Septic in Ellerslie, GA

Here in Ellerslie, Georgia, just a short drive south of Columbus, you'll notice a lot of homes rely on private wastewater systems tucked behind yards and hedges. Our town's layout and newer housing stock sit a lot more rurally than you might think, which means many properties manage their own septic day-to-day. If you're new to the area or buying a home here, you'll likely find a septic system is the norm rather than an exception.

Is septic common in Ellerslie? Yes. If you own or buy a home in Ellerslie, it's reasonable to expect a septic system unless the property is connected to a public sewer line. Many parcels in the town and nearby areas rely on on-site systems because centralized sewer service hasn't reached every street, and extending sewer mains here can be costly and impractical. Always verify with the seller, check the county records, or call the Muscogee County Health Department to confirm what's in the ground.

Why homes typically use septic systems in Ellerslie

• Local infrastructure gaps: Not every street or subdivision has an active municipal sewer connection, especially in more rural pockets around Ellerslie.
• Lot practicality: Many homes sit on individual lots that are well suited to on-site wastewater treatment when properly designed and installed.
• Cost and logistics: Extending sewer mains across older neighborhoods or wide areas is expensive and slower to complete.
• Soil and groundwater reality: When soils are suitable and properly engineered, septic systems offer an efficient, on-site treatment option that fits the landscape here.
• Regulatory framework: Local health and building codes support on-site systems as a practical, accountable method to treat household wastewater, with regular maintenance required.

High-level explanation (why septic exists here)

Septic systems exist in Ellerslie because they provide a self-contained way to treat household wastewater where public sewer isn't readily available. A typical setup uses a tank to separate solids from liquids, with the clarified liquid then dispersing through a drain field into the soil. The soil and its microbial life do the bulk of the treatment. In this part of Georgia, the combination of lot sizes, drainage characteristics, and local regulations means well-designed septic systems can be a dependable, long-term solution—so long as they're properly sized, installed, and maintained.

If you're navigating this as a homeowner or buyer, you'll find practical, neighborly guidance here from someone who's both a local resident and a professional septic contractor.

Where Septic Systems Are Common in Ellerslie

Why septic systems are prevalent in Ellerslie

• Ellerslie contains many rural, unincorporated areas and older residential pockets where city sewer lines don't reach every lot.
• Homes are typically on larger lots (half an acre to several acres), making extending municipal sewer expensive and logistically challenging.
• Because development often happened before centralized sewer was common, you'll see a mix of traditional and newer septic designs across the community.

Where you'll find septic most often in Ellerslie

• Rural farms and homesteads on acreage
• Low-density subdivisions on sizable lots outside core corridors
• Properties along winding roads where installing a sewer trunk line would be costly
• Areas with limited or no nearby wastewater treatment capacity on the grid

Site and soil factors that drive septic use

• Soil permeability: sandy or loamy soils drain efficiently, supporting conventional drainfields; heavy clays require alternative designs like mound systems
• Depth to groundwater: shallow groundwater or seasonal high-water tables push towards elevated systems or ATUs
• Slope and bedrock: steep slopes or shallow bedrock complicate drainfield placement and may necessitate engineered layouts
• Seasonal moisture: wetter climates or flood-prone zones can affect drainfield longevity and performance

Common septic system types you'll see in Ellerslie

• Conventional septic systems with a buried septic tank and drainfield
• Mound systems for marginal soils where standard drainfields can't be placed vertically
• Aerobic Treatment Units (ATUs) for higher-effluent processing in smaller lots or challenging soils
• Tank and distribution designs that optimize effluent flow to multiple trenches, depending on site constraints

Regulations and maintenance expectations

• State and local oversight: Georgia's environmental and public health agencies set standards for design, permitting, and pumping schedules
• Permits and inspections: new installations or significant repairs require proper permitting and field verification
• Pumping frequency: typical maintenance calls for pumping every 3–5 years, but intervals can vary based on family size, tank size, and local conditions
• Drainfield protection: protect the area from heavy vehicles, deep-rooted plants, and non-settling loads (grease, solvents, harsh cleaners) that can impair function

Quick homeowner-friendly steps for Ellerslie properties

1. Determine whether city sewer is available to your property and confirm any septic requirements with the local health authority.
2. Locate the septic tank and drainfield using property records, as-built drawings, or a licensed septic professional.
3. Have a qualified septic inspector evaluate the system before buying a home or undertaking major renovations.
4. Establish a regular pumping and inspection schedule; create a simple maintenance log.
5. Plan landscaping and future improvements with drainfield access and setback rules in mind (avoid heavy equipment or structures on the drainfield).

