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- Info
Septic tanks, lot size and pollution of water table aquifers
| Author: |
Perkins, R.J. |
| Date: |
1984 |
| Periodical: |
Journal of Environmental Health |
| Abstract: |
As the pollution potential of septic systems becomes more widely recognized, and as pollution by septic systems becomes more wide spread, pressure to develop and implement rational and effective standards will increase. At present, there is no uniform approach among regulatory agencies to setting standards. Past experience suggests that regulation of septic tank density is an effective means of minimizing pollution potential, and that regulation of penetration depth of wells into ground water and of separation distance between wells and drain fields are insufficient preventive measures when used alone. Density of septic systems is regulated through minimum lot size requirements. The range of lot sizes which provides a minimum reasonable protection of groundwater quality appears to be from 0.2 to 0.4 hectare (0.5 to 1.0 acre) based on reported data, and from 0.3 to 0.4 ha (0.75 to 1.0 acre), based on theory. However, the degree of protection desired varies with location, as do the physical parameters dictating the effects of septic tank effluent on groundwater. Where precise standards are desired, data relating local physical parameters to pollution potential are required. As various models are applied to diverse conditions, and the results reported, regulatory agencies will converge on an optimum strategy for minimizing the pollution potential from on-site sewage disposal. |
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