Septic in Orleans Parish, LA

Last updated: Mar 21, 2026

If you've spent time in New Orleans, you know Orleans Parish hums with a unique blend of historic homes, river breezes, and practical everyday fixes. That mix shapes how wastewater is handled in the homes here. Whether you're renting, buying, or already settled, you'll appreciate clear guidance from a neighbor who's also a licensed septic pro.

Is septic common in Orleans Parish? Should I expect septic if I own or buy a home? In practice, most homes in the city core are connected to the public sewer system managed by the Sewerage and Water Board of New Orleans. Septic systems aren't the usual setup in the core. If you're buying, confirm whether the property ties into the city sewer. A property that isn't connected may rely on a septic system or may require a plan to connect to the public sewer. There are still older or outlying parcels where a septic system remains in use when public sewer access isn't available.

Why homes typically use septic systems in Orleans Parish. In our parish, the central sewer network covers most of the city, so connecting to public sewer is common where available. Septic shows up mainly on properties outside main service corridors, on historic or outlier lots, or when a retrofit to connect to the city system isn't practical. For those spots, a well-designed on-site system provides a reliable option that avoids costly extensions to reach a distant sewer main.

Growth history and how that has impacted septic coverage. Orleans Parish grew from a riverfront trading hub into a dense urban area, and sewer lines expanded along with new neighborhoods. As more homes connected to the public sewer, reliance on on-site systems in the core diminished. Yet aging lines, property location, and flood risk left some parcels—especially older, outlying areas—with septic in use or installed where central sewer wasn't yet established. That mix helps explain why septic is less common here than in rural parishes, while remaining a relevant option for certain lots and older properties.

High-level explanation (why septic exists here). Septic systems exist to treat wastewater on-site when a public sewer connection isn't available or feasible. In Orleans Parish, the decision often comes down to location, access to the municipal network, cost, and flood or drainage considerations. If you own or plan to buy a home, a quick check of sewer service status and a candid talk with a licensed septic contractor can help you make the best choice.

Here's what to look for next as you evaluate a property.

How Septic Is Regulated in Orleans Parish

State regulation and licensing

  • In Louisiana, onsite wastewater systems (septic systems) are regulated at the state level by the Louisiana Department of Health (LDH). They establish design standards, system performance requirements, and the credentials needed for installers and inspectors.
  • The legal framework relies on the Louisiana Administrative Code and state statutes that cover onsite wastewater design, installation, and maintenance.
  • Local health departments or parish health units usually handle permit intake, inspections, and final approvals in Orleans Parish, but they follow LDH rules and standards.
  • What this means for homeowners: you typically need a licensed designer to prepare plans, a licensed installer to build the system, and LDH- or parish-approved plans and permits before you install.

Permitting and inspections in Orleans Parish

  1. Check sewer availability
  2. If public sewer is or becomes available, you may be required to connect. Your local health department can confirm requirements for Orleans Parish.
  3. If septic is needed, hire qualified professionals
  4. Work with LDH-licensed designers and LDH-licensed septic installers. They should provide a plan that meets state and local standards.
  5. Submit for permit and plan approval
  6. Submit the site plan, system design, and any required forms to the parish health department or the designated permitting office.
  7. Pay fees and await approval
  8. Permit issuance and inspections are tied to fees set by the local authority. Approval must precede installation.
  9. Install with inspections
  10. Installation must be performed by a licensed contractor. Expect inspections at key milestones during installation.
  11. Final inspection and permit closure
  12. A final inspection confirms the system is installed correctly and meets code. After a successful inspection, the permit is closed and the system can be placed into service.

Maintenance, operation, and compliance

  • Regular maintenance is essential. Most homeowners will be advised to pump every 3–5 years, but exact intervals depend on system type, usage, and local guidance.
  • Keep good records: retain permits, design plans, inspection reports, and pumping receipts.
  • Protect the system: avoid driving or placing heavy loads on the drainfield, minimize chemical cleaners and non-biodegradable inputs, and manage household chemicals to reduce system stress.
  • If you notice problems (unusual odors, damp areas, surfacing effluent, soggy drainfield), contact the local health department or your licensed installer promptly.

