{"id":4837,"date":"2024-01-10T17:42:00","date_gmt":"2024-01-10T23:42:00","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/www.ntotank.com\/blog\/?p=4837"},"modified":"2024-01-15T20:37:19","modified_gmt":"2024-01-16T02:37:19","slug":"california-septic-tank-requirements","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/ntotank.com\/blog\/california-septic-tank-requirements","title":{"rendered":"California Septic Tank Requirements"},"content":{"rendered":"\n
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In the State of California, managing the wastewater of a property in rural and suburban areas often relies on a septic tank system. This is due to large populations and the vast areas that remain unserved by a centralized sewer system. Septic tank systems in California are subject to set regulations that are in place to protect the health of both people and the environment. This guide provides an overview of California septic tank requirements to serve as a valuable resource for homeowners and contractors looking for information on septic tank systems in California.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

California Septic Tank Regulations<\/h2>\n\n\n\n
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California’s septic tank regulations are primarily overseen by the State Water Resources Control Board (SWRCB<\/a>) and its Onsite Wastewater Treatment Systems (OWTS) Policy<\/a>, which can then hand off policy and enforcement to regional or county water boards. <\/p>\n<\/div>\n\n\n\n

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This is likely due to the state of California\u2019s varied topology and geology that considers local water resources and environmental conditions. Therefore, Local Regional Water Quality Control Boards (RWQCBs) often implement additional septic system requirements within their jurisdictions. <\/p>\n\n\n\n

California Septic Tank Definitions<\/h3>\n\n\n\n

In the state of California, in the case of legal and government regulations, septic tanks and their systems are known as an Onsite Wastewater Treatment System, which is often abbreviated OWTS. So, when a California document or permit mentions OWTS, they are referring to a septic tank system being used to handle, treat, and discharge human wastewater generated by the property. <\/p>\n\n\n\n

Reason for California Septic Tank Regulations <\/h3>\n\n\n\n

Being designed to handle human wastewater, septic tanks hold the potential to cause pollution, contaminate the environment, and cause health concerns from bacteria, pathogens, and other compounds such as nitrates that can be released from the system. Due to this, a septic system must be properly sited, installed, and maintained to the best of our collective understanding. Also due to this, septic tank installations, repairs, and modifications are recommended to be performed by a licensed professional rather than DIY by the homeowner.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Can I Install My Own Septic Tank in California<\/h3>\n\n\n\n
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The answer to whether a property owner can install their own septic tank in California may depend on the region they live in within the state. However, self-installation, referred to as being an owner-builder, is largely not permitted in California State due to regulations and ordinance codes<\/a>. The reason being the owner-builder would have to be a qualified professional registered with the state, similar to a contractor. <\/p>\n<\/div>\n\n\n\n

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While a property owner could acquire the necessary education, pass the required exams, and pay the associated fees in order to install their own septic tank, most will not be willing to complete this process. Additionally, even though a homeowner may be able to install their own septic systems, it is generally not recommended due to the complexity of the project and the limited amount of cost that may be saved by doing it yourself when compared to hiring a professional.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

On the other hand, a property owner may be permitted to complete demolition activities associated with the removal of an old septic tank system to prepare the site for a replacement or modification. In all instances involving a homeowner and a septic system in the state of California, the regional or county water resource division, health department, or environmental health department should be contacted as rules can vary by location. <\/p>\n\n\n\n

Steps Needed to Install a Septic Tank<\/h4>\n\n\n\n

In California, the installation of a new or replacement septic system requires a permit as well as all the necessary site evaluations, design plans, materials such as the septic tank, plumbing, sand, and\/or gravel, and the construction equipment necessary to perform the installation. Permits can often be obtained through a local county water resources board.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

A site evaluation must be performed by a qualified professional to determine the soil conditions, local topology, nearby surface waters, and the suitability of the onsite geology for a conventional septic system. A system design plan must be drawn out, reviewed by the state, and then approved before construction can begin. <\/p>\n\n\n\n

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Cost Estimate for Installing a Septic Tank<\/h4>\n\n\n\n

In terms of cost, the price to install a septic tank and drain field for a house can vary. Factors influencing costs include the size and type of the septic tank, the size and type of the leach field, and the amount of site modification required through construction to accommodate the lay of the land, nearby water sources, and setback distances based on property features. Professional estimates by licensed California contractors are traditionally the best way to get a good idea of how much a septic tank installation will cost for your unique location.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

As a leading supplier of storage tanks, we provide polyethylene septic tanks. You can review our septic tanks <\/a>h<\/a>ere<\/a> to get an estimate on how much the tank itself will cost. Note, common septic tank sizes in California for residential buildings range from 750 gallons to 2,250 gallons. <\/p>\n\n\n\n

Should I Install My Own Septic Tank in California<\/h4>\n\n\n\n
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While you can install your own septic tank in California, (as a certified owner-builder), the task involves a process of permits, evaluations, inspections, designing, and construction. <\/p>\n<\/div>\n\n\n\n

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It is worth noting that undertaking this endeavor without the proper training, equipment, confidence, and capability could lead to costly mistakes or environmental hazards and even fines by the government if the system is not in line with regulations and requirements. Hiring a licensed professional is recommended.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Can I Use a Polyethylene Septic Tank in California<\/h3>\n\n\n\n
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Yes, polyethylene septic tanks are acceptable for use in the state of California. According to California policy, a septic tank must be built from solid, durable materials, be watertight, and will not experience excessive corrosion or decay over time, which includes concrete, fiberglass, and polyethylene septic tanks<\/a>. <\/p>\n<\/div>\n\n\n\n

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Key Septic Tank Requirements<\/h2>\n\n\n\n

Permit Requirement<\/h3>\n\n\n\n

The installation of a septic tank and some repairs in California will require a permit<\/a>, often obtained from the local water resources board for the county or region. <\/p>\n\n\n\n

Some key highlights of when a permit for installation will be needed include:<\/p>\n\n\n\n