Parameter Viewer

Document ID us-owtsm-2002-02 Title Onsite Wastewater Treatment Systems Manual URL https://www.epa.gov/sites/default/files/2015-06/documents/2004_07_07_septics_septic_2002_osdm_all.pdf Jurisdiction /us Subdomain(s) none Language Status completed Analyzed at 2026-05-12 08:10:42.503005+00:00 Relevance inventory_targeted_fetch

Q Qualitative Requirements (75)

Req ID Category Intent Legal Status Name Subdomain(s) Context Conditions Confidence
#Q001treatmenttreatmentmandatoryCFSGAS Disinfection RequirementwastewaterFor surface water discharge, the system must be followed by disinfection at a minimum to consistently meet discharge standards.Surface water discharge applications.high
#Q002designoperationalrecommendedElectrical Component ProtectionwastewaterAll electrical components should follow NEC code and be waterproof and/or housed from the elements.Electrical components on onsite package treatment units.high
#Q003operationaloperationalmandatoryCFSGAS Operator QualificationswastewaterCFSGAS systems must be managed and maintained by trained personnel rather than homeowners to perform acceptably.high
#Q004treatmenttreatmentmandatoryFFS Disinfection RequirementwastewaterFixed-film systems also require a minimum of effluent disinfection to meet surface water discharge requirements.When surface water discharge is utilized.high
#Q005designtreatmentmandatoryFFS Ventilation Oxygen TransferwastewaterIf natural ventilation is required for aeration, proper design and construction must be considered to ensure adequate oxygen transfer.Where natural ventilation is employed in fixed-film systems.high
#Q006designoperationalrecommendedRBC Environmental ProtectionwastewaterRBC units should be covered and insulated against cold weather and sunlight.Applies to rotating biological contactor units.high
#Q007prohibitionoperationalrecommendedSBR Biomass Wasting RestrictionwastewaterNo wasting of biomass should be practiced until a satisfactory concentration has developed.Startup of sequencing batch reactor systems.high
#Q008designtreatmentrecommendedDisinfection Contact Basin BafflingwastewaterThe contact basin should be baffled to ensure that short-circuiting does not occur.When using a contact basin for chlorine disinfection.high
#Q009designtreatmentmandatoryChlorine Disinfection MixingwastewaterAt the point of chlorine addition, mixing is highly desirable and a contact chamber is necessary to ensure maximum disinfection.During chlorine disinfection.high
#Q010designoperationalmandatoryUV Unit AccessibilitywastewaterUV units must be located near a power source and should be readily accessible for maintenance and inspection.When installing UV disinfection units.high
#Q011designoperationalmandatoryUV Unit Controls IntegritywastewaterAppropriate controls for the unit must be corrosion-resistant and enclosed in accordance with electrical codes.Applies to UV disinfection system controls.high
#Q012monitoringoperationalmandatoryPretreatment MonitoringwastewaterInspections must include all pretreatment steps.When monitoring UV and chlorination disinfection systems.high
#Q013treatmenttreatmentmandatoryVSB Aeration RequirementwastewaterThey also require some form of aeration to meet effluent standards for dissolved oxygen (DO).Vegetated submerged beds (VSBs) producing effluent.high
#Q014operationaloperationalmandatoryAUF Flushing and InspectionwastewaterAUF units will require periodic flushing of accumulated solids and inspection of inlet and outlet systems.Anaerobic upflow filter units.high
#Q015designhealthmandatoryLagoon Public Access RestrictionwastewaterFencing will normally be required to restrict access by the public.Aquatic lagoon systems.high
#Q016designoperationalmandatoryPhosphorus Removal Construction and ManagementwastewaterAll the phosphorus removal options require noncorrosive materials of construction, appropriate alarms and sensing systems, and regular management by semiskilled staff.high
#Q017operationaloperationalmandatoryHolding Tank Blackwater RemovalwastewaterBlackwater discharged directly to a holding tank requires periodic removal for offsite treatment.Source separation systems discharging blackwater.high
#Q018treatmenttreatmentmandatoryAnionic System PretreatmentwastewaterIn the anionic system, septic tank effluent must be nitrified prior to passage through the exchange unit.Ion exchange physical/chemical treatment systems.high
#Q019prohibitionoperationalmandatoryISF Surface Placement RestrictionwastewaterISF units should never be placed in surface depressions without thoroughly sealing against prolonged inundation and drainage configurations that prevent stormwater entry.When locating Intermittent Sand Filter units.high
#Q020prohibitionoperationalmandatoryISF Filter Fabric RestrictionwastewaterFilter fabric should not be used at any location through which the filtrate would flow.Construction of Intermittent Sand Filter units.high
#Q021monitoringoperationalmandatoryISF Media Replacement MonitoringwastewaterBefore replacing the media, monitor wastewater flows and concentrations to determine if they are the cause of the problem.When evaluating premature clogging or ponding prior to media replacement.high
#Q022designoperationalmandatoryRecirculation Flow SplittingwastewaterThe return line or the underdrain must split the flow to recycle a portion of the filtrate to the recirculation/dosing tank.Recirculating sand filters.high
#Q023designoperationalmandatoryRecirculating Filter Underdrain ElevationwastewaterThe underdrain outlet invert elevation must be sufficiently above the recirculation tank inlet to accommodate a minimum of 0.1 percent slope on the return line...Recirculating sand/media filters.high
#Q024designoperationalmandatoryLand Treatment Climate Runoff PreventionwastewaterIn wet and cold areas, an additional basin for storage or a larger dosing tank is necessary to eliminate possible runoff from the application area.Land surface treatment systems in wet and cold areas.high
#Q025designhealthmandatorySpray Irrigation Vegetation and TopographywastewaterApplication areas must be vegetated (with crops not intended for human consumption) and have slopes that preclude runoff to streams.Spray irrigation systems.high
#Q026prohibitionhealthmandatorySpray Irrigation Crop Consumption ProhibitionwastewaterNo crops grown on the SI application area should be consumed by humans.Spray irrigation (SI) areas.high
#Q027prohibitionhealthmandatoryHousehold Toxic Waste ProhibitionwastewaterMany common household products have toxic properties and should never be poured down the drain.Responsibilities of the homeowner for existing or new septic tank/SWIS systems.high
#Q028prohibitionoperationalmandatoryImproper Solid Waste Disposal ProhibitionwastewaterItems such as cigarette butts, condoms, sanitary napkins, paper towels, and kitty litter should never be flushed or washed down the toilet or sink.Responsibilities of the homeowner for existing or new septic tank/SWIS systems.high
#Q029prohibitionoperationalrecommendedSeptic System Additives Prohibitionwastewater...the use of septic system additives containing these or any other ingredients is not recommended.Septic system usage.high
#Q030designhealthmandatoryHolding Tank WatertightnesswastewaterAlthough similar to septic tanks, vaults have no outlet piping and must be watertight.Holding tanks or vaults receiving wastewater.high
#Q031designoperationalmandatoryCritical Design Boundaries IdentificationwastewaterTherefore, all critical design boundaries must be identified and the mass loadings to each carefully considered to properly select the upstream performance and design requirements needed to prevent system failure.Design boundary and boundary loadings analysis.high
#Q032monitoringoperationalmandatorySoil Hydraulic Capacity DeterminationwastewaterThe site evaluation must determine the capacity of the soil to hydraulically accept and treat the expected daily mass loadings of wastewater.During subsurface infiltration system design boundaries and loadings assessment.high
#Q033operationaloperationalmandatorySite Evaluator TrainingwastewaterConsidering the importance of site evaluation with respect to system design, it is imperative that site evaluators have appropriate training to assess receiver sites and select the proper treatment train, size, and physical placement at the site.Receiving environment evaluations.high
