sEPTIC dESIGN
Many people ask what is involved in the septic design process, this is explained below
- Review of property documentation as required: Pull copy of deed and survey maps if available. Consider utilities, and right of ways. Contact abutters if required. Review county soil survey maps.
- Lot survey: An on site measurement and documentation of key points and elevations on and around your property. Such measurements would include the location of your house or proposed building in relation to: trees, brooks, wetlands, property boundaries and other points of interest. (This may also include a need to take measurements on a neighboring property, which would require the owner’s permission.) Flagging and markers (spikes) will be added as required. These are temporary and may be removed after the installation of the septic system. (Note: This is not a boundary survey.)
- Soil survey (test pits): In order to verify the depth of the seasonal high water table it is necessary to dig test pits and examine the soil and look for water or ledge. Typically a test pit is dug to a depth of about 60 inches by backhoe. There may be times when multiple test pits will be required.
- Percolation test: In order to determine how fast water is absorbed into the soil an additional, shallow, test pit is dug with a hand shovel. Water is poured into the pit and monitored for the time it takes for the soil to absorb it. This information helps to correctly size the drain field.
- Septic Design: An assembling of data from the lot survey, soil survey, and property documentation, including a detailed drawing created for state approval. Documents are prepared for submission to state. Are plans are reviewed with property owner prior to submission.