On-lot sewage disposal systems (OLDS) in Pennsylvania are governed by the Pennsylvania DEP Act 537 Sewage Facilities Program and 25 Pa. Code Chapter 73 Standards.
Permitting and Planning Requirements
- Act 537 Mandate: Every new construction, repair, replacement, or modification of an on-lot sewage system requires a formal permit from your local municipality or joint agency.
- Sewage Enforcement Officer (SEO): Local-certified Sewage Enforcement Officers conduct soil profile evaluations, percolation tests, site reviews, and final installation inspections.
- Township Application form: is required for any soil profile evaluations, percolation tests or site reviews. You can obtain the applications online (LINK) or at the Township building.
- DEP Application Form: Property owners must submit the official DEP Application for an On-Lot Sewage System Permit (Form 3850-FM-BCW0290) along with site plans and technical designs and finally the construction.
- Permit Expiration: Permits expire if construction or installation does not begin within three years of issuance.
System Types and Standards
- Conventional Systems: In-ground trench/seepage beds, subsurface sand filters, elevated sand mounds, and spray irrigation.
- Alternative/Experimental Systems: Used for difficult soil or slope sites, subject to special DEP verification policies.
- Technical Compliance: Systems must adhere to groundwater nitrate impact evaluations and NSF/ANSI 40 listings.
Operation, Maintenance, and Prohibitions
- Pumping and Inspection: Regular pumping of treatment and dosing tanks is recommended (frequently every 3 to 5 years) to prevent system failure.
- Prohibited Disposals: Never flush or dump grease, oils, gasoline, paints, bleach, heavy solids, or harsh chemical cleaners into an on-lot system