Practical considerations specific to Ellerslie

• Property transactions in Ellerslie commonly hinge on septic readiness and system age, so buyers and sellers benefit from a thorough site evaluation.
• If you're expanding a residence or adding fixtures, you may need a septic capacity assessment to ensure the drainfield can handle increased flow.
• For rural mill-and-stead or farm properties, consider a licensed designer who can tailor a system to soil and slope conditions while meeting local codes.

Official resources

• EPA: Onsite Wastewater Systems overview —
• Georgia DPH: Environmental Health, Onsite Sewage Management —

Septic vs Sewer: What Homeowners in Ellerslie Should Know

How septic systems work vs sewer connections

Septic systems treat wastewater on your property with a septic tank and a drain field. The tank stores solids while liquids percolate into the drain field where soil microorganisms break them down. A sewer connection sends all wastewater to a municipal treatment plant through an underground pipe network. The main difference is who is responsible for maintenance and where treatment happens.

Pros and cons for Ellerslie homeowners

• Septic system pros
  • Independence from monthly sewer charges and rate changes.
  • Potentially lower long-term costs if the system is well cared for.
  • On-site control over minor maintenance decisions.
• Septic system cons
  • Regular pumping and inspections are essential (typically every 3–5 years, depending on use and tank size).
  • Drain field failures can be costly and disruptive.
  • Sensitive to inappropriate waste, excessive water use, and tree root intrusion.
• Sewer (municipal) pros
  • No on-site pumping or drain field concerns.
  • Maintenance handled by the utility; fewer on-property repair surprises.
  • Often included in a predictable monthly bill.
• Sewer (municipal) cons
  • Ongoing monthly charges that can increase over time.
  • If the sewer system experiences trouble, your home can be affected (backups, line breaks).
  • You rely on the utility's schedule and priorities for repairs or upgrades.

Is sewer available in Ellerslie? How to check

• Step 1: Contact your local sewer authority or county/city public works to confirm service availability for your address.
• Step 2: Look for public sewer maps or service area notices on the utility's site.
• Step 3: If sewer is available, obtain an estimated connection cost and any required permits.
• Step 4: Compare long-term costs: monthly sewer charges versus septic pumping and maintenance expenses.
• Step 5: If you're unsure about soil conditions or drain field suitability, hire a licensed septic professional for an on-site evaluation before deciding to convert.

Maintenance basics to keep a septic system healthy

• Pumping and inspection: Schedule tank pumping every 3–5 years (or as recommended by a pro) and have an annual or biennial inspection.
• Water use: Spread out uses of water-intensive appliances, repair leaks, and install high-efficiency fixtures to reduce load on the drain field.
• Waste disposal: Don't flush non-biodegradable items, fats, oils, or chemicals. Avoid garbage disposals that increase solids entering the tank.
• Drain field care: Protect the drain field from heavy vehicles, roots, and compaction; plant only shallow-rooted vegetation nearby.
• Documentation: Keep a simple map of tank location, size, and when it was last pumped.

Signs your septic is failing or at risk

• Foul odors near the tank or drain field, slow drains, or frequent backups.
• Soggy, spongy soil or bright green, lush patches over the drain field.
• Gurgling sounds in plumbing or toilets that won't flush properly.
• Algal blooms in nearby standing water or increased wetness in the yard.

Quick-start plan for Ellerslie homeowners

1. Locate your septic tank lid and determine the tank size and age if possible.
2. Schedule a professional septic inspection and pumping if due.
3. Request an on-site evaluation of drain-field health and soil conditions.
4. Start a water-use plan to reduce daily loads and preserve the drain field.
5. Create a simple system map and keep records of maintenance, including dates and service providers.