#Q034monitoringhealthmandatoryGround Water Gradient DeterminationwastewaterAt least three piezometers, installed in a triangular pattern, are necessary to determine ground water gradient and direction of flow...When deeper water tables require the use of deep borings and possible installation of piezometers or monitoring wells.high
#Q035monitoringoperationalrecommendedFailure Diagnosis Visual ObservationwastewaterA visual observation of the failure should be made to confirm the information provided.When a failure is reported.high
#Q036administrativeoperationalmandatoryRME Oversight Requirementwastewaterthe regulatory authority (RA; e.g., local health department) must oversee the RME to ensure that the program achieves the comprehensive public health and environmental goals of the community.In jurisdictions where management program responsibilities are delegated to a Responsible Management Entity.high
#Q037prohibitionoperationalrecommendedSite Evaluation Design Conflict RestrictionwastewaterIn jurisdictions where performance requirements are used, the regulatory agency should not conduct site evaluations and specify system designs because of potential conflict of interest issues regarding enforcement and compliance...Applies to regulatory agencies in performance-based jurisdictions.high
#Q038administrativereportingrecommendedSystem Inventory Maintenance RecommendationwastewaterUSEPA (2000) recommends the establishment and continued maintenance of accurate inventories of all OWTSs within a management entity's jurisdiction as a basic requirement of all management programs.Fundamental component of onsite wastewater management programs.high
#Q039monitoringoperationalrecommendedDosing Pump Annual RecalibrationwastewaterAlso, the dosing pump should be recalibrated at least annually.Regular maintenance of packed bed and media filter systems.high
#Q040operationaloperationalrecommendedKitchen Waste Management DutywastewaterFood wastes should be scraped from plates and utensils and discarded as solid waste.Homeowner responsibilities to ensure septic tank and SWIS function.high
#Q041operationaloperationalrecommendedConstruction Site Staking and ExclusionwastewaterThe site should be staked and roped off before any construction activities begin to make others aware of the site and to keep traffic and materials stockpiles off the site.Site protection prior to system installation.high
#Q042designtreatmentrecommendedInfiltration Media Durability SpecwastewaterThe sand or gravel selected should be durable with rounded grains.Selection of porous medium for subsurface wastewater infiltration systems.high
#Q043prohibitionoperationalrecommendedISF Surface Placement RecommendationwastewaterISF units should never be placed in surface depressions without thoroughly sealing against prolonged inundation and drainage configurations that prevent stormwater entry.Locating Intermittent Sand Filter units.high
#Q044administrativeoperationalrecommendedTechnical Guidelines Establishment DutywastewaterThe regulatory authority (RA) should set technical guidelines and criteria to ensure effective and functioning onsite wastewater systems.high
#Q045administrativereportingrecommendedRecord Maintenance DutywastewaterAt a minimum, program managers should maintain records of system permits, design, size, location, age, site soil conditions, complaints, inspection results, system repairs, and maintenance schedules.high
#Q046operationaloperationalrecommendedPeriodic Inspection Policy RequirementwastewaterRAs should require periodic inspections of systems based on system design life, system complexity, and changes in ownership.high
#Q047administrativeoperationalrecommendedService Provider Licensing StandardswastewaterRAs should establish minimum criteria for licensing/certification of all service providers to ensure protection of health and water resources.high
#Q048administrativeoperationalrecommendedProgram Evaluation RequirementwastewaterRegular program evaluations should be performed to analyze program methods and procedures, identify problems, evaluate the potential for improvement through new technologies or program enhancements, and ensure funding is available to sustain programs and adjust program goals.high
#Q049monitoringoperationalmandatoryPerpetual System Oversight Dutywastewaterregulatory agencies need to maintain rigorous, perpetual oversight of systems to ensure periodic tank pumping, maintenance of system components, and prompt response to problems that may present threats to human health or water resources.high
#Q050monitoringreportingmandatoryMonitoring Protocol SpecificitywastewaterStrict protocols that identify when, where, and how monitoring will be done, how results will be analyzed, the format in which the results will be presented, and how data will be stored.Critical elements for a monitoring program.high
#Q051monitoringreportingrecommendedMonitoring QA/QC RequirementwastewaterQuality assurance and quality control measures that should be followed to ensure credible data.Critical elements for a monitoring program.high
#Q052designtreatmentrecommendedEffluent Screen UsagewastewaterThe use of a removable, cleanable effluent screen connected to the outlet is strongly recommended.Septic tank outlet configuration.high
#Q053prohibitionoperationalmandatoryUncontaminated Water Routing ProhibitionwastewaterUncontaminated water sources (e.g., storm water from rain gutters, discharges from basement sump pumps) must not be routed to the septic tank.When installing or maintaining onsite systems.high
#Q054operationaloperationalrecommendedSeptic Tank Pumping ThresholdwastewaterTanks should be pumped when sludge and scum accumulations exceed 30 percent of the tank volume or are encroaching on the inlet and outlet baffle entrances.Standard maintenance practice for septic tanks.high
#Q055designoperationalmandatoryRecirculation Tank Redundancy RequirementwastewaterA redundant pump-off float switch is installed in the recirculation tank below the minimum dose volume level.Design of recirculating sand/media filters.high
#Q056designreportingmandatoryRecirculation Tank Alarm RequirementwastewaterA high water alarm is also installed to provide notice of high water caused by pump failure, loss of pump calibration, or excessive influent flows.Design of recirculating sand/media filters.high
#Q057monitoringreportingmandatorySource Water Assessment Componentsdrinking watereach assessment must include four major elements: Delineating (or mapping) the source water assessment area; Conducting an inventory of potential sources of contamination in the delineated area; Determining the susceptibility of the water supply to those contamination sources; Releasing the results of the determinations to the publicState source water assessment programs under the 1996 amendments to the Safe Drinking Water Act.high
#Q058administrativeoperationalrecommendedQualification Program InclusionwastewaterA qualifications program that includes certification or licensing procedures for service providers should be incorporated into a management program.Components of successful onsite wastewater management programs.high
#Q059administrativeoperationalrecommendedManagement Repair and Penalty AuthoritywastewaterManagement entities should also have the authority to carry out repairs or replace systems and, ultimately, to levy civil penalties.Legal authority for onsite wastewater management programs.high
#Q060administrativeoperationalrecommendedManagement Funding DutywastewaterManagement entities should ensure that there is adequate funding available to support program personnel, education and outreach activities, monitoring and evaluation, and incentives that promote system upgrades and replacement.Financial components of management programs.high
#Q061operationaloperationalrecommendedConstruction Oversight and CertificationwastewaterAn approved (i.e., licensed or certified) construction oversight inspector, preferably the designer of the system, should oversee installation and certify that it has been conducted and recorded properly.Construction and installation oversight for onsite systems.high
#Q062operationaloperationalmandatoryConstruction Process FlexibilitywastewaterThe construction process for soil-based systems must be flexible to accommodate weather events because construction during wet weather can compact soils in the infiltration field or otherwise alter soil structure.Installation of soil-based treatment systems.high
#Q063reportingreportingmandatoryMaintenance Action Reporting DutywastewaterThe system owner or designated agent of the owner must report to the department each inspection or maintenance action specified in the management plan at its completionOperation and maintenance requirements.high