Local considerations and resources

  • Some Orleans Parish properties may fall under additional local ordinances or reporting requirements. Always verify with the parish health department or city code office for any parish-specific rules.
  • Local and state resources:
    • Louisiana Department of Health (LDH) – On-Site Wastewater guidance and licensing information
    • Louisiana Administrative Code – Title 51 (Public Health) for onsite wastewater rules
    • City/Parish ordinances or codes relevant to Orleans Parish (often available via the City's code portal or Municode)
    • EPA resources on residential septic systems for homeowner best practices

Official resources

  • Louisiana Department of Health (LDH) – On-Site Wastewater program: LDH's site is the primary source for licensing, standards, and guidance
  • Louisiana Administrative Code (Title 51 Public Health) – state rules governing onsite wastewater
  • City of New Orleans/Municodes – local ordinances that may touch septic and sewer connections
  • EPA Septic Systems – homeowner guidance and best practices

Note: For Orleans Parish specifics, contact the parish health unit or the City of New Orleans health or code department to confirm current permits, inspections, and any locally required forms or fees.

Soil, Groundwater & Environmental Factors in Orleans Parish

Soils & drainage characteristics

  • Orleans Parish soils in urban New Orleans are often clay-rich with mixed textures and variable drainage. Dense soils can slow infiltration and lead to perched groundwater during wet seasons.
  • Soil permeability varies widely from block to block, so a site-specific assessment is essential before any on-site system planning.
  • In areas with peat or organic-rich lenses near marsh edges, organic soils can have limited supporting capacity for conventional septic components.
  • Practical takeaway: if you're considering any on-site option, you'll almost certainly need a professional soil test to determine percolation rates and suitable system type (e.g., mound or alternative treatment) if soil drainage is poor.
  • Official guidance: for general septic physiology and best practices, see EPA's Septic Systems resources at for groundwater context, and check EPA's septic information at https://www.epa.gov/septic for general groundwater safety considerations.

Flood risks, stormwater & environmental context

  • Orleans Parish sits within a flood-prone coastal zone with storm surge and heavy rainfall events shaping drainage patterns and land-surface elevations.
  • Flood risk and sea-level rise influence where and how effluent can be safely treated, stored, and dispersed on-site.
  • Proximity to floodplains and levee systems can limit feasible locations for any septic components and require enhanced protection for groundwater.
  • Practical takeaway: map your property's flood zone and elevation, and consider how flood events could affect a septic system's performance or necessitate alternate wastewater solutions.
  • Official resources: FEMA flood maps and risk tools at https://msc.fema.gov/portal/home provide zone and risk information; NOAA and state planning resources offer climate and sea-level context. Louisiana-specific regulatory context is available through LDEQ at https://www.deq.louisiana.gov/ and the Sewerage & Water Board of New Orleans at https://www.swbno.org/ for sewer connection requirements.

Regulatory landscape & local considerations

  • In Orleans Parish, public sewer service is widespread, and local codes often require connection to the sanitary sewer where it is available. This directly affects the viability of traditional septic systems.
  • If your property is not connected or is in a designated area where on-site disposal is still permitted, state and local regulations govern system types, inspections, and maintenance.
  • Always verify with local authorities and a licensed professional before planning any on-site wastewater work.
  • Official resources:

Practical homeowner steps (quick-start guide)

  1. Check sewer Availability
    • If your property has a connected sewer, a septic system is not typical or recommended. Confirm with the Sewerage & Water Board of New Orleans (https://www.swbno.org/).
  2. Get a site-specific soil and water assessment
    • Hire a qualified pro to perform soil tests and determine percolation and groundwater depths at multiple spots on the lot.
  3. Evaluate flood and groundwater risk
    • Review flood maps and local drainage patterns; consider how heavy rainfall and storm surge could affect any on-site system. Use FEMA maps (https://msc.fema.gov/portal/home) as a starting point.
  4. Consult official guidance early
  5. Plan for contingencies
    • If soils are marginal or flood risk is high, discuss alternatives (e.g., connection to public sewer when available, elevated or mound systems) with a licensed designer.
  6. Document and maintain
    • Keep records of soil tests, system plans, and inspections; regular maintenance and monitoring reduce risk of failure, especially in high-water-table and flood-prone environments.

Typical Septic System Types in Orleans Parish

Conventional septic system

  • How it works: A buried septic tank collects solids; clarified effluent flows by gravity to a soil absorption drainfield where soil bacteria treat it.
  • When it fits: Suitable where soils drain well and the groundwater table isn't too close to the surface.
  • Pros: Simple design, relatively low cost, easy to maintain.
  • Cons: Requires adequate soil depth and permeability; performance suffers with flooding, clay-rich soils, or shallow water tables.