Official resources

• EPA on Septic Systems:

Typical Septic System Types in Ellerslie

Conventional gravity septic system

• How it works: A buried septic tank stores solids, and effluent flows by gravity into a soil absorption field (drainfield) where it percolates through the soil.
• When it's a good fit: Properties with soils of adequate percolation and enough undisturbed space for a drainfield.
• Pros: Simpler design, typically lower upfront cost, fewer moving parts.
• Cons: Less forgiving of poor soils, shallow bedrock, or high water tables; drainfields can fail if the soil can't treat effluent properly.
• Quick note: Site conditions in Ellerslie (soil type, slope, and groundwater) often drive whether a conventional gravity system is feasible. For official guidance on system types and regulations, see EPA's overview: [Georgia-specific rules and permitting are handled by the state's onsite wastewater program: [Georgia DPH Onsite Wastewater](

Aerobic Treatment Unit (ATU) and enhanced-treatment systems

• What they are: ATUs add controlled oxygen to the treatment tank, producing clearer effluent before it enters the drainfield.
• When to consider: Small lots, marginal soils, high seasonal water, or homes with higher wastewater strength.
• Pros: Higher level of treatment, better performance in challenging soils, often compatible with limited drainfield area.
• Cons: Requires electricity, more routine maintenance, and periodic service by a qualified contractor.
• Maintenance tip: ATUs need regular inspections and filter/media changes; keep a service agreement so inspections aren't skipped.

Sand mound systems

• Why they exist: Used when native soil is too shallow, too clayey, or otherwise unsuitable for a buried drainfield.
• How they work: A raised "mound" of engineered sand sits above native soil, with the drainfield in the sand layer.
• Pros: Can accommodate poor or restrictive soils and shallow groundwater.
• Cons: Higher installation cost and more maintenance than a conventional system.

Sand filter and other alternative drain fields

• Sand filter: Treated effluent from a tank passes through a layered or single-layer sand bed to reduce nutrients and pathogens before reaching the soil.
• Other options: Specialty drain fields or bed systems designed to manage limited space or poor drainage.
• Pros: Improve treatment in tough sites; can extend system life in marginal soils.
• Cons: Higher upfront cost and ongoing monitoring.

Chamber systems and prefabricated drainfields

• What they are: Lightweight, modular chambers that create a large infiltration area with less soil disturbance than traditional trenches.
• Pros: Easier handling on difficult sites; can reduce installation time.
• Cons: Still soil- and site-dependent; require proper installation and separation distances.

Drip irrigation and evapotranspiration (ET) beds

• Where they fit: For certain landscaping goals or very constrained lots, some jurisdictions allow treated effluent to irrigate vegetation or evaporate in ET beds.
• Pros: Water reuse potential; reduced land area requirements.
• Cons: Not universally permitted; requires advanced design, permits, and robust maintenance.

Low-Pressure Dosing (LPD) and pressure-distributed systems

• How they work: Small doses are distributed under low pressure to multiple area trenches, improving absorption in marginal soils.
• Pros: Better distribution in soils with restrictive layers; can extend drainfield life.
• Cons: More complex design and ongoing service needs.

What to plan for on Ellerslie properties (practical steps)

1. Have a professional evaluate soil and site conditions (percolation test, soil borings, groundwater depth).
2. Compare conventional vs. alternative systems based on Ellerslie soils, lot size, and future home use.
3. Verify local permitting requirements and inspection schedules with the county health department or state program.
4. Budget for potential upgrades or maintenance plans that align with Georgia regulations and manufacturer recommendations.
5. Schedule regular maintenance and early detection of system stress (foul odors, wet spots, lush patches in the drainfield area).
6. For official, jurisdiction-specific guidance, see EPA's septic overview and Georgia's onsite wastewater resources: [EPA - What is a septic system?](and [Georgia DPH Onsite Wastewater](https://dph.georgia.gov/onsite-wastewater). Additional practical guidance from extension programs can help with local considerations: [UGA Extension](https://extension.uga.edu).

Common Septic Issues in Ellerslie

Soils and drainfield limitations in Ellerslie

• Ellerslie homes often sit on clay-heavy soils with slower percolation, which can push effluent back toward the tank and cause drainfield saturation after rain.
• Signs to watch: soggy or spongy patches above the drainfield, persistent odors, and surfaces that stay damp around the septic area.

What to do:

1. Have a licensed septic pro evaluate soil conditions and drainfield health.
2. Schedule regular pumping to reduce solids and lessen stress on the drainfield.
3. Discuss upgrade options if the drainfield is failing (e.g., alternative designs permitted by local code).
4. Keep heavy equipment and landscaping off the drainfield area and mark setbacks clearly.

