In many areas of Carroll County there are no public sewerage systems to treat household wastes. In such areas, individual on-site septic systems are installed on lots to treat residential waterborne wastes. A septic system that is well-designed, properly constructed, and properly maintained can function satisfactorily for many years.

A private on-site sewage disposal may only be constructed or repaired after a permit is issued by this Department. Prior to permit issuance, a soil percolation test must be conducted to determine the suitability of the soil to treat sewage effluent. Properties subdivided after March, 1972 require a 10,000 square foot sewage disposal area to provide for the installation of an original system and two replacement systems. The following siting and setback distances also apply to private on-site sewage disposal systems and repair areas:

• Located at an elevation lower than on-site well sites.
• At least 20 feet from building foundations.
• At least 100 feet from all proposed and existing wells.
• At least 10 feet from property lines.
• At least 100 feet from a stream (200 feet in certain areas near water supply intakes).
• At least 300 feet from a water supply reservoir.

• Septic System Manual