Septic in Midway, KY
Last updated: Mar 21, 2026
From a quiet street in Midway to a weekend at the park, neighbors here know that a well-tended home starts with a dependable wastewater system you can count on.
Is septic common in Midway? Should I expect septic if I own or buy a home? Yes—and for many homes in and around Midway, a septic system is the norm. If you're buying a house in town or on the surrounding countryside, you'll likely encounter a septic tank plus a drain field rather than a municipal sewer connection. Property disclosures, home inspections, and neighborhood layouts often reflect this. If you own a home here, a septic system is something you'll want to understand and maintain, not overlook.
Why homes typically use septic systems in Midway
- Rural layout and sewer access: Midway sits in a area where centralized sewer lines aren't always practical or nearby, so on-site treatment is common.
- Lot sizes and property boundaries: Many lots here are set up with space for a private system, which gives homeowners flexibility and control over maintenance.
- Cost and practicality: Extending sewer mains to every home can be costly and disruptive. A well-designed septic system offers a reliable, self-contained solution.
- Groundwater and wells: Since many Midway homes rely on private wells, an appropriately designed septic system, installed and maintained by a licensed pro, is a practical match for protecting water quality.
High-level explanation of how the system works
A typical septic setup separates solids from liquids in a tank, where bacteria begin breaking down waste. Clear liquid then moves to a drain field where it's dispersed into the soil, treated by the soil itself. When installed correctly with proper setbacks, soil conditions, and pumping intervals, a septic system can serve a home for many years. Regular inspections, timely pumping, and careful usage are essential to keep the system healthy and to prevent backups or failures.
What this page will help with
- Real-world, practical guidance for Midway homeowners
- Signs a system needs attention and when to call a pro
- How to choose a qualified septic contractor in the area
- Simple maintenance tips and typical service intervals
Think of this as a neighborly, professional resource you can trust as you care for your Midway home's septic system.
Where Septic Systems Are Common in Midway
Where septic systems are most common in Midway
In Midway, a large portion of homes outside the core sewer boundaries rely on on-site septic systems. The downtown and some newer developments may be connected to public sewer, but many single-family homes on the town's outskirts and in surrounding rural areas depend on septic tanks and drainfields. If you live on a larger lot, in a neighborhood built before sewer expansion, or in farm-property zones, chances are your home uses OSDS (onsite disposal systems).
Why these layouts exist
- Development history: Many properties were established before centralized sewer lines extended into those areas.
- Lot size and density: Lower-density, larger parcels make on-site treatment economical and practical compared with laying new sewer mains.
- Soil and groundwater dynamics: Parts of the Midway area have soils that drain adequately when designed and installed correctly, supporting conventional or mound-style drainfields.
- Infrastructure costs: Extending sewer service to every property is costly; septic systems provide a local, cost-effective solution for unsewered parcels.
Common septic system types you'll see around Midway
- Conventional septic system: A standard tank-and-drainfield setup that works well in well-drained soils with adequate space for the drainfield.
- Mound system: Used where soils are shallow or the water table is high; the drainfield is raised to create enough separation between the effluent and the soil.
- At-grade absorption beds or sand beds: Installed where soil conditions limit traditional drainfields but still rely on surface infiltration.
- Alternative systems: In tougher sites, you may encounter specialized systems installed under local health department oversight to meet site-specific challenges.
Where to look on your property
- Septic tank access: Buried with usually one or more lids or access ports visible in the yard.
- Drainfield area: Typically downstream from the house, often in the rear or side yard; may appear as a grassy, relatively flat area and should be kept free of heavy equipment.
- Visible indicators: Vent pipes, cleanouts, or a distinct change in soil color or texture can hint at system components.
- If in doubt: A licensed septic contractor can locate tanks and verify system health using appropriate equipment.
Maintenance basics and warning signs
- Pumping frequency: Most homes benefit from a professional pump-out every 3–5 years, depending on tank size and household water use.
- Waste disposal habits: Limit solids and avoid pouring fats, oils, and grease down drains; harsh chemicals can disrupt beneficial bacteria in the tank.
- Planting considerations: Keep trees with deep roots away from the drainfield to prevent root intrusion.
- Warning signs: Standing water over the drainfield, strong odors, gurgling drains, or toilets that drain slowly can signal a problem needing evaluation.