Helpful resources: EPA septic systems guidelines (

Seasonal water table and heavy rainfall effects

• Georgia climates bring periods of heavy rain and higher groundwater levels, which can saturate the drainfield and cause backups or surface effluent during wet seasons.
• Common indicators: toilets and sinks slow to empty after rain, damp ground near the tank or drainfield, and a surge in odors after storms.

What to do:

1. Spread out water use (laundry, dishwasher) across days, especially during wet weeks.
2. Repair leaks promptly to minimize unnecessary water entering the system.
3. Consider more frequent pump-outs if wet conditions persist or the system is older.
4. Inspect irrigation timing and avoid watering during or immediately after rain.

Tree roots and landscaping

• Mature trees and shrubs planted near the system can send roots into pipes and the drainfield, causing blockages or breaks.
• Typical symptoms: slower drains, gurgling sounds, or damp, unusually green patches above the drainfield.

What to do:

1. Maintain adequate setbacks between trees and the septic system; relocate plantings if necessary.
2. Use root barriers or professional root management for encroaching roots.
3. Have a pro inspect for root intrusion during routine service visits.
4. Avoid trying to "trim" roots yourself near the septic lines.

Tank maintenance and aging systems

• Many Ellerslie homes have older tanks that may be undersized or deteriorating, leading to solids buildup and more frequent failures.
• Warning signs: frequent backups, toilets that gurgle, and septic odors.

What to do:

1. Plan pump-outs every 3–5 years (more often with heavy use or older tanks).
2. Have baffles and outlet piping inspected; replace damaged components.
3. Ensure safe lid access with intact risers or access ports.
4. Keep a maintenance log to guide future service and resale considerations.

Excess water use from irrigation and leaks

• Overly wet lawns and simultaneous high-water-use activities can overwhelm a septic system, especially in smaller lots common around Ellerslie.

What to do:

1. Use efficient irrigation practices; water during cool periods and avoid runoff toward the drainfield.
2. Fix leaks in plumbing and outdoor hoses promptly.
3. Space out high-water activities and consider zone-based irrigation plans.

Chemicals, cleaners, and flushing habits

• Harsh cleaners, solvents, grease, and chemicals can kill beneficial bacteria in the tank or accumulate solids, reducing system efficiency.

What to do:

1. Flush only toilet paper and human waste; avoid flushing wipes, chemicals, or grease.
2. Use septic-safe household products and limit solvent-based cleaners down drains.
3. Use enzyme products cautiously; they are not a substitute for proper pumping and maintenance.

Helpful resources: EPA septic systems guidelines (University of Georgia Extension septic resources (https://extension.uga.edu).

Septic Inspection, Permits & Local Oversight

How oversight works in Ellerslie, GA

In Georgia, septic system permits and inspections are generally handled by the county health department under the state's Department of Public Health. Ellerslie homeowners typically work with the county issuing authority to obtain permits, schedule inspections, and ensure the system meets site and safety requirements. If you're in a city with its own code, follow that authority's guidelines. Always start by contacting your local authority to confirm the exact process and fees.

Permits you may need

• New installation: Before any digging begins, obtain a septic system installation permit.
• Repairs and replacement: Significant repairs or a full replacement may require a permit and sometimes a new soil evaluation.
• Additions or changes: If you add square footage, alter drainage, or modify setback areas, a permit helps ensure the work is compatible with groundwater and wells.

Steps to secure a permit:

1. Identify the issuing authority (county health department or local government).
2. Gather site information (lot map, soil test results, system design plan).
3. Submit the permit application with required plans and fees.
4. Schedule plan review and any interim inspections as required.
5. Receive permission to install, then schedule final inspections after installation.

Inspections: timing and process

• Inspections are typically required at key milestones: post-digging/trenching, after tank placement and baffle checks, during backfill, and after final cover.
• Some counties require a pressure or pump test for new tanks.
• If selling or refinancing, lenders or buyers may request a current septic inspection.

How to plan:

1. Schedule a pre-approval with the inspector to review your site plan.
2. Coordinate with your installer to be present for each inspection.
3. Have access to as-built diagrams, tank lids, and risers for the inspector.

