Septic in Bainbridge, NY

Here in Bainbridge, where country roads wind past rock walls and cozy homes, you'll often find a septic tank tucked quietly at the edge of a yard rather than a big municipal sewer line running down the street. It's a familiar part of daily life for many neighbors, and it's a system that's usually been working well for decades when cared for.

Is septic common in Bainbridge? Should I expect septic if I own or buy a home?

• Yes. For most Bainbridge properties—especially those outside established sewer districts—a septic system is the standard method for handling household wastewater.
• If you're in or near a village sewer district or a newer subdivision, you might have municipal sewer service. Check the property records, ask the seller, and confirm with the Town of Bainbridge or the local sewer authority.
• Even if a home comes with an old or recently updated septic, plan on maintenance knowledge: a septic-centric approach is part of owning a Bainbridge home, unless you're connected to a public sewer.

Why homes typically use septic systems in Bainbridge

• Rural layout and infrastructure realities: Extending sewer mains to widely spaced properties is costly and often impractical in this area.
• Soil and groundwater realities: On-site treatment systems work best where soils drain properly and are compatible with safe subsurface filtration.
• History and land use: Many older homes were built with on-site wastewater solutions, and upgrades are common as needs change.
• Independence and simplicity: Septic systems offer homeowners a practical, self-contained way to manage wastewater without depending on a distant sewer line.

High-level explanation: why septic exists here

A typical Bainbridge septic system starts with a tank that separates solids from liquids. Bacteria, naturally present in the tank, begin breaking down waste. Liquid effluent moves to a drain field of perforated pipes buried in soil, where the soil and its biology filter and treat the water before it re-enters the ground. Proper sizing for your home, regular pumping (usually every 3–5 years), and mindful use keep the system functioning well for years. Roots, heavy clay, or overloading the system with fats, oils, or non-degradables can cause trouble, so early attention matters.

Tips to help your Bainbridge system stay healthy

• Schedule pumping on a regular cadence and don't skip the service window.
• Use water wisely—fix leaks and spread out heavy use (laundry, dishwasher) across days if possible.
• Keep heavy equipment and tree roots away from the drain field.
• Watch for warning signs: soggy patches, unusually lush grass over the drain field, gurgling sounds, or backups—these deserve a quick check.

Understanding these basics helps you spot issues early and plan the right steps for your Bainbridge home.

Where Septic Systems Are Common in Bainbridge

Rural layouts and lot sizes drive septic use

Bainbridge is primarily rural, with many homes on larger lots that aren't connected to a centralized sewer line. Septic systems are the standard solution here because extending sewer mains to sparsely populated areas is costly and often impractical. Typical lot sizes of 1 acre or more create room for a properly spaced septic system and drain field.

• Siting and privacy: dispersed homes, seasonal cabins, and farmhouses rely on individual systems.
• Maintenance mindset: with fewer neighbors nearby, regular septic maintenance (pump-outs, inspections) becomes essential for long-term performance.

Legacy development and older homes

Many Bainbridge homes built before sewer infrastructure reached town centers were designed with on-site systems. In older neighborhoods, septic systems were installed when the house was built and may have needed upgrades or replacements as lots were subdivided or wells were drilled. This history means:

• A mix of conventional gravity systems and newer mound or alternative drain-field designs.
• Some systems may be aging or undersized for current use, so inspections during property transactions or after changes in occupancy are common.

Soil, groundwater, and topography considerations

Septic performance hinges on soil conditions and water table depth. Bainbridge's varied terrain means that:

• Well-drained soils (loams, sands) generally support effective effluent disposal.
• Shallow bedrock, heavy clay, or high water tables can complicate design and may require alternative or enhanced treatment approaches.
• Proximity to wells, streams, and flood-prone areas drives setbacks and placement decisions.

Work with a qualified local designer to assess site suitability and choose a system that fits the lot.

Housing types and uses

In Bainbridge, common septic scenarios include:

• Single-family homes on larger parcels.
• Seasonal cabins and vacation homes that see intermittent use.
• Small farms with multiple structures generating wastewater.

Each situation benefits from a tailored system design, proper installation, and a plan for seasonal use and long-term maintenance.

What this means for homeowners

To ensure your system works reliably, focus on siting, maintenance, and compliance.

