In the State of California, managing the wastewater of a property in rural and suburban areas often relies on a septic tank system. This is due to large populations and the vast areas that remain unserved by a centralized sewer system. Septic tank systems in California are subject to set regulations that are in place to protect the health of both people and the environment. This guide provides an overview of California septic tank requirements to serve as a valuable resource for homeowners and contractors looking for information on septic tank systems in California.
California Septic Tank Regulations
California’s septic tank regulations are primarily overseen by the State Water Resources Control Board (SWRCB) and its Onsite Wastewater Treatment Systems (OWTS) Policy, which can then hand off policy and enforcement to regional or county water boards.
This is likely due to the state of California’s varied topology and geology that considers local water resources and environmental conditions. Therefore, Local Regional Water Quality Control Boards (RWQCBs) often implement additional septic system requirements within their jurisdictions.
California Septic Tank Definitions
In the state of California, in the case of legal and government regulations, septic tanks and their systems are known as an Onsite Wastewater Treatment System, which is often abbreviated OWTS. So, when a California document or permit mentions OWTS, they are referring to a septic tank system being used to handle, treat, and discharge human wastewater generated by the property.
Reason for California Septic Tank Regulations
Being designed to handle human wastewater, septic tanks hold the potential to cause pollution, contaminate the environment, and cause health concerns from bacteria, pathogens, and other compounds such as nitrates that can be released from the system. Due to this, a septic system must be properly sited, installed, and maintained to the best of our collective understanding. Also due to this, septic tank installations, repairs, and modifications are recommended to be performed by a licensed professional rather than DIY by the homeowner.
Can I Install My Own Septic Tank in California
The answer to whether a property owner can install their own septic tank in California may depend on the region they live in within the state. However, self-installation, referred to as being an owner-builder, is largely not permitted in California State due to regulations and ordinance codes. The reason being the owner-builder would have to be a qualified professional registered with the state, similar to a contractor.
While a property owner could acquire the necessary education, pass the required exams, and pay the associated fees in order to install their own septic tank, most will not be willing to complete this process. Additionally, even though a homeowner may be able to install their own septic systems, it is generally not recommended due to the complexity of the project and the limited amount of cost that may be saved by doing it yourself when compared to hiring a professional.
On the other hand, a property owner may be permitted to complete demolition activities associated with the removal of an old septic tank system to prepare the site for a replacement or modification. In all instances involving a homeowner and a septic system in the state of California, the regional or county water resource division, health department, or environmental health department should be contacted as rules can vary by location.
Steps Needed to Install a Septic Tank
In California, the installation of a new or replacement septic system requires a permit as well as all the necessary site evaluations, design plans, materials such as the septic tank, plumbing, sand, and/or gravel, and the construction equipment necessary to perform the installation. Permits can often be obtained through a local county water resources board.
A site evaluation must be performed by a qualified professional to determine the soil conditions, local topology, nearby surface waters, and the suitability of the onsite geology for a conventional septic system. A system design plan must be drawn out, reviewed by the state, and then approved before construction can begin.
Cost Estimate for Installing a Septic Tank
In terms of cost, the price to install a septic tank and drain field for a house can vary. Factors influencing costs include the size and type of the septic tank, the size and type of the leach field, and the amount of site modification required through construction to accommodate the lay of the land, nearby water sources, and setback distances based on property features. Professional estimates by licensed California contractors are traditionally the best way to get a good idea of how much a septic tank installation will cost for your unique location.
As a leading supplier of storage tanks, we provide polyethylene septic tanks. You can review our septic tanks here to get an estimate on how much the tank itself will cost. Note, common septic tank sizes in California for residential buildings range from 750 gallons to 2,250 gallons.
Should I Install My Own Septic Tank in California
While you can install your own septic tank in California, (as a certified owner-builder), the task involves a process of permits, evaluations, inspections, designing, and construction.
It is worth noting that undertaking this endeavor without the proper training, equipment, confidence, and capability could lead to costly mistakes or environmental hazards and even fines by the government if the system is not in line with regulations and requirements. Hiring a licensed professional is recommended.
Can I Use a Polyethylene Septic Tank in California
Yes, polyethylene septic tanks are acceptable for use in the state of California. According to California policy, a septic tank must be built from solid, durable materials, be watertight, and will not experience excessive corrosion or decay over time, which includes concrete, fiberglass, and polyethylene septic tanks.
Key Septic Tank Requirements
Permit Requirement
The installation of a septic tank and some repairs in California will require a permit, often obtained from the local water resources board for the county or region.
