  I do know someone that works on and pumps the tanks for a living so I'll run it by him to see what is involved in their construction.  I'd like to have a general idea of the spectrum of requirements/costs before looking into different municipalities.

It really depends on what the state requires.  Call a local septic installation company for rough pricing. I’ve seen septic systems run anywhere from $8.7k - $87k


You need to perc test it, even if done by yourself, before they'll be able to tell you a rough ballpark of where it falls in that range.  The book I recommended tells you how, though I'm sure it is also on youtube.  

Any estimate without testing will be worthless.
Today 11:53:28 AM EDT
[#35]
Percolation will be the driver in a septic system, OP.  If you don't use it much - say, a short-term vacation place - perc will matter less but it will still matter.

Make sure your water well is located upgradient of the septic and at a proper distance.  Uphill IS NOT the same as upgradient, necessarily.

Free advice: get someone involved who knows about these things.
Today 11:58:14 AM EDT
[#36]
Quote History
Originally Posted By Emt1581:


Not understanding that last sentence.  Seems like you're saying if an approved septic system is required.....just install a septic system with a drain field.  To avoid an approval process?
View Quote View All Quotes
View All Quotes
Quote History
Originally Posted By Emt1581:
Originally Posted By GlocksareGood:



+1. In back woods KY you can build a house with no permit but you have to install an approved septic system.  I have heard of some requirements that removed that if you were so far from the property edge.  But why bother?  Just install a septic with a drain field.


Not understanding that last sentence.  Seems like you're saying if an approved septic system is required.....just install a septic system with a drain field.  To avoid an approval process?



I read it as "fuck the permit process and just install whatever you want".
Today 11:59:48 AM EDT
[#37]
Quote History
Originally Posted By Waldo:


What is required is dependent on the soils of the property you plan on buying.  First, it will have to be perc tested.  Personally I will not make an offer on rural property that hasn't been perc tested buy the seller as it's worthless to me without that.
If the Realtor doesn't know if it has, call the county health department. Ask for the county sanitarian ( that's usually the title), give them the parcel # and they can tell you if it has been perc'd in the last 10 years (which is what they are usually valid for)

Get the facts on what you need before you buy. They also usually have a list of licensed installers.

Septics are usually sized by # of bedrooms, not your wishes.  Soil type and perc results will decide what system you need to install. If you're lucky it will be a simple and less expensive one.

View Quote View All Quotes
View All Quotes
Quote History
Originally Posted By Waldo:
Originally Posted By Emt1581:


So if this isn't a DIY-able project, I'm wondering what all goes into "approved" systems?...and at what cost?  I do know someone that works on and pumps the tanks for a living so I'll run it by him to see what is involved in their construction.  I'd like to have a general idea of the spectrum of requirements/costs before looking into different municipalities.


What is required is dependent on the soils of the property you plan on buying.  First, it will have to be perc tested.  Personally I will not make an offer on rural property that hasn't been perc tested buy the seller as it's worthless to me without that.
If the Realtor doesn't know if it has, call the county health department. Ask for the county sanitarian ( that's usually the title), give them the parcel # and they can tell you if it has been perc'd in the last 10 years (which is what they are usually valid for)

Get the facts on what you need before you buy. They also usually have a list of licensed installers.

Septics are usually sized by # of bedrooms, not your wishes.  Soil type and perc results will decide what system you need to install. If you're lucky it will be a simple and less expensive one.



I went through all of this last year for our new place. The builder/septic guy was sure we would need something more complicated than a basic system due to a surprising amount of ground water near the surface at out place. Luckily, we were approved for a basic one.

We had it sized for our garage/MIL place and for our eventual house that will be built in the next 5 years or so.
It's not journalism, it's sensationalism
Today 12:00:44 PM EDT
[#38]
It's probably not up to code...

But at our Marsh camp, which is on generator, we have a plastic septic tank that is on floats and flex piped to the main sewer line. The water moves a ton there and the entire camp is above water.

There is an aerator line that is hooked to a battery bank and solar setup on the roof. It drains into the intercostal. We've never had an issue with it, but only spend a Friday and Saturday night there every other weekend or so during hunting season.
Today 12:01:29 PM EDT
[#39]
Quote History
Originally Posted By Codyboy:
A barrel or two, some T's and couplings and some perforated pipe for the drain field.

Tons of videos on you tube.
Gray water shouldn't be a problem if the ground perc's like it should for that type system.
It could overload it though with washing clothes and long showers.  You could just route the gray water away to the surface somewhere or a whole other system just for that.
View Quote
My parents used a drum with some gravel etc. similar to this setup for years when they had an RV out at some land they planned to build on. Worked great. Would not want a 4BR house with some kids on it but for a couple it was just fine.
Today 12:05:54 PM EDT
[#40]
Yeah, you can buy tanks from Home Depot. A few years ago, I bought concrete tanks for like $600 - $700 ea. And then they have new things for your leach field. It's not 4 inch pipe, it looked more like a plastic corrugated culvert pipe, cut in half.

I think I was $2k into it.

I just happened to own a backhoe and my installation area wasn't visible to the public and there were already existing tanks there.

Today 12:24:37 PM EDT
[#41]
Potty trailer with as big a tank you can fit, take to nearby RV park or state park and pay to dump. Clean out good when there.
Today 12:50:47 PM EDT
[#42]
Septic tank that drains into an infiltrator leach field.  Old tech and it's everywhere.
Today 1:04:50 PM EDT
[#43]
What the video shows will work, and accounted for a significant number of septic systems in the area
where I had my cabin. They aren't remotely code compliant so that can be an issue (especially when it
comes time to sell or if you need a septic to get a build permit.)

I never saw or heard of one getting pumped, but I did know someone that just hoisted out a full one and put
in a fresh drum. No idea how they disposed of it. For low use systems like weekend cabins they were never
really a problem.
Today 1:10:52 PM EDT
[Last Edit: Ndenway1twicetimes][Edited] [#44]
Get bids from several different septic system installers.

In 14' my 40+yo septic had to be replaced when it started bubbling up,

Checked it & side of tank had collapsed.

all the companies I got bids from said same thing, all the fracking earthquakes we had for several years was fucking old concrete tanks up.

For perc test, pump shit, collapse old tank top & fill-in, new 1000gallon poly tank, pipe & lay 730' lateral lines/field, sand, gravel, dobies, backhoe, trencher, material/supplies, 3 men & trucks w/trailers to haul gear/material was $14.5k

Today 3:17:52 PM EDT
[#45]
My first house was on an old septic system. The original leach pipe collapsed and a new was installed when we bought the place. When I was there, I split off the grey water to go down to the orchard. Only the toilet went into the septic. When I sold the place, mother fucking county government made me upgrade the septic system to current standards. Even though two people lived in the house on a septic system installed in 1959 that never gave us problems in the thirty five years we lived there. Septic contractor wanted $25,000 to upgrade the system. Fuck that, I have a shovel and can dig a hole. Took me two days but I did the work myself for $150 in government mandated upgrade parts including sign off inspection by the septic contractor. Fuck County Government overlords.
Today 3:43:37 PM EDT
[#46]
They get pumped out.
Montana has changed to where you need septic tanks.


Rural Alaska in some areas has septic thanks that get pumped out.
Today 3:47:15 PM EDT
[#47]
Just poop and pee in empty pickle jars and store it in your basement
Today 3:47:39 PM EDT
[#48]
Quote History
Originally Posted By StevenK:



This ^^^

I have a old system, Ive been on the land 15 years now, so older. Similar situation.


I had it pumped out last year . It wasn't full, but I just wanted to know what I had.  The guy who came out said a new system my size would require a pumping about 3/4 times a year
View Quote View All Quotes
View All Quotes
Quote History
Originally Posted By StevenK:
Originally Posted By GraboidHunter:
An old school septic setup can run for decades without any problems assuming it is designed properly and the leech field isn't compromised by roots or heavy vehicle traffic over it.

The problem is many jurisdictions don't allow for simple systems like that anymore and require really annoying high maintenance setups with pumps and stuff.



This ^^^

I have a old system, Ive been on the land 15 years now, so older. Similar situation.


I had it pumped out last year . It wasn't full, but I just wanted to know what I had.  The guy who came out said a new system my size would require a pumping about 3/4 times a year


Only if you insist on using flushable wipes.
Preferred Pronoun: Space Lord Mutherfucker
Today 4:14:42 PM EDT
[#49]
A precast dry well will work.

Otherwise I would just install a traditional system with a tank and a leech field. It will last a long time and you can pump it as needed.
If you want to view paradise, simply look around and view it.
Today 4:36:27 PM EDT
[#50]
Plenty of places here that haven't pulled any permits in years. Many have an old oil tank, and a small leach field back filled in clean 58 stone. Not allowed anymore here.

When I redid my place, I made the mistake of pulling permits, and had to install a new septic tank to code. Old oil tank etc in the ground still. All they had me do for the occupancy inspection was flush the toilet and open a couple of faucets.

If you are way out in the country, I don't see an issue if it is far enough from the well.

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