Septic Systems

DO NOT use commercial septic tank cleaners.

DO NOT pour hazardous materials such as paint, paint thinner, solvents, indus-trial cleaners, disinfectants, pesticides, or waste oil down toilets or sinks.

DO NOT pour grease or cooking oil down the drain. It will clog the soil and leaching system.

DO NOT overload your system with food waste from the garbage disposal.

DO NOT dispose of nonbiodegradable objects such as disposable diapers down the toilet. They do not decompose.

DO NOT use chlorine bleach.

DO pump out the septic tank every two or three years.

DO keep records of septic system maintenance.

DO be alert to signs of a failing system such as the presence of wet areas above the leaching field and backing up of wastewater following periods of heavy water use.

Hazardous Materials/Wastes Storage & Use

DO NOT dispose of hazardous materials or wastes such as solvents, degreasers, waste oil, commercial cleaners, pesticides, paint thinner, or radiator fluid by pouring them down a floordrain, sink, or toilet.

DO NOT dispose of such materials or wastes by pouring them on or burying them in the ground or by pouring them down storm drains.

DO NOT use pesticides or herbicides near the well. Minimize the use of fertilizers near the well.

DO NOT park cars near the well or next to storms drains that empty to a dry well.

DO dispose of toxic and hazardous materials or waste properly. For household hazardous waste, contact your community for information on collection days.

DO practice good "housekeeping" in automobile/shop maintenance areas. Pick up spills with absorbent material and dispose of properly.

DO conduct regular employee training sessions on "best management practices" for handling and disposing of toxic or hazardous materials or washes.

Fuel Storage Tanks

DO NOT locate new fuel storage tanks in the recharge area of the well. Existing above-ground storage tanks should have containment structures and be protected from the weather. Existing underground storage tanks should be regularly tested and carefully monitored for leaks.

DO check with your local fire marshal for regulations pertaining to testing leak detection devices and other requirements for fuel storage tanks.

DO remove deteriorating fuel storage tanks.

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