Mound systems

  • Why they're used: Needed when native soils are too shallow, the water table is high, or the soil percolates slowly.
  • What you'll find: A septic tank plus a dosing chamber that feeds wastewater up to an elevated sand-filled mound, with a separate drainfield on top or beside the mound.
  • Pros: Can treat effluent effectively when native soil isn't suitable.
  • Cons: More components and maintenance; higher installation cost; surface area requirements.

Sand filter systems

  • How they function: After primary treatment (tank), effluent passes through a gravel/sand filter bed that provides additional treatment before reaching the drainfield.
  • Pros: Improved effluent quality in challenging soils; useful where percolation is limited.
  • Cons: Requires more space and periodic maintenance of the filter media.

Aerobic treatment units (ATU) with spray or drip disposal

  • What they are: Sealed tanks with aerobic treatment and an aerator; effluent is discharged under pressure to a drainfield, mound, or sprinkler/dispersal system.
  • Pros: Higher treatment level, can work in marginal soils; may allow smaller drainfields.
  • Cons: Higher energy use and maintenance needs; more components to service.

Pressure distribution / low-pressure dose (LPD) systems

  • How they differ: Water is distributed to multiple parts of the drainfield under low pressure, reducing clogging and balancing loading.
  • Pros: Better distribution in soils with uneven percolation; can extend drainfield life.
  • Cons: Requires a pump/controls and regular maintenance.

Subsurface drip irrigation and spray disposal

  • What it looks like: Treated effluent is delivered through buried emitters or sprinkler heads for landscape irrigation or evapotranspiration disposal.
  • Pros: Efficient use of effluent; can allow smaller drainfields in tight lots.
  • Cons: Requires precise design and ongoing maintenance; less common in older Orleans Parish homes.

Cluster or community systems

  • When you'd see them: In areas where homes are close together and a single system serves multiple parcels.
  • Pros: Shared maintenance can reduce individual upkeep.
  • Cons: Requires coordinated operation and funding; not as common in urban Orleans Parish as in rural zones.

Important notes for Orleans Parish homeowners

  • City sewer connection: In urban New Orleans, many homes are connected to the municipal sewer system. Septic systems are more common in areas without sewer service or in older, unconnected sections.
  • Flood and groundwater concerns: Orleans Parish neighborhoods can experience flooding and variable groundwater; siting and protective design are critical to performance.
  • Local regulatory context: Work with a licensed designer/contractor and check with the parish health unit and state agencies for permits and approved system types.

Maintenance basics (quick guide)

  • Pump the tank every 3–5 years, or per professional recommendation.
  • Protect the drainfield: avoid parking, heavy vehicles, and deep-rooted trees over the area.
  • Use water wisely: spread out laundry and dishwasher use; fix leaks promptly.
  • Schedule regular inspections, especially after heavy rains or flooding.

Official resources

Typical Septic Issues Across Orleans Parish

Common symptoms and signs

  • Slow drains, backups in sinks or toilets, and gurgling sounds in plumbing
  • Unpleasant or sewer-like odors inside the home or in the yard
  • Wet, spongy spots or a strong, damp patch over the drain field
  • Standing water or bright green, lush growth over part of the yard
  • Frequent pumping needs or septic tank fills sooner than expected

Common causes seen in Orleans Parish

  • Aging septic tanks and drain fields that no longer meet household needs
  • Too much water use at once (e.g., multiple loads of laundry, long showers) stressing the system
  • Fats, oils, greases, and non-biodegradable solids entering the tank
  • Tree roots intruding into the drain field or piping
  • Improperly sized or poorly installed systems for the home and lot
  • Groundwater flooding and the clay soils common in some parts of Orleans Parish
  • Sump pumps or surface runoff directed into the septic system
  • Blocked or dirty outlet filters and failed distribution boxes

Local conditions and how they affect your system

  • High water tables and clay soils can raise the risk of effluent surfacing during rain or flood events
  • Heavy rainfall and street flooding can overwhelm systems or push water into the drainage network
  • Hurricanes and tropical storms amplify groundwater pressure and soil saturation, speeding up system wear
  • In-city areas where homes are closer together, improper wastewater routing or drainage can affect neighboring properties

Step-by-step: If you notice a problem

  1. Observe and document: where is the issue, when did it start, and how often does it occur? Take note of odors, backups, and wet areas.
  2. Limit water use: spread out laundry, avoid long showers, and postpone dishwasher cycles if practical.
  3. Assess basics: check for obvious clogs in toilets and drains; avoid trying to "fix" deeper components yourself.
  4. Call a licensed septic professional for an inspection and, if needed, pumping and cleaning of the tank and filters.
  5. After storms or floods, have a pro evaluate for infiltration or damage before returning to normal use.
  6. Avoid chemical drain cleaners and large amounts of solids; these can harm useful bacteria and clog the system.

