Septic in Plaucheville, LA

Here in Plaucheville, you don't need a city sewer map to know where your wastewater goes. In many homes around town, the system quietly does its job underground, keeping the yard and the neighborhood smelling fresh and staying protectively out of sight.

Is septic common in Plaucheville? Yes. In this rural corner of Avoyelles Parish, most houses without access to a centralized sewer rely on on-site septic systems or advanced treatment units. If you're selling, buying, or just planning your next repair, you'll likely encounter a septic tank, a drainfield, and a few routine maintenance steps that keep everything running smoothly.

Should I expect septic if I own or buy a home here? If your property is older, or it sits far from town lines, chances are you'll be dealing with a septic system. It's smart to confirm with the seller or a home inspector, review any septic records, and plan for regular maintenance. A quick pump and routine checks can prevent costly surprises and protect your family's health and your investment.

Why homes here typically use septic systems

• Rural layout and lack of municipal sewer: Extending city lines to every property is expensive and often impractical in our spread-out neighborhoods.
• Cost and practicality: Installing and maintaining an on-site system is generally more affordable for individual lots and provides a reliable wastewater solution without relying on external pipes.
• Soil and landscape considerations: Our soils and drainage patterns require properly designed septic fields to allow safe, natural treatment of household wastewater on each lot.
• Groundwater protection and water quality: On-site systems designed and maintained correctly help prevent contamination of wells and the local waterways that communities here rely on.

High-level explanation (why septic exists here)

In Plaucheville, residential growth grew up around private wells and limited municipal infrastructure. Septic systems emerged as a practical, scalable way to handle wastewater on each property when centralized sewer isn't nearby. Good design, proper installation, and regular upkeep are what let these systems protect your health and the environment while serving homes day in and day out.

If you're curious about the specifics for your property, you'll find practical, neighborly guidance here—from inspection checklists to maintenance reminders—that speaks in plain talk, not jargon.

Where Septic Systems Are Common in Plaucheville

What areas in Plaucheville are typically unsewered

• Rural residential parcels outside the village limits tend to rely on septic systems. If you live on a spread-out lot, a septic system is often the practical option for wastewater treatment.
• Older subdivisions that were developed before municipal sewer lines were extended frequently use septic because public sewer access wasn't available or affordable at the time.
• Farms and small-acreage properties along parish roads and countryside corridors usually have individual septic designs rather than centralized sewer service.

Why septic systems are common here

• Public sewer reach is limited in rural Avoyelles Parish, including much of Plaucheville. Extending sewer mains to every property is costly and logistically challenging.
• Property sizes and land ownership patterns make private septic a cost-effective wastewater solution for many homeowners.
• Community planning and historic development patterns in the area favored individual on-site systems when sewer lines weren't feasible.

Soil and site factors that influence septic suitability in Plaucheville

• Soil type matters. Soils with good natural drainage (loamy or sandy soils) support efficient septic leach fields, while heavy clay or poorly draining soils require alternative designs or advanced systems.
• Water table and flood risk. Areas with high groundwater or flood-prone zones may need mound systems or specialty designs to protect groundwater quality.
• Proximity to wells and wells' safety. Louisiana's groundwater resources require appropriate setbacks and proper system placement to minimize contamination risk.
• Site constraints. Steep slopes, bedrock, or limited space can influence system selection and sizing. A licensed septic professional can evaluate site conditions and recommend an appropriate design.

How to determine if your Plaucheville property is served by sewer or septic

• Start with official records. Check with Avoyelles Parish or the local village office for sewer maps or service declarations specific to your address.
• Look at property documents. Deed plats, tax records, or parcel listings may note sewer connections or septic requirements.
• Get a professional assessment. If you're unsure, hire a licensed septic designer or installer to evaluate soil, drainage, and feasibility. They can confirm whether a sewer connection exists or if a septic system is the proper approach.
• Confirm with the utility provider. If your home is connected to municipal sewer, your annual statements or notices will indicate sewer charges and service status.

