Septic in Jonesborough, TN

Jonesborough's quiet streets and hillside yards often mean more homes to keep on a septic system than you might expect in a big city. Here, private septic is a familiar part of how a lot of households manage wastewater, especially outside the public sewer corridors.

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

Yes. In Jonesborough and the surrounding county, septic systems are a common and practical solution for single-family homes that aren't connected to a city sewer line. If you're buying a home here, you should expect that septic is either already in place or will be needed if the property isn't on sewer service. When you're evaluating a listing, verify with the seller and the Washington County Health Department whether a septic system exists, its age, and its maintenance history. Look for clear records of inspections, pumping, and any repairs. A quick practical check can include asking for:

• The most recent septic pump-out date and service provider
• The tank size and estimated remaining life
• Any known issues or repairs
• The condition of the drain field and surface indicators (lush grass over the field, soggy spots, or septic smells)

Why homes typically use septic systems in Jonesborough

• Rural layout and infrastructure: Many properties sit outside readily available sewer mains, so septic is the most cost-effective, practical option for wastewater disposal.
• Soil and site conditions: Jonesborough's hills and soil variations make a properly designed septic system a sensible fit when built to code, with adequate absorption capacity and careful setback from wells and water features.
• Local regulations and health safeguards: The county health department requires proper septic design, installation, and maintenance where municipal sewer isn't present, helping protect groundwater and local streams.
• Long-term affordability and maintenance: For many homeowners here, septic systems offer a manageable, predictable maintenance path compared to extending sewer service to rural properties.

High-level explanation (why septic exists here)

The need for septic in this area comes from a combination of development patterns, land ownership spread, and underground conditions. Septic systems are designed to work with the local soils and groundwater dynamics, letting individual homes manage wastewater close to where it's produced while meeting health and environmental standards. When well and septic are properly matched and maintained, they support reliable, safe wastewater disposal in a way that aligns with Jonesborough's landscape and lifestyle.

If this sounds familiar, you'll find practical guidance ahead on buying, maintaining, and safeguarding a septic system here in Jonesborough.

Where Septic Systems Are Common in Jonesborough

Rural, hillside, and outlying neighborhoods

In Jonesborough, septic systems are most common on properties outside the city sewer boundaries. These areas typically feature larger lots, older rural developments, and homes built before municipal sewer expansion reached every neighborhood. Septic is a practical, cost-effective solution when public sewer is not available or feasible.

• Large lot sizes make individual drain fields workable.
• Private wells are common, so proper setbacks and siting matter for water protection.
• Terrain and road patterns in rural pockets influence where septic systems are placed.

Core town limits and newer subdivisions

Within the town core and in newer subdivisions near the edge of town, sewer lines have expanded, but not every lot has access yet. In those zones, septic systems persist where sewer service hasn't been extended or where lot layout makes sewer access challenging.

• Some homes still rely on septic as a backup or interim solution during expansion.
• Property constraints (slopes, easements, or existing structures) can limit trench options for leach fields.
• Local utilities and the county health department often coordinate with developers on sewer feasibility and compliance.

Soil and site factors that affect septic suitability

Soil type and site conditions drive how well a septic system works in Jonesborough. East Tennessee soils vary widely, and percolation rate, depth to bedrock, and groundwater considerations all play roles.

• Absorption-friendly soils (well-drained, loamy sands to sandy loams) support standard drain fields.
• Heavy clay, shallow bedrock, or dense subsoils can complicate installation and performance.
• Proximity to wells, streams, or floodplains affects setback requirements and permit decisions.
• Slope and drainage influence trench layout and system design; steep or poorly drained sites may need specialty approaches.

Where septic fields are typically located on Jonesborough properties

A well-planned septic layout respects safety setbacks and property use.

• Leach fields are usually placed away from the house foundation, driveways, and high-traffic zones.
• Fields are positioned to avoid wells, streams, and property lines, with careful attention to soil percolation and groundwater risk.
• In smaller lots, field design may require vertical or mound systems if traditional trenches aren't feasible.

Why septic remains common in Jonesborough

Several practical factors keep septic in use across town and county areas.

• Rural development patterns and slower sewer expansion into outskirts.
• Cost considerations for extending municipal lines versus installing or maintaining a private system.
• Soil and site realities that favor on-site treatment when properly designed and maintained.
• Historical housing stock that predates widespread sewer access.
• Regular maintenance is essential to keep systems functioning well and protect groundwater.