1. Confirm whether your property is on municipal sewer or septic. If septic, contact the Chenango County Health Department for permits and required tests.
2. Get a soil evaluation (perc test) and a site plan for your system.
3. Hire a licensed designer and installer who understands local soils and regulations.
4. Obtain final inspections and approvals before backfilling and regular use.
5. Maintain your system with regular pumping and inspections according to use and local guidance.

Resources and official guidance

• NYS Department of Health Onsite Wastewater Systems:
• U.S. EPA on-site septic systems:

Septic vs Sewer: What Homeowners in Bainbridge Should Know

What's the basic difference

• On-site septic systems: waste water is treated underground on your property. You—and often a licensed contractor—are responsible for maintenance.
• Municipal sewers: wastewater is carried to a central treatment plant. The municipality handles treatment, and homeowners pay a sewer bill.
• Space and distance matter: septic is common in rural parts of Bainbridge, while closer-in homes may be on a public sewer line. Each has different setup, costs, and maintenance needs.
• Long-term costs: septic pumps and field care add up over years; sewer customers usually see a steady monthly or quarterly bill, plus any connection fees for new residents.
• Environmental focus: both systems aim to protect soil, groundwater, and public health, but they require different protection practices and monitoring.

Do you have sewer or septic in Bainbridge?

1. Check your property records or deed for a septic permit or a note about a sewer line.
2. Review your utility bill—does it include a separate sewer charge? If yes, you're on municipal sewer.
3. Look for physical cues: a septic tank access lid or cleanout in the yard implies on-site septic; lack of a yard tank may indicate sewer service.
4. When in doubt, contact your town office or a licensed septic/ plumbing professional to confirm. If you're connected to public sewer, your local utility can tell you the service area and any hookup requirements.

Maintenance realities and typical costs

• Septic systems (on-site): pump every 3–5 years, depending on usage, tank size, and household water habits. Schedule regular inspections to catch problems early.
• Drain field life: with proper care, most fields last decades, but roots, heavy vehicles, and poor soils can shorten life.
• Sewer service: maintenance is the municipality's responsibility, but you'll see ongoing sewer charges on your bill. If a problem occurs, the utility typically handles repairs beyond your property line; backups inside your home are a sign to call your plumber and your sewer provider.
• Costs: septic pumping can range a few hundred dollars per service; full replacement of a failed system can be in the tens of thousands. Sewer hookups or connections may involve a one-time connection fee plus ongoing usage charges. Numbers vary by system size, location, and usage.

Practical considerations for Bainbridge homes

• Protect the drain field: avoid parking or heavy loads on the area; plant shallow-rooted vegetation only; don't trench through the field for utilities.
• Water-use discipline: spread out loads of laundry; fix leaks promptly; use high-efficiency fixtures to reduce load on the system.
• Waste disposal: use septic-safe products; don't pour fats, oils, grease, solvents, or non-biodegradable items down drains or toilets.
• Landscaping awareness: trees and shrubs with deep roots can interfere with septic systems; plan plantings away from the drain field.
• Regular inspections: even if you're not seeing problems, annual or biennial checks by a licensed pro help prevent surprises.

When to consider upgrading, replacing, or connecting

• Signs of trouble on septic: gurgling drains, slow drains, wet spots over the drain field, or sewage backups indicate a problem that needs evaluation.
• If sewer expansion reaches your area: plan for possible connection costs and ongoing sewer charges; some grants or financing may be available through local programs.
• Replacement candidacy: a failing tank, leach field, or severely compromised soils typically requires professional assessment and a licensed installer to propose options.

Official resources

• EPA: Septic Systems (general guidance and maintenance tips)
• New York State Department of Environmental Conservation: guidance on broader environmental practices and local compliance https://www.dec.ny.gov/

Typical Septic System Types in Bainbridge

Conventional septic systems

• What it is: A straightforward, commonly installed OWTS with a septic tank and a soil absorption field (drain field).
• How it works: Wastewater leaving the tank is released to perforated pipes in gravel-filled trenches. The soil beneath and around the pipes acts as a natural filter and further treatment.
• Pros: Lowest upfront cost among common options; simple to repair and maintain; familiar design for many septic contractors.
• Cons: Requires adequate, well-drained soils and sufficient depth to groundwater or bedrock; performance can decline if the drain field gets overloaded or soils are clayey or shallow.
• Best for: Properties with good soil drainage, enough space for a drain field, and stable groundwater levels.
• Maintenance notes: Pump the tank every 3–5 years (usage-dependent); protect the drain field from heavy equipment; use water-saving fixtures to reduce loading.

