A septic tank is an outdoor underground structure, which collects and partially treats wastewater from buildings not connected to a public sewer system. Solid waste in a tank moves to the bottom and becomes sludge. Lighter waste rises to the top and becomes a water source, which goes through a drainfield into soil and groundwater. Whether you own a home or business, be aware that states and local governments have septic tank policies. In particular, New Jersey has statewide guidelines, as well as specific communities with their own septic regulations. Here, Arrow Sewer & Drain outlines what you need to know to own and maintain a New Jersey septic tank.
New Jersey Septic Tank Rules and Regulations
The New Jersey Department of Environment Protection (NJDEP) oversees state septic systems. Installing one requires a permit from the local health department. Any plan submitted must feature the size of the tank, its layout, and its placement underground. Permit fees can range between $200 to $1,500.
Septic System Capacity and Construction Standards
The number of bedrooms within a home determines septic tank capacity. A single-family home requires a tank of at least 250 gallons per bedroom, with an expansion attic considered as a bedroom. In any case, a septic tank’s capacity shouldn’t be under 1,000 gallons.
For commercial buildings, NJDEP determines how large a septic system should be. This is based on a building’s size and how many people use it regularly. Commercial septic installations should have a capacity 50% larger than the property’s sanitary sewage volume.
Here are other guidelines for owning a New Jersey septic tank:
- All septic tanks must be made of a strong, government-approved material.
- Tanks should have a watertight seal and inlet and outlet baffles to maintain flow inside.
- Anything connected to a septic tank should be made of a material that blocks acid corrosion.
- Make sure a tank has the right length, width, and depth measurements for its shape.
- A septic tank’s drainfield must be 10 to 25 feet away from water sources or property lines to prevent contamination.
- Plant a septic tank with grass away from tree or shrub roots.
- Never drive or park a vehicle over where a septic tank is buried.
Septic System Maintenance Standards
Regular maintenance is a crucial responsibility of owning a septic tank. This is largely because untreated wastewater leaking into the soil is dangerous for the environment. Owners may receive a notice of violation or a penalty assessment for improper septic tank care.
A professional should inspect a septic tank regularly and pump it every two to three years. Owners should record whenever someone inspects or pumps their tank, report any issues, and address them quickly. When it’s no longer needed, owners should decommission their septic tank.
Local Policies in Middlesex and Somerset Counties
Local health departments work with NJDEP to oversee septic regulations, but our local counties also have their own specific policies.
In Middlesex County, any septic project requires approval from the Middlesex County Environmental Division (MCEHD). Any new construction or alteration requires submissions of four copies of an application and a plan. A direct septic replacement is considered a repair and requires MCEHD approval. Different townships may have different septic tank installation and maintenance fees.
Meanwhile, Somerset County regulates septic systems through wastewater management plans (WMPs.) The county’s health department also works with the state to investigate any water pollution produced by a dysfunctional septic tank.
Consult your local government for specific guidance on septic construction and maintenance.
Call Arrow Sewer & Drain for All Your New Jersey Septic Tank Needs
Trust Arrow Sewer & Drain in Middlesex, New Jersey, for septic services. Serving North and Central New Jersey, our team of experts has the correct equipment to handle any septic situation, including installation, repair, removal, and decommissioning. We also offer drain and line repair, sewer inspections, and a 24-hour emergency service. Contact us today to learn more.