Helpful resources

• EPA: Onsite wastewater and septic systems overview (practical, homeowner-focused guidance) —
• Louisiana DEQ and LDH resources (state-level wastewater guidance and regulatory context) — https://deq.louisiana.gov/ and https://ldh.la.gov/
• General homeowner guidance on septic systems (community-facing, practical tips) — https://www.epa.gov/septic

Septic vs Sewer: What Homeowners in Plaucheville Should Know

Septic vs Sewer: the basics

• Septic system: Wastewater is treated on your property. A tank and a drain field work together, and you're responsible for maintenance, pumping, and any repairs.
• Public sewer: Wastewater goes to a centralized plant run by the utility. You pay a monthly sewer bill, and the utility handles treatment and tank maintenance (if applicable in your area).

Key takeaways:

• With septic, you own the system and its upkeep.
• With sewer, you rely on the local utility and pay ongoing charges.

How to tell what you have

1. Check your bills: If you see separate sewer charges from the water bill, you're likely on public sewer.
2. Look in the yard: A buried septic tank lid or access covers usually indicates a private system.
3. Review records: Property deeds, permits, or past home inspectors often note system type.
4. Call your local authority: Your parish or municipal utility can confirm service territory and whether sewer lines are available to your property.

Maintenance and care if you have a septic system

• Pump on a schedule: Most homes need pumping every 3–5 years, but frequency depends on tank size, household size, and usage. Have a licensed professional assess yours.
• Protect the drain field: Avoid driving or digging on the drain field; plant shallow-rooted landscaping and keep heavy equipment off the area.
• Water use matters: Space out loads, fix leaks, and use water-saving fixtures to reduce load on the system.
• Waste disposal rules: Only toilet paper should go into the septic; avoid flushing wipes, grease, solvents, or chemicals that can disrupt the system. Minimize kitchen disposal use if you have a septic tank.
• Inspections matter: Have a septic professional perform periodic inspections to catch issues before they fail.

Maintenance and care if you have public sewer access

• Monthly bills vary: Sewer charges are typically part of your utility bill and depend on usage and local rates.
• Maintenance is utility-driven: The city or parish handles mainline maintenance and sewer plant operations; you won't pump or maintain a drain field.
• Plan for outages and rate changes: Utilities can adjust rates or conduct planned work; budgeting for changes helps.

When to consider connecting or replacing

• If you're near a growing sewer network: Local plans, grants, or low-interest loans may be available to connect. Check with the parish or city about timing and costs.
• If your septic is failing: Signs include persistent soggy soil, odors, backups, or repeated repairs. A licensed contractor can determine whether repair or replacement is wiser.
• If you're buying a home: Have a professional evaluate the septic system's condition and verify sewer access or future connection plans with the utility.

Quick comparison at a glance

• On septic
  • Pros: Potentially lower monthly costs; independence from utility scheduling.
  • Cons: Regular pumping and maintenance; risk of drain-field failure if neglected.
• On public sewer
  • Pros: No tank pumping; city/utility handles maintenance and repairs; predictable monthly bills.
  • Cons: Ongoing sewer charges; possible connection fees if not yet connected; rate fluctuations.

Resources

• EPA: Septic Systems and Septic Smart overview for homeowners
  • https://www.epa.gov/septic
  • https://www.epa.gov/septic/septic-smart

Typical Septic System Types in Plaucheville

Conventional gravity septic systems

A conventional gravity system is the traditional setup most Plaucheville homes use. Wastewater from the house flows by gravity into a septic tank, where solids settle, then the effluent moves by gravity into a drainfield buried in the yard.

What to know:

• Components: septic tank, distribution box, long drainfield trenches with perforated pipes.
• Soil needs: adequate soil structure and a decent depth to groundwater; clay or perched water can limit performance.
• Pros: simple design, generally lower upfront cost, easy to repair.
• Cons: may fail if the soil percolation is slow, or if the groundwater table is high.

Maintenance at a glance:

• Schedule regular pumping (typically every 3–5 years, or per local code).
• Protect the drainfield area from heavy traffic, vehicles, and planted trees with deep roots.
• Monitor for signs of trouble (Slow drains, gurgling, wet spots in the drainfield area).

Low-Pressure Dose (LPD) or Pressure Distribution systems

If the soil isn't ideal for gravity, a pressure distribution system can help move effluent more evenly through the drainfield.

What to know:

• How it works: a pump delivers small, pressurized doses of effluent to all parts of the drainfield, reducing saturated zones.
• When it's used: on sites with varying soil permeability, shallow bedrock, or limited space for a long drainfield.
• Pros: more even distribution, can work in marginal soils.
• Cons: higher install cost, requires reliable power and pump maintenance.

Steps homeowners often take:

1. Confirm soil suitability with a percolation test.
2. Install a dosing pump and control panel with backup power considerations.
3. Follow routine service checks on the pump and filtration screens.

Mound systems

A mound system raises the drainfield above natural grade when soil conditions are poor or water tables are high.

What to know:

• Structure: an elevated sand-filled mound with a distribution network on top of the original soil.
• Pros: enables use of properties with shallow soil or high groundwater.
• Cons: more complex construction, higher maintenance, larger footprint.

What to look for:

• Proper design by a qualified septic designer.
• Routine inspections of the mound surface for erosion or settlement.
• Avoidance of landscape features that could compact the mound (heavy equipment, outdoor structures).

Aerobic Treatment Units (ATUs) with drainfield

ATUs treat wastewater with added oxygen, producing a higher quality effluent before it reaches the drainfield.

What to know:

• Benefits: better effluent quality, potential to support smaller or setback-drained fields.
• Typical use: properties with limited space or poor native soils; often paired with a drainfield or spray dispersal system.
• Pros: improved treatment; flexibility in site limitations.
• Cons: higher daily operational energy use and maintenance needs; more frequent service checks.

Maintenance essentials:

• Regular servicing by a qualified technician.
• Check for alarms and ensure proper aeration.
• Keep away from trash or flushable wipes that can clog the system.

Sand filter systems

Wastewater exits the tank into a sand filtration bed, where filtration and additional treatment occur before the effluent re-enters the soil.

What to know:

• When used: soils with limited absorption or high filtration demands.
• Pros: higher treatment efficiency in challenging soils.
• Cons: more components to monitor; sand media may require periodic replacement.

Important notes:

• Ensure proper maintenance of the sand media and inspection of piping and valves.

Evapotranspiration (ET) systems

ET systems are less common in Louisiana but exist on sites with certain climate, soil, and drainage conditions.

What to know:

• Principle: water evaporates from a shallow bed and is used by vegetation via plant transpiration.
• Suitability: requires specific site and soil characteristics; not a universal solution.

Cluster or community septic systems

Some rural or small communities share a large treatment and disposal system rather than individual home systems.

What to know:

• Pros: shared maintenance and potentially cost savings.
• Cons: requires adherence to centralized management and compliance rules.

Soil and site factors that influence type (quick guide)

• Test soil per local code to assess percolation and absorption capacity.
• Check groundwater depth and seasonal fluctuations.
• Consider lot size, slope, and proximity to wells or water bodies.
• Factor climate and rainfall patterns that affect drainage.

Official resources:

• EPA: Septic Systems (overview, design principles, maintenance) https://www.epa.gov/septic
• Louisiana Department of Health: On-site wastewater guidance and regulations (state guidance and contact info) https://ldh.la.gov

Additional local guidance

• Contact the Avoyelles Parish Health Unit for site-specific requirements and permitting details.

Common Septic Issues in Plaucheville

High water table and seasonal flooding

• In Plaucheville, clayey soils and a relatively high water table can keep drainfields saturated after rain. When the soil is too wet, effluent can't percolate properly, leading to backups or surface damp patches over the drainfield.
• Symptoms to watch for: slow drains, gurgling toilets, and unusually lush grass growth or damp soil above the drainfield after storms.
• Why Plaucheville is prone: nearby watercourses and periods of heavy rainfall can raise groundwater levels, reducing drainage capacity.

Drainfield failure due to soil conditions

• If the soil beneath the drainfield doesn't absorb water well, the system can fail even if the tank is intact. In Plaucheville, dense clay and shallow soils slow infiltration and increase the risk of solids reaching the drainfield prematurely.
• Common signs: pooling wastewater on the surface, strong odors around the leach field, or a consistently wet yard in the vicinity of the system.

Tree root intrusion

• Tree roots grow seeking moisture and can infiltrate septic lines and laterals, causing blockages, reduced flow, or complete backups.
• Plaucheville homes with mature trees close to the septic system are at higher risk. Roots can wrap around pipes or invade joints, especially in older installations.

Pump failures and alarm malfunctions

• Many systems rely on effluent or grinder pumps. Power outages, aging components, or corroded wiring can cause pump failure or alarm not to trigger.
• Symptoms: backups, toilets not flushing properly, or pumps cycling unusually.

Grease, wipes, and non-biodegradable items

• Flushing fats, oils, grease, and "flushable" wipes clog pipes and accumulate solids in the tank, hastening solids buildup and pump pressure issues.
• Infrequent maintenance or improper disposal magnifies the problem, especially in households with high grease loads or chemical cleaners.

Soil compaction and driveways over the drainfield

• Heavy vehicles, construction equipment, or frequent parking over the drainfield reduces soil porosity, slowing absorption and increasing saturation risk.
• In Plaucheville's rural layouts, driveways or sheds sometimes overlie drainfields, making proper separation vital.

Flooding and backflow risk during storms

• Louisiana's weather can bring intense rainfall and localized flooding. Floodwaters can overwhelm septic components or push surface water into the drainfield, reducing treatment capacity.
• Flood-damaged systems may require professional assessment before resuming normal use.

Chemical contamination and bacterial disruption

• Household chemicals, solvents, pesticides, and certain cleaners can disrupt beneficial bacteria in the tank, impairing treatment.
• This is less common in well-managed homes but can occur with improper disposal practices.

What to do if you suspect a septic issue

1. Note the symptoms: backups, unpleasant odors, soggy patches, or slow drains.
2. Check for recent changes: new fixtures, increased water use, or nearby flooding that could affect drainage.
3. Limit water use until inspected: spread out laundry and dishwasher loads to reduce stress on the system.
4. Schedule a professional inspection: a licensed septic contractor can assess tank condition, pump operation, and drainfield infiltration.
5. Plan follow-up steps: if needed, pump out the tank, repair or replace components, or redesign the drainfield with soil-appropriate options.

Prevention tips tailored for Plaucheville

• Schedule regular pumping based on usage and tank size; many homes benefit from a 3-year interval, with more frequent service for high-water-use households.
• Protect the drainfield: keep vehicles off the area, plant only shallow-rooted vegetation, and avoid burying utilities over the field.
• Manage water efficiently: spread out laundry, fix leaks promptly, and install water-saving fixtures to reduce daily flow.
• Be mindful of disposal: use septic-safe products and dispose of chemicals at proper facilities rather than down the drain.
• Consider soil-appropriate upgrades: if the original system is old or in a high-water-table area, discuss with a pro about alternative designs (e.g., mound systems) suited to Plaucheville soils.

Resources

• EPA: Septic Systems –

Septic Inspection, Permits & Local Oversight

Local oversight in Plaucheville and Avoyelles Parish

• In Plaucheville, septic systems are overseen mainly at the parish level by the Avoyelles Parish Health Unit, working under the Louisiana Department of Health (LDH). The state sets the rules, while your parish handles permitting, inspections, and reporting.
• Start by confirming requirements with your local parish health unit through the LDH directory; they'll tell you which forms, site evaluations, and soil tests are needed for your property.

What inspectors look for during a septic inspection

• System type and condition: tank age, pump status, baffles, and any signs of failure.
• Leach field and soil absorption area: integrity, clogs, and evidence of backups or surface drainage.
• Evidence of unauthorized modifications: changes to trench layout, discharge connections, or replacement components without permits.
• Safety and setbacks: distance from wells, streams, and building foundations; proper venting and access ports.
• Maintenance records: recent pump-outs, repairs, and maintenance schedules.

Permits you may need

• Permit to install or replace a septic system, and permits for major repairs or upgrades.
• Soil evaluation and site assessment may be required before design work begins.
• Certain projects (like adding bedrooms, extending wastewater loads, or changing system design) typically trigger additional permitting or plan review.

How to apply: Step-by-step (numbered)

1. Contact your Avoyelles Parish Health Unit to verify which permits and tests apply to your project.
2. Schedule a soils test or site evaluation if required, and gather any needed documents (property plat, proposed system diagram, access to the site).
3. Choose a licensed septic designer/installer who will prepare system plans that meet state and local requirements.
4. Submit the permit package with all forms, site plans, and any fees to the parish health office.
5. Receive plan approval and the issued permit; arrange the installation date with your contractor.
6. After installation, schedule the inspection. The inspector will verify installation conforms to approved plans before final permit closure.

