Septic in Lucas County, OH
Last updated: Mar 21, 2026
Lucas County blends city neighborhoods with rural charm, where Toledo's riverfront life meets quiet farm roads and expanding suburbs. In this mix, septic systems are a common reality in many parts of the county—especially where sewer lines don't quite reach or where a property sits on a larger lot. Is septic common in Lucas County? Yes, but it depends on location. If your home is within the city's sewer district, you'll likely be on a municipal sewer. If you're outside that network or on a spacious lot, a septic system is a practical, affordable way to handle wastewater. If you're buying a home, it's smart to confirm the wastewater setup during inspections and disclosures, and talk with a local septic professional about maintenance needs.
Why homes use septic systems here
- Rural and suburban layouts: In outlying townships and newer subdivisions on the county's edges, extending sewer mains can be costly or impractical. Septic systems let homes stay off grid while still protecting water quality.
- Soil and lot considerations: Lucas County features a mix of soils and lot sizes. When lots are large or soils are well-suited for on-site treatment, a well-designed septic system is a sensible choice.
- Independence and cost control: For some homeowners, a septic system offers long-term cost predictability and independence from public sewer rates and service policies.
County growth history and how it has shaped septic coverage
- Early to mid-20th century growth around Toledo brought a robust municipal sewer system to core neighborhoods. As the city expanded, sewer infrastructure followed along commercial corridors and dense residential areas.
- Rural expansion and later suburban development created pockets where centralized sewer wasn't feasible or cost-effective. These areas still rely on individual septic systems.
- Today, Lucas County shows a practical mix: dense urban cores well-served by public sewers, and rural or peripheral sections where well-maintained septic systems remain a standard, sensible option for wastewater management.
High-level explanation of why septic exists here
Septic systems exist to treat household wastewater on-site when connecting to a central sewer isn't practical. They're designed to break down solids, separate and treat effluent, and discharge safely to the ground. In Lucas County, this approach keeps homes habitable and protects groundwater in places where extending sewer lines isn't immediately viable, while allowing nearby areas to rely on centralized services when available.
Ahead, you'll find practical guidance on maintenance, what to look for when choosing a contractor, and tips for keeping a septic system healthy in Lucas County.
How Septic Is Regulated in Lucas County
State oversight: Ohio EPA
- The Ohio Environmental Protection Agency regulates on-site septic systems (OSDS) statewide through the On-Site Wastewater Treatment Systems program. This includes setting design standards, requiring permits, and overseeing inspections and maintenance requirements.
- Key responsibilities include ensuring systems are properly designed by licensed professionals, installed under inspection, and given final approval before use.
- Official resources:
Local implementation: Lucas County General Health District
- In Lucas County, local health officials administer OSDS permits, conduct soil evaluations, review system designs, and perform installation and final inspections for many unincorporated areas and some municipalities.
- If your property lies within the City of Toledo, check with the city's environmental or health department for any separate requirements.
- Local authority contact and guidance can help you determine whether state or local permits are needed and what inspections will be required.
Design and installation standards
- OSDS must meet state design criteria to properly treat and disperse effluent. Site evaluation and soil testing are typically required to determine drainfield size and placement.
- Common standards address:
- Minimum septic tank size and components (e.g., tanks, alarms, effluent screens)
- Drainfield sizing based on estimated daily flow
- Setback distances from wells, property lines, sidewalks, water features, and foundation zones
- Licensure: Designers, installers, and inspectors must hold appropriate state or local licenses and follow codes during every phase.
Permitting and inspection process (step-by-step)
- Confirm jurisdiction: Determine whether your property falls under Lucas County administration or within a Toledo city boundary.
- Plan with a licensed professional: Have system design and site evaluation prepared per Ohio standards.
- Submit permit application: File the plan with the appropriate authority (state or local health district) and pay applicable fees.
- Installation with inspections: Schedule and pass required inspections during construction and installation to verify materials and workmanship.
- Final inspection and certification: Obtain final approval before the system is placed into service and kept in serviceable condition.
Maintenance and records
- Homeowners are responsible for ongoing maintenance to protect system longevity.
- Follow recommended pumping schedules (commonly every 3–5 years, depending on tank size, household size, and usage) and keep detailed service records.
- Retain maintenance receipts and inspection reports; these are helpful for future property transactions and may be requested during resale or inspections.