Alternative and advanced systems common in Bainbridge

• Chamber systems (aka modular chamber fields)
  • What it is: A drain-field replacement option using wide, lightweight plastic chambers instead of traditional gravel trenches.
  • Pros: Often easier and faster to install; good performance in a range of soils; can accommodate higher effluent flows.
  • Considerations: Still requires suitable soil conditions and proper device sizing; local approvals apply.
• Mound systems
  • What it is: An elevated drain field built above the natural soil with imported fill, used where soils are shallow, poorly drained, or groundwater is high.
  • Pros: Can enable home wastewater disposal in challenging sites; adaptable to limited space.
  • Considerations: Higher cost and more complex maintenance; requires ongoing professional supervision.
• Sand filter systems
  • What it is: An above-ground or buried sand filtration step after the septic tank to provide extra treatment before disposal to the drain field.
  • Pros: Enhanced treatment for soils with limited absorptive capacity; can improve performance in marginal soils.
  • Considerations: Requires regular inspection and maintenance of the filter media.
• Low-Pressure Dose (LPD) and drip irrigation systems
  • What it is: Small, controlled doses of effluent are delivered to the soil or irrigation area over time.
  • Pros: Improves infiltration in tight soils; reduces surface pooling and soil saturation.
  • Considerations: More components to monitor; installation must follow manufacturer and local code guidelines.
• Innovative and alternative treatment units (ATUs)
  • What it is: Pre-treatment units that provide additional pathogen and nutrient reduction before dispersal to the drain field.
  • Pros: Suitable for challenging soils or limited drain-field space; can allow smaller or modified systems.
  • Considerations: Requires professional design, commissioning, and ongoing maintenance; local approvals vary.
• For Bainbridge, the choice among these depends on soil tests, groundwater depth, lot topography, and lot size. Official guidance and examples of approved technologies can be found through national and state resources linked below.

Site considerations for Bainbridge

• Soil and groundwater: The suitability of a conventional system hinges on soil texture, depth to groundwater, and distance to bedrock. In areas with shallow soils or high groundwater, alternative systems may be required.
• Local regulations: Permits and design approvals come through local health departments and state agencies. Engage a licensed OWTS designer or installer early to navigate requirements.
• Practical steps:
  • Have a soil test or percolation assessment done to gauge absorption capacity.
  • Work with a licensed designer to select a system that meets both site constraints and NYSDOH/DEC guidelines.
  • Schedule regular maintenance and inspections to protect your drain field.
• Official resources for deeper reading:
  • General septic system guidance (EPA):

Quick-start: Steps to determine your system type

1. Confirm site specifics: soil type, depth to groundwater, and available land area.
2. Hire a licensed OWTS designer to evaluate the site and propose options.
3. Obtain required permits from the Chenango County Health Department or local authority.
4. Choose a system type that fits soil conditions and long-term maintenance capacity, and schedule installation with a qualified contractor.

Common Septic Issues in Bainbridge

Aging Tanks and Pumping Failures

• Symptoms to watch for: slow drains, toilets backing up, sewage odors in the house or yard, damp spots near the tank or leach field.
• Why Bainbridge sees this: many homes in the area were built mid-20th century with smaller tanks and basic drainfields. Cold winters and freeze–thaw cycles can cause cracking or settling over time, and aging components (baffles, pumps, lids) degrade with use.
• What to do:
  1. Have the tank inspected by a licensed professional and pumped if solids are high.
  2. Check baffles and pump chambers for leaks or damage.
  3. If the tank is near the end of its expected life, plan for replacement or a modern effluent-filtered system.
  4. Establish a routine: pump every 3–5 years or per local guidance.
• Practical tip: keep records of pumping and inspections to catch trends early.