Steps for homeowners evaluating septic options in Jonesborough

If you're evaluating a septic home or planning a new system, follow these practical steps.

1. Confirm sewer availability. Check with the Jonesborough-Washington County area planning resources or the Washington County Health Department to see if municipal sewer is available or planned for your property.
2. Get a professional evaluation. Hire a licensed septic installer or engineer to assess site conditions, soil suitability, and system design needs.
3. Do soil testing and site evaluation. A percolation test or soil infiltration assessment helps determine the appropriate system type and field size.
4. Review local regulations. Work with the county health department to understand setback requirements, permitting, and inspection steps for your parcel.
5. Plan for maintenance. Establish a pumping schedule and routine maintenance with a licensed service provider to extend system life and protect water quality.

Helpful official resources

• EPA Septic Systems: https://www.epa.gov/septic
• Tennessee Department of Environment and Conservation (TDEC): https://www.tn.gov/environment
• Tennessee Department of Health: https://www.tn.gov/health
• Local planning and health department contacts for Washington County and Jonesborough can guide permitting, site evaluations, and approved system designs.

Septic vs Sewer: What Homeowners in Jonesborough Should Know

Quick overview of the two options

• On sewer: Your home connects to a municipal system. Wastewater travels through public pipes to a regional treatment plant. Bills come as a monthly service charge plus usage.
• On septic: Your property handles wastewater on site. A tank and a drain field treat and disperse wastewater into the ground. Responsibility for maintenance stays with you.

Quick comparison at a glance

• Ownership and responsibility
  • Sewer: The city or county handles treatment and most maintenance after you're connected.
  • Septic: You own and maintain the system; failures can be costly.
• Upfront vs ongoing costs
  • Sewer: Connection fees and monthly bills; typically predictable.
  • Septic: Installation is a big upfront cost; ongoing pumping and repairs as needed.
• Maintenance requirements
  • Sewer: Routine city maintenance; homeowner may focus on preventing clogs near the connection.
  • Septic: Regular pumping, careful waste disposal, water-use discipline, and occasional professional inspections.
• Environmental impact
  • Sewer: Centralized treatment with regulated discharge; local plants in Tennessee are designed to protect streams and groundwater.
  • Septic: Properly sized, well-maintained systems protect groundwater but can contaminate soil and wells if neglected.
• When upgrades are likely
  • Sewer: Municipal projects or service expansions can bring neighborhoods into the system.
  • Septic: Soil health, groundwater conditions, or aging components may require replacement or upgrades.

How sewer service typically works in Jonesborough

• Service connection
  • Homes in areas served by the municipal system are connected via public mains. The city or county maintains the network up to the property line.
• Billing and regulation
  • Billed by the utility; rates reflect both fixed charges and wastewater treatment costs.
• What can go wrong
  • Main clogs or blockages can cause backups; backflow risk is low for well-maintained, modern systems but exists if connections fail.

How septic systems work for Jonesborough homes

• Core components
  • A septic tank to settle solids and a drain field to distribute liquid effluent into the soil.
• Site and soil factors
  • Local soils, slopes, and groundwater influence drain-field performance. Eastern Tennessee's geology can affect leachate movement and monitoring needs.
• Maintenance basics
  • Regular pumping (typical interval: every 3–5 years depending on household size and usage).
  • Protect the drain field: avoid heavy equipment, planting deep-rooted trees nearby, and flushing non-degradables or chemicals.
• Signs of trouble
  • Sewage odors, gurgling plumbing, slow drains, wet or lush spots above the drain field, or sewage backup in fixtures.

Local considerations and regulations for Jonesborough homeowners

• Permits and inspections
  • On-site wastewater systems are regulated at the state level and typically require permits and inspections through local health or environmental authorities.
• Water use and landscape choices
  • Water conservation helps septic systems. Avoid overloading the system; excessive water in a short period can push solids into the drain field.
• When to contact a professional
  • Sudden changes in drainage, visible sewage, or recurring backups warrant a professional evaluation of the septic or sewer connection.