Maintenance tips for Orleans Parish homeowners

  • Schedule pumping every 3–5 years for a typical 1,000–1,500 gallon tank; adjust based on household size and usage
  • Install and clean an outlet effluent filter as recommended by your pro; this helps prevent solids from exiting the tank
  • Conserve water: use high-efficiency fixtures and spread out heavy water tasks to reduce load on the system
  • Protect the drain field: keep vehicles off the area, plant only shallow-rooted grass, and avoid planting trees or shrubs with aggressive roots nearby
  • Use septic-safe products and avoid flushing wipes, solvents, paints, oils, or chemicals down the drain
  • Direct sump pump discharge away from the septic system and drain field; do not introduce large amounts of stormwater into the tank
  • Have flood-prone or seasonal drainage reviewed by a pro after significant weather events

Quick reference: signs you need professional help now

  • Sewage backups inside the home or effluent surfacing in the yard
  • Persistent foul odors near the drain field or septic tank area
  • Sudden changes in water use without explanation (unexpected spikes on the water meter)
  • Recurrent pumping needs or repeated drain field failure reports from a licensed installer

Where to learn more

Septic Inspection, Permits & Local Oversight

Do I Need a Permit for a Septic System in Orleans Parish?

  • In Orleans Parish, most work that involves installing, replacing, upgrading, moving, or abandoning an on-site wastewater system (OSS) requires a permit and inspections.
  • If your property is connected to the public sewer system, you may not need an OSS permit for sewage disposal, but you'll still need permits for plumbing, drainage, or any structural work. Always check with the local authority before starting.
  • Typical projects that need permits include new OSS installation, tank replacements, leach-field changes, alterations to dwellings that affect wastewater flow, or sealing and abandoning an old system.

The Inspection Process in Orleans Parish

  1. Decide who issues the permit:
    • OSS design and installation permits are commonly handled through the local health authority and LDH in coordination with the parish/city Department of Safety & Permits.
    • For city-specific building and plumbing permits, contact the City of New Orleans Department of Safety & Permits.
  2. Prepare design and paperwork:
    • A licensed designer or engineer prepares an OSS plan that follows Louisiana's onsite wastewater standards.
    • Include site plan, soil information if required, tank layout, and drainage features.
  3. Submit the application:
    • Submit with property maps, lot dimensions, service lines, and any NY (neighborhood) requirements.
  4. Plan review and approvals:
    • The reviewing authority checks compliance with local codes and state OSS rules.
    • Address any corrections promptly to avoid delays.
  5. Install and inspect:
    • A licensed installer carries out the work according to approved plans.
    • Inspections occur at key milestones (installation of tank(s), distribution media or leach field work, backfilling, and final connections).
  6. Final inspection and certification:
    • Obtain a final inspection approval and certificate of compliance before the system becomes operational.
    • Keep the final as-built drawings and permit closure documents for records.

Local Oversight and Who to Contact

  • Louisiana Department of Health – Onsite Wastewater Systems Program:
    • Oversees state OSS standards, design criteria, and inspection guidance.
    • Official site:
  • Orleans Parish Health Unit (local coordination):
    • Works with LDH and parish authorities on OSS oversight and inspections.
    • Access information through LDH or the parish's official channels.
  • US Environmental Protection Agency (local guidance):
  • Quick contact tips:
    • Start at the LDH and City of New Orleans pages to locate the nearest permit office and inspection schedule.
    • If you're unsure who issues the permit, ask your contractor to confirm the responsible authority and provide copies of approved plans.

Documentation You'll Want to Keep

  • Approved OSS permit and plan set (signed and stamped).
  • Site plan showing tank placement, leach field, and setbacks.
  • Inspection reports (progress and final) with dates and inspector names.
  • Any amendments or addenda to the original permit.
  • Maintenance guideline or operation manual provided by the installer.
  • Final as-built drawings and warranty information.

Helpful Tips for Orleans Parish Homeowners

  • Verify sewer connectivity early; if connected to public sewer, confirm which permits apply to plumbing or drainage work.
  • Hire licensed professionals familiar with Louisiana OSS rules and Orleans Parish requirements.
  • Schedule inspections promptly to avoid delays; missing an inspection window can hold up the project.
  • Keep digital and hard copies of all permits, plans, and inspection notices in a central file.