#Q064operationaloperationalrecommendedExcavation Timing and CoveringwastewaterExcavation should be scheduled only when the infiltration surface can be covered the same day to avoid loss of permeability from wind-blown silt or raindrop impact.During system construction and excavation.high
#Q065designtreatmentrecommendedSeptic Tank Outlet Tee Rising Leg ElevationwastewaterThe rising leg of the tee should extend 6 inches above the liquid level to prevent the scum layer from escaping the tank.Septic tank outlet baffle design.high
#Q066designtreatmentrecommendedSeptic Tank Outlet Tee Descending Leg LengthwastewaterThe descending leg should extend to 30 or 40 percent of the liquid depth.Septic tank outlet baffle design.high
#Q067monitoringoperationalrecommendedSeptic Tank Riser TestingwastewaterRisers should be tested.After all joints have been made and have cured, verifying watertightness of risers.high
#Q068designoperationalrecommendedGranular Backfill Requirement for Fine SoilswastewaterIn fine-textured soils such as silts, silt loams, clay loams, and clay, imported granular material should be used.Backfilling septic tanks where freeze and thaw cycles are common.high
#Q069designoperationalrecommendedSeptic Tank Backfill Material QualitywastewaterThe backfill material should be freeflowing and free of stones larger than 3 inches in diameter, debris, ice, or snow.During bedding and backfilling of septic tanks.high
#Q070monitoringoperationalrecommendedPre-Pumping Liquid Level CheckwastewaterBefore pumping, the liquid level of the tank should be at the outlet invert level.Inspection of septic tank watertightness.high
#Q071designreportingrecommendedATU Alarm Equipment RequirementwastewaterATU's should be equipped with audio and visual alarms to warn of compressor/aerator failure and high water.Design standards for Aerobic Treatment Units.high
#Q072designoperationalmandatoryBuried ATU Maintenance AccesswastewaterBuried ATU's must be designed to provide easy access to mechanical parts, electrical control systems, and appurtenances requiring maintenance such as weirs, air lift pump lines, etc.Design of buried Aerobic Treatment Units.high
#Q073administrativeoperationalrecommendedATU Ongoing Service AgreementswastewaterOwners should be required by local sanitary codes or management program requirements to maintain ongoing service agreements for the life of the system.Maintenance of Aerobic Treatment Units.high
#Q074operationaloperationalrecommendedATU Pumping Threshold SpecificationwastewaterATU's should be pumped when the mixed-liquor (aerator) solids are above 6,000 mg/L or the final settler is more than 1/3 full of settled solids.Maintenance of Aerobic Treatment Units.high
#Q075operationaltreatmentrecommendedUV Disinfection Bulb OperationwastewaterContinuous UV bulb operation is recommended for maximum bulb service life.Operation of UV disinfection units.high

P Quantitative Requirements (87)

Req ID Category Intent Legal Status Name Subdomain(s) Limit Type Limit Value Context Conditions Confidence
#P001chemicaltreatmentguidancetotal phosphoruswastewaterrequirement<= 1.0 mg/LDetermine and set specific requirements for onsite systems based on protecting specific management areas and achievement of a specified level of treatmentWithin a particular subbasinhigh
#P002chemicaltreatmentmandatoryBODwastewaterrequirement< 20 mg/LPerformance requirements for Secondary treatment in Florida's performance-based permit programSecondary treatment: annual arithmetic meanhigh
#P003physicaltreatmentmandatoryTSSwastewaterrequirement< 20 mg/LPerformance requirements for Secondary treatment in Florida's performance-based permit programSecondary treatment: annual arithmetic meanhigh
#P004microbiologicaltreatmentmandatoryfecal coliform bacteriawastewaterrequirement< 200 cfu/100 mLPerformance requirements for Secondary treatment in Florida's performance-based permit programSecondary treatment: annual arithmetic meanhigh
#P005chemicaltreatmentmandatorytotal nitrogenwastewaterrequirement< 20 mg/LPerformance requirements for Advanced secondary treatment in Florida's performance-based permit programAdvanced secondary treatment: annual arithmetic meanhigh
#P006chemicaltreatmentmandatorytotal phosphoruswastewaterrequirement< 10 mg/LPerformance requirements for Advanced secondary treatment in Florida's performance-based permit programAdvanced secondary treatment: annual arithmetic meanhigh
#P007chemicaltreatmentmandatorytotal nitrogenwastewaterrequirement< 3 mg/LPerformance requirements for Advanced wastewater treatment in Florida's performance-based permit programAdvanced wastewater treatment: annual arithmetic meanhigh
#P008chemicaltreatmentmandatorytotal nitrogenwastewaterrequirement<= 25 mg/LMassachusetts onsite regulations for nitrogen-sensitive areasRecirculating sand filters or equivalent technologies must limit total nitrogen concentrations in effluenthigh
#P009chemicaltreatmentmandatorynitratewastewaterrequirement<= 10 mg/LMassachusetts onsite regulations for nitrogen-sensitive areasUnless system effluent meets a nitrate standard of 10 mg/L or other nitrogen removal technologies are usedhigh
#P010chemicalhealthmandatoryBenzenedrinking waterMAC0.005 mg/LMCLs for selected organic chemicals in drinking waterhigh
#P011chemicalhealthmandatoryCarbon tetrachloridedrinking waterMAC0.005 mg/LMCLs for selected organic chemicals in drinking waterhigh
#P012chemicalhealthmandatoryArsenicdrinking waterMAC0.05 mg/LMCLs for selected inorganic chemicals in drinking waterhigh
#P013chemicalhealthmandatoryBariumdrinking waterMAC1.0 mg/LMCLs for selected inorganic chemicals in drinking waterhigh
#P014chemicalhealthmandatoryCadmiumdrinking waterMAC0.010 mg/LMCLs for selected inorganic chemicals in drinking waterhigh
#P015chemicalhealthmandatoryChromiumdrinking waterMAC0.05 mg/LMCLs for selected inorganic chemicals in drinking waterhigh
#P016chemicalhealthmandatoryLeaddrinking waterMAC0.05 mg/LMCLs for selected inorganic chemicals in drinking waterhigh
#P017chemicalhealthmandatoryMercurydrinking waterMAC0.002 mg/LMCLs for selected inorganic chemicals in drinking waterhigh
#P018chemicalhealthmandatoryNitrate (as N)drinking waterMAC10 mg/LMCLs for selected inorganic chemicals in drinking waterhigh
#P019chemicalhealthmandatorySeleniumdrinking waterMAC0.01 mg/LMCLs for selected inorganic chemicals in drinking waterhigh
#P020chemicalhealthmandatoryFluoridedrinking waterMAC4.0 mg/LMCLs for selected inorganic chemicals in drinking waterhigh
#P021physicaltreatmentmandatoryTSSwastewaterrequirement<= 30 mg/LTreatment performance requirements for New Shoreham, Rhode IslandT1 (Primary Treatment)high
#P022chemicaltreatmentmandatoryBODwastewaterrequirement<= 30 mg/LTreatment performance requirements for New Shoreham, Rhode IslandT1 (Primary Treatment)high
#P023physicaltreatmentmandatoryFOGwastewaterrequirement<= 15 mg/LTreatment performance requirements for New Shoreham, Rhode IslandT1 (Primary Treatment)high
#P024chemicaltreatmentmandatoryTotal Nitrogenwastewaterrequirement< 19 mg/LTreatment performance requirements for New Shoreham, Rhode IslandT2N (Nitrogen Removal)high
#P025microbiologicaltreatmentmandatoryFecal Coliformwastewaterrequirement< 1000 MPN/100 mlTreatment performance requirements for New Shoreham, Rhode IslandT2C (Pathogen Removal)high
#P026chemicalhealthmandatoryp-Dichlorobenzenedrinking waterMAC0.075 mg/LMCLs for selected organic chemicals in drinking waterhigh
#P027chemicalhealthmandatoryTrichloroethylenedrinking waterMAC0.005 mg/LMCLs for selected organic chemicals in drinking waterhigh
#P028chemicalhealthmandatoryVinyl chloridedrinking waterMAC0.002 mg/LMCLs for selected organic chemicals in drinking waterhigh
#P029chemicalhealthmandatoryNitrate-nitrogendrinking water, wastewaterrequirement2 mg/LWisconsin's ground water quality rulePreventive action limit (PAL)high
#P030chemicalhealthmandatoryNitrate-nitrogendrinking water, wastewaterrequirement10 mg/LWisconsin's ground water quality ruleEnforcement limithigh
#P031microbiologicaltreatmentmandatoryFecal coliformwastewaterrequirement<= 10000 colonies per 100 mLSt. Louis County, Minnesota effluent requirements for systems installed where minimums cannot be metNatural soil has an unsaturated depth of less than 3 feet but more than 1 foothigh
#P032microbiologicaltreatmentmandatoryFecal coliformwastewaterrequirement<= 200 colonies per 100 mLSt. Louis County, Minnesota effluent requirements for systems installed where minimums cannot be metOn sites with 1 foot of unsaturated soil or lesshigh