Steps for homeowners to assess and act (easy 1-2-3)

1. Confirm your connection status
   • Check with your municipality or local utility to see if you're on sewer or if a septic system serves your property.
2. If on septic, schedule prevention housekeeping
   • Plan a pump/inspection schedule with a licensed septic professional; follow recommended pumping intervals and maintenance tips.
3. If connected to sewer, monitor and protect your mains
   • Be mindful of what enters the system; report backups early and maintain cleanout access if applicable.

Helpful official resources

• EPA: Septic Systems overview and guidance
  • https://www.epa.gov/septic
• EPA: Septic systems basics
  • https://www.epa.gov/septic/septic-systems-basics
• Tennessee state environment information (regulatory context)
  • https://www.tn.gov/environment.html

Typical Septic System Types in Jonesborough

Conventional septic systems

• How they work: A single septic tank receives wastewater from the house. Solids settle in the tank, oils and grease float to the top, and clarified liquid exits to a drainfield where soil biology finishes treating it.
• Typical components: septic tank, distribution box (in some setups), perforated pipes, and a gravel/soil absorption field.
• Pros: simple design, widely understood, usually lower upfront cost.
• Cons: relies on good soil and adequate drainfield area; performance can degrade if the tank isn't pumped on schedule or if the drainfield is flooded or compacted.
• Quick tips:
  • Keep a copy of permits and maintenance records with the house file.
  • Avoid flushing inappropriate items ( fats, oils, chemicals, wipes) to protect the tank and soil biology.
  • In Jonesborough's soils, seasonal variations and groundwater proximity can influence drainfield performance; plan for regular inspections.
• Resources: For general guidance on how septic systems work, see EPA's overview at https://www.epa.gov/septic'>https://www.epa.gov/septic.

Common alternative and enhanced treatment systems

• Low-Pressure Dose (LPD) and pressure distribution: Delivers small doses of effluent under pressure to multiple lines, which helps with uniform soil absorption in sloped lots or limited drainfield space.
• Mound systems: An elevated sand-filled bed above the native soil used when the seasonal high water table or poor soil conditions would otherwise impair drainage. They require a dosing chamber and monitored operation.
• Sand filter systems: Treated effluent passes through a sand filtration bed after primary treatment, providing an extra treatment step before the drainfield. Useful where soil percolation is limited.
• Aerobic Treatment Units (ATU): Mechanical aeration enhances treatment before final disposal; often used with a secondary drainfield or spray irrigation. Requires electricity and regular maintenance.
• Chamber drainfields: Use modular plastic chambers to create a wider, more flexible infiltration area than traditional gravel trenches.
• Drip irrigation or evapotranspiration (ET) beds: These are less common in residential Jonesborough homes but appear in some newer designs to distribute effluent in controlled manners.
• Shared or cluster systems: In subdivisions or multi-home properties, a single enhanced treatment or drainfield system services multiple homes; these require ongoing oversight and maintenance agreements.
• Local considerations: In Jonesborough's East Tennessee landscape, soil quality, bedrock depth, and groundwater depth push some homeowners toward mound, ATU, or pressure-distribution options. State guidance and certified installers can help determine the right system for your lot.
• Resources: For state guidance on onsite systems, see the Tennessee environmental resources at https://www.tn.gov/environment. EPA's septic pages https://www.epa.gov/septic also cover many system types and maintenance practices.

Common Septic Issues in Jonesborough

Drainfield Failure & Saturation

• Signs to notice: standing water or soggy areas over the drainfield, a consistently damp yard, gurgling toilets or slow drains, sewage odors near the tank or leach field.
• Why it happens in Jonesborough: many properties in this region deal with clay-rich soils and, in parts of the county, a relatively shallow groundwater table and seasonal saturation. Heavy rains common to East Tennessee can overwhelm a drainfield that's already near capacity. Old systems or undersized drainfields compounded by frequent usage are especially vulnerable.
• What to do (step-by-step):
  1. Call a qualified septic professional for a full inspection, including a trench-by-trench assessment if needed.
  2. Reduce hydraulic load immediately: spread laundry across days, fix leaks, and install water-saving fixtures.
  3. Limit activity on the drainfield area: don't drive, park, or plant trees/large shrubs on or over the leach field.
• Resources: EPA overview of how septic systems work and maintenance basics (

Tree Roots and Pipe Damage

• Signs to notice: slow drains, unusual sounds from the system, roots appearing in septic tank lids or cleanouts, cracks in the tank or pipes.
• Why it's a Jonesborough concern: many homes here sit in mature landscapes with established trees. Tree roots naturally seek moisture and can invade pipes or the drainfield, especially if soil is shallow or compacted. Clay soils can aggravate root intrusion by concentrating moisture near the pipes.
• What to do (step-by-step):
  1. Have a camera inspection done to identify root intrusion or cracked pipes.
  2. If roots are present, consider root barriers and targeted pruning far enough from the system, or relocation/repair of pipes as needed.
  3. Keep trees away from the septic area in the future and protect the drainfield from damage.
• Resources: EPA guidance on septic system inspections (and general EPA septic information (

High Water Usage and Heavy Rainfall Load

• Signs to notice: frequent backups during laundry days, slow drainage after large water events, damp patches or boggy areas around the yard after storms.
• Why it matters in Jonesborough: East Tennessee's rainfall patterns can cause temporary drainfield saturation, and homes with large family use or inefficient fixtures can push systems beyond their design capacity, especially if the soil is slow to percolate.
• What to do (step-by-step):
  1. Stagger high-water activities (laundry, dishwashing) and run full loads only.
  2. Repair leaks and upgrade to water-efficient fixtures (low-flow toilets, faucets, and showerheads).
  3. Improve drainage around the system by ensuring the area remains level and free of compacted soil or heavy vegetation.
• Resources: EPA guidance on septic systems and water use (EPA also covers general water efficiency tips (

Septic Inspection, Permits & Local Oversight

Local Oversight in Jonesborough, TN

Where your septic permit comes from depends on jurisdiction. If your property sits inside the Town of Jonesborough limits, start with the town's planning/building department or building inspector. If your property is outside town limits (unincorporated Washington County), the county health department or environmental health office typically handles on-site wastewater permits. Some projects may involve state-level review for certain design sizes or public concerns. Always verify the correct authority for your address before you begin work.

• Tip: a quick call or email to the local town hall or county health department can save you a lot of back-and-forth.
• You'll usually need a soil evaluation, system design, and a permit before any installation starts.

Permitting Process at a Glance

A typical path looks like this, though exact steps can vary by jurisdiction.

1. Hire a qualified designer or engineer (if required by your jurisdiction).
2. Complete site evaluation and soil tests with a licensed professional.
3. Prepare a detailed septic design and submit a permit package to the appropriate local authority.
4. Pay permit and plan-review fees; wait for plan approval.
5. Schedule inspections during installation (pre- and post-inspection milestones).
6. Obtain final approval and closing documentation; keep copies for your records.
7. If you're not sure which documents are needed, ask the permitting office for a checklist tailored to Jonesborough.

Inspections, Timelines & What to Expect

• Pre-installation inspection: verifies site access, setback distances, and that the proposed design fits the lot.
• During installation: inspectors verify trenching, piping, tank placement, baffles, leach field layout, and backfill.
• Post-installation/final inspection: ensures the system is ready to operate and that all components function as designed.
• Timelines vary with workload and weather; schedule ahead and build a small buffer into your project plan.
• Pro tip: have your installer present during inspections to address questions on-site and reduce re-inspection needs.

Records, Fees, Validity & Renewals

• Keep digital and paper copies of every permit, plan revision, inspection report, and final approval.
• Fees typically cover the permit, plan review, and each inspection visit. Some towns also charge an annual or renewal fee if maintenance or modifications are pursued later.
• Permit validity periods differ by jurisdiction; if you don't start work within the allowed window, you may need to extend or reapply.
• Note: any substantial modification to an existing system usually requires re-submission and new approvals, even if the site hasn't changed.

Helpful Resources

• Local/state oversight and general guidance:
  • Tennessee Department of Environment & Conservation (TDEC):
• Quick-start tips:
  • Start with the right contact for your address (town or county).
  • Read any local checklists before designing or submitting plans.
  • Keep all correspondence and receipts organized for easy reference during inspections.
  • If you're unsure about a requirement, don't guess—confirm with the permitting office to avoid delays.

Septic Maintenance for Homes in Jonesborough

Why Jonesborough homes need attentive septic care

• East Tennessee soils can be variable: clay, shallow bedrock, and perched groundwater are common in the Jonesborough area. These conditions can slow drainage and stress a septic system if not properly managed.
• Heavy rainfall and saturated soil in the Johnson City/Jonesborough region can temporarily overwhelm inefficient drain fields. Expect seasonal tweaks in performance after big rain events.
• Older homes may have older tanks, leach fields, or limited access. Regular checks help catch early problems before they become costly repairs.

Routine maintenance at a glance

• Pumping schedule: Most homes in Jonesborough benefit from a professional pump every 3–5 years, but the interval should reflect household size, water usage, and whether a garbage disposal is used.
• Annual inspection: Have a licensed septic professional inspect the tank and baffles, and verify that the drain field shows no signs of failure.
• Field protection: Keep heavy vehicles off the drain field, avoid planting deep-rooted trees nearby, and maintain proper grading with a minimum of 6 inches of soil cover to prevent surface water from entering the system.
• Water-use discipline: Spread out loads of laundry and use water-saving fixtures to reduce daily sewage flow and solids loading.
• Record keeping: Maintain a simple log of pumping dates, inspections, repairs, and any odd drains or odors.

Step-by-step: pumping and inspection

1. Schedule pumping with a licensed septic contractor familiar with Tennessee soils and Jonesborough conditions.
2. Have the tank inspected for scum and sludge buildup, and check the condition of baffles and tees.
3. If the tank is over its recommended waste layer, arrange pumping. Document the depth of sludge and scum for future reference.
4. Inspect the drain field surface for damp spots, lush grass, or odors, which can signal a problem.
5. Review system components (pump chamber, distribution box, and any effluent filters) for signs of wear or blockages.

Drain field care specific to Jonesborough

• Soil stewardship: In clay-heavy or shallow soils, avoid compacting the area over the drain field. Skip construction projects, loading, or heavy machinery on or near the absorption area.
• Vegetation choices: Plant only shallow-rooted grasses over the drain field. Avoid trees and shrubs whose roots could intrude on pipes.
• Drain field grading: Ensure water drains away from the field. Poor surface drainage can flood the absorption area, reducing system efficiency.
• Filters and screens: If your system has an effluent filter, follow the manufacturer's and installer's guidance for cleaning intervals and disposal of the collected solids.

Seasonal maintenance tips for Jonesborough homes

• Spring: Inspect after winter freezes and heavy rains. Look for pooling water, sagging areas, or new odors.
• Summer: Be mindful of irrigation and pool filling; outdoor water use can increase subsurface loading. If possible, stagger irrigation to avoid peak flow.
• Fall: Review records from the past year; schedule a routine inspection and plan any pumping before holidays.
• Winter: Protect access risers and lids from freezing and ensure venting remains clear. Keep any vehicles off the drain field during snow or ice buildup.

Water usage and household habits that help Jonesborough systems

• Use high-efficiency appliances and fix leaks promptly.
• Run full loads of laundry; consider a secondary wash if a washer uses a lot of water.
• Avoid flushing non-biodegradable items, cat litter, fats, oils, and grease. Compost or trash-dispose items as appropriate.
• Use a sink-mounted disposal sparingly; disposal waste forms more solids that reach the tank and drain field.

Local resources and official guidance

• EPA Septic Systems: practical, nationwide guidance and maintenance tips.

If you suspect sewer odors, slow drains, or standing water on the drain field, consult a licensed septic professional promptly for an on-site assessment and any required pumping or repairs, per local regulations and state guidance.

Cost Expectations for Septic Services in Jonesborough

Septic Tank Pumping and Cleaning

• What it includes: removing accumulated sludge and scum from the tank, clearing inlet and outlet baffles if needed, inspecting tank lids and access points, and providing a quick condition check of pump chambers and effluent lines. In Jonesborough, older homes or those with heavy use may see faster buildup and more frequent pumping needs due to smaller tank sizes or complex drain fields.
• Typical cost in Jonesborough: $350–$650 per visit, depending on tank size (typically 1,000–1,500 gallons), accessibility, and whether travel is required.
• Steps you'll see:
  1. Technician confirms access to the tank.
  2. Tank is pumped, solids are disposed of legally, and hoses are cleaned.
  3. System is briefly inspected for obvious defects.
  4. Recommendations for next pumping interval are provided.
• Official resources: EPA SepticSmart tips and maintenance guidance

Septic System Inspection

• What it includes: a comprehensive check of the tank, baffles, and lids; drain-field condition; soil absorption area; evidence of leakage or backups; and a review of maintenance history. In Jonesborough, root intrusion and aging clay pipes are common concerns that inspectors look for.
• Typical cost in Jonesborough: $150–$300.
• Steps you'll see:
  1. Visual and olfactory inspection of the system area.
  2. Tank depth measurement and assessment of sludge/scum levels.
  3. Evaluation of the drain field's performance (may include a dye test or percolation observations if needed).
  4. Final report with actionable maintenance steps.
• Official resources: EPA SepticSmart maintenance section; TDEC Onsite Sewage Program page

Drain Field Repair and Replacement

• What it includes: identifying cause (clogged lines, saturated soils, root intrusion, compaction); trench and pipe repair or replacement; reseeding or regrading as needed; and post-installation testing. Jonesborough soils can vary, and limestone geology or shallow groundwater can influence repair approaches.
• Typical cost in Jonesborough: Repair $2,500–$7,000; Replacement $7,000–$20,000+ (labor, soil tests, and materials vary).
• Steps you'll see:
  1. Soil and system assessment (sometimes including a perk test).
  2. Design and permit coordination if a full replacement is needed.
  3. Installation and commissioning of the new drain field.
  4. Follow-up inspection to verify proper function.
• Official resources: EPA SepticSmart guidance on drain-field care; TDEC Onsite Sewage Program for regulatory context

Drain Field Installation (New System)

• What it includes: soil evaluation, system design, trench layout, perforated piping, gravel bed, fabric separation, final cover, and system commissioning. Jonesborough projects often require site-specific designs due to soil variability.
• Typical cost in Jonesborough: $6,000–$15,000, depending on field size, soil conditions, and access.
• Steps you'll see:
  1. Soils testing and percolation assessment.
  2. System design approval and permit submission.
  3. Excavation, trenching, and trench bed preparation.
  4. System installation and startup checks.
• Official resources: EPA SepticSmart; Tennessee Onsite Sewage Program

Septic Tank Installation (New System)

• What it includes: installing a new tank, connecting to a drain field, backfilling, and system start-up; may include gravel bed or alternative reserve designs depending on site conditions.
• Typical cost in Jonesborough: $12,000–$25,000+ for a full conventional system (tank plus field), with variation by tank size and field configuration.
• Steps you'll see:
  1. Site evaluation and design planning.
  2. Permitting and scheduling.
  3. Tank installation, field installation, and system test.
  4. Final inspection and system acceptance.
• Official resources: EPA SepticSmart; TDEC Onsite Sewage Program

Septic System Maintenance Programs

• What it includes: preventive maintenance visits, priority scheduling, and reminders for pumping and inspections; may include monitoring of alarm systems and effluent levels.
• Typical cost in Jonesborough: $100–$250 per year for a basic plan; higher if extended services are included.
• Steps you'll see:
  1. Annual or biannual service window.
  2. On-site checks and record keeping.
  3. Notifications for recommended pumping or repairs.
• Official resources: EPA SepticSmart maintenance section

Emergency Septic Service and Drain Cleaning

• What it includes: rapid response to backups, clogs, or hazardous odors; septic tank access checks; hose-trained pumping as needed; root intrusion relief for accessible lines.
• Typical cost in Jonesborough: $150–$300 for standard response; $300–$600+ after hours or for complex or urgent calls.
• Steps you'll see:
  1. Triage by phone and ETA.
  2. On-site assessment and immediate mitigation.
  3. Recommended follow-up pumping or repairs.
• Official resources: EPA SepticSmart emergency care tips

Permits, Inspections, and Local Requirements

• What it includes: applying for the necessary permits, scheduling inspections, and ensuring compliance with state and local codes.
• Typical cost in Jonesborough: Permit and inspection fees commonly range from $100–$400, depending on project scope.
• Official resources: TDEC Onsite Sewage Program; local permit office guidance

Note: Costs are estimates for Jonesborough-area projects and can vary by tank size, soil conditions, accessibility, and contractor pricing. Always request a written estimate that itemizes labor, materials, and any disposal or permit fees. For regulatory references, visit https://www.tn.gov/environment/permit/onsite-sewage-program.html and https://www.epa.gov/septic/septicsmart.