Drainfield Saturation and Soil Conditions

• Symptoms: lush, unusually green patches or soggy ground over the drainfield; slow flushing or gurgling in sinks when it rains.
• Why Bainbridge faces this: Central NY soils vary, and the combination of clay-rich layers, seasonal groundwater rise, and sometimes shallow drainfields can limit infiltration. In spring, snowmelt plus rain can saturate soils for days, slowing effluent drainage.
• What to do:
  1. Have a percolation/soil assessment done to confirm proper loading and layout.
  2. If soils are limiting, explore alternatives like a larger leach field or a mound system engineered for the site.
  3. Avoid driving or parking on the drainfield; redirect roof and surface water away from it.
  4. Maintain a setback zone clear of heavy roots and landscaping over the field.
• Practical tip: a well-placed inspection after heavy rain helps spot early field issues before failure.

Tree Roots and Landscaping Pressure

• Symptoms: sudden backups, cracking in concrete or lids, damp depressions near the system, roots found in access ports.
• Why Bainbridge homes often contend with this: many lots were developed with mature trees nearby and shallow soil profiles in some areas. Robust roots can seek out moist, nutrient-rich effluent, threatening pipes and the drainfield.
• What to do:
  1. Keep trees and large shrubs several feet away from the septic components.
  2. Install root barriers if planting near the system, and prune back encroaching roots periodically.
  3. If you're redesigning landscaping, plan drains away from the field and limit deep irrigation near it.
• Practical tip: consider professional trenching with root-control measures during upgrades.

Improper Use, Wipes, and Chemicals

• Symptoms: slower drainage, unusual odors, frequent pump-outs.
• Why Bainbridge households may see this: rural households sometimes rely more on disposables or certain cleaners; mixing paints, solvents, pesticides, or excessive use of garbage disposal units can overwhelm the system.
• What to do:
  1. Use septic-safe products and limit household chemicals that kill beneficial bacteria.
  2. Avoid flushing wipes, dental floss, grease, oils, paints, solvents, and pesticides.
  3. Minimize use of the garbage disposal; compost appropriate scraps.
• Practical tip: spread out heavy water use (long laundry or dishwashing sessions) to avoid sudden loads.

Groundwater, Flooding, and Seasonal Wetness

• Symptoms: surface "puddling" or wet spots over the drainfield after rain; odor or backups during wet seasons.
• Why Bainbridge faces this: spring thaws and regional precipitation patterns can push the system toward saturation. Inadequate drainage or aging leach fields amplify risk during wet periods.
• What to do:
  1. Schedule inspections after heavy precipitation or snowmelt.
  2. Improve surface drainage around the house and direct water away from the leach field.
  3. Consider a water-use reduction plan during wet months to lessen load.
• Practical tip: a professional assessment can determine if a drainage or field upgrade is needed.

Maintenance and Monitoring Best Practices

• Regular checks save headaches: annual visual inspections, keep access risers clear, and mark where the drainfield lies to avoid damage.
• Pumping cadence: many Bainbridge homes benefit from a 3–5 year pumping interval, adjusted for family size and water use.
• Documentation: track pump dates, repairs, and any changes to landscaping or plumbing to catch patterns early.
• Resources: For official guidance on onsite systems and maintenance, see NYS Department of Health's Onsite Wastewater Treatment Systems and EPA's Septic Systems resources:
  • NYS DOH OWTS:
  • EPA Septic Systems: https://www.epa.gov/septic

Septic Inspection, Permits & Local Oversight

Local oversight in Bainbridge, NY

• In Bainbridge, oversight typically involves the town building/code enforcement office and the county health department. For onsite wastewater system (OWTS) permits, contact:
  • Bainbridge Town Clerk or Code Enforcement
  • Chenango County Health Department
  • New York State Department of Health, Onsite Wastewater Program
• Statewide standards guide design, setbacks, and performance; local offices issue permits, conduct inspections, and keep records.

Permits you may need

• Installation, significant repair, or upgrade of an OWTS generally requires a permit.
• Permits may be issued by the local health department or the town building department; some projects require both.
• If you're preparing for a home sale, local rules may call for a transfer inspection or documented system status.

Steps to obtain permits (NY Bainbridge)

1. Identify the right authority
2. Determine whether the permit goes through Bainbridge Town Building Department or Chenango County Health Department; many projects involve both, especially health-related work.
3. Gather required documents
4. Property address, parcel identification, current system type, proposed design or as-built plans, soil evaluation results, site plans, and any prior reports.
5. Hire licensed professionals
6. Use a NYS-licensed Onsite Wastewater System Designer/Contractor or inspector; request credentials and review past projects.
7. Submit permit application
8. Complete the forms, attach plans and evaluations, and pay the applicable fees.
9. Schedule inspections
10. Typical milestones include pre-installation evaluation, during construction, and final inspection (backfill and testing). Some towns require a pre-construction meeting.
11. Close the permit and maintain records
12. Obtain final sign-off; keep the as-built drawings, operation and maintenance guidelines, and any maintenance contracts.

