When it comes to managing your property’s waste, maintaining a functional septic system is key. But what happens when your old septic tank becomes a liability rather than a solution? Whether you’re upgrading to a new system or your tank is no longer suitable, abandoning an old septic tank properly is crucial for both safety and compliance. HomeField is taking a dive into why septic tank abandonment matters and what Arizona’s permit laws entail.

Why Abandon an Old Septic Tank?

Preventing Environmental Hazards

Old, unused septic tanks can become a serious environmental hazard. Over time, these tanks can deteriorate and leak harmful waste into the surrounding soil and groundwater, potentially contaminating local water sources. By abandoning your old tank properly, you minimize the risk of pollution and safeguard the environment.

Avoiding Property Damage

An abandoned septic tank without proper sealing can turn into a dangerous pitfall on your property. Unattended, it might collapse or pose safety risks to people and animals. Proper abandonment ensures your property remains safe and intact. It’s better to be safe than sorry!

Meeting Legal Requirements

In Arizona, failing to properly abandon a septic tank can lead to legal trouble. Local regulations require you to decommission any unused septic system according to specific standards to prevent health hazards and environmental issues.

Basic Steps for Septic Tank Abandonment

Secure Necessary Permits

Before starting, you’ll need to obtain a permit from your local health department or environmental agency. This step is crucial for ensuring that your abandonment process adheres to local regulations. If you are in Maricopa County, visit www.maricopa.gov/2581/Online-Septic-Research for more information. If you are in Pinal County, you don’t need a permit to abandon the tank.

Empty and Seal the Tank

First, pump and clean the tank thoroughly. Next, fill it with a material like sand or concrete and seal it securely to prevent future hazards. Additionally, in some cases, the tank may be smashed or broken up before filling to ensure it doesn’t collapse or cause environmental contamination. This comprehensive process guarantees that the tank is safely decommissioned and complies with Arizona’s regulations, thereby protecting both your property and the environment.

Document the Process

You’ll need to provide documentation to the relevant authorities after the abandonment. This includes proof of the permit and a report of the abandonment process to confirm everything was completed correctly. Not into paperwork and dealing with all that? Our experts over here at Priority Pumping can take care of that for you.

Why Choose HomeField East Valley?

If you’re facing an old septic tank that needs abandonment, contact your East Valley HomeField team. We’ll manage the entire process, from permits to paperwork, so you don’t have to worry about a thing.

At HomeField, we handle more than just septic system maintenance. Our expertise extends to managing the complexities of septic tank abandonment, ensuring compliance with regulations and safeguarding your property. Let us take care of the details so you can enjoy peace of mind.