SEDL / STP / STP1324-EB / STP13782S

Inspection Manual for Existing Septic Systems

Frekot, LLC
Professional Engineer, Minnesota Pollution Control Agency, St. Paul, MN

Elvebak, ML
Hydrogeologist, Minnesota Pollution Control Agency, St. Paul, MN

Pages: 8    Published: Jan 1997

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Abstract

In response to the demand for uniform inspections and conformity of existing Individual Sewage Treatment Systems (ISTS) across the state, the Minnesota Pollution Control Agency (MPCA) is developing a manual addressing the need for inspection procedures for existing ISTS. In this effort, the MPCA has done thorough research, formed advisory committees, and tested all the different procedures for inspecting existing ISTS. The manual is to be used as an educational tool to complete a comprehensive inspection of an existing ISTS on a property.

The manual will be used by individual sewage treatment system professionals and local unit of government employees to systematically investigate ISTS to determine which systems meet current Minnesota state standards. It was created to be user-friendly and comprehensive, with sections appropriate for copying and use directly in the field. The manual includes the definition of failing systems according to Minnesota Rule, Chapter 7080, and provides a methodology for inspecting ISTS. It also describes the available equipment used to investigate systems, dye tracer use, safety, a protocol for public involvement and recordkeeping.