09/01/2026
📖From the Iowa DNR Residential On-site Wastewater Treatment Guide:
"Many Iowans live in homes that do not have access to public wastewater treatment systems. Instead, they must rely on their own on-site wastewater system, whether it is a traditional septic tank and drainfield, or other system specifically engineered for the site. Success or failure of a system depends on the site, design, installation, operation and maintenance.
In Iowa, domestic wastewater is defined as the
liquid and waterborne wastes that result from
ordinary living processes. It consists of blackwater,
which are wastes carried off by toilets, urinals
and kitchen drains; and graywater, from baths,
lavatories, laundries and sinks. Both blackwater
and graywater must be collected and treated.
Restaurant wastewater is considered domestic
waste. Water from roof and footing drainages and
swimming pools does not require treatment, and
should not be directed to an on-site wastewater
treatment system.
The State of Iowa requires a homeowner to have
a permit to construct — and in some counties to
operate — an on-site wastewater treatment system.
This permit is normally issued by the local county
board of health or its agent. This agent is the county environmental health office or county sanitarian.
Every system must meet all provisions for design
and separation distances required in Chapter 69. A site and soil evaluation or percolation test must be conducted to determine the capability of the soil to handle the treatment function. Information about the final system including the contractor/designer must be kept onsite for future reference. The primary goal is that onsite wastewater treatment systems must not endanger human health and must not cause environmental pollution.
Realistically, all wastewater treatment systems may cause some increase in pollutant concentrations in ground and surface water. The intent is to minimize pollution and the risk associated with it as much as humanly and technologically possible."
💦With all of the talk about water issues in Iowa, aren't you glad Rogers Septic stays up to date with the safest, most reliable, and cost effective measures for the care of you, your family, and our environment? 🌍
Got questions? Call 515-282-0777 to find out how we can help you!
Or go to www.rogersseptic.com for more information!