#P033chemicalhealthmandatory1,2-Dichloroethanedrinking waterMAC0.005 mg/LMCLs for selected organic chemicals in drinking waterhigh
#P034chemicalhealthmandatory1,1-Dichloroethylenedrinking waterMAC0.007 mg/LMCLs for selected organic chemicals in drinking waterhigh
#P035chemicalhealthmandatory1,1,1-Trichloroethanedrinking waterMAC0.20 mg/LMCLs for selected organic chemicals in drinking waterhigh
#P036chemicalhealthmandatoryNitrite (as N)drinking waterMAC1.0 mg/LMCLs for selected inorganic chemicals in drinking waterhigh
#P037chemicaltreatmentmandatoryBOD (Advanced Wastewater Treatment)wastewaterrequirement< 5 mg/LFlorida's performance-based permit programAdvanced wastewater treatment: annual arithmetic meanhigh
#P038physicaltreatmentmandatoryTSS (Advanced Wastewater Treatment)wastewaterrequirement< 5 mg/LFlorida's performance-based permit programAdvanced wastewater treatment: annual arithmetic meanhigh
#P039chemicaltreatmentmandatorytotal phosphorus (Advanced Wastewater Treatment)wastewaterrequirement< 1 mg/LFlorida's performance-based permit programAdvanced wastewater treatment: annual arithmetic meanhigh
#P040microbiologicaltreatmentmandatoryfecal coliform bacteria (Advanced Wastewater Treatment)wastewaterrequirement< 25 cfu/100 mLFlorida's performance-based permit programAdvanced wastewater treatment: count for any one samplehigh
#P041chemicaltreatmentmandatoryBOD (Advanced Secondary Treatment)wastewaterrequirement< 10 mg/LFlorida's performance-based permit programAdvanced secondary treatment: annual arithmetic meanhigh
#P042physicaltreatmentmandatoryTSS (Advanced Secondary Treatment)wastewaterrequirement< 10 mg/LFlorida's performance-based permit programAdvanced secondary treatment: annual arithmetic meanhigh
#P043microbiologicaltreatmentmandatoryfecal coliform bacteria (Advanced Secondary Treatment)wastewaterrequirement< 200 cfu/100 mLFlorida's performance-based permit programAdvanced secondary treatment: annual arithmetic meanhigh
#P044designtreatmentmandatoryAggregated design flow (Nitrogen-sensitive areas)wastewaterrequirement<= 440 gallons per acre per dayMassachusetts onsite regulations for nitrogen-sensitive areasAll systems in nitrogen-sensitive areas must discharge no more than 440 gallons of design flow per acre per dayhigh
#P045designoperationalmandatoryOnsite system design flow (Arizona)wastewaterrequirement< 24000 gallons per dayArizona's performance-based technical standardsApplies to onsite systems with design flows less than 24,000 gallons per dayhigh
#P046chemicaltreatmentguidelineBOD (Secondary Treatment)wastewaterrequirement< 30 mg/LProposed onsite system treatment performance standards in various control zonesTS2 (Secondary Treatment)high
#P047physicaltreatmentguidelineTSS (Secondary Treatment)wastewaterrequirement< 30 mg/LProposed onsite system treatment performance standards in various control zonesTS2 (Secondary Treatment)high
#P048chemicaltreatmentguidelineBOD (Tertiary Treatment)wastewaterrequirement< 10 mg/LProposed onsite system treatment performance standards in various control zonesTS3 (Tertiary Treatment)high
#P049physicaltreatmentguidelineTSS (Tertiary Treatment)wastewaterrequirement< 10 mg/LProposed onsite system treatment performance standards in various control zonesTS3 (Tertiary Treatment)high
#P050chemicaltreatmentguidelineTotal Nitrogen (Nutrient Reduction)wastewaterrequirement< 20 mg/LProposed onsite system treatment performance standards in various control zonesTS4 (Nutrient Reduction)high
#P051chemicaltreatmentguidelineTotal Phosphorus (Nutrient Reduction)wastewaterrequirement< 2 mg/LProposed onsite system treatment performance standards in various control zonesTS4 (Nutrient Reduction)high
#P052microbiologicaltreatmentguidelineFecal Coliform (Tertiary Treatment with Disinfection)wastewaterrequirement< 200 cfu/100 mLProposed onsite system treatment performance standards in various control zonesTS5 (Tertiary Treatment with Disinfection)high
#P053designtreatmentmandatoryVacuum Testing - Vacuum Levelwastewaterrequirement4 inches HgWatertightness testing procedure/criteria for precast concrete tanksVacuum testing of septic tankshigh
#P054designtreatmentmandatoryVacuum Testing - Allowable Losswastewaterrequirement< 0.5 inches HgWatertightness testing procedure/criteria for precast concrete tanksVacuum testing; hold for 2 minuteshigh
#P055operationaltreatmentmandatorySeptic Tank Pumping Thresholdwastewaterrequirement1/3 tank volumeWisconsin Department of Commerce maintenance requirements for septic systemsAll septic tanks are to be pumped when the combined sludge and scum volume equals one-third of the tank volumehigh
#P056chemicalhealthmandatorySilver (MCL in drinking water)drinking waterMAC0.05 mg/LMCLs for selected inorganic chemicals in drinking waterhigh
#P057chemicaltreatmentmandatoryNitrogen removal percentage (Massachusetts)wastewaterrequirement>= 40 percentRecirculating sand filters or equivalent technologies in nitrogen-sensitive areasNitrogen-sensitive areashigh
#P058operationaloperationalmandatoryKeuka Lake Inspection Frequencywastewaterrequirement5 yearsIntermunicipal agreement for Keuka Watershed Improvement CooperativeSystems within 200 feet of the lakehigh
#P059operationaltreatmentmandatorySeptic Tank Pumping Frequency (Fairfax County)wastewaterrequirement5 yearsFairfax County, Virginia management code for onsite systemshigh
#P060designtreatmentguidelineSuggested hydraulic loading rate for Sandwastewaterrequirement0.8-1.2 gpd/ft^2Suggested hydraulic and organic loading rates for sizing infiltration surfacesSand; coarse to fine; single grain structurehigh
#P061designtreatmentguidelineHydraulic loading rate (Loamy sand)wastewaterrequirement0.4-0.8 gpd/ft^2Suggested hydraulic and organic loading rates for sizing infiltration surfacesLoamy sand; coarse to fine; single grain structurehigh
#P062designtreatmentguidelineHydraulic loading rate (Sandy loam)wastewaterrequirement0.4-0.6 gpd/ft^2Suggested hydraulic and organic loading rates for sizing infiltration surfacesSandy loam; moderate subangular blocky structurehigh
#P063designtreatmentguidelineHydraulic loading rate (Loam/Silt loam)wastewaterrequirement0.2-0.6 gpd/ft^2Suggested hydraulic and organic loading rates for sizing infiltration surfacesLoam or Silt loam; moderate subangular blocky structurehigh
#P064chemicaltreatmentguidelineTypical residential BOD5 concentrationwastewaterrequirement155-286 mg/LConstituent mass loadings and concentrations in typical residential wastewaterAverage of 5 studieshigh
#P065physicaltreatmentguidelineTypical residential TSS concentrationwastewaterrequirement155-330 mg/LConstituent mass loadings and concentrations in typical residential wastewaterAverage of 5 studieshigh
#P066chemicaltreatmentguidelineTypical residential Total Nitrogen concentrationwastewaterrequirement26-75 mg/LConstituent mass loadings and concentrations in typical residential wastewaterAverage of 5 studieshigh
#P067chemicaltreatmentguidelineTypical residential Total Phosphorus concentrationwastewaterrequirement6-12 mg/LConstituent mass loadings and concentrations in typical residential wastewaterAverage of 5 studieshigh
#P068chemicalhealthmandatoryEndrin (MCL in drinking water)drinking waterMAC0.0002 mg/LMCLs for selected organic chemicals in drinking waterhigh
#P069chemicalhealthmandatoryLindane (MCL in drinking water)drinking waterMAC0.004 mg/LMCLs for selected organic chemicals in drinking waterhigh
#P070chemicalhealthmandatoryMethoxychlor (MCL in drinking water)drinking waterMAC0.1 mg/LMCLs for selected organic chemicals in drinking waterhigh
#P071chemicalhealthmandatoryToxaphene (MCL in drinking water)drinking waterMAC0.005 mg/LMCLs for selected organic chemicals in drinking waterhigh
#P072chemicalhealthmandatory2,4-D (MCL in drinking water)drinking waterMAC0.1 mg/LMCLs for selected organic chemicals in drinking waterhigh
#P073chemicalhealthmandatory2,4,5-TP Silvex (MCL in drinking water)drinking waterMAC0.01 mg/LMCLs for selected organic chemicals in drinking waterhigh
#P074designoperationalmandatoryStandard showerhead flow rate (Post-EPACT)drinking waterrequirement2.5 gpmFlow rates and flush volumes before and after U.S. Energy Policy ActAfter 1994high
#P075designoperationalmandatoryStandard faucet flow rate (Post-EPACT)drinking waterrequirement2.5 gpmFlow rates and flush volumes before and after U.S. Energy Policy ActAfter 1994high
#P076designoperationalmandatoryStandard toilet flush volume (Post-EPACT)drinking waterrequirement1.6 gpfFlow rates and flush volumes before and after U.S. Energy Policy ActAfter 1994high
