How a Septic System Works

Septic systems are individual wastewater treatment systems that use the soil to treat small wastewater flows, usually from individual homes. They are generally found in the more rural lot settings in Morris Township, where public sewer service is not available.

There are many types of septic systems in use today. While all septics are individually designed for the soil characteristics and usage for each site, most systems operate under the same basic principles.

Older residences in the township may still be utilizing cesspools or seepage pit septic systems. While cesspools are banned for new construction, existing cesspools were grand-fathered when the New Jersey septic system standards (N.J.A.C. 7:9A) were revised in 1989. Seepage pits may be found on many properties that were developed prior to the 1970s, but newer septic system regulations discourages their installation.

Most septic systems in operation today consist of a septic tank, a distribution box and a disposal field, also referred to as a leach field or drainfield. This conventional installation treats household wastewater by temporarily holding it in the septic tank, where heavy solids and lighter scum are allowed to separate from the wastewater. The solids stored in the tank are decomposed by bacteria and later removed, along with the lighter scum, by a professional septic tank pumper. After the partially treated wastewater leaves the tank, it flows into a distribution box, which evenly distributes the flow into a network of PVC laterals. Drainage holes at the bottom of each line allow the wastewater to drain into and through a gravel filter material. The effluent then seeps slowly through suitable soil or fill material, where it is further treated and purified. A properly functioning septic system does not pollute the groundwater.

Caring for Your Septic System

A septic tank should be pumped out every two and a half to three years to prolong the life of your system. Septic systems must be maintained regularly to work adequately. Neglect or abuse of your septic system can cause it to fail. Failing septic systems can:

• cause a serious health threat to your family and neighbors
• degrade the environment, especially lakes, streams and groundwater
• reduce the value of your property
• be very expensive to repair

Be alert to these warning signs of a failing septic system:

• sewage surfacing over the drainfield, cesspool or seepage pits
• sewage back-ups in the house
• lush, green growth over the area of your septic system
• slow draining toilets or drains
• sewage odors

Tips to Avoid Trouble with your Septic System

• DO have your septic tank pumped out every two and a half to three years by a professional septic contractor (listed in the yellow pages).
• DO keep a record of pumping, inspections and other maintenance.
• DO practice water conservation. Repair dripping faucets and leaking toilets; run washing machines and dishwashers only when full; avoid long showers; and use water-saving features in faucets, shower heads and toilets.
• DO learn the location of your septic system. Keep a sketch of it handy for service visits. The Health Department may have records of your septic system on file. If you would like to know what information is available for your property, call 973-326-7390.
• DO take leftover hazardous household chemicals to your approved hazardous waste collection center for disposal. Use bleach, disinfectants, and drain and toilet bowl cleaners sparingly and in accordance with product labels.
• DON’T allow anyone to drive or park over any part of the septic system. The area over the disposal field should be left undisturbed with only a mowed grass cover. Roots from nearby trees or shrubs could clog and damage your drain lines.
• DON’T make or allow repairs to your septic system without obtaining the required Health Department permit. Use professional septic contractors and engineers when needed. The Health Department maintains a list of many septic contractors and professional engineers for any needed repair work.
• DON’T use commercial septic tank additives. These products generally do not help and some may harm your system in the long run.
• DON?T use your toilet as a trash can by dumping non-degradables down your toilet or drains. Also, don?t foul your septic system and the groundwater by pouring harmful chemicals down the drain. They can kill the beneficial bacteria that treat your wastewater. Keep materials like grease, disposable diapers, plastics, gasoline, oil, paint, paint thinner, pesticides, antifreeze, etc. out of your septic system!

Septic Fee Schedule

Permits are required for all work done to create, improve or maintain septic systems within the borders of Morris Township. New construction permits cost $250.00. ANY repair (even minor ones) to existing septic systems require a permit from the Township. Repair permits cost $50.00. Additional fees may apply. They may be completed by the homeowner or the contractor hired to do the work.

State law requires homeowners who are dealing with extensive site work (such as the replacement of a disposal field) to secure the services of a NJ licensed professional engineer.The list of NJ licensed PE's is maintained by the State and is available at the Morris County Library. The engineer you hire will be responsible for arranging the necessary environmental assessments and submitting proposed designs to the Department of Health. Pumping permits are routinely obtained by the company that provides the service. We recommend that you pump your tank once every 2 1/2 years. The Township does not require any type of certification on septic system condition for the purpose of real estate transfers. Call the Department of Health for details (973-326-7390).