What inspectors look for

• Proper tank location, depth, and labeling.
• Tank integrity and functioning baffles.
• Correct installation of leach/drain field components.
• No improper connections within setback zones (well, water lines, property lines).
• Proper grading and surface water control to prevent field flooding.
• Evidence of soil suitability: adequate absorption and no restrictive layers directly above the drain field.
• Accessible cleanouts and correct venting.

Records, maintenance, and compliance

• Keep permits, plan sheets, inspection reports, and as-built diagrams in a dedicated file.
• Maintain regular pumping intervals, protect the drain field, and avoid heavy traffic or activities over the field.
• If modifications are planned, confirm with the issuing authority before starting.

Resources and official guidance

• Georgia Department of Public Health – Environmental Health (official): https://dph.georgia.gov
• U.S. Environmental Protection Agency – Onsite Wastewater Systems (homeowner guidance): https://www.epa.gov/septic
• For local specifics, contact your county health department or visit the Georgia DPH homepage for guidance on septic system permitting and inspection processes.

Septic Maintenance for Homes in Ellerslie

Ellerslie-specific conditions you should know

Ellerslie experiences the Southeast's mix of heavy rainfall events and warm summers. Soils in the Columbus area can be clay-heavy, which slows infiltration and can lead to surface dampness or slow drainage after storms. Tree roots are a common neighbor to many Ellerslie yards, and vigorous root systems can intrude on drainfields or plumbing if trees are planted too close. Regular protection of the drainfield area—keeping cars off it, avoiding heavy irrigation near the field, and choosing low-root-impact plantings—goes a long way toward a trouble-free system.

Regular inspection and pumping schedule

Use a proactive plan tailored to your home's age, usage, and tank size. A licensed septic pro can tailor a schedule, but these guidelines work well for Ellerslie homes:

• Inspect every 1 year if you have a garbage disposer, high water usage, or an older system.
• Pump every 3–4 years for a typical family of 3–4 with standard usage.
• Consider more frequent pumping if the tank is small, family size is large, or the system shows signs of trouble (backups, gurgling, or odors).
• If you've recently completed renovations or added bathrooms, adjust pumping intervals accordingly.

Daily practices to protect your Ellerslie system

Small changes can prevent big problems, especially after heavy rains or in clay soils.

• Use water efficiently: install low-flow fixtures, fix leaks promptly, stagger laundry loads, and avoid long showers during peak backwash times.
• Be mindful with the kitchen: use the garbage disposal sparingly; avoid pouring fats, oils, and grease down the drain.
• Be careful with additives: routine septic additives aren't a substitute for pumping and proper maintenance; rely on healthy bacteria by not flushing harsh chemicals.
• Be mindful of what you flush: flush only toilet paper and human waste; keep wipes, diapers, and feminine products out of the system.

Drainfield protection and landscape planning

Your Ellerslie drainfield needs space to work without interference.

• Keep vehicles, heavy equipment, and foot traffic off the drainfield area.
• Plant only shallow-rooted landscaping away from the field; avoid landscape beds with aggressive trees or shrubs within 10–15 feet if possible.
• Maintain a healthy lawn canopy and proper drainage around the area; don't create depressions or pooling over the drainfield.
• Direct downspouts and surface runoff away from the septic area to reduce saturation.

After heavy rainfall or storm events

Excess moisture can stress a system, especially in clay soils near Ellerslie.

1. Minimize use of water during the first 24–48 hours after a major rain event.
2. If you notice surface seepage, strong odors, or backups, stop using the system and contact a licensed septic professional.
3. Have the drainfield inspected after soils dry to determine if saturation or root intrusion is contributing to problems.

When to call a pro and official resources

If you notice backups, slow drains, gurgling sounds, or sewage odors, consult a licensed septic contractor. Local guidance and state requirements help ensure proper maintenance.

• EPA septic systems overview:
• Georgia Soil and Water Conservation Commission: https://gaswcc.org

Quick Ellerslie maintenance checklist

• Schedule annual or biennial professional inspections.
• Pump every 3–4 years unless usage or system size dictates otherwise.
• Use water wisely and protect the drainfield from heavy traffic and roots.
• Flush only toilet paper; avoid wipes and chemicals that can disrupt bacterial activity.
• Address surface pooling or odors promptly with a pro.