Resources:

Cost Expectations for Septic Services in Orleans Parish

Septic Tank Pumping and Cleaning

  • What it includes: Pumping out the settled solids, removing liquids, and giving the tank interior a quick inspection of baffles and lids. In Orleans Parish, access can be tight in urban lots, so technicians may need to coordinate with fences, driveways, or alley access. Disposal fees at regional facilities are typically included in the quoted price.
  • Orleans Parish specifics: Higher rainfall and frequent street flooding can affect pumping schedules and access, and some older homes may have multi-compartment tanks that require extra time.
  • Typical cost in Orleans Parish: $300–$600 per service

Septic System Inspection

  • What it includes: Visual tank inspection, baffle integrity check, effluent screen assessment, and basic line evaluation. Optional add-ons include camera inspection of accessible drain lines and a written report for real estate transactions.
  • Orleans Parish specifics: Pre-sale inspections are common for homes in the city; if the home is tied to the public sewer, inspectors may still assess the septic system's state and potential infiltration or historical abandonment. Expect permit checks or coordination if access is limited.
  • Typical cost in Orleans Parish: $100–$300 (often $150–$250 with added camera inspection)

Drain Field Repair and Replacement

  • What it includes: Diagnosis of field failures, root trimming, trenching, soil replacement or augmentation, and sometimes installing alternative field components (venting, dosing, or enhancements for moisture management).
  • Orleans Parish specifics: Urban soils can be clay-heavy with a high water table, which makes drain fields more prone to saturation. In some cases, a more extensive repair or an elevated (mound) approach is needed in municipal-adjacent areas.
  • Typical cost in Orleans Parish: Repair $2,000–$8,000; full replacement $5,000–$20,000 (higher for mound/alternative systems)

Septic System Installation

  • What it includes: System design, permitting, excavation, tank installation, and drain field setup. In Orleans Parish, installation is uncommon unless a home is outside public sewer service or during a full sewer conversion project.
  • Orleans Parish specifics: City permitting and utility coordination can add time and cost; projects often require documentation for both state and city authorities.
  • Typical cost in Orleans Parish: Conventional $7,000–$25,000; advanced or mound systems $20,000–$50,000+

Tank Abandonment and Decommissioning

  • What it includes: Pumping the tank, filling with approved material (sand or concrete), capping, and site restoration. Proper decommissioning is important when converting to sewer service or during private-property sales.
  • Orleans Parish specifics: Proximity to sidewalks, driveways, and landscaping requires careful work and permits; curbside or lot access restrictions can influence labor time.
  • Typical cost in Orleans Parish: $1,000–$3,000

Mound System or Alternative Onsite System (AOS)

  • What it includes: Soil testing, engineered design, above-ground or sand-bed drain fields, and sometimes enhanced filtration or dosing components.
  • Orleans Parish specifics: In areas with high water tables or poor native soils, mound systems are more common and may require more extensive permitting and engineering oversight.
  • Typical cost in Orleans Parish: $15,000–$40,000+ (plus design/permit fees)

Permitting and Local Regulations

  • What it includes: Coordination with city or parish permitting offices, plan review, and compliance checks. In Orleans Parish, rules frequently require sewer connection when feasible, with inspections tied to real estate transactions or system upgrades.
  • Orleans Parish specifics: City-specific permits, zoning reviews, and utility coordination can add time and cost; some projects require escalation to multiple agencies.
  • Typical cost in Orleans Parish: Permit fees $250–$750 (varies by scope; design and plan review costs extra)

Official resources and guidance

  • Sewerage & Water Board of New Orleans:
  • Louisiana Department of Health – Onsite Wastewater Program (Environmental Health): https://ldh.la.gov
  • Louisiana Department of Environmental Quality (DEQ): https://deq.louisiana.gov

Cities & Communities in Orleans Parish With Septic Systems

What to expect in Orleans Parish

  • The vast majority of homes in Orleans Parish are connected to the public sewer system operated by the Sewerage & Water Board of New Orleans (SWBNO).
  • Private septic systems are not common within the city core; if you are outside the main sewer network or on a very old parcel, you may encounter a septic system. Always verify for your exact address.

How to verify your property's status

  • Check SWBNO records or map for your address to confirm sewer availability and service status. Visit https://www.swbno.org or call their customer service for property-specific guidance.
  • Look for physical indicators: a septic tank lid, a sealed access port, or a subsurface drain field in the yard. If you see these, your property may be on septic.
  • Review your property deed or tax records; some older parcels predate sewer system expansion and may have been platted with septic service.