- If you notice backups, gurgling sounds, bad odors, slow drains, or damp areas over the drainfield, consult a licensed septic professional and contact the local health district for guidance.
- Do not attempt large repairs yourself; improper work can violate code and create health risks.
Resources
Soil, Groundwater & Environmental Factors in Lucas County
Soils and percolation in Lucas County
- Lucas County sits in the northwest Ohio plain with a mosaic of soil types, from relatively sandy outwash to more clayey and silty zones. The texture, depth to restrictive layers, and organic matter influence how quickly wastewater can infiltrate.
- Before sizing or selecting an septic system, homeowners should check the local soil map and soil profile details. This helps predict infiltration rates and drainage patterns.
- Use official soil data to estimate infiltration and identify any limitations. The U.S. Department of Agriculture's Web Soil Survey is a trusted, map-based resource:
- U.S. EPA Septic Systems overview: https://www.epa.gov/septic
- Lucas County (official site): https://www.co.lucas.oh.us/
- Web Soil Survey (NRCS): https://websoilsurvey.nrcs.usda.gov/
Typical Septic System Types in Lucas County
Conventional gravity septic systems
A traditional, gravity-fed setup with a septic tank and a soil absorption field (drain field). The tank settles solids; clarified effluent flows by gravity into perforated pipes buried in the drain field.
- How it works: Wastewater enters the tank, sediments settle, grease floats to the top, and clarified liquid leaves to the drain field.
- Pros: Simple design, lower upfront cost, reliable where soils are sandy to moderately deep.
- Cons: Needs adequate soil depth and drainage; heavy use or poor maintenance can lead to failures.
Pressure distribution systems
A pumped or pressure-dosed variant of the conventional design. A small pump sends effluent under controlled pressure to an evenly distributed network of laterals in the drain field.
- How it works: A pump or air-driven device spaces out effluent to multiple trenches.
- Pros: Better distribution in soils with varying percolation; can expand drain field life in marginal soils.
- Cons: Requires ongoing electricity and maintenance; higher installation cost.
Mound systems (raised sand mounds)
Used when native soils are too shallow, too slow-draining, or contaminated by a limiting layer. Part of the system sits above grade on a sand-filled bed with an elevated drain field.
- How it works: Pre-treated effluent from a tank is applied to a sand mound and then infiltrates downward.
- Pros: Makes use of marginal soils; suitable for high groundwater or shallow bedrock conditions.
- Cons: More complex to install and maintain; requires access to replacement materials and skilled installers.
Sand filter systems
An above- or near-surface sand filter provides an extra treatment step before the effluent reaches the soil.
- How it works: Clarified effluent from a septic tank is sprayed or piped to a sand medium, where filtration and microbial treatment occur.
- Pros: Enhanced treatment in challenging soils; can extend drain field life.
- Cons: Maintenance of the filter media and regular inspections necessary; typically higher cost.
Aerobic treatment units (ATU)
Modern, energy-using units that aerobically pretreat wastewater before it reaches the drain field, often followed by a secondary treatment step.
- How it works: An enclosed chamber adds oxygen to accelerate breakdown, delivering a higher-quality effluent to the drain field.
- Pros: Effective in poor soils, high groundwater, or small lots; can reduce drain field loading.
- Cons: Requires electricity, electricity reliability, routine maintenance or service contracts, and more frequent monitoring.
Other specialized or emerging options
- Evapotranspiration (ET) beds: Use plant evapotranspiration to remove moisture; site-specific and climate-dependent.
- Low-pressure dose (LPD) or drip-distribution systems: Alternate, precise dosing to protect delicate soils and reduce hydraulic loading.
- Cluster or shared systems: Multiple homes or lots share a larger treatment and drain field network; subject to strict local approval.
Local considerations for Lucas County
- Soil and groundwater matter: Local soil surveys and site visits guide system selection and sizing.
- Permits and inspections: Systems must be designed, installed, and inspected per local and state requirements.
- Maintenance mindset: Regular pumping, protect the drain field from compaction, and avoid contaminant exposure to the system.
- Quick-check steps:
- Confirm your site's soil suitability and groundwater conditions with a licensed septic professional.
- Ensure the design and installation are permitted and inspected by the appropriate local authority.
- Plan for ongoing maintenance, including pumping intervals and monitoring of effluent quality.