Real estate transactions and inspections

• If you're buying or selling a home in Plaucheville, a septic inspection is commonly part of the disclosure process. Expect an inspector to verify system age, condition, and operability; a failed system or one lacking current permits can affect timing and financing.
• Discuss requirements with your real estate agent and lender early so you avoid surprises and ensure all permits are current or properly closed.

Documentation to keep

• Permit approvals and issued numbers; site plans and design documents; inspection reports; pump-out receipts; and any repair or upgrade invoices.
• Maintain a file of all correspondence with the parish health unit and the installer for easy reference during future sale or maintenance.

Where to find official resources

• Louisiana Department of Health (On-Site Wastewater Program and guidance): https://ldh.la.gov
• EPA guidance on septic systems: https://www.epa.gov/septic
• For parish-specific steps, forms, and contacts, start with your local Avoyelles Parish Health Unit and the LDH directory to locate the correct office and scheduling options.

Septic Maintenance for Homes in Plaucheville

Plaucheville-Specific Factors That Affect Your System

• Avoyelles Parish soils are often clay-heavy with slow percolation, and groundwater can sit near the surface after heavy rains. This combination can make drainfields more sensitive to overuse or improper grading.
• Heavy rainfall and occasional flooding in the region can push surface water toward drainfields, increasing the risk of backing up or system saturation.
• Proximity to wells and surface water means keeping effluent properly contained is especially important for drinking-water protection and local waterways.

Regular Pumping and Inspection Schedule

• Pump every 3–5 years as a baseline for typical households. If you have a garbage disposal, large family, or high daily water use, plan toward the shorter end of the range.
• Schedule a professional drainfield inspection every 1–3 years, depending on usage and any signs of trouble (slow drains, gurgling sounds, or standing water above the leach field).
• Maintain a simple maintenance log:
  • Date of each pump-out
  • Contractor name and contact
  • Any repairs or observed issues
  • Notable changes in water use or drainage

Drainfield Care in Plaucheville's Climate

• Never drive or park vehicles on the drainfield. Heavy loads compact the soil and damage the underground system.
• Keep landscaping drainfield-friendly: low-profile grasses are fine; avoid trees or shrubs with aggressive roots near the absorption area.
• Aeration and soil health matter: compacted or crusty soil over the drainfield can impede absorption. If you notice crusting or pooling, call a pro to evaluate.

Flooding, Water Tables, and Seasonal Risks

• In flood-prone periods, surface water or high groundwater can saturate the drainfield. This increases the risk of backups and may require a temporary pause on heavy water use.
• If you experience repeated flooding or rising water tables, a licensed pro may suggest system upgrades (such as a raised or mound design) or alternative disposal strategies tailored to your lot.
• Always direct sump pump discharge away from the septic system and never into the drainfield.

Water Use Practices to Protect Your System

• Use water-efficient fixtures and fix leaks promptly to limit daily load on the septic tank.
• Stagger laundry and dishwasher loads to avoid dumping a large volume at once.
• Only flush human waste and toilet paper; avoid flushable wipes, sanitary products, cooking grease, coffee grounds, and chemical cleaners that can disrupt beneficial bacteria.
• Use septic-safe products and cleaners; avoid products labeled as "antibacterial" or highly caustic, which can harm the microbial balance.

Seasonal Maintenance Checklist

• Spring
  • Schedule a pump-out if due and inspect for wet spots or surface pooling.
  • Check for cracks or damage in access lids and manholes.
• Summer
  • Monitor water use during peak outdoor living—outdoor showers, irrigation, and pools can raise load.
  • Keep draining field clear of turf damage or heavy foot traffic.
• Fall
  • Review maintenance log; plan the next pump-out window.
  • Check yard drainage to prevent runoff toward the drainfield.
• Winter
  • Protect the system from freezing conditions; avoid covering the drainfield with insulation that restricts air exchange.
  • If flooding occurs, contact a pro before resuming heavy water use.

When to Call a Professional

• You notice slow drains, gurgling sounds, or lingering wastewater odors.
• Standing water or lush green patches appear over the drainfield.
• You've had repeated flood events or high groundwater near the system, or you're planning a remodel that increases water use.

Finding a Local Pro in Avoyelles Parish

• Verify licensure and ask for a written inspection report and pump-out receipt.
• Request a short maintenance plan tailored to Plaucheville's soil and flood risks.
• Obtain multiple quotes and check references from neighbors with similar systems.

