Technical Information about Septic Systems

Distributed Systems Overview Fact Sheet (PDF)(4 pp, 159 K, About PDF)
Joint WEF/WRF/Decentralized MOU Partnership fact sheet provides an overview of decentralized/distributed systems in both rural and urban communities, as well as examples in different geographic regions.

Advanced Onsite Technology Products Approved by State

A web-based list of links to state information about the advanced technology products approved for use, the product approval process, and the state agencies which oversee the use of advanced treatment systems for decentralized wastewater management.

Fact Sheets on Alternative Onsite Wastewater Technologies:

The Wastewater Information System Tool (TWIST)

An off-the-shelf, user-friendly management tool for state and local health agencies to inventory and manage small wastewater treatment systems. It is designed to track information on homes and facilities served, permits, site evaluations, types of systems, inspections, and complaints.

Onsite Wastewater Treatment and Disposal Systems-Design Manual

Provides technical information on onsite wastewater treatment and disposal systems for those who design, construct, operate, and maintain wastewater systems.

The Onsite Wastewater Treatment and Disposal Systems Manual

Provides technical information about onsite wastewater treatment and disposal systems. It does not contain standards for those systems, nor does it contain pertinent rules or regulations. This manual assists those involved in the design, construction, operation, maintenance, and regulation of wastewater systems.

Source Water Protection Practices Bulletin: Managing Septic Systems to Prevent Contamination of Drinking Water

Discusses ways to prevent septic systems from contaminating sources of drinking water.

Alert for Recreational Vehicle, Boat and Mobile Home Owners and Park Operators about Safe Wastewater Disposal

Provides information on the dangers of chemical additives, such as holding tank deodorizers.

Model Program to Assist State Septic Programs in Managing Water Quality Impacts in the Chesapeake Bay Watershed

In June 2013, EPA initiated a model program for onsite wastewater treatment systems in the Chesapeake Bay watershed to help states prevent nutrients from entering the Bay. The program is a collaboration between EPA and state and local partners to reduce nitrogen discharges from onsite systems. The program implements a 2009 presidential executive order recognizing the Chesapeake Bay as a national treasure and requiring the federal government to lead an effort to restore and protect the nation's largest estuary and its watershed.

Guide to a Model Program for Onsite in the Chesapeake Bay Watershed (PDF)(100 pp, 1.91 MB, About PDF)

Assists states in developing and implementing a program to manage onsite systems and minimize nitrogen impacts to the Chesapeake Bay.

Planning for Septic Systems: Use of Online Decentralized Systems in Developing Areas, Factsheet

A guide for county decision makers, planners, and local public health officials.

National Association of Counties

Information for homeowners and community officials on the realities of septic systems, the benefits of an onsite wastewater management plan, the steps in developing a plan, and resources for more information.

Local Government Environmental Assistance Network (LGEAN)

A "first-stop shop" providing environmental management, planning, funding, and regulatory information for local government elected and appointed officials, managers, and staff.