How can I tell the difference between a conventional onsite sewage system and an alternative onsite sewage system (AOSS)? A conventional onsite sewage system is defined as “a treatment works system consisting of one or more septic tanks with gravity, pumped, or siphoned conveyance to a gravity sub surfaced drainfield”. A typical conventional onsite sewage system consists of a sewer line, two septic tanks, a conveyance line, a distribution box, header lines, and multiple absorption trenches. In most cases these components are not visible from the surface. (If the system requires a pump you will notice a riser roughly 12 inches above the ground surface.)

An alternative onsite sewage system is defined as “a treatment works system that is not a conventional onsite sewage system and does not result in a point source discharge. A point source discharge or direct discharge system requires a Health Department Permit and a Department of Environmental Quality (DEQ) Permit”. A typical alternative onsite sewage system consists of a sewer line, septic tank, treatment unit, pump chamber, conveyance line, distribution system, and absorption field (trenches, pad, drip tubing, etc.). With alternative systems there are typically multiple components visible from the ground surface, most notably the access to the treatment unit.

I have an AOSS, so how do these new regulations affect me?

Section 12VAC5-613-120 of the Emergency Regulations clearly states the owner responsibilities as it relates to the operation and maintenance of an AOSS. The responsibilities are as follows:
1) Maintain a relationship with an operator;
2) Have the AOSS operated an maintained by an operater;
3) Have an operator visit the AOSS at the frequency required by this chapter;
4) Have an operator collect any samples required by this chapter;
5) Keep a copy of the log provided by the operator on the property where the AOSS is located, make the log available to the department upon request, and make a reasonable effort to transfer the log to any future owner;
6) Keep a copy of the Operation and Maintenance Manual (O&M Manual) for the AOSS on the property where the AOSS is located, make the manual available to the department upon request, and make a reasonable effort to transfer the O&M Manual to any future owner; and
7) Comply with the onsite sewage system requirements contained in local ordinances adopted pursuant to the Chesapeake Bay Preservation Act (§ 10.1-2100 et. Seq.) and the Chesapeake Bay Preservation Area Designation and Management Regulations (9VAC10-20) when an AOSS is located within a Chesapeake Bay Preservation Area.

What do I need to do next?-Complete this form and one of our certified engineers will contact you to help you meet these new requirements: