This appendix provides general guidelines for the materials, design, and installation of private sewage disposal systems.
Where permitted by Section 713.0, the building sewer shall be permitted to be connected to a private sewage disposal system in accordance with the provisions of this appendix. The type of system shall be determined on the basis of location, soil porosity, and groundwater level, and shall be designed to receive all sewage from the property. The system, except as otherwise approved, shall consist of a septic tank with effluent discharging into a subsurface disposal field, into one or more seepage pits, or into a combination of subsurface disposal field and seepage pits. The Authority Having Jurisdiction shall be permitted to grant exceptions to the provisions of this appendix for permitted structures that have been destroyed due to fire or natural disaster, and that cannot be reconstructed in compliance with these provisions provided that such exceptions are the minimum necessary.
Where the quantity or quality of the sewage is such that the above system cannot be expected to function satisfactorily for commercial, agricultural, and industrial plumbing systems; for installations where appreciable amounts of industrial or indigestible wastes are produced; for occupancies producing abnormal quantities of sewage or liquid waste; or where grease interceptors are required by other parts of this code, the method of sewage treatment and disposal shall be first approved by the Authority Having Jurisdiction. Special sewage disposal systems for minor, limited, or temporary uses shall be first approved by the Authority Having Jurisdiction.
Disposal systems shall be designed to utilize the most porous or absorptive portions of the soil formation. Where the groundwater level extends to within 12 feet (3658 mm) or less of the ground surface or where the upper soil is porous, and the underlying stratum is rock or impervious soil, a septic tank and disposal field system shall be installed.
Disposal systems shall be located outside of flood hazard areas.
Exception: Where suitable sites outside of flood hazard areas are not available, disposal systems shall be permitted to be located in flood hazard areas on sites where the effects of inundation under conditions of the design flood are minimized.
Private sewage disposal systems shall be so designed that additional seepage pits or subsurface drain fields, equivalent to not less than 100 percent of the required original system, shall be permitted to be installed where the original system cannot absorb all the sewage. No division of the lot or erection of structures on the lot shall be made where such division or structure impairs the usefulness of the 100 percent expansion area.
No property shall be improved more than its capacity to absorb sewage effluent properly by the means provided in this code.
Exception: The Authority Having Jurisdiction shall be permitted to, at its discretion, approve an alternate system.
No private sewage disposal system, or part thereof, shall be located in any lot other than the lot that is the site of the building or structure served by such private sewage disposal system, nor shall any private sewage disposal system or part thereof be located at any point having less than the minimum distances indicated in Table H 101.8.
TABLE H 101.8
LOCATION OF SEWAGE DISPOSAL SYSTEM
LOCATION OF SEWAGE DISPOSAL SYSTEM
| MINIMUM HORIZONTAL DISTANCE | BUILDING SEWER | SEPTIC TANK | DISPOSAL FIELD | SEEPAGE PIT OR CESSPOOL |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Building or structures1 | 2 feet | 5 feet | 8 feet | 8 feet |
| Property line adjoining private property | Clear2 | 5 feet | 5 feet | 8 feet |
| Water supply wells | 50 feet3 | 50 feet | 100 feet | 150 feet |
| Streams and other bodies of water | 50 feet | 50 feet | 100 feet7 | 150 feet7 |
| Trees | — | 10 feet | — | 10 feet |
| Seepage pits or cesspools8 | — | 5 feet | 5 feet | 12 feet |
| Disposal field8 | — | 5 feet | 4 feet4 | 5 feet |
| On-site domestic water service line | 1 foot5 | 5 feet | 5 feet | 5 feet |
| Distribution box | — | — | 5 feet | 5 feet |
| Pressure public water main | 10 feet6 | 10 feet | 10 feet | 10 feet |
For SI units: 1 foot = 304.8 mm
Notes:
1 Including porches and steps, whether covered or uncovered, breezeways, roofed porte cocheres, roofed patios, carports, covered walks, covered driveways, and similar structures or appurtenances.
2 See Section 312.3.
3 Drainage piping shall clear domestic water supply wells by not less than 50 feet (15 240 mm). This distance shall be permitted to be reduced to not less than 25 feet (7620 mm) where the drainage piping is constructed of materials approved for use within a building.
4 Plus 2 feet (610 mm) for each additional 1 foot (305 mm) of depth more than 1 foot (305 mm) below the bottom of the drain line. (See Section H 601.0)
5 See Section 720.0.
6 For parallel construction — For crossings, approval by the Health Department shall be required.
7 These minimum clear horizontal distances shall also apply to disposal fields, seepage pits, and the mean high-tide line.
8 Where disposal fields, seepage pits, or both are installed in sloping ground, the minimum horizontal distance between any part of the leaching system and ground surface shall be 15 feet (4572 mm).
Nothing contained in this code shall be construed to prohibit the use of all or part of an abutting lot to provide additional space for a private sewage disposal system or part thereof where proper cause, transfer of ownership, or change of boundary not in violation of other requirements has been first established to the satisfaction of the Authority Having Jurisdiction. The instrument recording such action shall constitute an agreement with the Authority Having Jurisdiction, which shall clearly state and show that the areas so joined or used shall be maintained as a unit during the time they are so used. Such agreement shall be recorded in the office of the County Recorder as part of the conditions of ownership of said properties and shall be binding on heirs, successors, and assigns to such properties. A copy of the instrument recording such proceedings shall be filed with the Authority Having Jurisdiction.
Where there is insufficient lot area or improper soil conditions for sewage disposal for the building or land use proposed, and the Authority Having Jurisdiction so finds, no building permit shall be issued, and no private sewage disposal shall be permitted. Where space or soil conditions are critical, no building permit shall be issued until engineering data, and test reports satisfactory to the Authority Having Jurisdiction have been submitted and approved.
H 101.10 Additional Requirements. Nothing contained in this appendix shall be construed to prevent the Authority Having Jurisdiction from requiring compliance with additional requirements than those contained herein, where such additional requirements are essential to maintaining a safe and sanitary condition.
H 101.11 Alternate Systems. Alternate systems shall be permitted to be used by special permission of the Authority Having Jurisdiction after being satisfied with their adequacy. This authorization is based on extensive field and test data from conditions similar to those at the proposed site or requires such additional data as necessary to assure that the alternate system will produce continuous and long-range results at the proposed site, not less than equivalent to systems which are specifically authorized.
Where demonstration systems are to be considered for installation, conditions for installation, maintenance, and monitoring at each such site shall first be established by the Authority Having Jurisdiction.
Approved aerobic systems shall be permitted to be substituted for conventional septic tanks provided the Authority Having Jurisdiction is satisfied that such systems will produce results not less than equivalent to septic tanks, whether their aeration systems are operating or not.
The liquid capacity of septic tanks shall comply with Table H 201.1 (1) and Table H 201.1 (4) as determined by the number of bedrooms or apartment units in dwelling occupancies and the estimated waste/sewage design flow rate or the number of plumbing fixture units as determined from Table 702.1 of this code, whichever is greater in other building occupancies. The capacity of any one septic tank and its drainage system shall be limited to the soil structure classification in Table H 201.1(2), and as specified in Table H 201.1(3).
TABLE H 201.1(1)
CAPACITY OF SEPTIC TANKS1, 2, 3, 4
CAPACITY OF SEPTIC TANKS1, 2, 3, 4
| SINGLE-FAMILY DWELLINGS - NUMBER OF BEDROOMS | MULTIPLE DWELLING UNITS OR APARTMENTS - ONE BEDROOM EACH | OTHER USES: MAXIMUM FIXTURE UNITS SERVED PER TABLE 702.1 | MINIMUM SEPTIC TANK CAPACITY (gallons) |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1 or 2 | — | 15 | 750 |
| 3 | — | 20 | 1000 |
| 4 | 2 units | 25 | 1200 |
| 5 or 6 | 3 | 33 | 1500 |
| — | 4 | 45 | 2000 |
| — | 5 | 55 | 2250 |
| — | 6 | 60 | 2500 |
| — | 7 | 70 | 2750 |
| — | 8 | 80 | 3000 |
| — | 9 | 90 | 3250 |
| — | 10 | 100 | 3500 |
For SI units: 1 gallon = 3.785 L
Notes:
1 Extra bedroom, 150 gallons (568 L) each.
2 Extra dwelling units over 10: 250 gallons (946 L) each.
3 Extra fixture units over 100: 25 gallons (94.6 L) per fixture unit.
4 Septic tank sizes in this table include sludge storage capacity and the connection of domestic food waste disposers without further volume increase.
TABLE H 201.1(2)
DESIGN CRITERIA OF FIVE TYPICAL SOILS
DESIGN CRITERIA OF FIVE TYPICAL SOILS
| TYPE OF SOIL | REQUIRED SQUARE FEET OF LEACHING AREA PER 100 GALLONS | MAXIMUM ABSORPTION CAPACITY IN GALLONS PER SQUARE FEET OF LEACHING AREA FOR A 24 HOUR PERIOD |
|---|---|---|
| Coarse sand or gravel | 20 | 5.0 |
| Fine sand | 25 | 4.0 |
| Sandy loam or sandy clay | 40 | 2.5 |
| Clay with considerable sand or gravel | 90 | 1.1 |
| Clay with small amount of sand or gravel | 120 | 0.8 |
For SI units: 1 square foot = 0.0929 m2, 1 gallon = 3.785 L, 1 gallon per square foot = 40.7 L/m2
TABLE H 201.1(3)
LEACHING AREA SIZE BASED ON SEPTIC TANK CAPACITY
LEACHING AREA SIZE BASED ON SEPTIC TANK CAPACITY
| REQUIRED SQUARE FEET OF LEACHING AREA PER 100 GALLONS SEPTIC TANK CAPACITY (square feet per 100 gallons) | MAXIMUM SEPTIC TANK SIZE ALLOWABLE (gallons) |
|---|---|
| 20—25 | 7500 |
| 40 | 5000 |
| 90 | 3500 |
| 120 | 3000 |
For SI units: 1 square foot per 100 gallons = 0.000245 m2/L, 1 gallon = 3.785 L
| TYPE OF OCCUPANCY | GALLONS PER DAY |
|---|---|
| Airports (per employee) | 15 |
| Airports (per passenger) | 5 |
| Auto washers — check with equipment manufacturer | - |
| Bowling alleys — with snack bar only (per lane) | 75 |
| Campground — with central comfort station (per person) | 35 |
| Campground — with flush toilets — no showers (per person) | 25 |
| Camps (day) — no meals served (per person) | 15 |
| Camps (summer and seasonal camps) — (per person) | 50 |
| Churches — sanctuary (per seat) | 5 |
| Churches — with kitchen waste (per seat) | 7 |
| Dance halls — (per person) | 5 |
| Factories — no showers (per employee) | 25 |
| Factories — with showers (per employee) | 35 |
| Factories — with cafeteria (per employee) | 5 |
| Hospitals — (per bed) | 250 |
| Hospitals — kitchen waste only (per bed) | 25 |
| Hospitals — laundry waste only (per bed) | 40 |
| Hotels — no kitchen waste (per bed) | 60 |
| Institutions — resident (per person) | 75 |
| Nursing home — (per person) | 125 |
| Rest home — (per person) | 125 |
| Laundries — self-service with minimum 10 hours per day (per wash cycle) | 50 |
| Laundries — commercial check with manufacturer's specification | - |
| Motel (per bed space) | 50 |
| Motel — with kitchen (per bed space) | 60 |
| Offices — (per employee) | 20 |
| Parks — mobile homes (per space) | 250 |
| Parks (picnic) — with toilets only (per parking space) | 20 |
| Parks (recreational vehicles) — without water hook-up (per space) | 75 |
| Parks (recreational vehicles) — with water and sewer hook-up (per space) | 100 |
| Restaurants — cafeteria (per employee) | 20 |
| Restaurants — with toilet waste (per customer) | 7 |
| Restaurants — with kitchen waste (per meal) | 6 |
| Restaurants — with kitchen waste disposable service (per meal) | 2 |
| Restaurants — with garbage disposal (per meal) | 1 |
| Restaurants — with cocktail lounge (per customer) | 2 |
| Schools staff and office (per person) | 20 |
| Schools — elementary (per student) | 15 |
| Schools — intermediate and high (per student) | 20 |
| Schools — with gym and showers (per student) | 5 |
| Schools — with cafeteria (per student) | 3 |
| Schools (boarding) — total waste (per person) | 100 |
| Service station — with toilets for 1st bay | 1000 |
| Service station — with toilets for each additional bay | 500 |
| Stores — (per employee) | 20 |
| Stores — with public restrooms (per 10 square feet of floor space) | 1 |
| Swimming pools — public (per person) | 10 |
| Theaters — auditoriums (per seat) | 5 |
| Theaters — with drive-in (per space) | 10 |
For SI units: 1 square foot = 0.0929 m2, 1 gallon per day = 3.785 L/day
Notes:
1 Sewage disposal systems sized using the estimated waste/sewage flow rates shall be calculated as follows:
Flow × 1.5 = septic tank size
Flow × 0.75 + 1125 = septic tank size
(c) Secondary system shall be sized for total flow per 24 hours.
2 See Section H 201.1.
3 Because of the many variables encountered, it is not possible to set absolute values for waste/sewage flow rates for all situations. The designer should evaluate each situation and, where figures in this table need modification; they should be made with the concurrence of the Authority Having Jurisdiction.
