Residential Wastewater Disposal System Regulations in Tallahassee: A Homeowner’s
Introduction
Situated within a hilly terrain, Tallahassee is one of the most serene places in Florida. Unfortunately, the terrain that makes it scenic also makes it challenging for the locals to dispose of their wastewater. The city is filled with precious water resources, which contribute heavily to the state’s water supply. Thus, wastewater disposal is tricky and has to go through rules and regulations that are unique to the area. A residential wastewater disposal system in Tallahassee is designed to protect the water resource and the environment.
Understanding Septic Systems in Tallahassee
Nearly all homes in Tallahassee depend on their septic systems for their wastewater disposal. A septic system consists of a septic tank, a drainfield, and a distribution box, which filters and releases the wastewater into the soil.
How a Septic System Works?
The septic system absorbs solid and toxic material from the wastewater and discharges it into the soil through the drainfield. Here are a few steps involved with it:
All the wastewater enters through the inlet pipes into the septic tank from the house plumbing system.
The septic tank is an air-tight container made from concrete or fibre that holds the liquid until it separates into three distinct layers-sludge (solids), scum (oil and grease), and the liquid.
The sludge and the scum remain in the tank, while liquid effluent is discharged into the drainfield.
Perforated drainfield releases the wastewater into the soil via the distribution box, where it percolates into the groundwater and surrounding areas.
A residential wastewater disposal system in Tallahassee works in the process mentioned above. Variations of this design exist with alterations to accommodate modern technologies and design for improving efficiency.
Why Do Many Tallahassee Homes Rely On a Septic System?
Adoption of a septic system for a residential wastewater disposal system in Tallahassee depends on the following reasons:
Location and infrastructure: Tallahassee has a mixture of rural and urban areas, some of which do not have access to the urban sewer system. Existing sewer lines lie far from homes, making it impractical to extend infrastructure to these areas.
Cost: Owning a separate septic system is more affordable than a sewer line for rural folks. The city sewer system requires an upfront installation cost and a monthly fee.
Property size: Most of the rural areas have larger lots, which makes it useful for a septic system, giving you the freedom to build a home anywhere you want.
Environmental benefits: A septic system naturally filters wastewater and is beneficial for the environment if properly maintained. Your garden might also benefit from the effluent released into the soil.
Regulatory Bodies and Oversight
Role of the Department of Environmental Protection
A residential wastewater disposal system in Tallahassee has to follow the guidelines laid down by the Florida DEP. Some of the functions DEP plays in septic tanks are as follows:
Setting standards and regulations: DEP lays the guidelines for septic system designs from the drainfield to the material of the septic tank.
Ensuring installation and maintenance: DEP also lays down rules and criteria for proper installation and maintenance. They also supervise workshops for homeowners and train them to maintain the septic system.
Protecting water sources: DEP’s primary objective is to minimize the risk of contamination from septic system discharge. The department supervises groundwater quality and responds to water quality complaints, especially from nutrient pollution.
Responding to emergencies: The department also responds to emergencies, especially during natural disasters. They may investigate damages and collaborate with homeowners to implement repairs and upgrades.
Role of the Department of Health
The Department of Health has a major role in regulating the residential wastewater disposal system in Tallahassee. Here are some of the powers that DOH enjoys in areas of septic systems:
Permission and inspections: The DOH’s environmental safety wing has the power and responsibility to grant permissions and conduct inspections for the septic systems. They determine whether the septic system is compliant with the codes or not.
On-site sewage programs: The department also provides workshops and training for workers and homeowners to familiarize them with the standardization of the septic system.
New Business Approval: The DOH also has the authority to approve whether a new business can utilize an existing septic system or not. Septic systems are built based on the type of business and thus require approval from the department for final installation.
Public Health and Safety: The DOH collaborates with the DEP to formulate regulations that benefit and protect public safety and the environment.
Septic Environmental Regulations Unique to Tallahassee
Primary Springs Protection Zone
Tallahassee has abundant important water resources, such as lakes and springs. Thus, a residential wastewater disposal system in Tallahassee needs to follow the guidelines applicable within the boundaries of the Primary Springs Protection Zone (PSPZ), enshrined in the Leon County Land Development codes. The city may require you to opt for more frequent septic system maintenance if you live inside the zone.
Aquifer Protection Plan
The city of Tallahassee implements an Aquifer Protection Plan to safeguard its aquifers, which are a vital part of its ecosystem. The plan provides guidelines for constructing septic tanks and choosing their locations. According to these guidelines, a septic tank must be at least 50 feet away from a well, whether portable or non-portable, 10 feet from storm pipes, and 75 feet from surface water bodies.
Drainfield Siting Requirements
The city regulations require homeowners to build a septic system 24 inches below the groundwater levels. Tallahassee has a high quantity of sandy soils, which allows the nitrates produced from the septic system to seep quickly into the groundwater. Nitrates are harmful for consumption and thus contaminate groundwater.
Protection from Nitrate Loads
Nearly 280,000 pounds of nitrates have been traced to septic system usage, polluted nearby springs and water sources. Thus, the city department of health incentivizes the residents to switch to the INRB Septic System from the traditional designs. INRBs are eco-friendly and designed to reduce nitrogen discharge from the septic system.
Newer Sewage Infrastructure
The city is also running local workshops and training programs for homeowners to familiarize them with advanced technologies. Such technologies help to maintain the septic tanks, monitor the condition, and increase efficiency.
Common Homeowner Mistakes (and How to Avoid Them)
Some of the mistakes that homeowners make regarding their septic system:
Skipping regular inspections: Many homeowners make the mistake of skipping maintenance required to keep the septic system running. Don’t skip any maintenance schedule as it can save you cost and prevent permanent damage.
Adding unapproved modifications: Adding modifications without technical expertise is a bad move. Get a professional septic service to advise you on this issue or look up local guidelines.
Ignoring signs of damage: Ignoring unusual behaviours such as slow drains or pungent smells can also lead to severe damage. Notice the signs and call your local professional or technical service provider.
Conclusion
Knowing the regulations not only helps the homeowners of Tallahassee but also protects its precious water resources. Always be aware the local guidelines of the city and follow them diligently. If you are having trouble navigating the local guidelines, Apalachee Backhoe & Septic Tank LLC is here to help. We have over 30 years of experience in the septic service industry and have technical professionals who can help to stay compliant with the guidelines and codes. Apalachee also offers regular maintenance, repairs, and INRB installation services. Learn more by visiting our website: https://www.apalacheeseptic.com/
