How to Properly Abandon a Septic Tank or System?
July 6, 2020

An onsite septic system or any component thereof must be properly abandoned or removed when the useful life of the system or component has been exceeded or when it is to be abandoned. The property owner is responsible that it is done in compliance with the following:

  • When a septic system or any component thereof must be abandoned or removed, it shall be completed in a safe and sanitary manner.
  • Evidence of the proper disposal of waste materials shall be available upon request.
  • Septic tanks, dose tanks and dry wells shall be abandoned according to the following requirements:
  • The power shall be disconnected at the source from all electrical controls and all controls and panels shall be removed. All electrical lines (including service lines) shall be removed that will not be used for other purposes.
  • All tanks shall be pumped and cleaned by a person licensed by the Indiana Department of Environmental Management.
  • Tanks shall be removed or the lids shall be collapsed into the tanks.
  • Dry wells and tanks to be left in place shall be completely filled with debris-free sand or other granular material, concrete or soil in a manner to prevent settling.
  • The area shall be properly graded so that water does not pond over the area and a vegetative cover shall be established.

Absorption fields shall be abandoned according to the following requirements:

  • The components of the absorption field may be left intact.
  • If effluent has discharged to the surface, the area shall be covered with hydrated lime followed by topsoil. A vegetative cover shall be established.
  • If components of the absorption field are to be removed:
  • The site shall be graded so that it does not pond water and vegetative cover should be established.
  • The distribution network, aggregate and sand (if any) shall be removed from the site and taken to a licensed landfill for proper disposal.
  • Distribution boxes must be pumped and cleaned by a person licensed by the Indiana Department of Environmental Management.
  • Sufficient time shall be allowed after the system is taken out of service and the tanks are pumped to make sure the entire absorption field is completely dry.

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The Tippecanoe Chapman Lakes Regional Sewer District is committed to providing safe, high quality, cost-effective sanitary wastewater services to our community while maintaining a standard of excellence in environmental conservation.
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