How do I maintain my septic system?

State law (Chapter 246-272A-0270) requires that homeowners inspect and maintain their septic systems to ensure it is functioning properly. The longevity of your on-site septic system relies heavily on the way that you care for it. Be sure to:

  • Complete additional routine maintenance that is required for some system types.
    • Take a look at the monitoring frequencies document  to see how often your system needs maintenance and monitoring.
    • Alternative systems need maintenance annually unless otherwise specified by manufacturer requirements.
  • Monitor what goes into your system
  • Protect the system from surface water and drainage, soil compaction, and other activities that might use it to fail, such as flooding
  • Schedule regular pumping for your septic tank. See our list of certified pumpers.

This video discusses how different systems work and is a helpful resource for understanding maintenance. 

Show All Answers

1. What is a septic system?
2. Do I have a septic system?
3. How is a septic system sized?
4. How do I maintain my septic system?
5. How often do I need to have my tank inspected and pumped?
6. What things are safe to put down my drain and into my system?
7. Can I put food down my garbage disposal if I have a septic system?
8. How do I know if my septic system needs a repair or if it is failing?
9. What do I do if my system is failing or in need of a repair?
10. How do I obtain a septic system permit?
11. How do I renew my septic application permit?
12. What should I do if I need a septic system and a well?
13. How do I report a septic system problem?
14. How do I clean an indoor sewage spill?
15. Who needs septic as-built information?
16. What information is in an as-built record?
17. Where does septic information on the as-built site come from?
18. What should I do if my as-built record is difficult to read or incorrect, and how do I go about getting my as-built corrected?
19. How do I decommission or abandon my septic system?
20. Resources