#P077designtreatmentmandatoryHydrostatic testing water loss criterionwastewaterrequirement0 gallonsWatertightness testing procedure/criteria for precast concrete tanksHydrostatic testing of septic tankshigh
#P078designtreatmentguidelineISF BOD5 mass loadingwastewaterrequirement< 5 lb/1000 ft^2/daySpecifications, mass loadings, and depth for single-pass intermittent sand filtersSand media; es = 1.0 mmhigh
#P079designtreatmentguidelineHydraulic loading rate (Clay loam/Silty clay loam)wastewaterrequirement0.1-0.4 gpd/ft^2Suggested hydraulic and organic loading rates for sizing infiltration surfacesClay loam or Silty clay loam; moderate subangular blocky structurehigh
#P080designtreatmentguidelineHydraulic loading rate (Fine sand/Very fine sand)wastewaterrequirement0.4-0.6 gpd/ft^2Suggested hydraulic and organic loading rates for sizing infiltration surfacesFine sand or Very fine sand; single grain structurehigh
#P081designtreatmentmandatorySeptic tank capacity (1-3 bedrooms)wastewaterrequirement750 gallonsSeptic tank capacities for one- and two-family dwellings1 to 3 bedroomshigh
#P082designtreatmentmandatorySeptic tank capacity (4 bedrooms)wastewaterrequirement1200 gallonsSeptic tank capacities for one- and two-family dwellings4 bedroomshigh
#P083designtreatmentguidelineCFSGAS Hydraulic Loadingwastewaterrequirement5-15 gpd/ft^3Design parameters for CFSGAS extended aeration package plantsExtended aerationhigh
#P084designtreatmentguidelineCFSGAS Organic Loadingwastewaterrequirement10-25 lb BOD/1000 ft^3/dayDesign parameters for CFSGAS extended aeration package plantsExtended aerationhigh
#P085designtreatmentrecommendedUV Intensity Requirementwastewaterrequirement35000-70000 mW-s/cm^2Typical ultraviolet (UV) system design parametersFor achieving fecal coliform concentrations of about 200 CFU/100 mLhigh
#P086designtreatmentguidelineRSF Gravel Media Hydraulic Loadingwastewaterrequirement10-15 gpd/ft^2Typical design specifications for individual home recirculating sand filtersMedia: Gravel (Pea gravel)high
#P087operationaloperationalguidanceSoil Boring Densitywastewaterrequirement1 hole per half-acreShallow borings for site reconnaissanceEnough borings to adequately characterize site conditionshigh

D Definitions (182)

Req ID Category Name Context Confidence
#D001AbsorptionThe process by which one substance is taken into and included within another substance, such as the absorption of water by soil or nutrients by plants.high
#D002Activated sludge processA biological wastewater treatment process in which biologically active sludge is agitated and aerated with incoming wastewater. The activated sludge is subsequently separated from the treated wastewater (mixed liquor) by sedimentation, and most of it is returned to the process. The rest is wasted as needed.high
#D003AdsorptionThe increased concentration of molecules or ions at a surface, including exchangeable cations and anions on soil particles. The adherence of a dissolved solid to the surface of a solid.high
#D004AerobicHaving molecular oxygen as a part of the environment, or growing or occurring only in the presence of molecular oxygen, as in 'aerobic organisms.'high
#D005Aerobic treatment unit (ATU)A mechanical onsite treatment unit that provides secondary wastewater treatment by mixing air (oxygen) and aerobic and facultative microbes with the wastewater. ATUs typically use a suspended growth treatment process (similar to activated sludge extended aeration) or a fixed film treatment process (similar to trickling filter).high
#D006Alternative onsite wastewater treatment systemAn onsite treatment system that includes components different from those used in a conventional septic tank and drain field system. An alternative system is used to achieve acceptable treatment and dispersal/discharge of wastewater where conventional systems may not be capable of meeting established performance requirements to protect public health and water resources. (e.g., at sites where high ground water, low-permeability soils, shallow soils, or other conditions limit the infiltration and dispersal of wastewater or where additional treatment is needed to protect ground water or surface water quality). Components that might be used in alternative systems include sand filters, aerobic treatment units, disinfection devices, and alternative SWISs such as mounds, gravelless trenches, and pressure and drip distribution.high
#D007AnaerobicCharacterized by the absence of molecular oxygen, or growing in the absence of molecular oxygen (as in 'anaerobic bacteria').high
#D008Anaerobic upflow filterA high-specific-surface anaerobic reactor filled with a solid media through which wastewater flows; used to pretreat highstrength wastewater or to denitrify nitrified wastewater.high
#D009Biochemical oxygen demand (BOD)A commonly used gross measurement of the concentration of biodegradable organic impurities in wastewater. The amount of oxygen, expressed in milligrams per liter (mg/L), required by bacteria while stabilizing, digesting, or treating organic matter under aerobic conditions is determined by the availability of material in the wastewater to be used as biological food and the amount of oxygen used by the microorganisms during oxidation.high
#D010BiomatThe layer of biological growth and inorganic residue that develops at the wastewatersoil interface and extends up to about 1 inch into the soil matrix. The biomat controls the rate at which pretreated wastewater moves through the infiltrative surface/zone for coarse- to mediumtextured soils. This growth may not control fluxes through fine clay soils, which are more restrictive to wastewater flows than the biomat.high
#D011BlackwaterLiquid and solid human body waste and the carriage waters generated through toilet usage.high
#D012Centralized wastewater treatment systemA wastewater collection and treatment system that consists of collection sewers and a centralized treatment facility. Centralized systems are used to collect and treat wastewater from entire communities.high
#D013Chemical oxygen demand (COD)A measure of oxygen use equivalent to the portion of organic matter that is susceptible to oxidation by a strong chemical oxidizing agent.high
#D014Chlorine residualThe total amount of chlorine (combined and free available chlorine) remaining in water, sewage, or industrial wastes at the end of a specified contact period following disinfection.high
#D015ClarifiersSettling tanks that typically remove settleable solids by gravity.high
#D016Class V injection wellA shallow well used to place a variety of fluids at shallow depths below the land surface, including a domestic onsite wastewater treatment system serving more than 20 people. USEPA permits these wells to inject wastes below the ground surface provided they meet certain requirements and do not endanger underground sources of drinking water.high
#D017ClayA textural class of soils consisting of particles less than 0.002 millimeters in diameter.high
#D018Cluster systemA wastewater collection and treatment system under some form of common ownership and management that provides treatment and dispersal/discharge of wastewater from two or more homes or buildings but less than an entire community.high
#D019Coliform bacteriaA group of bacteria predominantly inhabiting the intestines of humans or other warm-blooded animals, but also occasionally found elsewhere. Used as an indicator of human fecal contamination.high
#D020ColloidsThe solids fraction that is described as the finely divided suspended matter that will not settle by gravity and is too large to be considered dissolved matter.high
#D021Compliance boundaryA performance boundary with enforceable performance limits (through an operating permit).high
#D022ConsistenceAttribute of soil expressed in degree of cohesion and adhesion, or in resistance to deformation or rupture. Consistence includes the resistance of soil material to rupture; resistance to penetration; the plasticity, toughness, or stickiness of puddled soil material; and the manner in which the soil material behaves when subjected to compression. General classifications of soil consistence include loose, friable, firm, and extremely firm.high
#D023Constructed wetlandAn aquatic treatment system consisting of one or more lined or unlined basins, some or all of which may be filled with a treatment medium and wastewater undergoing some combination of physical, chemical, and/or biological treatment and evaporation and evapotranspiration by means of macrophytes planted in the treatment medium.high
#D024Construction permitA permit issued or authorized by the regulatory authority that allows the installation of a wastewater treatment system in accordance with approved plans and applicable codes.high
#D025Continuous-flow, suspended-growth aerobic systemA typical activated sludge process.high
#D026Conventional onsite systemA wastewater treatment system consisting of a septic tank and subsurface wastewater infiltration system.high
#D027Decentralized systemOnsite and/or cluster wastewater systems used to treat and disperse or discharge small volumes of wastewater, generally from dwellings and businesses that are located relatively close together. Decentralized systems in a particular management area or jurisdiction are managed by a common management entity.high
#D028DenitrificationThe biochemical reduction of nitrate or nitrite to gaseous molecular nitrogen or an oxide of nitrogen.high
#D029DigestionThe biological decomposition of organic matter in sludge, resulting in partial gasification, liquefaction, and mineralization.high
#D030DisinfectionThe process of destroying pathogenic and other microorganisms in wastewater, typically through application of chlorine compounds, ultraviolet light, iodine, ozone, and the like.high
#D031Dissolved oxygen (DO)The oxygen dissolved in water, wastewater, or other liquid, usually expressed in milligrams per liter (mg/L), parts per million (ppm), or percent of saturation.high
#D032Dissolved solidsThe fraction of solids dissolved in water.high
#D033Drain fieldShallow, covered, excavation made in unsaturated soil into which pretreated wastewater is discharged through distribution piping for application onto soil infiltration surfaces through porous media or manufactured (gravelless) components placed in the excavations. The soil accepts, treats, and disperses wastewater as it percolates through the soil, ultimately discharging to groundwater.high
#D034EffluentSewage, water, or other liquid, partially or completely treated or in its natural state, flowing out of a septic tank, subsurface wastewater infiltration system, aerobic treatment unit, or other treatment system or system component.high
#D035Effluent filterA removable, cleanable device inserted into the outlet piping of the septic tank designed to trap excessive solids due to tank upsets that would otherwise be transported to the subsurface wastewater infiltration system or other downstream treatment components.high
#D036Effluent screenSee Effluent filter.high
#D037Engineered designAn onsite or cluster system that is designed to meet specific performance requirements for a particular site as certified by a licensed professional engineer or other qualified and licensed or certified person.high
#D038Environmental sensitivityThe relative susceptibility to adverse impacts of a water resource or other environments that may receive wastewater discharges.high
#D039EutrophicA term applied to water that has a concentration of nutrients optimal, or nearly so, for plant or animal growth. In general, nitrogen and phosphorus compounds contribute to eutrophic conditions in coastal and inland fresh waters, respectively.high
#D040EvapotranspirationThe combined loss of water from a given area and during a specified period of time by evaporation from the soil or water surface and by transpiration from plants.high
#D041Fixed-film wastewater treatment systemA biological wastewater treatment process that employs a medium such as rock, plastic, wood, or other natural or synthetic solid material that will support biomass on its surface. Fixed-film systems include those in which the medium is held in place and is stationary relative to fluid flow (tricking filter), those in which the medium is in motion relative to the wastewater (e.g., rotating biological disk), and dual process systems that include both fixed and suspended biomass together or in a series.high
#D042GraywaterWastewater drained from sinks, tubs, showers, dishwashers, clothes washers, and other non-toilet sources.high
#D043Hydraulic conductivityAs applied to soils, the ability of the soil to transmit water in liquid form through pores.high
#D044LaminarUsed to describe flat, sheet-like ground water flows that migrate laterally along the upper surface of a confining layer of soil or rock.high
#D045Management entityAn entity similar to a responsible management entity, but managing a limited set of management activities (e.g., homeowners' association, contracted provider of management services).high
#D046Management servicesPlanning, design, permitting, inspection, construction/installation, operation, maintenance, monitoring, enforcement, and other services required to ensure that the wastewater treatment performance requirements established by the regulatory authority are achieved. Management services should be provided by properly trained personnel and tracked by means of a comprehensive management information system.high
#D047MineralizationThe conversion of an element from an organic form to an inorganic state as a result of microbial decomposition.high
#D048MottlingSpots or blotches of different colors or shades of color interspersed with the dominant soil color caused in part by exposure to alternating unsaturated and saturated conditions.high
#D049NitrificationThe biochemical oxidation of ammonium to nitrate.high
#D050Nonconventional onsite wastewater treatment systemSystem using technologies or combinations of technologies that are used where conventional onsite treatment systems cannot meet established performance or prescriptive requirements because of limiting site conditions. Also referred to as Alternative onsite wastewater treatment systems.high
#D051Onsite wastewater treatment system (OWTS)A system relying on natural processes and/or mechanical components that is used to collect, treat, and disperse/discharge wastewater from single dwellings or buildings.high
#D052Operating permitA renewable and revocable permit to operate and maintain an onsite or cluster treatment system in compliance with specific operational or performance requirements.high
#D053Organic nitrogenNitrogen combined in organic molecules such as proteins and amino acids.high
#D054Organic soilA soil that contains a high percentage (more than 15 to 20 percent) of organic matter throughout the soil column.high
#D055Package plantTerm commonly used to describe an aerobic treatment unit serving multiple dwellings or an educational, health care, or other large facility.high
#D056Particle sizeThe effective diameter of a particle, usually measured by sedimentation or sieving.high
#D057Particle-size distributionThe amounts of the various soil size fractions in a soil sample, usually expressed as weight percentage.high
#D058PathogenicCausing disease; commonly applied to microorganisms that cause infectious diseases.high
#D059PedA unit of soil structure such as an aggregate, crumb, prism, block, or granule, formed by natural processes.high
#D060Perched water tableThe permanent or temporary water table of a discontinuous saturated zone in a soil.high
#D061PercolationThe flow or trickling of a liquid downward through a contact or filtering medium.high
#D062Performance-based management programA program designed to preserve and protect human health and environmental resources by focusing on the achievement of specific, measurable performance requirements based on site assessments.high
#D063Performance boundariesThe point at which a wastewater treatment performance requirement corresponding to the desired level of treatment at that point in the treatment sequence is applied. Performance boundaries can be designated at the discharge point of the pretreatment system (e.g., septic tank, package plant discharge to surface waters), at physical boundaries in the receiving environment (impermeable strata, ground water table), at a point of use (ground water well), or at a property boundary.high
#D064Performance requirementAny requirement established by the regulatory authority to ensure future compliance with the public health and environmental goals of the community. Performance requirements can be expressed as numeric limits (e.g., pollutant concentrations, mass loads, wet weather flows, structural strength) or narrative descriptions of desired performance, such as no visible leaks or no odors.high
#D065PermeabilityThe ability of a porous medium such as soil to transmit fluids or gases.high
#D066pHA term used to describe the hydrogen ion activity of a system.high
#D067Physical boundariesPoints in the flow of wastewater through the treatment system where treatment processes change. A physical boundary can be at the intersection of unit processes or between saturated and unsaturated soil zones. A physical boundary may also be a performance boundary if so designated by the regulatory authority.high
#D068Plastic soilA soil capable of being molded or deformed continuously and permanently by relatively moderate pressure.high
#D069Platy structureLaminated or flaky soil aggregate developed predominantly along the horizontal axes.high
#D070Prescriptive-based management programProgram that applies predetermined requirements such as site characteristics, design standards, and separation distances to permit or otherwise allow the operation of onsite wastewater treatment systems. This type of program requires that proposed sites meet preset specifications that are perceived to protect public health and the environment.high
#D071Prescriptive requirementsStandards or specifications for design, siting, and other procedures and practices for onsite or cluster system applications. Proposed deviations from the specified criteria, procedures, or practices require formal approval by the regulatory authority.high
#D072Pretreatment systemAny technology or combination of technologies that precedes discharge to a subsurface wastewater infiltration system or other final treatment unit or process before final dissemination into the receiving environment.high
#D073Regulatory authority (RA)The level of government that establishes and enforces codes related to the permitting, design, placement, installation, operation, maintenance, monitoring, and performance of onsite wastewater treatment systems.high
#D074ResidualsThe solids generated and retained during the treatment of domestic sewage in treatment system components, including sludge, scum, and pumpings from grease traps, septic tanks, aerobic treatment units, and other components of an onsite or cluster system.high
#D075Responsible management entity (RME)An entity responsible for managing a comprehensive set of activities delegated by the regulatory authority; a legal entity that has the managerial, financial, and technical capacity to ensure the long-term, costeffective operation of onsite and/or cluster water treatment systems in accordance with applicable regulations and performance requirements (e.g., a wastewater utility or wastewater management district).high
#D076Sand filterA packed-bed filter of sand or other granular materials used to provide advanced secondary treatment of settled wastewater or septic tank effluent. Sand/media filters consist of a lined (e.g., impervious PVC liner on sand bedding) excavation or structure filled with uniform washed sand that is placed over an underdrain system. The wastewater is dosed onto the surface of the sand through a distribution network and allowed to percolate through the sand to the underdrain system, which collects the filter effluent for further processing or discharge.high
#D077SeptageThe liquid, solid, and semisolid material that results from wastewater pretreatment in a septic tank, which must be pumped, hauled, treated, and disposed of properly (i.e., in accordance with 40 CFR Part 503).high
#D078Septic tankA buried, preferably watertight tank designed and constructed to receive and partially treat raw wastewater. The tank separates and retains settleable and floatable solids suspended in the raw wastewater. Settleable solids settle to the bottom to form a sludge layer. Grease and other light materials float to the top to form a scum layer. The removed solids are stored in the tank, where they undergo liquefaction in which organic solids are partially broken down into dissolved fatty acids and gases. Gases generated during liquefaction of the solids are normally vented through the building's plumbing stack vent.high
#D079Sequencing batch reactorA sequential suspended-growth (activated sludge) process in which all major steps occur in the same tank in sequential order. Sequencing batch reactors include intermittent-flow batch reactors and continuous-flow systems.high
#D080Settleable solidsMatter in wastewater that will not stay in suspension during a designated settling period.high
#D081SiltA textural class of soils consisting of particles between 0.05 and 0.002 millimeters in diameter.high
#D082Soil horizonA layer of soil or soil material approximately parallel to the land surface and different from adjacent layers in physical, chemical, and biological properties or characteristics such as color, structure, texture, consistence, and pH.high
#D083Soil mapA map showing the distribution of soil types or other soil mapping units in relation to the prominent physical and cultural features of the earth's surface.high
#D084Soil morphologyThe physical constitution, particularly the structural properties, of a soil profile as exhibited by the kinds, thickness, and arrangement of the horizons in the profile and by the texture, structure, consistence, and porosity of each horizon.high
#D085Soil structureThe combination or arrangement of individual soil particles into definable aggregates, or peds, which are characterized and classified on the basis of size, shape, and degree of distinctness.high
#D086Soil surveyThe systematic examination, description, classification, and mapping of soils in an area.high
#D087Soil textureThe relative proportions of the various soil separates (e.g., silt, clay, sand) in a soil.high
#D088Soil waterA general term emphasizing the physical rather than the chemical properties and behavior of the soil solution.high
#D089SubsoilIn general, that part of the soil below the depth of plowing.high
#D090Subsurface wastewater infiltration system (SWIS)An underground system for dispersing and further treating pretreated wastewater. The SWIS includes the distribution piping/units, any media installed around or below the distribution components, the biomat at the wastewater-soil interface, and the unsaturated soil below.high
#D091TopsoilThe layer of soil moved in agricultural cultivation.high
#D092Total Kjeldahl nitrogen (TKN)An analytical method for determining total organic nitrogen and ammonia.high
#D093Treatment systemAny technology or combination of technologies (treatment trains or unit processes) that discharges treated wastewater to surface waters, ground water, or the atmosphere.high
#D094Unsaturated flowMovement of water in a soil that is not filled to capacity with water.high
#D095Vegetated submerged bedA constructed wetland wastewater treatment unit characterized by anaerobic horizontal subsurface flow through a fixed-film medium that has a growth of macrophytes on the surface.high
#D096Water quality-based performance requirementA specific, measurable, and enforceable standard that establishes limits for pollutant concentrations or mass loads in treated wastewater discharged to ground water or surface waters.high
#D097Water quality criteriaA set of enforceable requirements under the Clean Water Act that establish measurable limits for specific pollutants based on the designated use(s) of the receiving water body. Water quality criteria can be expressed as numeric limits (e.g., pollutant concentrations or mass loads) or narrative descriptions of desired conditions (e.g., no visible scum, sludge, sheens, or odors).high
#D098Water quality standardsA set of enforceable requirements under the Clean Water Act that include classification of receiving waters in accordance with their federal or state designated use(s), use-based water quality criteria that establish measurable limits for specific pollutants, and antidegradation provisions to ensure that water quality is maintained or improved.high
#D099Water tableThe level in saturated soil at which the hydraulic pressure is zero.high
#D100Wastewater reuseThe collection and treatment of wastewater for other uses (e.g., irrigation, ornamental ponds, and cooling systems).high
#D101Wastewater recyclingThe collection and treatment of wastewater and its reuse in the same water-use scheme, such as toilet and urinal flushing (Tchobanoglous and Burton, 1991).high
#D102Long-term acceptance rate (LTAR)The volume of wastewater that can be applied to a square foot of soil each day over an indefinite period of time such that the effluent from the onsite system is absorbed and properly treated (North Carolina DEHNR, 1996).high
#D103Aquic moisture regimeOccurs when the soil is saturated with water during long periods, an indicator of possible restrictive horizons, seasonal high water tables, or perched water tables.high
