SEPTIC PERMITS
On-Site Wastewater Treatment and Disposal
Permit requirements and process. Wastewater includes all water-carried waste derived from ordinary living processes. This includes water from all bathroom and kitchen drains and laundry facilities. If a public sewer connection is not available, the property owner must install an on-site wastewater treatment and disposal unit (septic system) to properly treat the wastewater generated before disposal. A permit is required prior to installation. There are four basic steps to follow in this process:
1. Site evaluation. The Ringgold County Sanitarian is available, without charge, to assist you with selecting the best possible site for the placement of your septic system. Your septic contractor may also assist you.
2. Soil analysis or percolation (Perc) test. The subsurface absorption system (lateral field) is the preferred method of wastewater treatment for private sewers because it prevents contact with people and the environment even after processing. A percolation test or soil analysis is needed to determine the soil's ability to absorb the water from a private sewer. Ringgold County's policy is to accept only perc tests or soil analyses done by a soil scientist or registered professional engineer. If the soil will not absorb water fast enough or absorbs the water too quickly, or if the soils are deemed to be unsuitable for a subsurface absorption system, an alternate system will need to be installed. Perc tests and soil analyses are valid for one year from the date of the test.
3. Septic permit. Prior to beginning the installation of your private sewage disposal system, you must secure a permit from our office. This can be done once we have received and validated a soil report as stated above. Also, prior to obtaining the permit, you must have an Emergency 911 Address in place for the property, which can be applied for in the Engineer's Office. The septic permit cost is $175.00 effective September 1, 2008, and is valid for one year from the date it is issued.
4. Inspection. The system is to be exposed so that the Sanitarian can do a thorough inspection. Our office should be advised as least 24 hours prior to installation so that we can schedule the inspection for final approval.
Note: For facilities generating more than 1,500 gallons per day of wastewater, the Iowa DNR does the permit process.
A Septic and Building Permit Application may be obtained under our forms link at left. |
