Home Sewage Treatment Systems (HSTS)
A home septic system is a self-contained sewage system that uses a combination of technology and natural processes to treat wastewater from a home's bathrooms, kitchens, and laundry. The main component of a septic system is the septic tank, which holds wastewater and separates solids from liquids. The liquids are then filtered into a drainage field.
In January 2015, the Ohio Department of Health adopted new rules regarding Home Sewage Treatment Systems (HSTS) in Ohio (Ohio Revised Code: 3718 and Ohio Administrative Code: Chapter 3701-29). These rules require each health department across the state to implement a local Operation and Maintenance (O&M) program to monitor and ensure the proper function of HSTS in their jurisdictions.
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Lorain County Public Health (LCPH) works to protect people and the environment by making sure that HSTS work as designed - if HSTS don't work properly, they may negatively impact local watersheds by adding bacteria and pollution. LCPH is responsible for overseeing the proper maintenance of more than 18,000 HSTS many of which we have limited information about. All homeowners with a HSTS in Lorain County are required to have an O&M permit issued by LCPH. View permit conditions online.
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Newly enrolled homeowners will receive an annual permit until 2027.
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The permit fee for 1 year is $40
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The permit fee for 3 years is $120
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Understanding the Septic System
A typical septic system comprises three main components: the septic tank, a drainfield, and the soil beneath it. Wastewater from your home enters the septic tank, where it undergoes initial treatment. The clarified effluent then flows into the drainfield, where it’s further treated and dispersed into the soil.
The septic tank separates solids from liquids, allowing bacteria to break down organic matter. The treated liquid is then released into the drainfield for natural filtration.
Septic Tank Maintenance
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Regular Pumping: Schedule regular septic tank pumping every 3-5 years, or as recommended by a professional, to remove accumulated solids and prevent tank overflow.
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Water Conservation: Be mindful of water usage to prevent overloading the system. Fix leaks and use water-saving fixtures.
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Septic-Friendly Products: Use septic-safe products to prevent damage to the system’s beneficial bacteria.
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Avoid Flushing Harmful Substances: Do not flush non-biodegradable items, chemicals, or excessive grease into the system.
Signs of Septic System Issues
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Slow Drains: Slow drainage in sinks and toilets can indicate a clog or septic system issues.
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Foul Odors: Unpleasant odors in your yard or home may signal septic problems.
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Standing Water: Puddles or soggy soil around the drainfield indicate potential issues.
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Gurgling Pipes: Strange sounds from your plumbing can be a sign of septic problems.
What to do - and what NOT to do
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Do: Schedule Regular Inspections: Have your system inspected by a professional at least every 3 years.
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Don’t Use Excessive Cleaners: Avoid overusing chemical cleaners that can disrupt the balance of bacteria in the septic tank.
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Do: Maintain Drainfield Vegetation: Maintain a healthy grass cover over the drainfield to help with natural filtration.
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Don’t Drive or Build Over the System: Keep heavy vehicles and structures away from the drainfield to prevent damage.
When buying a home with a septic system, check for things like:
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Pumping and maintenance records
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The system's age
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Sludge levels and scum thickness
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Signs of leakage or backup
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The integrity of the tank, inlet, and outlet pipes
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The drain field for signs of system failure
This guide provides information homebuyers need to know before purchasing a home with a septic system, how a septic system works, and the importance of having it inspected prior to purchasing a home. In addition, this guide provides information on everyday, preventative, and corrective maintenance for when you are living in your new home.
Types of HSTS
Knowing which type of system you have on your property is a critical first step. There are several types of septic systems, including:
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This system uses multiple tanks to treat wastewater with chlorine and aerobic bacteria, then sprays it onto the lawn.
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This system adds an aerobic chamber and filtering device to treat sewage, then distributes the treated effluent over a wide area using irrigation tubes.
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This above-ground system includes a septic tank, pump tank, and drainfield in a mound of sand.
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Recirculating sand filter system
This system uses a septic tank for primary treatment, and then moves clarified effluent to a recirculation station.
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This system uses a gravel-less drain field, and can be made with environmentally friendly materials.
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This system mimics a natural wetland, and may be necessary in homes with soil that's difficult to penetrate.
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This system has an open-air tank lined with a waterproof material, and wastewater evaporates into the air instead of filtering into the soil or groundwater.
The USEPA provides details for each type of system above. You can learn more by clicking each type or here