The minimum effective absorption area in disposal fields in square feet (m2), and in seepage pits in square feet (m2) of sidewall, shall be predicated on the required septic tank capacity of gallons (liters), estimated waste/sewage flow rate, or whichever is greater, and shall be in accordance with Table H 201.1(2) as determined by the type of soil found in the excavation, and shall be as follows:
- Where disposal fields are installed, not less than 150 square feet (13.9 m2) of trench bottom shall be provided for each system exclusive of any hard pan, rock, clay, or other impervious formations. Sidewall area more than the required 12 inches (305 mm) and not exceeding 36 inches (914 mm) below the leach line shall be permitted to be added to the trench bottom area where computing absorption areas.
- Where leaching beds are permitted instead of trenches, the area of each such bed shall be not less than 50 percent greater than the tabular requirements for trenches. Perimeter sidewall area more than the required 12 inches (305 mm) and not exceeding 36 inches (914 mm) below the leach line shall be permitted to be added to the trench bottom area where computing absorption areas.
- No excavation for a leach line or leach bed shall be located within 5 feet (1524 mm) of the water table nor to a depth where sewage is capable of contaminating the underground water stratum that is usable for domestic purposes.Exception: In areas where the records or data indicate that the groundwaters are grossly degraded, the 5 foot (1524 mm) separation requirement shall be permitted to be reduced by the Authority Having Jurisdiction. The applicant shall supply evidence of groundwater depth to the satisfaction of the Authority Having Jurisdiction.
- The minimum effective absorption area in any seepage pit shall be calculated as the excavated sidewall area below the inlet exclusive of any hardpan, rock, clay, or other impervious formations. The minimum required area of porous formation shall be provided in one or more seepage pits. No excavation shall extend within 10 feet (3048 mm) of the water table nor to a depth where sewage is capable of contaminating underground water stratum that is usable for domestic purposes.Exception: In areas where the records or data indicate that the groundwaters are grossly degraded, the 10 foot (3048 mm) separation requirement shall be permitted to be reduced by the Authority Having Jurisdiction.The applicant shall supply evidence of groundwater depth to the satisfaction of the Authority Having Jurisdiction.
- Leaching chambers that comply with IAPMO PS 63 and bundled expanded polystyrene synthetic aggregate units that comply with IAPMO IGC 276 shall be sized using the required area calculated using Table H 201.1 (2) with a 0.70 multiplier.
Where practicable, disposal field and seepage pit sizes shall be computed from Table H 201.1(2). Seepage pit sizes shall be computed by percolation tests unless use of Table H 201.1(2) is approved by the Authority Having Jurisdiction.
The absorption qualities of seepage pits and questionable soils other than those listed in Table H 201.1(2), the proposed site, shall be subjected to percolation tests acceptable to the Authority Having Jurisdiction.
Where a percolation test is required, no private disposal system shall be permitted to serve a building where that test shows the absorption capacity of the soil is less than 0.83 gallons per square foot (gal/ft2) (33.8 L/m2) or more than 5.12 gal/ft2 (208.6 L/m2) of leaching area per 24 hours. Where the percolation test shows an absorption rate greater than 5.12 gal/ft2 (208.6 L/m2) per 24 hours, a private disposal system shall be permitted where the site does not overlie groundwaters protected for drinking water supplies, a minimum thickness of 2 feet (610 mm) of the native soil below the entire proposed system is replaced by loamy sand, and the system design is based on percolation tests made in the loamy sand.
Plans for septic tanks shall be submitted to the Authority Having Jurisdiction for approval. Such plans shall show dimensions, reinforcing, structural calculations, and such other pertinent data as required.
Septic tank design shall be such as to produce a clarified effluent consistent with accepted standards and shall provide adequate space for sludge and scum accumulations.
Septic tanks shall be constructed of solid, durable materials not subject to excessive corrosion or decay and shall be watertight.
Septic tanks shall have not less than two compartments unless otherwise approved by the Authority Having Jurisdiction. The inlet compartment of any septic tank shall be not less than two-thirds of the total capacity of the tank, nor less than 500 gallons (1892 L) liquid capacity, and shall be not less than 3 feet (914 mm) in width and 5 feet (1524 mm) in length. Liquid depth shall be not less than 21/2 feet (762 mm) nor more than 6 feet (1829 mm). The secondary compartment of a septic tank shall have a capacity of not less than 250 gallons (946 L) and a capacity not exceeding one-third of the total capacity of such tank. In septic tanks having a 1500 gallon (5678 L) capacity, the secondary compartment shall be not less than 5 feet (1524 mm) in length.
