Quck answer
Building a fence above a septic tank requires careful planning and consideration. Here are the key steps to follow:
1. Determine the location of the septic tank: Identify the exact position of the septic tank on your property.
2. Measure the area: Measure the dimensions of the area where you plan to build the fence.
3. Check local regulations: Research local building codes and regulations to ensure compliance.
4. Choose appropriate materials: Select materials that are durable, weather-resistant, and won’t interfere with the septic system’s maintenance.
5. Plan fence placement: Determine the distance between the fence and the septic tank to allow access for maintenance and repairs.
6. Install the fence: Follow proper installation techniques and secure the fence posts firmly into the ground.
7. Maintain the fence: Regularly inspect and maintain the fence to ensure its integrity and prevent any damage to the septic system.
By following these steps, you can build a fence that meets your needs while protecting your septic tank.
A septic tank is a component of an underground system that treats and disposes of sewage in rural areas. Wastewater enters the tank, separating into sludge at the bottom, scum at the top, and liquid in between. The liquid effluent passes through perforated pipes buried in gravel-filled trenches and is absorbed by the soil. The area where the pipes are located is called the drainfield, and any fencing around the septic tank must include this area. Fences are necessary to prevent humans or animals from walking over and damaging the septic tank cover and drainfield.
Step 1
Locate the septic tank cover and drainfield. The tank cover is approximately 2.5 feet in diameter, and the drainage lines are about 4 inches in diameter. They are buried 6 feet deep and extend 100 feet from the tank. There may be three to six lines, spaced 6 feet apart. If available, review any property plans that indicate the location of the drainfield and drainage lines. Alternatively, contact local authorities for records of such plans.
Step 2
If no design plans are available, examine the grass cover on your property to find the area. The grass above the drainage lines will be greener and damper compared to the surrounding areas due to the flow of effluent liquids and associated nutrients into the soil. Use a thin steel pole to carefully probe the ground along the borders of the drainfield to determine the underground flow boundary of the effluent.
Step 3
Determine the location of the replacement area. In many areas of the United States, local regulations require households with septic systems to designate an alternative area for a new drainfield in case the existing one fails. This designated area must be protected with fencing, just like the existing drainfield.
Step 4
Mark the fence location using wooden stakes and string. Start marking from a point 10 feet away from the center of the tank cover. Continue marking the fence position 10 feet away from the outer edge of the drainfield and replacement area, and end at another point 10 feet away from the center of the tank cover.
Step 5
Mark a gate area between the two ends of the fence, ensuring it is at least 10 feet away from the center of the tank cover. This area will provide access for vehicles used in the annual sludge clearance and tank cleaning process.
Step 6
Use a post driver to hammer T-posts 2 feet into the ground. Place one T-post every 10 feet along the marked fence area. Unroll the fencing and attach it to the T-posts using fence wire or T-post clips specifically designed for this purpose. Attach the wire or clips at the top, middle, and bottom of the fencing mesh, using pliers.
Step 7
Continue fencing across the gate area if it will only be used for tank clearance. Install gates if you require more frequent access.
