{"id":4675,"date":"2024-01-06T12:12:48","date_gmt":"2024-01-06T18:12:48","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/www.ntotank.com\/blog\/?p=4675"},"modified":"2024-01-18T16:35:54","modified_gmt":"2024-01-18T22:35:54","slug":"alabama-septic-tank-requirements","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/ntotank.com\/blog\/alabama-septic-tank-requirements","title":{"rendered":"Alabama Septic Tank Requirements"},"content":{"rendered":"\n
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In the state of Alabama, many areas do not have a public sewer system. For homes and residents in these areas, they must rely on septic tanks and systems to manage the wastewater from their property. To make sure the septic system works right and doesn’t harm the environment, there are specific regulations for septic tank sizes, installation, maintenance, and use. This guide provides information on Alabama septic tank requirements that residents and contractors need to know for new properties and construction.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Alabama Septic Tank Regulations<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n
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In Alabama, the Alabama Onsite Wastewater Board (AOWB<\/a>), which is part of the Alabama Department of Public Health (ADPH), is responsible for overseeing septic systems<\/a> and related departments. <\/p>\n<\/div>\n\n\n\n

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The AOWB enforces Chapter 420-3-1 of the ADPH Rules which covers detailed regulations on installing and maintaining septic tank systems. Keep in mind that certain counties and local areas may have additional rules that apply to their specific jurisdiction.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Can I Install My Own Septic Tank in Alabama<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n

According to the Alabama Department of Public Health<\/a>, in order to install a septic tank and system, the individual must have a current, certified license from the Alabama Onsite Wastewater Board. To become a licensed septic installer requires attending classes with a state-registered sponsor, completing a test, filing forms, paying fees, and renewing licenses when required.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

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So, to be able to install your own septic tank in the state of Alabama will require you to become a state-certified licensed installer similar to a contractor. While this is plausible, it is perhaps better suited by most to instead hire an already licensed professional.<\/p>\n<\/div>\n\n\n\n

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The AOWB provides an online roster search<\/a> that helps find state-licensed septic tank installers, advanced installers, and pumpers.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

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AOWB Online Roster Search for Licensed Septic Tank Installers<\/a><\/div>\n<\/div>\n\n\n\n
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Key Septic Tank Requirements<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n

Permits<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n

Before installation, modification, or repair of a septic tank system, a permit application must be submitted and approved, and a permit issued. In Alabama, septic tank permits are often issued by the local health department. The permit application process will typically involve a site inspection, soil evaluation, system design plans, and approval by an AOWB-licensed engineer or Public Health Environmentalist. You can find the Alabama Septic Tank Permit application form here<\/a>.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

See the following for a list of Alabama local health departments<\/a>. Also, see the following for the official rules of the Alabama State Board of Health<\/a> for onsite sewage treatment and disposal.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Alabama Septic Tank Definitions<\/strong><\/h4>\n\n\n\n

For the case of permits and rule documents, in the state of Alabama, septic tank systems are often referred to as an onsite sewage and disposal system, which is abbreviated OSS. Most Alabama septic systems are classified as small-flow OSS with less than 1,800 gallons per day (GPD) of wastewater or twelve bedrooms and less.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

We make this point to remove any confusion when looking at information or applying for a permit as the Alabama permit for a new septic tank only mentions an OSS.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Alabama Septic Tank Fees<\/strong><\/h4>\n\n\n\n

A fee may be required for permit submission and approval with the fee amount varying on location.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

System Design<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n
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A conventional septic system in Alabama typically has three components: a watertight tank, the drain field, and the soil. Septic tanks are made from different materials, with the top three types being concrete, polyethylene septic tanks, and fiberglass. All three septic tank types are approved for use in Alabama<\/a>.<\/p>\n<\/div>\n\n\n\n

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Polyethylene Septic Tanks<\/a><\/div>\n<\/div>\n\n\n\n
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Septic tank system design must be met based on details related to soil type, household size, wastewater flow, and nearby property features. Regulations from the Alabama Onsite Wastewater Board<\/a> indicate minimum tank capacities, drain field sizing, and setback distances from wells, structures, and property lines. These work-intensive requirements, education, and the construction know-how needed are the reason why a licensed installer is required and why professional consultation is recommended.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Installation<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n
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In Alabama, a septic tank and system can only be installed by an individual or company licensed by the Alabama Onsite Wastewater Board (AOWB). This is also true for septic tank pumpers. This requirement is in place because they must have the professional education and training to adhere to the approved design plans and follow best practices for construction and materials used in building.<\/p>\n<\/div>\n\n\n\n

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It is recommended to receive at least three quotes from professional, licensed septic tank installation companies. The AOWB Licensee Roster Search tool<\/a> can make this task easier.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Even though the septic tank installation must be performed by a licensed individual or company, the permit submission and application form must be signed by a “responsible person”. A responsible person is defined in AL Chapter 420-3-1<\/a> as:<\/p>\n\n\n\n

“[…] in the case of a private dwelling, it is the property owner, or his or her authorized agent. In the case of a corporation, it is a principal executive officer. In the case of a partnership, it is a general partner. In the case of a sole proprietorship, it is the proprietor. In the case of a municipal, state, federal, or other public entity, it is either a principal executive officer or ranking elected official.”<\/em><\/p>\n\n\n\n

Maintenance<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n
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Regular maintenance is important to keep your septic tank and system running efficiently, to prevent problems, and to avoid polluting the environment. Licensed pumpers should be hired to empty the septic tank every 3-5 years. The time frame here can vary and can depend on how much the septic is used and local soil conditions. Additionally, effluent filters, if installed, should be inspected and cleaned to keep the system working optimally and help prevent solid waste from entering the drain field, which can lead to maintenance and repairs.<\/p>\n<\/div>\n\n\n\n

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For more info on septic system care and maintenance, see this article from the Alabama Cooperative Extension System<\/a> of Alabama A&M and Auburn University.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Inspections<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n

Homeowners can either do so themselves, (not recommended), or hire a licensed professional to perform a septic tank inspection to check the need for the system to be pumped and find any possible issues. Septic tank inspections are recommended once a year<\/a> and often involve checking the amount of scum or sludge buildup (for pumping) and making sure wastewater can freely flow out of the septic tank by checking the effluent filter, if installed.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Periodic inspections may also be performed by AOWB personnel to make sure compliance is being maintained with current regulations. However, this is often more common in non-residential or large-flow septic tank systems.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Additional Considerations<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n

Alternative Systems<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n
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In certain scenarios and properties with less-suitable soils, conventional septic tanks and systems may be inadequate and unfit for use. In such cases, the Alabama Onsite Wastewater Board can allow the use of alternative engineered septic systems such as aerobic treatment units (ATUs) or sand filters.<\/p>\n<\/div>\n\n\n\n

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Financial Assistance<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n

Programs and grants may be available to help low-income households with the costs of septic system installation or repair, particularly when an old system has been damaged or is no longer properly working. It is recommended to contact the AOWB or your local health department for more information.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Invest in a Quality Septic Tank from National Tank Outlet<\/h2>\n\n\n\n

Following Alabama’s septic tank rules is not only required by law but is also important for keeping people healthy and the environment safe. By knowing and taking care of their systems, Alabama residents can make sure their septic tanks work well and last a long time. As you navigate these complexities, remember that you’re not alone in this journey. <\/p>\n\n\n\n

At National Tank Outlet, we specialize in providing top-quality underground septic tanks that meet all state regulations as they are made by a state-approved manufacturer. Our products are designed with strength and service in mind, so you get the best value for your investment. <\/p>\n\n\n\n

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If you are a homeowner or contractor needing to purchase a septic tank in Alabama for a new installation, repair, or replacement, explore our Alabama approved polyethylene septic tanks<\/a>. Set up your home with a reliable wastewater management solution today with a septic tank from the National Tank Outlet.<\/p>\n<\/div>\n\n\n\n

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Shop Septic Tanks<\/a><\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n\n\n\n
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Contact National Tank Outlet<\/a><\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n\n\n\n

Additional Resources<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n