Quick steps for homeowners planning septic work
- Confirm sewer status: Check with Midway city services and the county to determine if you're in a sewer district or on OSDS.
- Site evaluation: Hire a licensed septic contractor to locate the tank, assess the drainfield, and evaluate soil conditions.
- Permitting: Obtain required permits from the local authority, typically the county health department or state environmental agency.
- Installation or repair: Use a licensed installer and ensure inspections are completed per local rules.
- Ongoing care: Keep maintenance records, schedule regular pump-outs, and perform routine drain-field inspections after major weather events.
Official resources
Septic vs Sewer: What Homeowners in Midway Should Know
How septic systems work in simple terms
- A typical residential septic system has a buried tank, a distribution mechanism, and a drain field. Wastewater from the house flows into the tank, where solids settle to the bottom and scum floats to the top.
- Beneficial bacteria in the tank begin breaking down sediments before liquid effluent leaves to the drain field, where the soil and groundwater microbes finish the treatment.
- The system works best when you keep solids out of the drain (fats, wipes, coffee grounds, grease) and give the drain field enough soil depth to do its job.
Sewer connection in Midway: what to expect
- Some Midway homes are connected to a municipal sewer system, while others rely on on-site septic systems. Your property deed or the local utility can confirm which applies.
- If you're connected to sewer, your monthly bill covers both wastewater treatment and maintenance of the local sewer pipes. If you're on septic, you're responsible for timely pumping and system upkeep.
- Municipal sewer lines and septic systems have different maintenance needs and cost drivers, so knowing which path you're on helps you budget and plan.
Weighing costs: sewer vs septic
- Sewer: predictable monthly or quarterly charges, plus possible repairs if pipes or the treatment plant face issues. The biggest cost is the ongoing utility bill.
- Septic: higher upfront and occasional maintenance costs (pump-outs, inspections, repairs) but typically lower monthly charges. Long-term savings depend on usage, tank size, and soil conditions.
- Local factors in Midway—such as soil type, groundwater depth, and any sewer expansion plans—can influence both options. Check with your municipality or county for current rates and plans.
Maintenance matters: keeping septic healthy in Midway
- Schedule regular pump-outs every 3–5 years, or per your system designer's recommendation, based on tank size and household water use.
- Conserve water to reduce strain on the system: spread out laundry, fix leaks, and use high-efficiency fixtures.
- Protect the drain field: avoid parking or heavy equipment over the area, plant only shallow-rooted grasses near the field, and keep trees away whose roots could invade pipes.
- Use septic-safe products: choose drain cleaners and chemicals that are septic-friendly, and limit the use of harsh solvents.
- Maintain records: keep a file with tank size, pumping dates, repair notes, and the drainage field layout.
Spotting problems early and action steps
- Warning signs: gurgling sounds in drains, toilets backing up, wastewater surface pooling, or unusually lush vegetation over the drain field.
- Quick checks:
- Note any unusually wet spots or strong odors near the tank or drain field.
- Check for high or persistent backups in multiple fixtures.
- Look for sump pump water or stormwater entering the septic system (avoid mixing this with wastewater).
- If you notice symptoms, contact a licensed septic professional promptly for a tank inspection and potential pumping or field assessment.
Official resources
- EPA: Septic systems overview and maintenance guidance — https://www.epa.gov/septic
- Kentucky Environment and Energy Cabinet (Onsite Sewage Systems guidance and regulations) — https://eec.ky.gov
- For local Midway-specific information, check with the City of Midway or Scott County public utilities and health departments for current guidance and approved contractors.
Typical Septic System Types in Midway
Conventional gravity septic systems
- How they work: A septic tank collects waste and separates solids; clear liquid flows by gravity into a soil absorption field (drain field) where soil treats the effluent.
- When they're a good fit: Suitable for properties with adequate soil depth and a reasonably level, drain-field-friendly site.
- Pros and constraints: Simple design, fewer moving parts, lower upfront cost. Requires enough leach-field area and good soil percolation.
- Typical components:
- Septic tank (underground, usually 1–1.5 times the household's design flow)
- Leach field trenches or beds
- Distribution box and perforated pipes
Pressure distribution systems
- How they work: A small pump or siphon sends effluent to multiple trenches in a controlled sequence, promoting even distribution.
- Why Midway homeowners use them: Helpful on sloped lots or when a single gravity trench wouldn't receive uniform wastewater.