Access to each septic tank shall be provided by not less than two manholes 20 inches (508 mm) in minimum dimension or by an equivalent removable cover slab. One access manhole shall be located over the inlet, and one access manhole shall be located over the outlet. Where a first compartment exceeds 12 feet (3658 mm) in length, an additional manhole shall be provided over the baffle wall.
The inlet and outlet pipe openings shall not be larger in size than the connecting sewer pipe. The vertical leg of round inlet and outlet fittings shall not be less in size than the connecting sewer pipe nor less than 4 inches (100 mm) in diameter. A baffle-type fitting shall have the equivalent cross-sectional area of the connecting sewer pipe and not less than a 4 inch (102 mm) horizontal dimension where measured at the inlet and outlet pipe inverts.
Inlet and outlet pipe fittings or baffles and compartment partitions shall have a free vent area equal to the required cross-sectional area of the house sewer or private sewer discharging therein to provide free ventilation above the water surface from the disposal field or seepage pit through the septic tank, house sewer, and stack to the outer air.
The sidewalls shall extend not less than 9 inches (229 mm) above the liquid depth. The cover of the septic tank shall be not less than 2 inches (51 mm) above the back vent openings.
H 501.10 Partitions and Baffles. Partitions or baffles between compartments shall be of solid, durable material and shall extend not less than 4 inches (102 mm) above the liquid level. The transfer port between compartments shall be a minimum size equivalent to the tank inlet, but in no case less than 4 inches (102 mm) in size, shall be installed in the inlet compartment side of the baffle so that the entry into the port is placed 65 percent to 75 percent in the depth of the liquid. Wooden baffles are prohibited.
H 501.11 Structural Design. The structural design of septic tanks shall comply with the following requirements:
- Each such tank shall be structurally designed to withstand all anticipated earth or other loads. Septic tank covers shall be capable of supporting an earth load of not less than 500 pounds per square foot (lb/ft2) (2441 kg/m2) where the maximum coverage does not exceed 3 feet (914 mm).
- In flood hazard areas, tanks shall be anchored to counter buoyant forces during conditions of the design flood. The vent termination and service manhole of the tank shall be not less than 2 feet (610 mm) above the design flood elevation or fitted with covers designed to prevent the inflow of floodwater or the outflow of the contents of the tanks during conditions of the design flood.
H 501.12 Manholes. Septic tanks installed under concrete or blacktop paving shall have the required manholes accessible by extending the manhole openings to grade in a manner acceptable to the Authority Having Jurisdiction.
H 501.13 Materials. The materials used for constructing a septic tank shall be in accordance with the following:
- Materials used in constructing a concrete septic tank shall be in accordance with applicable standards in Table 1701.1.
- The minimum wall thickness of a steel septic tank shall be number 12 U.S. gauge (0.109 of an inch) (2.77 mm), and each such tank shall be protected from corrosion both externally and internally by an approved bituminous coating or by other acceptable means.
- Septic tanks constructed of alternate materials shall be permitted to be approved by the Authority Having Jurisdiction where in accordance with approved applicable standards. Wooden septic tanks shall be prohibited.
H 501.14 Prefabricated Septic Tanks. Prefabricated septic tanks shall comply with the following requirements:
- Manufactured or prefabricated septic tanks shall comply with approved applicable standards and be approved by the Authority Having Jurisdiction. Prefabricated bituminous coated septic tanks shall comply with UL 70.
- Independent laboratory tests and engineering calculations certifying the tank capacity and structural stability shall be provided as required by the Authority Having Jurisdiction.
Distribution lines shall be constructed of clay tile laid with open joints, perforated clay pipe, perforated bituminous fiber pipe, perforated high-density polyethylene pipe, perforated ABS pipe, perforated PVC pipe, or other approved materials, provided that approved openings are available for distribution of the effluent into the trench area.
Before placing filter material or drain lines in a prepared excavation, smeared or compacted surfaces shall be removed from trenches by raking to a depth of 1 inch (25.4 mm) and the loose material removed. Clean stone, gravel, slag, or similar filter material acceptable to the Authority Having Jurisdiction, varying in size from 3/4 of an inch to 21/2 inches (19.1 mm to 64 mm), shall be placed in the trench to the depth and grade required by this section. Drain pipe shall be placed on filter material in an approved manner. The drain lines shall then be covered with filter material to the minimum depth required by this section, and this material covered with untreated building paper, straw, or similar porous material to prevent the closure of voids with earth backfill. No earth backfill shall be placed over the filter material cover until after inspection and acceptance.
Exception: Listed or approved plastic leaching chambers and bundled expanded polystyrene synthetic aggregate units shall be permitted to be used in lieu of pipe and filter material. Chamber and bundled expanded polystyrene synthetic aggregate unit installations shall follow the rules for disposal fields, where applicable, and shall be in accordance with the manufacturer's instructions.
Where seepage pits are used in combination with disposal fields, the filter material in the trenches shall terminate not less than 5 feet (1524 mm) from the pit excavation, and the line extending from such points to the seepage pit shall be approved pipe with watertight joints.
Where two or more drain lines are installed, an approved distribution box of sufficient size to receive lateral lines shall be installed at the head of each disposal field. The invert of outlets shall be level, and the invert of the inlet shall be not less than 1 inch (25.4 mm) above the outlets. Distribution boxes shall be designed to ensure equal flow and shall be installed on a level concrete slab in natural or compacted soil.
Connections between a septic tank and a distribution box shall be laid with approved pipe with watertight joints on natural ground or compacted fill.
Where the quantity of sewage exceeds the amount that is permitted to be disposed of in 500 lineal feet (152.4 m) of leach line, a dosing tank shall be used. Dosing tanks shall be equipped with an automatic siphon or pump that discharges the tank once every 3 or 4 hours. The tank shall have a capacity equal to 60 to 75 percent of the interior capacity of the pipe to be dosed at one time. Where the total length of pipe exceeds 1000 lineal feet (305 m), the dosing tank shall be provided with two siphons or pumps dosing alternately and each serving one-half of the leach field.
Disposal fields shall be constructed in accordance with Table H 601.9.
TABLE H 601.9
GENERAL DISPOSAL FIELD REQUIREMENTS
GENERAL DISPOSAL FIELD REQUIREMENTS
| ELEMENT | MINIMUM | MAXIMUM |
|---|---|---|
| Number of drain lines per field | 1 | - |
| Length of each line | - | 100 feet |
| Bottom width of trench | 18 inches | 36 inches |
| Spacing of lines, center-to-center | 6 feet | - |
| Depth of earth cover of lines (preferred 18 inches) | 12 inches | - |
| Grade of lines | level | 3 inches per 100 feet |
| Filter material under drain lines | 12 inches | - |
| Filter material over drain lines | 2 inches | - |
For SI units: l inch = 25.4 mm, l foot = 304.8 mm, l inch per foot = 83.3 mm/m
Minimum spacing between trenches or leaching beds shall be not less than 4 feet (1219 mm) plus 2 feet (610 mm) for each additional foot (305 mm) of depth more than 1 foot (305 mm) below the bottom of the drain line. Distribution drain lines in leaching beds shall be not more than 6 feet (1829 mm) apart on centers, and no part of the perimeter of the leaching bed shall exceed 3 feet (914 mm) from a distribution drain line. Disposal fields, trenches, and leaching beds shall not be paved over or covered by concrete or a material that is capable of reducing or inhibiting a possible evaporation of sewer effluent.
H 601.10 Joints. Where necessary on sloping ground to prevent excessive line slope, leach lines or leach beds shall be stepped. The lines between each horizontal section shall be made with watertight joints and shall be designed, so each horizontal leaching trench or bed shall be utilized to the maximum capacity before the effluent shall pass to the next lower leach line or bed. The lines between each horizontal leaching section shall be made with approved watertight joints and installed on the natural or unfilled ground.
The capacity of seepage pits shall be based on the quantity of liquid waste discharging thereinto and on the character and porosity of the surrounding soil, and shall be in accordance with Section H 301.0 of this appendix.
Multiple seepage pit installations shall be served through an approved distribution box or be connected in series using a watertight connection laid on undistributed or compacted soil. The outlet from the pit shall have an approved vented leg fitting extending not less than 12 inches (305 mm) below the inlet fitting.
A seepage pit shall be circular in shape and shall have an excavated diameter of not less than 4 feet (1219 mm). Each such pit shall be lined with approved-type whole new hard-burned clay brick, concrete brick, concrete circular-type cesspool blocks, or other approved materials. Approval shall be obtained before construction for any pit having an excavated diameter greater than 6 feet (1829 mm).
The lining in a seepage pit shall be laid on a firm foundation. Lining materials shall be placed tight together and laid with joints staggered. Except in the case of approved-type precast concrete circular sections, no brick or block shall be greater in height than its width and shall be laid flat to form not less than a 4 inch (102 mm) wall. Brick or block greater than 12 inches (305 mm) in length shall have chamfered matching ends and be scored to provide for seepage. Excavation voids behind the brick, block, or concrete liner shall have not less than 6 inches (152 mm) of clean 3/4 of an inch (19.1 mm) gravel or rock.