If you have or suspect a septic system

  1. Hire a licensed septic inspector or a local plumber familiar with Louisiana septic codes to perform a formal evaluation.
  2. Obtain an as-built diagram if possible; this helps locate the septic tank and drain field.
  3. Schedule regular pumping and inspection. In Louisiana, typical guidance is every 3-5 years for a standard household, but follow the inspector's recommendation based on tank size and usage.
  4. Plan for maintenance: protect the drain field from vehicle traffic and heavy equipment, avoid planting trees or shrubs with deep roots nearby, and ensure there is clear access for maintenance.

Septic maintenance best practices

  • Pump the tank on schedule; keep records and receipts.
  • Conserve water to reduce load on the septic system.
  • Do not flush non-biodegradable items, greases, solvents, or chemicals.
  • Use septic-safe cleaning products.
  • Keep the drain field area clear of development and heavy construction; avoid parking or storing items over the drain field.

Transitioning to city sewer (if desired)

  • If you're currently on septic but sewer service is available to your property, you may be able to connect with SWBNO; contact them to confirm service availability and connection requirements.
  • A licensed contractor should handle any sewer lateral repairs or connections to ensure code compliance and proper sealing.

Official resources:

Septic vs Sewer Across Orleans Parish

How wastewater service is typically provided in Orleans Parish

  • In New Orleans (Orleans Parish), most homes are connected to the public sewer system operated by the Sewerage & Water Board of New Orleans (SWBNO). This city-wide network handles sanitary waste and, in many areas, stormwater as part of a combined system.
  • For the vast majority of properties, monthly charges come from SWBNO's sewer service rather than maintenance of a private septic system. Climate, flood risk, and urban design all influence how wastewater is collected and treated in this parish.

When septic systems may still be present in Orleans Parish

  • Septic systems are uncommon in Orleans Parish due to its urban, flood-prone setting and the prevalence of SWBNO service. You may encounter an old or historic property that isn't yet connected to public sewer, or a private private-system that predates current service coverage.
  • If your property isn't connected to SWBNO, or you're unsure, verify service status with SWBNO. If you do have a septic system, you'll want to understand state and local requirements for maintenance, decommissioning, or transition to sewer.

Costs and maintenance: septic vs sewer

  • Septic system maintenance (if applicable):
    • Regular pumping every 3–5 years is common, depending on tank size and usage.
    • Ongoing costs include pumping, inspections, and potential tank replacement if failures occur.
    • Risks: system failures can cause backups, groundwater issues, and costly repairs.
  • Public sewer service (SWBNO):
    • Monthly sewer charges appear on your utility bill and may include base fees, usage charges, and occasional system improvements or connection fees.
    • You're responsible for interior plumbing and backflow prevention devices, while SWBNO maintains the public sewer main and related infrastructure.
  • Quick takeaway: if you're already connected to SWBNO, sewer service generally offers more predictability and fewer private maintenance concerns; if you're on septic, budgeting for pumping and potential replacements is essential.

Flood risk, backups, and reliability

  • Orleans Parish experiences heavy rainfall and storm events that can overwhelm older sewer lines. Public sewer system maintenance and backflow prevention requirements are important considerations for homes in flood-prone areas.
  • A private septic system may be vulnerable to high water or system failures during floods, while being connected to SWBNO can simplify backflow risk management if you follow local guidelines and install any required devices.

Quick checklist for homeowners

  • Confirm service status: Is your property connected to SWBNO sewer?
  • Compare ongoing costs: monthly sewer bill vs. septic pumping and maintenance.
  • Assess flood risk: does your home's location make septic or sewer backups more likely during heavy rain?
  • Plan if switching: if you're moving from septic to sewer, prepare for decommissioning steps and new connection requirements.

Steps to confirm your status and next moves

  1. Contact SWBNO to verify whether your address is served by the public sewer system.
  2. Review your latest utility bill to confirm the type of wastewater service you pay for.
  3. If you have a septic system, arrange a professional evaluation to determine whether decommissioning is advisable or required.
  4. If you plan to connect to sewer, follow SWBNO's process for a new service connection and any related permits.
  5. If decommissioning a septic system, work with a licensed contractor and adhere to state and local guidelines.

Abandoning a septic system

  • Hire a licensed contractor to pump and assess the septic tank and any distribution components.
  • Decommission and backfill the tank following applicable guidelines, and obtain any necessary inspections or permits from local health or building authorities.
  • After decommissioning, connect or verify your connection to SWBNO sewer if that's the chosen path.

Official resources: