A pumping business operator asks, “In North Carolina, if our business pumps a septic tank that is “older” and does not have a filter, are we obligated to install one?”
Good question! The short answer is yes, if the system was installed in 1999 or thereafter.
Need more information? Read the North Carolina law and the accompanying rules.
Filters are mandated in North Carolina’s laws, found at NC General Statute Section 130A-335(f2).
The Rules issued to explain and provided details for this statute are found in North Carolina’s Administrative Code 15A NCAC 18A.1952
The Rule 15A NCAC 18A.1952(a) specifically includes the following language:
“Septic tanks shall have an approved effluent filter and access devices. The effluent filter shall function without a bypass of unfiltered wastewater, sludge or scum. The effluent filter case shall be designed to function as a sanitary tee with the inlet extending down to between 25 and 40 percent of the liquid depth. The requirement(s) for an effluent filter and access devices shall apply to septic tanks for which a Construction Authorization is issued on or after January 1, 1999.”