Cost Expectations for Septic Services in Ellerslie

General cost considerations in Ellerslie

• Costs here reflect local labor rates, accessibility, tank size, and soil conditions typical around Ellerslie. Rural properties with gated driveways or limited access can push prices higher.
• Permit and inspection fees from GDPH or local authorities may apply for new systems or major repairs.
• Seasonal demand and after-hours calls may add trip charges or higher hourly rates.
• Typical tank sizes in Ellerslie are 1,000 to 1,500 gallons; larger tanks or multi-compartment systems cost more to service.

Septic Tank Pumping and Cleaning

• What it includes: removal of wastewater and settled solids from the tank, cleaning of the interior, checking inlet and outlet baffles, and inspecting for scum buildup. If your tank has dual chambers, both sides are pumped. Access and lid condition are noted.
• Ellerslie specifics: heavy clay soils and occasional yard drainage issues can affect pumping efficiency and backflow risk; good access (driveway width, gate clearance) helps keep costs down.
• Typical cost in Ellerslie: roughly $200–$450, with typical jobs around $250–$350. Extra if the tank is oversized, has difficult access, or requires additional disposal fees.

Septic Tank Inspection

• What it includes: visual inspection of tank integrity, baffle condition, float switch operation, pump chamber (if present), and effluent level checks. Often paired with real estate transactions or routine maintenance every 1–2 years; camera inspections may be added if needed.
• Ellerslie specifics: many homes here rely on older installations; inspections help catch hidden issues before backups. Real estate transactions may trigger require-from-code checks.
• Typical cost in Ellerslie: $100–$300 for a basic inspection; $200–$500 if you add camera inspection or more thorough evaluation.

Drain Field Repair and Replacement

• What it includes: diagnostic testing (visuals, dye tests, soil probes if needed), repairing damaged trenches, replacing damaged pipes or failed distribution, restoring proper soil function, and re-seeding or grading as needed. May involve soil amendments or reinstalling portions of the field.
• Ellerslie specifics: local clayey soils can complicate field performance; repair may require pressure distribution or soil restoration, which influences labor time and materials.
• Typical cost in Ellerslie: repairs commonly run $2,000–$7,000; full drain-field replacement or modernizations (including potential mound systems) often $7,000–$20,000+ depending on site, permit needs, and design.

Perc Tests and Soil Evaluations for New Installations

• What it includes: soil probes, percolation tests, and site evaluation to determine the appropriate septic design (drain field size, trench layout, and impact on groundwater).
• Ellerslie specifics: Georgia soil varieties and seasonal water tables influence test results and system design; results guide permit submittals.
• Typical cost in Ellerslie: $1,000–$3,000 for full evaluation and reporting, depending on lot size and access.

New System Installations

• What it includes: system design, permitting, trenching, installation of septic tank, distribution network, and drain-field or mound installation; includes initial startup checks.
• Ellerslie specifics: permitting and local code adherence can affect timelines and cost; close-in sites may require more design work to fit the field within property lines.
• Typical cost in Ellerslie: $6,000–$25,000+, with higher-end aerobic or mound systems pushing toward the upper end.

Aerobic System Maintenance and Service

• What it includes: routine servicing of ATU (aerobic treatment unit), filter cleaning, pump checks, spray or drip irrigation components if present, and occasional chemical dosing or control-box checks.
• Ellerslie specifics: homes with ATUs may need more frequent service due to Georgia humidity and chemical usage in kitchens or laundries; contract plans help manage costs.
• Typical cost in Ellerslie: $150–$350 per service visit; annual service contracts often $300–$800.

Septic Tank Risers, Lids, and Accessibility Improvements

• What it includes: installing or upgrading risers and secure lids to improve access for pumping and inspections; may reduce future service costs by simplifying access.
• Ellerslie specifics: improving access can lower future service time and avoid incidental damage to lawn or gates.
• Typical cost in Ellerslie: $800–$2,000 installed, depending on materials and height.

Emergency and After-Hours Service

• What it includes: call-out for backups, overflows, or emergencies beyond regular business hours; includes rapid inspection, temporary measures, and scheduling of permanent fixes.
• Ellerslie specifics: rural access times can affect travel and response windows.
• Typical cost in Ellerslie: $100–$250 trip charge plus hourly rates commonly $100–$250; parts billed separately.

Official Resources

• EPA Septic Systems:
• Georgia Soil and Water Conservation Commission Onsite Wastewater: