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Septic Systems (Decentralized/Onsite Systems)

  • EPA and Decentralized Partnership Announce 1st Photo Challenge

    Find out how you can enter the 2022 SepticSmart Photo Challenge!

  • SepticSmart Week September 19-23, 2022

    SepticSmart week 10 year sam

    Save the Date! (pdf) (894.42 KB)

    Learn about SepticSmart Week and how to care for your septic system!
  • Closing America’s Wastewater Access Gap Community Initiative

    The new initiative will be piloted in 11 U.S. communities  where residents lack basic wastewater management that is essential to protecting their health and the environment. EPA, USDA, Alabama, Kentucky, Mississippi, New Mexico, North Carolina, West Virginia, and Tribes will jointly leverage technical assistance resources to help historically underserved communities identify and pursue federal funding opportunities – including from President Biden’s Bipartisan Infrastructure Law.

    • News Release
    • Learn more about Technical Assistance opportunities for your community

Encouraging homeowners, wastewater professionals, and state, tribal, and local officials to design and maintain effective systems to protect public health, preserve valuable water resources, and sustain economic vitality in their communities.

About Septic Systems

  • Overview of septic systems 
  • Septic Finance Learning Module
  • Case studies and demonstration projects
  • Guidance, policy, and regulations
  • Frequent questions

SepticSmart Homeowners

  • How your septic system works
  • Types of Septic Systems
  • Why maintain your system
  • How to care for your system
  • What to do if your system fails
  • How Your Septic System Can Impact Nearby Water Sources
  • Outreach Toolkit
  • More homeowner resources

Technical Resources

  • Technical information
  • Decentralized Workforce
  • Training centers
  • Webcasts
  • Funding
  • Programs Related to Septic Systems

Decentralized System Partners

Learn about EPA's partnership with 20 public and private organizations to foster collaboration and effective septic system management.

Contact Us to ask a question, provide feedback, or report a problem.
Last updated on August 2, 2022
United States Environmental Protection Agency

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