Some key highlights of when a permit for installation will be needed include:
- Septic systems, new or replacement, that do not meet Tier 1 OWTS Policy regulations.
- If located in Santa Barbara County or Monterey County, new or replacement septic systems must meet the conditions in an approved Local Agency Management Program.
- Septic systems located outside of Santa Barbara County or Monterey County’s jurisdiction and projected to have a flow of over 3,500 gallons-per-day are subject to these regulations.
Key highlights of when septic tank repairs do NOT need a permit include:
- Minor repairs such as replacing a septic tank lid or distribution box or repairing a broken pipe.
- Major repairs for a system still in Tier 1 compliance with a local agency management program. Examples of major repairs include septic tank integrity failure, baffle failure, or inadequate leach field operation.
Septic System Components
Conventional, gravity-fed septic systems in California will feature a septic tank, a leach field (aka disposal field), a distribution box (when more than one drain line is installed), and the plumbing that connects the drains from the building’s water fixtures to the septic tank.
The septic tank and its components must be watertight and made from long-lasting materials. California regulation requires septic tanks with at least two (2) compartments and manway risers that extend septic tank access up to ground level. that are not subject to excessive corrosion or decay, such as a polyethylene plastic tank.
Septic Tank Size Required in California
The size of the septic tank and system will vary and depend on the number of bedrooms and fixtures in the home or building, with the minimum septic tank capacity being 750 gallons. The local county water agency may also have specific sizing requirements for your area.
According to the Onsite Wastewater Treatment System (OWTS) Policy Implementation Reference, Appendix K of the 2007 California Plumbing Code (Part 5, Title 24, California Code of Regulations) for Private Sewage Disposal Systems, the document provides the following table:
Note, this table and information are provided for reference only. Individuals (homeowners) interested in installing their own septic tank should take thorough steps to ensure they comply with current California State regulations. It is also recommended they read and familiarize themselves with the details in the California State Water Resources Control Board Policy Implementation Document.
California Septic Tank Installation
Installing California septic tank systems requires a multi-step process that can be performed by the parcel owner or by a licensed professional contractor. Septic tank installation steps can include:
Steps to Septic Tank Installation
- Site evaluation, including:
- Soil tests
- Percolation tests
- Topography assessment
- System design and blueprinting
- Often must be done by a civil engineer, geologist, or environmental health specialist
- Obtain the necessary permits
- Plan approval by state (if applicable)
- Excavation
- Septic tank installation
- Disposal field construction
- Plumbing connections
- System priming and start-up
- Inspection for operation approval
The septic tank installer must comply with all local codes, regulations, and best practices related to the system’s design, location, and depth.
Inspection and Maintenance
Regular inspections are recommended to ensure there are no faults in the system. Regular septic tank maintenance is necessary to keep the system working properly and to prevent problems. Septic tank maintenance is traditionally recommended to pump the tank every 3 to 5 years to remove built-up solids, oils, and grease.
Unlawful Installations
In the state of California, it is considered unlawful to install a septic tank in a manner that does not comply with the state’s specified requirements, and it is considered a public nuisance to discharge onsite wastewater in a manner not according to regulations. Additionally, a permit will not be issued for a new installation or repair of a septic tank system when a municipal sewer connection is available or within 200 feet of the property.
Areas without Public Sewer
In areas where public sewer is not available, home and property owners are legally required to have a septic system installed to treat wastewater coming from their home. Failure to comply can result in legal fines and consequences.
Financial Assistance
Financial assistance programs may be available to help low-income households with the costs of installing or repairing a septic tank system. Contact your local water resources control board to ask for more information.
Additionally, the state of California is one of thirteen states serviced by the Rural Community Assistance Corporation (RCAC). The RCAC provides grants and low-interest loans to qualifying residents to help in the purchase and installation of a new well or septic tank system.
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Additional Resources
- California State Water Resources Board
- California Adopted Policy Onsite Wastewater Treatment Systems
- City of Los Angeles, CA Municipal Code for Septic Systems
- RCAC Financial Assistance Programs
- California Plumbing Code | Private Sewage Disposal Systems
Disclaimer: This guide is intended to provide general information and expectations around the installation and requirements of a septic tank and system in the state of California and is not intended to substitute for professional advice or consultation from state departments or licensed professionals. The information provided is current and accurate to the best of our knowledge. For specific advice on your individual situation, please consult with a California regional water resources board or a licensed septic tank professional.