Maintenance and monitoring basics
- Schedule pump-outs every 3–5 years for typical residential systems (intervals vary by usage and tank size).
- Protect the drain field: avoid parking, heavy equipment, or planting trees with deep roots nearby.
- Be mindful of water use: spread out loads of laundry and kitchen wastewater to prevent overload.
- Keep records: maintain diagrams, system notices, and service receipts for future inspections.
Resources
Typical Septic Issues Across Lucas County
Signs of a failing system
- Slow drains and backups in sinks, tubs, or toilets.
- Gurgling sounds from the drains after flushing.
- Sewage odors around the septic tank, leach field, or yard.
- Soggy, swampy spots or lush green patches over the drain field.
- Unexplained high moisture in the yard or a damp, foul-smelling area.
- Sudden increases in your water bill without changes to usage.
Aging systems and design limits
Older homes in Lucas County often rely on smaller tanks or older drain fields. Clay soils common in parts of the county, combined with sometimes high groundwater, can make systems more prone to failure. Even well-built systems can deteriorate over time, leading to leaks or inadequate absorption of effluent.
Tree roots and landscaping problems
- Roots seek moisture and nutrients, infiltrating tanks, pipes, and drain fields.
- Construction or heavy landscaping over the drain field can compress soil and restrict absorption.
- Winter freezing or soil heave in partially paved yards can disrupt the system's performance.
What to look for:
- Visible roots encroaching near inlets/outlets.
- Disturbed soil above the drain field or obvious trenches from root intrusion.
- Landscaping changes that bury or cover the system.
Water management and overuse
Excessive water use overwhelming the system, especially with large families or frequent use of garbage disposals, leads to overload. High-volume activities like filling a pool, washing vehicles, or frequent laundry can push the system past its capacity.
How to manage:
- Space out heavy water uses (avoid multiple loads of laundry back-to-back).
- Run dishwashers and washing machines only with full loads.
- Consider low-flow fixtures to reduce daily water input.
Waste disposal habits
Septic systems are designed for toilet waste, soap, and toilet paper. Fats, oils, greases, chemicals, solvents, paint, pesticides, and pharmaceuticals can damage bacteria and clog the system.
Tips:
- Recycle or dispose of chemicals properly; never dump them into sinks or toilets.
- Do not flush paper towels, diapers, wipes, or cat litter.
- Use septic-safe products and avoid continuous use of harsh cleaners.
Drainfield failure and effluent issues
Over time, the drain field can become clogged or cease to absorb water. This creates surface puddles, foul odors, and backup risks. Seasonal homes may experience more pronounced issues after winter when soils freeze and thaw.
Common indicators:
- Standing water or damp areas in the yard near the drain field.
- Increased odors or backflow into fixtures after rainfall.
- Reduced system performance during wet seasons.
Flooding and groundwater considerations
Lucas County's proximity to Lake Erie means variable groundwater levels. Flood-prone areas can push effluent toward the surface or overwhelm the drain field, accelerating failure.
What to do:
- Ensure drainage away from the septic system; keep the drain field clear of impermeable surfaces.
- Avoid planting shallow-rooted vegetation directly over the drain field.
Maintenance lapses and inspections
Prolonged neglect, missed pumping, or failed inspections can silently erode system performance. Regular maintenance helps catch problems before they become expensive repairs.
What to schedule:
- Professional inspections every 3–5 years (or per local guidance).
- Pumping of the septic tank as recommended by a qualified technician.
- Schedule a post-pumping inspection if a problem is suspected.
Practical steps for Lucas County homeowners
- Have a local pro assess the system if you notice signs of trouble. Ask about drain field conditions, tank integrity, and baffle health.
- Schedule routine pumping every 3–5 years, or per county/soil guidelines.
- Implement water-saving practices and stagger high-volume activities.
- Protect the drain field from heavy equipment, excessive landscaping, and impermeable surfaces.
- Keep a record of maintenance, pumping dates, and repairs for reference.
Official resources:
- Ohio EPA Onsite Wastewater Program: [
- Lucas County Health Department (Environmental Health information): [
- Ohio Department of Health – Onsite Wastewater guidance: [
Septic Inspection, Permits & Local Oversight
Permits & When You Need One
- In Lucas County, most installations, replacements, or substantial repairs of on-site wastewater treatment systems (OWTS) require a permit from the local health department.
- If your property sits within a city, check the city's health or building department as there may be additional or stricter rules.
- Even for minor repairs or upgrades, the county may require plan review and permits depending on the scope and location of the work.
The Inspection Timeline
- A soil evaluation and system design should be completed by a licensed septic designer or engineer.
- Submit the plans to the local health department for review; allow time for plan checks and any required revisions.
- Key milestones during installation are typically inspected: pre-construction soil tests, rough-in, backfill, and final system completion.
- Final inspections verify that the installed system matches the approved plans and meets setback, material, and performance standards.
Local Oversight and Responsibility
- Lucas County Health Department (LCHD) administers OWTS oversight for unsewered areas and coordinates with applicable city departments.
- State regulations (Ohio) set minimum standards for OWTS, while local boards issue permits, perform inspections, and enforce compliance.
- If municipal sewer service becomes available, you may be required to connect; the health department will guide you on options and timelines.
Real Estate & Property Transfers
- A septic inspection is highly beneficial during a real estate transaction. Some lenders or buyers may require a recent evaluation.
- A licensed inspector or the LCHD can perform a septic system evaluation or prepare an as-built report to document current condition and capacity.
- Check for transfer-of-ownership forms or specific seller disclosures required by your locality; retain all permits and inspection records.
Steps to Get a Permit (Lucas County)
- Hire a licensed septic designer or engineer to assess the site and prepare the plan.
- Gather soil evaluation results and submit the plans to the local health department for review.
- Pay the required permit fee and obtain authorization before breaking ground.
- Hire a licensed installer and schedule inspections with the health department.
- Complete installation per the approved plan; request inspections at milestones (soil test, rough-in, backfill, final).
- Pass the final inspection and receive the as-built drawings and permit closure documentation.
Maintenance, Records & Compliance
- Keep all permits, inspection reports, and as-built drawings in a safe, accessible place.
- Follow maintenance guidelines for your specific system (pump schedules, filter checks, and record-keeping).
- If you notice sewage odors, wet areas, or backups, contact the health department promptly for guidance and potential remedial steps.
Official Resources
- Lucas County Health Department:
- Ohio Department of Health – On-Site Wastewater Systems:
- Ohio Environmental Protection Agency:
Cost Expectations for Septic Services in Lucas County
Septic Pumping and Cleaning
- What it covers: removing accumulated sludge and scum, cleaning the tank, inspecting baffles and lids, and ensuring proper effluent flow. In Lucas County, many homes have older or multi-compartment tanks that benefit from a thorough pump-out.
- Lucas County specifics: clay soils and older systems can increase pumping frequency and may reveal needed repairs during service.
- Typical cost in Lucas County: roughly $275–$500 for a standard 1,000–1,500 gallon tank; $350–$600+ if there are two tanks, deeper burial, or accessibility challenges.
- Quick tip: schedule around spring and fall driveway and yard access; off-season prices may be slightly lower.
- Official resources: Ohio EPA Sewage Disposal Systems page; Lucas County Health Department (local permitting and maintenance guidance).
Septic Tank Inspection
- What it covers: visual inspection of the tank, lids, and baffles; checking for standing water or leaks; may include dye testing or basic camera inspection if needed for real estate transactions.
- Lucas County specifics: many buyers rely on a formal inspection to verify permit status and prior maintenance; records may exist with the county.
- Typical cost in Lucas County: $150–$300 for a standard inspection; $250–$500 for camera-assisted or more thorough evaluations.
- Quick tip: for home purchases, request the inspection be performed by a licensed septic professional who can document findings for closing.
- Official resources: Ohio EPA Sewage Disposal Systems page; Lucas County Health Department.
Drain Field Evaluation and Soil Testing
- What it covers: soil assessment, percolation testing, and drainage field evaluation to determine suitability or failure risk of the current field.
- Lucas County specifics: the area often requires careful evaluation due to clay or restrictive soils; failure can necessitate a redesign or relocation of the drain field (sometimes a mound).
- Typical cost in Lucas County: $300–$800 for an evaluation; percolation testing $600–$1,200; full drain-field replacement options range from $5,000–$15,000 for conventional systems, $12,000–$25,000+ for mound systems.
- Quick tip: if a field is failing, get an engineered plan early to avoid delays in permitting.