Brick or block used in seepage pit construction shall have a compressive strength of not less than 2500 pounds per square inch (lb/in2) (1 757 672 kg/m2).
A seepage pit shall have a minimum sidewall (not including the arch) of 10 feet (3048 mm) below the inlet.
The arch or dome of a seepage pit shall be permitted to be constructed in one of three ways:
- Approved-type hard-burned clay brick or solid concrete brick or block laid in cement mortar.
- Approved brick or block laid dry. In both of the above methods, an approved cement mortar covering of not less than 2 inches (51 mm) in thickness shall be applied, said covering to extend not less than 6 inches (152 mm) beyond the sidewalls of the pit.
- Approved-type one or two-piece reinforced concrete slabs of not less than 2500 lb/in2 (1 757 672 kg/m2) minimum compressive strength, not less than 5 inches (127 mm) thick, and designed to support an earth load of not less than 400 pounds per square foot (lb/ft2) (1953 kg/m2). Each such cover shall be provided with a 9 inch (229 mm) minimum inspection hole with plug or cover and shall be coated on the underside with an approved bituminous or other nonpermeable protective compound.
The top of the arch or cover shall be not less than 18 inches (457 mm) but not exceed 4 feet (1219 mm) below the surface of the ground.
An approved vented inlet fitting shall be provided in the seepage pit so arranged as to prevent the inflow from damaging the sidewall.
Exception: Where using a one- or two-piece concrete slab cover inlet, fitting shall be permitted to be a one-fourth bend fitting discharging through an opening in the top of the slab cover. On multiple seepage pit installations, the outlet fittings shall comply with Section H 701.2 of this appendix.
A cesspool shall be considered as a temporary expedient pending the construction of a public sewer; as an overflow facility where installed in conjunction with an existing cesspool; or as a means of sewage disposal for limited, minor, or temporary uses, where first approved by the Authority Having Jurisdiction.
Where it is established that a public sewer system will be available in less than 2 years, and soil and groundwater conditions are favorable to cesspool disposal, cesspools without septic tanks shall be permitted to be installed for single-family dwellings or for other limited uses where first approved by the Authority Having Jurisdiction.
Each cesspool, where permitted, shall be in accordance with the construction requirements set forth in Section H 701.0 of this appendix for seepage pits and shall have a sidewall (not including arch) of not less than 20 feet (6096 mm) below the inlet, provided, however, that where a strata of gravel or equally pervious material of 4 feet (1219 mm) in thickness is found, the depth of such sidewall shall not exceed 10 feet (3048 mm) below the inlet.
Where overflow cesspools or seepage pits are added to existing installations, the effluent shall leave the existing pit through an approved vented leg extending not less than 12 inches (305 mm) downward into such existing pit and having its outlet flow line not less than 6 inches (152 mm) below the inlet. The pipe between pits shall be laid with approved watertight joints.
Where liquid wastes contain excessive amounts of grease, garbage, flammable wastes, sand, or other ingredients that affect the operation of a private sewage disposal system, an interceptor for such wastes shall be installed.
Installation of such interceptors shall comply with Section 1009.0 of this code, and their location shall comply with Table H 101.8 of this appendix.
A sampling box shall be installed where required by the Authority Having Jurisdiction.
Interceptors shall be of approved design and be not less than two compartments. Structural requirements shall comply with Section H 501.0 of this appendix.
Interceptors shall be located as close to the source as possible and be accessible for servicing. Necessary manholes for servicing shall be at grade level and be gastight.
Waste discharge from interceptors shall be permitted to be connected to a septic tank or other primary system or be disposed into a separate disposal system.
A formula shall be permitted to be adapted to other types of occupancies with similar wastes. (See Chart H 901.7)
CHART H 901.7
RECOMMENDED DESIGN CRITERIA
RECOMMENDED DESIGN CRITERIA
| GREASE AND GARBAGE, COMMERCIAL KITCHENS | ||||||||||
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Number of meals per peak hour | × | Waste flow rate1 | × | Retention time2 | × | Storage factor3 | = | Interceptor size (liquid capacity) | ||
| SAND-SILT OIL, AUTO WASHERS | ||||||||||
| Number of vehicles per hour | × | Waste flow rate | × | Retention time2 | × | Storage factor3 | = | Interceptor size (liquid capacity) | ||
| SILT-LINT GREASE, LAUNDRIES, LAUNDROMATS | ||||||||||
| Number of machines | × | 2 cycles per hour | × | Waste flow rate1 | × | Retention time2 | = | Storage factor3 | = | Interceptor size (liquid capacity) |
Notes:
