§ 6004. Applicability.

The purpose of the septic pump-out program is to encourage proper maintenance and increase the functional life of on-site septic systems through regular pump-outs at least once every five (5) years. The program applies to those properties located in the Chesapeake Bay watershed in Isle of Wight County, Virginia that are served by private, on-site sewage treatment and disposal systems. Please see special language located elsewhere in this document regarding septic systems equipped with septic tank effluent filters.

A.

No property owner located within the Chesapeake Bay watershed of Isle of Wight County, Virginia shall operate an on-site sewage treatment system unless such construction, installation, alteration, maintenance or operation is in compliance with all applicable sanitary regulations and this program.

B.

Septic tank pump-outs as prescribed in this article shall take place at least once every five (5) years, other than as noted in Item C. Furthermore, in lieu of requiring proof of septic tank pump-out every five (5) years, owners may submit documentation every five (5) years, certified by an operator or on-site soil evaluator licensed or certified under Chapter 23 (Section 54.1-2300 et seq.) of Title 54.1 as being qualified to operate, maintain or design on-site sewage systems, that the septic system has been inspected, is functioning properly, and the tank does not need to have the effluent pumped out of it.

C.

If deemed appropriate by the local health department and subject to conditions the local health department may set, as an alternative to the mandatory pump-out, owners have the option of having a plastic filter installed and maintained in the outflow pipe from the septic tank to filter solid material from the effluent while sustaining adequate flow to the drainfield to permit normal use of the septic system. (5-15-08; 3-20-14; 4-16-15.)