Resources

• EPA Septic Systems: https://www.epa.gov/septic
• Louisiana Department of Health (LDH): https://ldh.la.gov
• Louisiana Department of Environmental Quality (DEQ): https://deq.louisiana.gov

Cost Expectations for Septic Services in Plaucheville

Septic Tank Pumping

• What this service includes:
  • Extraction of sludge and scum from the tank, usually every 3–5 years depending on household size and usage.
  • Inspection of tank condition (baffles, lids, and accessible ports) and resealing as needed.
  • Optional lid relocation or riser installation if access is difficult.
• Plaucheville specifics:
  • Rural Plaucheville homes often have older tanks or tight access points; uneven driveways and lush vegetation can add time to service.
  • Clay soils and seasonal groundwater can affect backfilling and settle after pumping.
• Typical cost in Plaucheville:
  • Approx. $250–$500 for a standard 1,000–1,500 gallon tank; larger tanks or restricted access may range to $500–$750.

Routine System Inspection & Maintenance

• What this service includes:
  • Visual inspection of the yard, tank lids, and pump alarms; check baffles and effluent screen; ensure there are no leaks.
  • Performance check of the drain field via observation and basic testing.
  • Recommendations for future pumping or repairs.
• Plaucheville specifics:
  • Many homes benefit from annual or biennial checks, especially if the system is older or near market-value appraisals.
  • Inspections help identify issues before costly field failures, which are more common in flood-prone periods.
• Typical cost in Plaucheville:
  • $100–$300 for a basic inspection; $200–$500 if dye tests or camera inspection are added.

Drain Field Repair or Replacement

• What this service includes:
  • Diagnostics (sometimes with soil testing) to confirm failing drain lines.
  • Repair of damaged trenches, pipes, or distribution boxes; replacement of exhausted drain field sections.
  • Permitting guidance and code-compliant restoration.
• Plaucheville specifics:
  • Clay-heavy soils and limited space can necessitate more extensive repairs or alternative designs (e.g., elevated or mound systems).
  • Proximity to water features and groundwater can influence regulatory requirements and timing.
• Typical cost in Plaucheville:
  • Repair: $2,000–$10,000; Replacement: $10,000–$30,000 (or more for complex mound-style systems).

New System Installation

• What this service includes:
  • Site evaluation, soil testing, and system design tailored to lot size and local codes.
  • Installation of septic tank(s), distribution system, and drain field or mound as appropriate.
  • Permitting, inspection coordination, and final commissioning.
• Plaucheville specifics:
  • Parish health regulations require plan review and approval; options may include conventional, mound, or pressure-dosed designs based on soil and groundwater.
  • Longer lead times can occur in rural areas due to contractor availability and compliance steps.
• Typical cost in Plaucheville:
  • $10,000–$40,000 for standard setups; higher for challenging soils, mound installations, or larger homes.

Drain Line Cleaning & Camera Inspection

• What this service includes:
  • CCTV camera inspection of pipes to locate blockages, breaks, or root intrusion.
  • Cleaning and hydro-jetting of lines; root removal; minor line repairs if feasible.
  • Recommendations for long-term line protection and maintenance schedule.
• Plaucheville specifics:
  • Root intrusion and clay soil effects are common; identifying the exact problem helps avoid unnecessary field digging.
  • Access to lateral lines may require small yard work or partial driveway adjustments.
• Typical cost in Plaucheville:
  • Camera inspection: $100–$300; cleaning/jetting: $150–$450; combined services: $300–$800.

Pump or Lift Station Repair / Replacement

• What this service includes:
  • Inspect submersible effluent pumps, floats, alarms, and wiring; test operation and backup alarms.
  • Replace failed pumps or worn components; recalibrate switch settings and ensure power supply integrity.
  • Optional upgrade to automatic monitoring or alarms for remote notification.
• Plaucheville specifics:
  • Some homes rely on remote pump tanks; accessibility and local utility coordination can affect timing and cost.
  • Older pumped systems may require more frequent maintenance due to aging components.
• Typical cost in Plaucheville:
  • Repair: $400–$1,500; replacement: $1,800–$4,500 (plus possible wiring/controls $200–$500).

Official resources for reference:

• EPA Septic Systems: https://www.epa.gov/septic
• Louisiana Department of Health (Onsite Wastewater program): https://ldh.la.gov/