#D104DRASTICA standardized system developed by USEPA to rate broad-scale ground water vulnerability using hydrogeologic settings (Aller et al., 1987).high
#D105Unconsolidated materialThe material occurring between the earth's surface and the underlying bedrock.high
#D106SolumThe soil portion of unconsolidated material.high
#D107SubstratumThe parent material [of unconsolidated material].high
#D108ETI (evapotranspiration/infiltration process)A subsurface system designed to dispose of effluent by both evapotranspiration and infiltration into the soil.high
#D109High-specific-surface anaerobic reactorAny tank or cavity filled with solid media through which wastewater flows with a high hydraulic retention time (HRT).high
#D110Enteric bacteriaThose associated with human and animal wastes.high
#D111Secondary design boundariesUsually hydraulically restrictive horizons that inhibit vertical percolation through the soil (figure 5-2).high
#D112Underground Injection Control (UIC) programA program established by the Safe Drinking Water Act to protect underground sources of drinking water from contamination caused by the underground injection of wastes.high
#D113Environmental Technology Verification (ETV) programA program providing performance information on alternative onsite wastewater treatment technologies.high
#D114Total Maximum Daily Load (TMDL) programA program published by the Clean Water Act Section 303(d) regarding the development and implementation of pollutant load allocations.high
#D115Design boundariesWhere conditions abruptly change. A design boundary can be at the intersection of unit processes or between saturated and unsaturated soil zones (e.g., the delineation between the infiltrative, vadose, and ground water zones) or at another designated location, such as a drinking water well, nearby surface water, or property boundary.high
#D116Geographic information system (GIS)Tool to quantify and mitigate nonpoint source nutrient loadings; used to track environmental variables and the performance of new technologies.high
#D117Clean Water State Revolving Fund (CWSRF)A low-interest or no-interest loan program that has traditionally financed centralized, publicly owned treatment works across the nation; used to support the installation, repair, or upgrading of OWTSs.high
#D118National Onsite Demonstration Project (NODP)A project established to encourage the use of alternative, decentralized wastewater treatment technologies to protect public health and the environment in small and rural communities.high
#D119Redoximorphic featuresRedoximorphic features include iron nodules and mottles that form in seasonally saturated soils by the reduction, translocation, and oxidation of iron and manganese oxides.high
#D120ViabilityViability is defined as the capacity of the RME to protect public health and the environment efficiently and effectively through programs that focus on system performance rather than adherence to prescriptive guidelines.high
#D121Packed bed filtersThese contained media filters are also known as packed bed filters.high
#D122ISFIntermittent sand filter.high
#D123RSFRecirculating sand filter.high
#D124VSBVegetated submerged bed.high
#D125AUFAnaerobic upflow filter.high
#D126NPDESNational Pollutant Discharge Elimination System.high
#D127LASLinear alkylbenzenesulfonate.high
#D128MBASMethylene blue active substance.high
#D129FACTSFailure Analysis Chart for Troubleshooting Septic Systems.high
#D130SSURGOSoil Survey Geographic database.high
#D131REUWSResidential End Uses of Water Study.high
#D132AWWARFAmerican Water Works Association Research Foundation.high
#D133CZARACoastal Zone Act Reauthorization Amendments.high
#D134CDBGCommunity Development Block Grant.high
#D135IHSIndian Health Service.high
#D136NOAANational Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration.high
#D137RBCRotating biological contactor.high
#D138UVUltraviolet.high
#D139HRTHydraulic retention time.high
#D140USPHSU.S. Public Health Servicehigh
#D141PENNVESTPennsylvania Infrastructure Investment Authorityhigh
#D142NOWRANational Onsite Wastewater Recycling Associationhigh
#D143Part 503 RuleRule of the federal Clean Water Act that established requirements for the final use or disposal of sewage sludge when it is applied to land to condition the soil or fertilize crops or other vegetation, deposited at a surface disposal site for final disposal, or fired in a biosolids incinerator.high
#D144TSSTotal suspended solidshigh
#D145TNTotal nitrogenhigh
#D146EPACTU.S. Energy Policy Acthigh
#D147gpcdgallons per capita per dayhigh
#D148Capillary fringeA zone where saturation extends slightly above the water table due to capillary attraction but water is held at less than atmospheric pressure.high
#D149ABSalkylbenzenesulfonatehigh
#D150Assimilative capacityA volume-based (parts of pollutant per volume of water) measurement of the ability of water to decrease pollutant impacts through dilution.high
#D151CPMCritical Point Monitoringhigh
#D152BSTbacterial source trackinghigh
#D153Areas of special concernAreas where the health officer or department determines additional requirements might be necessary to reduce system failures or minimize potential impacts upon public health.high
#D154HHWhousehold hazardous wastehigh
#D155Large-capacity decentralized systemsdecentralized wastewater treatment systems that serve more than 20 peoplehigh
#D156Drainable porositythe percentage of pore space drained when the soil is at field capacityhigh
#D157ETevapotranspirationhigh
#D158CFSGASContinuous-Flow, Suspended-Growth Aerobic Systemshigh
#D159FFSFixed-film systemshigh
#D160FWSFree water surfacehigh
#D161MCLsMaximum contaminant levelshigh
#D162BOD 55-day biochemical oxygen demandhigh
#D163CBOD 5carbonaceous 5-day biochemical oxygen demandhigh
#D164Responsible Management Entities (RMEs)legal entities that have the technical, managerial, and financial capacity to ensure viable, long-term, cost-effective centralized management, operation, and maintenance of all systems within the RME's jurisdiction.high
#D165Large-capacity septic systemsserve multiple dwellings, business establishments, and other facilities and are used to dispose of sanitary and other wastes through subsurface applicationhigh
#D166Vadose waterWater in this unsaturated zone is referred to as vadose water.high
#D167Contaminant attenuationremoval or inactivation through treatment processeshigh
#D168Saturated zoneIn the saturated zone, all interstices are filled with water under hydrostatic pressure.high
#D169Vadose zoneInterstices in the aerated (upper) vadose zone are unsaturated, filled partially with water and partially with air.high
#D170Total Maximum Daily Loads (TMDLs)established under section 303 of the Clean Water Acthigh
#D171Septagethe entire contents of the septic tank—the scum, the sludge, and the partially clarified liquid that lies between them—and also includes pumpings from aerobic treatment unit tanks, holding tanks, biological ('composting') toilets, chemical or vault toilets, and other systems that receive domestic wastewaters.high
#D172Rotating biological contactor (RBC)A fixed-film biological treatment process that employs rotating disks that move within the wastewater is referred to as a rotating biological contactor (RBC).high
#D173Method for Assessment, Nutrient-loading, and Geographic Evaluation (MANAGE)a screening-level tool designed for areawide assessment of entire aquifers, wellhead protection areas, or small watersheds.high
#D174Huerelates to the quality of colorhigh
#D175Valueindicates the degree of lightness or darknesshigh
#D176Chromais the purity of the spectral color.high
#D177Infiltration ratethe rate at which water is accepted by the soil.high
#D178Chlorine demandThe difference between the chlorine residual in the wastewater after some time interval (free and combined chlorine) and the initial dose of chlorinehigh
#D179Periodic restinga passive method for restoring the hydraulic capacity of the SWIS.high
#D180Pneumatic soil fracturinga mechanical treatment used to increase soil porosity by fracturing and lifting the soil surrounding the infiltration surface.high
#D181Holding tank or vaultreceives wastewater from a home or commercial establishment and stores it until it is pumped out and hauled to a receiving/processing facility.high
#D182Sequencing batch reactor (SBR) processa sequential suspended growth (activated sludge) process in which all major steps occur in the same tank in sequential orderhigh