What inspectors look for (typical points)

• Adequate setbacks from wells, streams, gardens, and property lines.
• Accessible access for ongoing maintenance and pumping.
• Correct tank orientation, lid labeling, baffles, and risers.
• Proper backfill around the leach field and correct cleanout placement.
• Adequate venting and proper functioning of distribution or dosing components.

Real estate and maintenance tips

• Before buying, request permit history, inspection reports, and maintenance records.
• Confirm when the last desludging occurred and the pump-out interval recommended by the designer.
• Create and maintain an easy-to-use operation and maintenance (O&M) file for future owners or contractors.

Resources

• New York State Department of Health – Onsite Wastewater:

Septic Maintenance for Homes in Bainbridge

Bainbridge-Specific Factors to Consider

In Bainbridge, soil types and elevation can vary from property to property. Some areas sit closer to streams or have a higher seasonal water table, which can affect drainfield drying after rain or snowmelt. If your home relies on a private well, protecting groundwater quality is especially important. Work with a licensed septic professional and, when needed, the local health department for site-specific guidance on setbacks and permitting. Local resources, including the Chenango County Health Department, can provide regionally relevant recommendations:

• Use native plants and avoid heavy landscaping or parking directly over the drainfield.
• Have soil-tested or evaluated by a pro if you're buying, building, or doing a major remodel in Bainbridge.

Regular Pumping and Inspections

Regular maintenance is the backbone of a reliable system.

• Frequency: Most homes should be pumped every 3-5 years, depending on tank size, household size, and water use.
• Inspection cadence: Have a licensed septic professional perform an annual or biennial inspection to check tank integrity, inlet/outlet baffles, and any filters or screens.
• What to ask during pumping:
  • Inspect for cracks or leaks in the tank.
  • Check the baffles and inlet/outlet conditions.
  • Assess for root intrusion and signs of secondary flow.
• Steps for a typical maintenance visit:
  1. Schedule with a licensed septic professional for pumping and inspection.
  2. The crew pumps out sludge and scum, then checks tank integrity, baffles, and filters.
  3. Review findings with you and set a recommended next pumping date.
• After pumping: Keep a maintenance log with pump date, tank size, and any repairs.
• Caution on additives: Regular pumping and proper use are far more effective than relying on additives.

Drainfield Care in Bainbridge's Soils

The drainfield's health determines long-term performance.

• Avoid driving or placing heavy loads on the drainfield.
• Maintain a healthy grass cover (instead of paving) to aid evaporation and protect soil.
• Direct surface water away from the drainfield—yard drainage and downspouts matter.
• Keep trees and shrubs at a safe distance to prevent root damage.
• Do not compact the soil above the drainfield; aim for 4-6 feet of undisturbed soil when possible.

Water Usage and Product Choices

What you drain and flush affects system longevity.

• Install water-efficient fixtures: low-flow toilets, showerheads, and faucet aerators.
• Minimize garbage disposal use; compost scraps when possible.
• Avoid pouring oils, solvents, or harsh cleaners down drains; limit chemical usage to protect beneficial bacteria.
• Use septic-safe toilet paper, but don't rely on products to fix a failing system.

Seasonal and Winter Tips for Bainbridge

Cold winters require proactive care.

• Keep the septic lid and access area clear of snow; mark the lid to prevent accidental damage.
• Space out heavy water use during freezing periods; consider spreading laundry and dishwasher loads.
• Ensure roof and surface runoff are diverted away from the drainfield to prevent saturation.
• After thaw events, be mindful of any gurgling sounds or slow drains and call a pro if needed.

Signs of Trouble and When to Call a Pro

Early detection saves money and groundwater concerns.

• Look for persistent odors, surface wet spots, or unusually lush grass over the drainfield.
• Slow drains, backups, or gurgling noises inside the house are red flags.
• If you notice any of these, reduce water use and contact a licensed septic contractor promptly.
• Do not attempt to access or repair the tank yourself; professional assessment is essential.

Resources and Official Guidance

• EPA Septic Systems:
• Chenango County Health Department: https://www.co.chenango.ny.us/health

Cost Expectations for Septic Services in Bainbridge

Septic Tank Pumping and Routine Maintenance

• What it includes: vacuuming out sludge and scum, cleaning the tank, inspecting baffles, lids, and access risers, and noting any obvious leaks or cracks. In Bainbridge, long driveways and winter access can affect scheduling and truck access.
• Why it matters in Bainbridge: older homes or those with aging tanks often need more frequent pumping due to soil and groundwater conditions common in Chenango County.
• Typical cost in Bainbridge: $300–$600 per pump, depending on tank size (commonly 1,000–1,500 gallons), accessibility, and travel distance. Additional fees may apply for weekend service or if a tank filter needs cleaning.
• Resource: for general guidelines on maintenance intervals and best practices, see

New System Design and Installation

• What it includes: site assessment, soil/perc testing, system design tailored to lot conditions, permit coordination, excavation, tank installation, distribution or mound field setup, and final system testing.
• Bainbridge specifics: structural bedrock and seasonal high water tables can necessitate mound or alternative effluent systems; designs must account for local soil conditions and groundwater to meet NY DOH standards.
• Typical cost in Bainbridge: conventional gravity system roughly $12,000–$25,000; mound or enhanced systems $25,000–$40,000+; total depends on tank size, field area, and access. Permitting and engineering plans are often additional (roughly $1,000–$3,000, variable by town).
• Resource: DOH guidance on onsite wastewater systems https://www.health.ny.gov/environmental/water/drinking/onsite_wastewater/

Drain Field Repair and Replacement

• What it includes: repairing damaged trenches, replacing failed leach lines, reseeding and regrading, soil amendments, and sometimes reconfiguring soil absorption beds.
• Bainbridge specifics: in soils with limited porosity or high groundwater, partial or full replacement with updated field designs or alternate methods may be required.
• Typical cost in Bainbridge: minor repairs from $4,000–$8,000; full drain field replacement typically $7,000–$15,000 or more, depending on field size and method (conventional vs. mound).
• Resource: EPA septic system repair considerations https://www.epa.gov/septic/repairing-septic-system

Tank Replacement and System Upgrades

• What it includes: removing and replacing a damaged or undersized tank, upgrading lids and risers, and integrating with newer components like effluent filters or alarms.
• Bainbridge specifics: replacing a tank may be combined with upgrades to extend system life or meet current codes; access for heavy equipment can influence pricing.
• Typical cost in Bainbridge: tank replacement and installation generally $2,500–$6,000 for the tank plus $1,000–$3,000 for labor and lids; total often $4,000–$9,000. If paired with new field work or an alternative system, costs can rise significantly.
• Resource: general septic system design and upgrade considerations https://www.epa.gov/septic

Permits, Plans, and Compliance

• What it includes: plan reviews, DOH approvals, and local town permits; may also involve soil evaluations and site plans.
• Bainbridge specifics: township and county requirements vary; many jobs require DOH onsite wastewater approvals plus local permitting, inspections, and final compliance verification.
• Typical cost in Bainbridge: permit and plan-review fees commonly range from $200–$1,000, with DOH application costs often in the same ballpark; exact amounts depend on project scope and local ordinances.
• Resource: NYS DOH permitting overview https://www.health.ny.gov/environmental/water/drinking/onsite_wastewater/

Preventive Maintenance Plans and Scheduling

• What it includes: a recommended maintenance calendar, reminders for pump-outs, inspections of pumps, float switches, and alarms, and optional service contracts.
• Bainbridge specifics: solid maintenance helps prevent field failure in soils prone to clogging or seasonal moisture shifts; contracts can offer predictable budgeting in rural homes.
• Typical cost: annual maintenance plans commonly range from $100–$300 per year, depending on call frequency and included services.

Notes and reminders:

• Costs vary by tank size, system age, accessibility, soil conditions, and whether you need a full replacement versus a localized repair.
• Always verify service licenses and ensure contractors pull required permits; keep records for sale or refinancing.
• Official guidance and references: NYS DOH Onsite Wastewater, https://www.health.ny.gov/environmental/water/drinking/onsite_wastewater/; EPA septic resources, https://www.epa.gov/septic