- Pros and constraints: More uniform performance in challenging soils; higher maintenance needs (pump/system controls) and electricity reliance.
- Typical components:
- Pump tank with pump and risers
- Control timer or float switch
- Pressure-dosed laterals or trenches
mound systems (raised drain fields)
- How they work: A drain field sits above natural soil, built over a sand fill that provides the required soil conditions for treatment.
- When they're used: In Midway when soil depth is limited, groundwater is high, or the native soil is too restrictive.
- Pros and constraints: Can enable septic use on challenging sites; higher construction cost; needs certified design and ongoing maintenance.
- Typical components:
- On-site septic tank
- Sand fill bed with drainage layers
- Venting and a dosing/draining network
Aerobic treatment units (ATUs) and advanced treatment
- How they work: An ATU introduces controlled aeration to break down waste, producing a treated effluent that then flows to a drain field or secondary treatment.
- Why homeowners choose ATUs: When soil conditions are marginal, or enhanced treatment is required before discharge.
- Pros and constraints: Higher quality effluent, benefitting smaller or constrained drain fields; more electrical energy use and regular maintenance.
- Typical components:
- Aeration chamber with blower or air diffuser
- Secondary treatment chamber or polishing unit
- Disinfection step (sometimes part of the system)
- Final drain field or spray/drip distribution
Sand filters and similar polishing systems
- How they work: Treated effluent passes through a sand bed that provides polishing before reaching the final drain field.
- Use cases in Midway: Often paired with ATUs or mound systems to boost effluent quality.
- Pros and constraints: Improved effluent quality; additional maintenance and space for the filter bed.
- Typical components:
- Tank or chamber carrying effluent to a sand bed
- Underdrain system and distribution to the final field
Chamber systems and other trench alternatives
- How they work: Plastic chambers replace traditional gravel trenches, creating a wider, open-bottom drainage area.
- When to consider: Suitable where site conditions align with chamber layouts and local codes permit.
- Pros and constraints: Often quicker to install; may require careful slope and loading design.
- Typical components:
- Chamber modules
- Inlet/outlet risers
- Perforated distribution piping
Drip irrigation and alternative field approaches
- How they work: Slow, constant dispersal of treated effluent into the root zone of vegetation or soil, sometimes used as a supplemental or alternative field approach.
- Considerations for Midway: Availability and permitting vary; not all jurisdictions approve drip-based septic designs.
- Pros and constraints: Potentially efficient use of space; requires specialized design and ongoing maintenance.
- Typical components:
- Drip lines or emitters
- Primary distribution network and control devices
Holding tanks and temporary solutions
- How they work: Seepage-free tanks that store waste until hauled away or until connection to a public sewer is possible.
- When applicable: Short-term construction projects or transition periods before hookup.
- Pros and constraints: No effluent release on-site; ongoing hauling costs and regulatory requirements.
Midway site notes:
- Soil depth, groundwater, and slope strongly influence system choice. Local approvals and design requirements come from state and county authorities, so work with a licensed professional who understands Kentucky rules.
Maintenance basics (quick steps)
- Schedule regular septic pumping every 3–5 years for most households, or as advised by a professional.
- Inspect the mechanical components (ATUs, pumps, floats) annually or per manufacturer guidance.
- Protect the drain field: keep heavy equipment off it, avoid planting deep-rooted trees nearby, and manage irrigation and drainage.
- Conserve water to reduce load on the system.
- Watch for signs of trouble: gurgling sounds, backups, wet or spongy soil above the drain field, or odors.
Resources:
- EPA on septic systems:
- University Extension resources for home septic care:
Common Septic Issues in Midway
Drainfield Saturation and Infiltration Limits
Midway-area soils can be variable, with clay layers and, in places, a relatively shallow water table. These conditions hinder drainfield absorption, especially after heavy rain, causing surface dampness, odors, or backups. Midway's spring rains and occasional localized flooding can push the water table up, temporarily saturating the drainfield and stressing a system designed for drier conditions.