1 For waste flow rate see Table H 201.1(4).
2 Retention Times:
(a) Kitchen (commercial) — with dishwasher, garbage disposal, or both = 2.5 hours
(b) Kitchen (single service) — with garbage disposal = 1.5 hours
(c) Auto Washers (sand-silt oil) = 2.0 hours
(d) Laundries/Laundromats = 2.0 hours
3 Storage Factors:
(a) Kitchen (commercial) — with 8 hours operation = 1
(b) Kitchen (commercial) — with 16 hours operation = 2
(c) Kitchen (commercial) — with 24 hours operation = 3
(d) Kitchen (single service) = 1.5
(e) Auto Washers (sand-silt oil) — with self service = 1.5
(e) Auto Washers (sand-silt oil) — with employee operated = 2
(d) Laundries/Laundromats — with rock filter = 1.5 hours
Inspection requirements shall comply with the following:
- Applicable provisions of Section 105.0 of this code and this appendix shall be required. Plans shall be required in accordance with Section 103.3 of this code.
- System components shall be properly identified as to manufacturer. Septic tanks or other primary systems shall have the rated capacity permanently marked on the unit.
- Septic tanks or other primary systems shall be installed on dry, level, well-compacted soil.
- Where design is predicated on soil tests, the system shall be installed at the same location and depth as the tested area.
Testing requirements shall comply with the following:
- Septic tanks or other primary components shall be filled with water to flow line before requesting an inspection. Seams or joints shall be left exposed (except the bottom), and the tank shall remain watertight.
- A flow test shall be performed through the system to the point of effluent disposal. All lines and components shall be watertight. Capacities required air space, and fittings shall comply with the provisions outlined in this appendix.
An abandoned building (house) sewer, or part thereof, shall be plugged or capped in an approved manner within 5 feet (1524 mm) of the property line.
A cesspool, a septic tank, or a seepage pit that has been abandoned or has been discontinued otherwise from further use, or to which no waste or soil pipe from a plumbing fixture is connected, shall have the sewage removed therefrom and be completely filled with the earth, sand, gravel, concrete, or other approved material.
The top cover or arch over the cesspool, septic tank, or seepage pit shall be removed before filling, and the filling shall not extend above the top of the vertical portions of the sidewalls or above the level of any outlet pipe until inspection has been called and the cesspool, septic tank, or seepage pit has been inspected. After such inspection, the cesspool, septic tank, or seepage pit shall be filled to the level of the top of the ground.
No person owning or controlling a cesspool, septic tank, or seepage pit on the premises of such person or in that portion of any public street, alley, or other public property abutting such premises shall fail, refuse, or neglect to be in accordance with the provisions of this section or upon receipt of notice so to be in accordance with the Authority Having Jurisdiction.
Where disposal facilities are abandoned consequent to connecting any premises with the public sewer, the permittee making the connection shall fill all abandoned facilities in accordance with the Authority Having Jurisdiction within 30 days from the time of connecting to the public sewer.
The Authority Having Jurisdiction, Health Officer, or other department having jurisdiction shall be permitted to require the following information before a permit is issued for a private sewage disposal system or at a time during the construction thereof:
- Plot plan drawn to scale, completely dimensioned, showing direction and approximate slope of surface, location of present or proposed retaining walls, drainage channels, water supply lines or wells, paved areas and structures on the plot, number of bedrooms or plumbing fixtures in each structure, and location of the private sewage disposal system with relation to lot lines and structures.
- Details of construction necessary to ensure compliance with the requirements of this appendix together with a full description of the complete installation including quality, kind, and grade of materials, equipment, construction, workmanship, and methods of assembly and installation.
- A log of soil formations and groundwater levels as determined by test holes dug in close proximity to a proposed seepage pit or disposal field, together with a statement of water absorption characteristics of the soil at the proposed site, as determined by approved percolation tests.
"The information contained in this appendix is not part of this American National Standard (ANS) and has not been processed in accordance with ANSI's requirements for an ANS. As such, this appendix may contain material that has not been subjected to public review or a consensus process. In addition, it does not contain requirements necessary for conformance to the standard."
The following IAPMO Installation Standard is included here for the convenience of the users of the Uniform Plumbing Code. It is not considered as a part of the Uniform Plumbing Code unless formally adopted as such. This Installation Standard is an independent, stand-alone document published by the International Association of Plumbing and Mechanical Officials and is printed herein by the expressed written permission of IAPMO.