FAQ

Your septic tank will most certainly be installed along the main sewer line that runs out of your home. Look for the 4-inch sewer that exits the crawl space or basement, and locate the same spot outside the home. Septic tanks are usually located between 5 to 25 feet away from the home.

On average, a properly installed and well-maintained septic tank can last 20 to 30 years. Concrete septic tanks, the most common tank type found today, can last quite a long time. Regular septic pumping can help prolong the life of the system.

If a septic system is well-maintained and working properly, it will remove most of these pollutants. Insufficiently treated sewage from septic systems can cause groundwater contamination, which can spread disease in humans and animals. Septic tank fumes often carry airborne bacteria as well that can cause sinus infections and other respiratory problems. A failing septic system can also send mold spores back into your home, causing problems for those with asthma and mold allergies.

Household septic tanks are typically pumped every two years. Alternative systems with electrical float switches, pumps, or mechanical components should be inspected more often. Household size, water use and even a garbage disposal can effect how often pumping is needed.

The CDC has determined that wells located at least 50 feet from a septic system are not prone to contamination from bacteria or other harmful pathogens. However, septic systems are more efficient for removing bacteria than for removing the nitrogen found in human waste. A traditional septic system is only able to remove 30-40% of the nitrogen from the waste water effluent. Nitrogen in drinking water will not cause harm if consumed and is even present in municipal water supplies. Nitrogen flowing from septic tanks does pose a problem in the Lagoon as it is a food source for algal blooms. It is estimated that about 19% of the excess nitrogen coming into the Lagoon each year comes from septic systems.

We are in support of the efforts ongoing to save the lagoon! Please let us know if you have any questions regarding if your house qualifies for Save the Lagoon grant money and we can direct you to the appropriate resources.

A traditional septic tank can only remove up 30-40% of the nitrogen found in human waste. The remaining nitrogen can flow through the groundwater to the Indian River Lagoon where it can feed algal blooms. Homes with septic systems that are within the watershed of the Lagoon contribute nearly 400,000 lbs. of nitrogen per year to the Indian River Lagoon. Septic systems within 164 feet (50 meters) of the Lagoon or an open water connection to the lagoon (including rivers, creeks, ditches and canals) have the greatest impact, contributing 76% of that nitrogen.

Current laws in Florida prevent local governments from creating new regulations that would prohibit a property owner from being able to utilize their property for its intended purpose. This would include a complete ban on septic tanks; however, regulations can be made to specify the types of septic systems that are allowed. On October 9, 2018, Brevard County passed a septic ordinance requiring advanced treatment septic system (65% or greater nitrogen removal) on the barrier islands (both the beaches and on Merritt Island), as well as in mainland areas within 197 feet (60 meters) of the Indian River Lagoon system and its open water tributaries.

Funding is included in the Save Our Indian River Lagoon Project Plan to upgrade septic systems that are not feasible to connect to central sewer. Homeowner grants of up to $18,000 are available for eligible homeowners to upgrade their conventional septic system to an advanced septic system. Eligibility amounts are based on a property’s estimated pollution to the groundwater through its septic drainfield.
The Save Our Indian River Lagoon Plan Project Story Map, shows how much is available for your home. Open the map and click on tab #3 Septic System Upgrades. Zoom in and click on your property to see the grant amount available. You may also email [email protected] with any questions.