Symptoms to watch for:
- Pooled water or soggy patches over the drainfield
- Lush, unusually green grass or plants above the field
- Slower drains, gurgling noises, or sewage smells indoors or outdoors
Causes and local factors:
- Clay-rich soils and limited vertical drainage
- Seasonal rainfall and rising groundwater in spring
- Proximity to limestone bedrock or bedrock-related constraints in parts of Central Kentucky
What to do:
- Conserve water during wet periods to reduce load on the system
- Keep vehicles and heavy equipment off the drainfield surface
- Have a licensed septic professional assess soil absorption and field performance
- If the field is failing, consider system upgrades (e.g., mound or alternative distribution) as directed by a pro. See resources:
- Kentucky DEQ Onsite Wastewater guidance:
- EPA on Septic Systems: https://www.epa.gov/septic
Groundwater Rise and Seasonal Flooding
Wet seasons and localized flooding can elevate groundwater around Midway homes, making a previously healthy drainfield inefficient or causing effluent to surface. This is a common Midway concern after heavy rains or rapid snowmelt.
Signs:
- Backups or slow drainage after rain
- Wet or swampy areas near the leach field
- Persistent odors near drains during wet months
What to do:
- Reduce use during and after heavy rain to prevent overloading
- Avoid trenching, digging, or construction work in the drainfield area when soils are saturated
- Schedule a professional evaluation after wet spells to confirm field performance
- Long-term fixes may include adjusting system design, adding a pumped or pressurized distribution, or upgrading to an alternative system when recommended by a licensed contractor
Helpful references:
Central Kentucky soils vary, and karst geology with limestone near the surface can complicate septic performance. In some Midway properties, shallow bedrock or irregular soil layers create uneven absorption, increasing the risk of surface effluent or pressure on the system.
What to know:
- Drainfield placement may be constrained by bedrock depth
- Sinkhole risk or sudden subsidence can affect septic components if the system is poorly located
- Soil testing and site evaluation are essential before installation or major repairs
Action steps:
- Have a certified estimator perform percolation and site evaluation tests
- If problems are found, discuss mound systems or pressure-dosed designs with a licensed septic pro
Useful resources:
Tree Roots and Landscaping Near the Field
Large trees and aggressive roots nearby can invade laterals and pipes, reducing infiltration and causing backups. Midway yards with mature landscaping or root-prone species near the system are at higher risk.
What to watch:
- Cracks in concrete near the tank or lines
- Sudden changes in drainage patterns or new damp patches away from the house
- Roots lifting or invading the drainfield area
Prevention and remedies:
- Maintain setbacks between trees and drainfield (consult a pro for distances)
- Install root barriers when planning landscaping
- Avoid planting heavy feeders or invasive roots over or near the field
- Regular inspections by a licensed pro, especially after landscaping work
Resources:
Aging Systems, Pumping, and Maintenance Gaps
Older septic systems in Midway may struggle if not properly maintained. Components such as the septic tank, pumps, and distribution system have finite lifespans and depend on usage, soil, and maintenance.
What to do:
- Schedule routine inspections and pump the tank at recommended intervals (typical residential guidance is every 3–5 years, depending on tank size and household use)
- Keep careful maintenance records and plan proactive repairs
- Use water-efficient fixtures and spread out heavy water use (laundry, dishwashing) to reduce load
- Never ignore warning signs like backups, odors, or damp areas
Official guidance:
Wastewater Disposal Habits
Disposing of non-sewage items (grease, chemicals, cleaners) or flushing wipes can harm beneficial bacteria and clog the system, accelerating failure.
Best practices:
- Only flushing toilet paper; dispose of wipes, wipes labeled flushable, feminine products, and chemicals in the trash
- Use septic-safe cleaners and limit chemical drain cleaners
- Compost or properly dispose of bulky items away from the septic system
For more guidance on safe disposal, see:
What to Do If You Notice a Problem
- Stop using heavy loads of water and wait for a professional evaluation
- Contact a licensed septic contractor or soil-to-plant specialist to assess the tank, pipes, and drainfield
- Have the system pumped if needed and scheduled for inspection
- Obtain a site evaluation and system design review if a repair or upgrade is recommended
- Reference official resources for ongoing maintenance and local requirements:
- EPA: https://www.epa.gov/septic
- Kentucky DEQ: https://deq.ky.gov
Septic Inspection, Permits & Local Oversight
How septic oversight works in Midway, KY
- Local oversight is handled at the county level in Kentucky. For Midway residents, the Woodford County Health Department is typically the lead for permits, inspections, and notifications related to onsite wastewater systems; portions of nearby areas may fall under Scott County oversight. Always confirm your exact jurisdiction with your county health department.
