A Complete Guide for Builders, Agents, and Homeowners: The Importance of Septic Design

When constructing or purchasing a home not on a municipal sewer system, one critical element often gets forgotten until it's too late in the building game: the septic system. At the heart of a working, code-compliant septic system (whether in Glendale, Arizona, Paradise Valley, or any surrounding area) lies one essential element: septic design.

Sepptic design involves numerous technical decisions. It ensures that you can use the restroom in your house without issues. Whether you're a builder preparing to turn dirt on a new construction site, a real estate professional assisting a client, or a homeowner working on your dream home, understanding septic design is crucial. It helps you avoid costly delays, failed inspections, and even potential legal issues. In this guide, we'll explain what septic design is, why it matters, and what you need to do it correctly.

Understanding Septic Design

Septic design is the process of designing, sizing, and siting an on-site wastewater treatment system (also called a septic system). This system discharges sewage from a building or home where there is no available public sewer line.

An Effective Septic Design Ensures the Following:

• Efficient wastewater treatment and disposal

• Compliance with local regulations

• Protection of the environment

  
  

Septic design is not merely about selecting a tank and a drain field. It’s a technical, regulatory, and environmental process that involves several key steps.

Why Septic Design is a Big Deal

Understanding why septic design is essential can save homeowners and builders a lot of time and money. Here are three critical reasons:

1. It Prevents System Collapse

A faulty septic system can lead to serious issues. Sewage may back up, clogging the system and tainting the environment. This could result in tens of thousands of dollars in repairs, along with property damage and potential legal consequences.

2. It's Required

Counties and municipalities necessitate an approved septic plan before construction or system installation can begin. Without an approved plan, obtaining a building permit—and ultimately a certificate of occupancy—becomes impossible.

3. It Impacts Home Value

Homes with septic issues or without a permitted system often face difficulties in real estate transactions. A comprehensive septic plan not only provides peace of mind but can also enhance a property's resale value.

The Septic Design Process (Step-by-Step)

Here's a general overview of the septic design process:

Step 1: Site Evaluation

The site visit kickstarts the process of assessing the land. A septic designer will evaluate:

• Lot size and shape

• Land slope

• Location of wells, structures, and property lines

• Drainage to ensure the system to be installed has adequate setbacks and avoids environmental issues.

  
  

Step 2: Soil Testing

This phase is crucial for the design process. The designer performs soil tests to determine its drainage capability. Different soils—such as clay, loam, and sand—allow for varying drainage effectiveness. The test results dictate whether a standard system will suffice or if an alternative is necessary.

Step 3: System Sizing

The system is sized according to the home's expected water usage, typically based on the number of bedrooms. More bedrooms mean more wastewater, requiring a larger system. Designers adhere to county or Arizona Department of Environmental Quality (ADEQ) standards to finalize system sizing.

Step 4: Creating the Layout

After sizing, the designer composes a detailed site plan showing:

• The location of the septic tank

• The layout of the drain field

• Essential components to ensure effective operation

  
  

If necessary, the plan will include a reserve area—another site on the property for future use if the primary drain field fails.

Step 5: Permit Submission

The entire design, soil survey, and site plan are submitted to the local health agency or environmental department for approval and permitting. In Arizona, septic permits are managed by local counties and coordinated with ADEQ.

Step 6: Installation

Once the permit is approved, a licensed contractor (like BEST Septic Solutions) installs the system precisely as outlined in the approved design. Following installation, the system undergoes inspection and must receive final approval before use.

Design Types of Septic Systems

There is no single "one-size-fits-all" septic design. Depending on soil type, slope, and available space, a designer may opt for several different types of systems.

1. Conventional Gravity System

This system is most suitable for ground that has good drainage and a sufficient drop in elevation. Wastewater flows from the home into the septic tank and subsequently to a drain field.

2. Pressure Distribution System

This design is ideal for poor soil or situations where more even distribution is necessary. Effluent is distributed under pressure by a pump, preventing any one section of the field from being overloaded.

3. Aerobic Treatment Unit (ATU)

ATUs inject oxygen into the wastewater, enabling quicker breakdown. These systems are common in areas with poor soil conditions or space limitations.

4. Drip Distribution or Low-Pressure Pipe (LPP)

This design is utilized on sloping or problematic ground. The effluent is distributed slowly over time, minimizing environmental impact.

Common Septic Design Mistakes (and How to Steer Clear of Them)

Having worked with clients, we've seen many common mistakes in septic design. Here are key pitfalls to avoid:

• Inadequate site evaluation that overlooks drainage issues

• Failing to conduct thorough soil testing

• Using incorrect sizing for the system based on the home's water usage

• Neglecting to include a reserve area in the design

  
  

Desert land in Arizona

Who Needs Septic Design?

If you find yourself in any of the following situations, septic design is paramount:

• Constructing a new home off a municipal sewer

• Purchasing a property that relies on a septic system

• Renovating a home with existing septic issues

  
  

At BEST Septic Solutions, we partner with homeowners, real estate agents, builders, architects, and land developers daily. We strive to make septic design a seamless part of your project.

How BEST Septic Solutions Can Assist in Arizona

Septic design might seem daunting, but it doesn’t have to be. Partnering with BEST Septic Solutions allows you to benefit from:

• Expert knowledge of local regulations and requirements

• Experience in handling the design process from start to finish

• Support in obtaining timely permits and installations

  
  

We know what is needed to have your design permitted and installed without stress.

Final Thoughts

Septic design serves as the foundation for a safe, functional, and legally compliant septic system. Whether building a custom home, managing a real estate transaction, or developing rural land, don't leave this crucial step to chance.

Want to ensure your septic design is completed correctly from the start? Contact BEST Septic Solutions today. In Arizona, we manage soil testing, design, permitting, and installation, allowing you to focus on construction and sales with ease.