- Official resources: Ohio EPA Sewage Disposal Systems page; Lucas County Health Department.
New System Installation (Conventional)
- What it covers: site assessment, design, trench layout, soil evaluation, installation, and final inspection.
- Lucas County specifics: local soils and regulations may favor mound or other enhanced systems; permitting through the county is typical.
- Typical cost in Lucas County: $7,000–$15,000 for conventional systems; $15,000–$40,000+ for mound or advanced systems.
- Quick tip: factor in plan design, permits, and potential driveway or landscaping impacts.
- Official resources: Ohio EPA Sewage Disposal Systems page; Lucas County Health Department.
Aerobic Treatment Unit (ATU) Maintenance
- What it covers: routine service, replacement of aerators or filters, and system health checks; some homeowners use maintenance contracts.
- Lucas County specifics: ATUs are common where soil conditions limit conventional systems; ongoing maintenance is essential to meet county standards.
- Typical cost in Lucas County: $300–$600 per year for service; replacement parts add to cost as needed.
- Quick tip: annual service helps prevent costly repairs later and keeps the system compliant.
- Official resources: Ohio EPA Sewage Disposal Systems page; Lucas County Health Department.
Pumps, Alarms, and Electrical Components
- What it covers: pump inspection and replacement, alarm testing, valve checks, and wiring safety.
- Lucas County specifics: replacement parts can vary by model installed; accessibility and distance to service can influence price.
- Typical cost in Lucas County: $400–$1,000 depending on pump type and labor.
- Quick tip: keep a service contract that includes emergency response.
Tank Risers, Lids, and Access Improvements
- What it covers: adding or upgrading tank risers and secure, accessible lids; helps with future pumping and inspections.
- Lucas County specifics: easier access reduces future service costs and downtime.
- Typical cost in Lucas County: $250–$600.
- Official resources: Ohio EPA Sewage Disposal Systems page; Lucas County Health Department.
Drain Field Repair and Replacement
- What it covers: repairing damaged trenches, pipes, or controls; or full drain-field replacement when necessary.
- Lucas County specifics: soil conditions can drive the need for replacement; costs rise with field size and design requirements.
- Typical cost in Lucas County: $2,000–$7,000 for targeted repairs; $5,000–$15,000+ for full replacement (conventional); $12,000–$25,000+ for mound systems.
- Quick tip: get a written assessment and multiple bids before committing to a repair plan.
- Official resources: Ohio EPA Sewage Disposal Systems page; Lucas County Health Department.
System Abandonment or Removal
- What it covers: properly decommissioning and removing a failing or unused septic system.
- Lucas County specifics: must follow county disposal and decommissioning guidelines; permits may be required.
- Typical cost in Lucas County: $2,000–$6,000.
- Official resources: Ohio EPA Sewage Disposal Systems page; Lucas County Health Department.
Permitting, Plans, and Design
- What it covers: permit applications, plan reviews, system design by a licensed professional, and final inspections.
- Lucas County specifics: permitting is handled through the local health department; timing depends on plan complexity.
- Typical cost in Lucas County: permit fees $50–$200; plan review $500–$1,500; design costs $2,000–$5,000.
- Quick tip: budget for engineering and soil reports early to avoid delays.
- Official resources: Ohio EPA Sewage Disposal Systems page; Lucas County Health Department.
Cities & Communities in Lucas County With Septic Systems
Sylvania
Sylvania is primarily sewer-served, but a few parcels lie outside city lines or on older properties with private systems. Septic needs here are uncommon, yet real when a home is not connected, a system ages, or a project triggers review.
- Why you might need septic services in Sylvania
- Old or poorly maintained septic tanks and leach fields that impair drainage or cause backups.
- A home expansion, addition, or remodel that requires septic redesign or tank sizing adjustments.
- Property transactions prompting a septic inspection or pumping as part of due diligence.
- Replacement of a decommissioned system when an owner plans to reestablish a private system on a lot not yet connected to sewer.
- What to do if you suspect a septic issue
- Verify sewer service status with the city or Lucas County planning/health teams.
- Schedule a site evaluation with a licensed septic contractor to assess tank condition, trash trap, and drain-field integrity.
- If needed, pump the tank and perform repairs or replacement; coordinate with local authorities for permits.
- When possible, plan a path to connect to municipal sewer and properly decommission an unused septic tank per code.