- The state sets minimum rules for onsite septic systems, and local health departments enforce them through permits, inspections, and record-keeping. State guidance can be found through the Kentucky Environmental Energy Cabinet (EEC) and its Onsite Sewage programs. See official statewide resources below.
When you need a permit
- New installation of any onsite wastewater system.
- Replacement or relocation of a septic tank, drainfield, or distribution components.
- Modifications that expand or alter the performance or capacity of an existing system.
- Abandonment or formal decommissioning of an old system.
- Real estate transfers sometimes trigger a required system assessment or transfer inspection, depending on local rules.
Permitting process (what to expect)
- Confirm jurisdiction
- Call your county health department to verify which office handles permits for your property.
- Gather required information
- Site plan showing the septic system layout.
- Soil evaluation or percolation test results (if a new system or major modification is planned).
- Property deed, parcel number, and any existing as-built diagrams.
- Submit the application
- Complete the county's permit application and pay any applicable fees.
- Include proposed plans, any required licenses, and contractor information.
- Permit review and approval
- The health department reviews site suitability, sizing, and compliance with state regulations.
- You'll receive a permit packet with conditions, inspection schedule, and record-keeping requirements.
- Construction and licensing
- Work must generally be performed by a licensed septic contractor or engineer per local rules.
- Inspections are scheduled at key milestones (below) and final permit closure requires an as-built record.
Inspection process (what happens during an inspection)
- Pre-construction/soil evaluation inspection (if required) to validate site conditions.
- Tank installation inspection: verify tank location, soil backfill, and integrity of tanks and lids.
- Drainfield/backfill inspection: ensure trenching, distribution piping, and aggregate placement meet specs.
- Final/as-built inspection: confirm system is correctly installed, operational, and documented; obtain final approval and closure of the permit.
- Maintenance and inspection for existing systems: periodic checks may be required by local rules or as part of a real estate transaction.
What to have ready for inspections
- Approved permit and inspector contact information.
- Site plans, tank location coordinates, and as-built drawings.
- Manufacturer's installation manuals and product approvals for tanks, lids, and piping.
- Evidence of licensed contractor involvement and test results (if applicable).
- Records of any previous maintenance, pump-outs, or repairs.
Documentation, records & long-term care
- Keep a locally filed copy of the permit, inspection reports, and the as-built drawing.
- Maintain a routine maintenance diary: pump-outs, inspections, and any repairs.
- If you sell the property, have the most recent inspection and as-built documents available for the buyer.
Helpful statewide resources
- Kentucky Department for Environmental Protection / Environmental Energy Cabinet (state oversight): https://eec.ky.gov
- Onsite Sewage Disposal Systems (state program page): https://eec.ky.gov/Environmental-Protection/Water/Pages/Onsite-Sewage-Disposal-Systems.aspx
- Woodford County Health Department (typical Midway contact): confirm exact phone and address with the county office.
- If you're in a different county portion, contact that county health department to confirm permit and inspection procedures.
Septic Maintenance for Homes in Midway
Midway soil and groundwater realities
Midway sits in central Kentucky's Bluegrass region, where soils can range from clay-rich to more permeable layers and groundwater levels fluctuate with seasons. Karst geology in this area means groundwater can move quickly in some pathways, so keeping solids out of the leach field and protecting the drain field from heavy use is especially important. In practice, this means regular maintenance, mindful landscaping, and early detection of drainage issues. For official guidance tailored to Kentucky, see the Kentucky Onsite Wastewater Program: and EPA septic resources at
Cost Expectations for Septic Services in Midway
Septic Tank Pumping and Routine Maintenance
- What it includes: removing sludge and scum from the tank, inspecting baffles, checking effluent levels, testing access risers and lids, and noting any signs of leakage or pump failure. In Midway's clay-rich, variable soils, effluent clarity and sludge accumulation can vary more with seasonal use.
- Midway-specific notes: accessibility (tunks, tight yard layouts) and ground moisture can affect scheduling and cost. If the tank is larger than 1,000 gallons, expect higher pricing due to extra pumping and disposal fees.
- Typical cost in Midway: about $250–$500 for a standard 1,000-gallon tank; add $0.25–$0.75 per gallon for larger tanks.
