Septic Tank Installation

Firehouse Septic Overview

Firehouse Septic specializes in septic tank pumping, septic maintenance, septic repairs, as well as septic pump installation and replacement for existing systems.

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Unfortunately, we do not install new systems. However, we believe in keeping our customers informed about the proper way things should be done. Below, you’ll find step-by-step instructions for installing a new septic system—provided for informational purposes only.

This information is based on a standard system installation for a residential homeowner in the Senoia, Tyrone, Sharpsburg, Newnan, Peachtree City, and Fayetteville, Georgia areas. The numbers used reflect typical daily and weekly water use for an average American family.

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Permits and Legal Requirements

In Fayette County and Coweta County, you must acquire a wastewater permit before beginning any septic system installation.

If you are not a state- and county-certified septic installer in Senoia, Tyrone, Newnan, Sharpsburg, Peachtree City, or Fayetteville, then you are only legally allowed to install your own personal system.

 

Permit applications for new installations or system modifications can be obtained from the Fayette County or Coweta County Office of Environmental Health.

 

Keep in mind that this is only a Liquid Waste Disposal Permit Application Form (septic tank permit). Depending on your project, you may also need a building permit, utility permit, or other county-required documentation.

This overview provides a simplified summary of what’s required to install your own septic system in the Coweta County and Fayette County areas—including the basic paperwork and scope of work involved.

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Understanding Septic Systems

A septic system is a personal, on-site wastewater treatment facility that efficiently disposes of household waste.

When properly installed by a reputable company such as Firehouse Septic, it’s an extremely effective method of separating liquid waste from solid waste and removing biological pathogens.

 

Wastewater entering a septic tank contains human waste, impurities, and fecal matter that can pose serious health risks. If not properly treated, these pathogens can cause illness—or even death.

 

If a septic system is not installed correctly or maintained regularly, contaminated water can seep into the groundwater table or even bubble up to the surface. Properties that rely on well water are especially at risk, as contamination can render the water supply unsafe and the property uninhabitable.

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The Cost of Neglect

Hiring a company to fix a contaminated yard is far more expensive than installing a proper system from the start.

 

Surface wastewater can make people and pets sick and attract bugs and pests. The most affected individuals are often children, the elderly, and those with weakened immune systems.

 

All newly installed septic systems in Tyrone, Peachtree City, Sharpsburg, Senoia, and Fayetteville consist of a concrete tank divided into two chambers, as well as a drain field (or leach field).

 

The septic tank allows waste to separate—lighter material floats, heavier material sinks. Bacteria inside the tank break down some of this waste, but about 85% of the scum and sludge still remain. The remaining liquid (effluent) then flows out to the drain field.

 

The Drain Field

The drain field evenly distributes wastewater into the soil, where it’s naturally filtered.

 

The soil’s air pockets contain aerobic bacteria that break down harmful pathogens. When functioning properly, these bacteria can neutralize contaminants as much as one foot below the ground surface.

 

If the system isn’t installed correctly or maintained, the drain field can clog, killing off the beneficial bacteria and causing wastewater to back up into your home or yard.

 

Proper tank sizing and routine maintenance are both critical to preventing this.

 

Septic Tank Maintenance

To keep your system functioning properly, have your septic tank pumped every 2–3 years.

 

This removes accumulated solids before they can enter the drain field and cause damage. Some jurisdictions have mandatory pumping requirements, though Peachtree City, Tyrone, Sharpsburg, Senoia, and Fayetteville currently do not.

 

Installing Your Own System

This overview will help you understand how to size and install a septic system.

 

A standard American system includes a septic tank and a drain field. If you’re a homeowner installing your own system, you’ll be responsible for sizing the tank and completing all necessary paperwork.

 

If you need assistance, contact your local Fayette County or Coweta County Environmental Office. They can help ensure you meet all inspection and permitting requirements.

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