- Maintenance basics for Sylvania homes (private systems)
- Pump every 3–5 years, sized to tank capacity and household usage.
- Minimize harsh chemicals, fats, and non-dissolvable solids entering the tank.
- Keep the drain-field clear of heavy equipment and high-traffic activity; plant only grass over the area.
- Schedule inspections if you notice slow drains, gurgling sounds, or standing water near the drain field.
- Official resources
- Ohio EPA Onsite Wastewater Program:
- Lucas County Health Department (onsite/sewage guidance):
Toledo
Toledo sits along the western edge of Lucas County and is heavily sewered, but pockets of private septic systems exist in outer areas, rural-adjacent parcels, or former rural properties that remain off the centralized sewer network. Septic issues here tend to arise when a property is not yet tied into city services or when a system ages and begins to fail.
- Why someone in Toledo may need septic services
- A home that remains on a private septic system due to location outside current sewer lines.
- Aging tanks, effluent odors, or backups that indicate a repair or replacement is needed.
- During property transactions or renovations, requiring septic inspections or tank pumping as part of compliance.
- Reconnecting or disconnecting from the municipal sewer system, with proper tank decommissioning.
- Steps if you encounter a septic problem
- Confirm whether your property should or can be connected to public sewer.
- Engage a licensed septic professional for an evaluation and recommended course (pump, repair, or replacement).
- Obtain necessary permits from the Lucas County Health Department and/or city authorities.
- Implement a maintenance plan to prevent future failures, and document work for records.
- Quick maintenance tips for Toledo-area private systems
- Regular pumping based on tank size and household usage.
- Protect the drain-field from construction, vehicles, and deep-root rooting plants.
- Use septic-safe products and avoid pouring solvents, paints, or excessive cleaners down drains.
- Schedule inspections after major home improvements or if you notice drainage changes.
- Official resources
- Notes on limited septic needs
- In both Sylvania and Toledo, most residential work will be sewer-connected. Septic services become relevant when homes are on private systems, when aging tanks require pumping or replacement, or when renovations bring septic considerations back into play.
Septic vs Sewer Across Lucas County
What this means for your property
In Lucas County, most urban neighborhoods are connected to municipal sewer service, while many rural or unsewered areas rely on septic systems. Availability depends on local utilities, city boundaries, and whether the street has sewer mains. If you're unsure, verify with the local sewer authority or the county health district.
How to check if sewer is available
- Call your city or village utility and ask if your address has sewer service.
- Look up a current sewer service map from the local government or county GIS.
- If you're buying a home, ask for a recent utility disclosure and a permit history for septic or sewer.
Septic vs Sewer: Pros and Cons
- Septic system (unsewered property)
- Pros: Lower monthly fees once installed; independence from municipal downtime.
- Cons: Requires regular pumping (every 3–5 years on average); potential for failure if not maintained.
- Municipal sewer (sewered property)
- Pros: No septic tank pumping; system maintenance handled by the utility; typically reliable with less risk of septic failures.
- Cons: Monthly or quarterly sewer bills; connection and possible impact fees; potential for surcharges during heavy rain or backups.
Costs to consider
- Installation or connection costs: septic tank install often ranges from roughly $7,000 to $20,000+ depending on soil, tank size, and features; sewer connection can involve a tap fee and trenching to bring the line to your home.
- Ongoing costs: septic pumping every 3–5 years (roughly $200–$500 per pump in many areas); sewer bills vary by usage and rate zone.
- Potential repairs: a failing septic system may require replacement or major repairs; sewer line backups can involve city/utility coordination and repair costs.
Maintenance and regulatory considerations
- Septic care: use water efficiently; avoid overloading with garbage disposal waste; don't flush chemicals; schedule professional pumping and inspection.
- Regulations: local health departments oversee permits, inspections, and system requirements; state-level guidance supports design and maintenance standards.
- For state guidance, see Ohio EPA's Onsite Wastewater Systems page:
- If you're unsure, contact your local health department for permits and inspection rules. For state-level resources, visit
Quick decision steps
- Confirm sewer availability at your address.
- Compare long-term costs of staying with septic vs paying sewer charges.
- Consider soil suitability if you already have a septic system (soil and location matter for functionality).
- Consult a licensed septic installer or your local utility for an professional assessment.