- Steps you can take:
- Confirm tank size and access before the visit.
- Schedule in dry weather to ease site access.
- Have the system inspected for potential later-field issues during pumping.
Septic Tank Inspections
- What it includes: visual and operational check of tanks, baffles, and lids; review of warning devices or alarms; basic field observation to identify standing water or soggy drain fields.
- Midway-specific notes: some older Midway properties may not have recent record drawings; inspectors often rely on camera checks or dye tests in combination with field performance indicators.
- Typical cost in Midway: $100–$300.
- Steps you can take:
- Gather past inspection reports if available.
- Request a combined pump-and-inspect package to maximize value.
Drain Field Evaluation, Repair, and Replacement
- What it includes: diagnosis of drain field performance, soil testing interpretation, leak checks, and design recommendations; repair options may include trench/line repairs, lateral replacements, or soil treatment upgrades.
- Midway-specific notes: Central Kentucky soils can be clay-heavy with limestone bedrock, which can complicate field repairs and raise excavation costs; seasonal water table can impact timing.
- Typical cost in Midway: drain-field repair $3,000–$8,000; full replacement or mound systems in challenging soils can range $8,000–$20,000+.
- Steps you can take:
- Get a written assessment detailing cause, scope, and alternatives.
- Compare repair vs. replacement based on long-term performance and maintenance needs.
New Septic System Installation
- What it includes: site evaluation, percolation testing, system design, permits, tank installation, leach-field layout, and system startup; may include backup alarms and inspection passes.
- Midway-specific notes: soil tests and drainage plans are crucial in this area; mound systems or advanced treatment may be required in poor soils or high water tables.
- Typical cost in Midway: conventional systems typically $5,000–$15,000; more complex setups (mounds, advanced treatment) often $12,000–$25,000+.
- Steps you can take:
- Request a full design plan with soil data and a permitting timeline.
- Budget for potential permit and inspection fees.
Septic System Repair and Component Replacement
- What it includes: pump replacement, effluent filter service, baffle replacement, line repairs, and minor tank work; major repairs may require more extensive excavation.
- Midway-specific notes: repair costs can spike if access is difficult due to landscaping or rock, common in this region.
- Typical cost in Midway: $200–$2,000+ depending on part and labor; high-end fixes (pump stations or buried components) rise toward $2,000–$5,000.
- Steps you can take:
- Prioritize pump and valve replacements to reduce repeated service calls.
- Ask for a parts warranty where available.
Tank Risers, Lids, and Accessibility Upgrades
- What it includes: adding or replacing risers and secure lids for easier future access, improving safety and inspection readiness.
- Midway-specific notes: older properties may lack accessible access points, increasing initial labor costs.
- Typical cost in Midway: $500–$2,000 depending on material and height added.
- Steps you can take:
- Plan for future maintenance access during any major repair.
- Use concrete or durable polymer risers for longevity.
Soil Testing and Perc Tests
- What it includes: field tests to determine soil absorption rates and suitability for a drain-field design; essential for new installations or expansions.
- Midway-specific notes: Central Kentucky soils require careful interpretation due to variability; results directly influence system type and size.
- Typical cost in Midway: $200–$800.
- Steps you can take:
- Schedule after a wet season to capture realistic percolation.
- Use the results to compare multiple system designs.
Tank Abandonment or Decommissioning
- What it includes: pumped-out tanks, filling with proper material, the removal or sealing of the tank, and site restoration.
- Midway-specific notes: decommissioning often occurs during home sales or lot reconfiguration; ensure proper permit closure with the county.
- Typical cost in Midway: $800–$2,000.
- Steps you can take:
- Verify completion with local code authorities.
- Request a documented decommission report.
Emergency Septic Services
- What it includes: urgent pumping, alarm checks, flood-risk mitigation, and rapid field assessment.
- Midway-specific notes: after-hours work is common in rural areas; travel time and weather can influence cost.
- Typical cost in Midway: trip fee $100–$300 plus standard service; after-hours surcharges may apply.
- Steps you can take:
- Have a short-term plan for temporary waste management if a backup occurs.
- Keep emergency contact numbers handy for late-night calls.
Official Resources
- EPA Septic Systems:
- Kentucky Energy and Environment Cabinet (official state site):
- SepticSmart (EPA homeowner guidance): https://www.epa.gov/septic/septic-smart-homeowners
