Current through Register Vol. 49, No. 9, September, 2024
Section 1.
Authority and
Purpose
1.1. The
following RULES PERTAINING TO ONSITE WASTEWATER SYSTEMS are duly adopted and
promulgated by the Arkansas State Board of Health pursuant to the authority
expressly conferred by the laws of the State Arkansas including, without
limitation, Act 96 of 1913 (A.C.A.
20-7-109), and Act 402 of 1977
(A.C.A. 14-236-101, et seq.).
1.2. Purpose: To establish minimum standards
for the design and construction of onsite wastewater systems in suitable soils
for the renovation of wastewater and the return of the renovated wastewater
into the hydrologic cycle.
Section
2.
Definitions
2.1.
Alternate System. A
non-standard individual onsite wastewater treatment or collection system
approved by the Department in instances where a standard system is not
suitable.
2.2.
Approved
System. An onsite wastewater system constructed and installed in
accordance with the standards and requirements of this Rule and for which a
Permit for Operation has been issued. "Approved system" does not imply that the
system will perform satisfactorily for a specific period of time, only that the
system has met the minimum requirements of this Rule.
2.3.
Authorized Agent. The
Environmental Health Specialist assigned to the County, or Business Unit by the
Department.
2.4.
Bedrock. Consolidated rocks that are sufficiently coherent when
moist to make hand digging with a spade impractical, although it may be chipped
or scraped. The bedrock may contain cracks that generally are too few and too
small to allow roots to penetrate at intervals of less than 10 cm. The cracks
may be coated or filled with clay or other material.
2.5.
Bedroom. Any room inside a
residence intended for the purposes of sleeping quarters.
2.6.
Benchmark. A mark made on a
stationary object of a determined position and elevation and used as a
reference point.
2.7.
Community Wastewater System. Any system, whether public or
privately owned, serving 2 or more individual lots, for the collection,
treatment and disposal of wastewater or industrial wastes of a liquid nature,
including various devices for the treatment of such wastewater or industrial
wastes.
2.8.
Department. The Arkansas Department of Health.
2.9.
Designated Representative
(DR). A person certified by the Department to make percolation tests,
system designs, and inspections subject to the Authorized Agent's final
approval. Designated Representatives shall be registered professional
engineers, registered land surveyors, licensed master plumbers, registered
sanitarians or other similarly qualified individuals holding current
certificates from the State of Arkansas, and shall demonstrate to the
satisfaction of the Authorized Agent prior to their designation as a
"Designated Representative" their competency to make percolation tests, designs
and final inspections for onsite wastewater systems in accordance with these
Rules and when authorized by the Authorized Agent.
2.10.
Soil Qualified Designated
Representative. A Designated Representative who has successfully passed
the soils portion of the Designated Representative testing procedure, as set
forth by the Department. These individuals are certified to size absorption
areas based on depth to seasonal water tables.
2.11.
Distribution Box. A
watertight box that receives the discharge of effluent from the septic tank and
distributes the flow of wastewater equally to each absorption trench.
2.12.
Distribution Device. A
device, approved by the Department, used to distribute or alternate the
effluent load between two or more locations.
2.13.
Domestic Wastewater. All
wastes discharging from sanitary conveniences and plumbing fixtures of a
domestic nature, exclusive of industrial and commercial wastes.
2.14.
Dosing Tank. A tank
constructed of concrete, plastic, fiberglass, or other authorized material that
contains one or more pumps or automatic siphons designed to deliver a specified
volume of wastewater effluent to the distribution system.
2.15.
Dwelling Unit. A structure
intended to be used as a residence. A single structure may contain more than
one dwelling unit: e.g., a duplex contains two dwelling units.
2.16.
Emergency Repair. The
repair and/or replacement of any part of a malfunctioning onsite wastewater
system, excluding the alteration of existing absorption trenches and/or the
installation of additional absorption area, that poses an immediate health
hazard.
2.17.
Engineering. The engineering section of the Arkansas Department of
Health.
2.18.
Experimental
System. A sewage treatment system that is not classified as a standard
or an alternate onsite wastewater system. Experimental systems may be approved
on a case- by-case basis and evaluated under the direction of the Department to
determine the effectiveness of the system.
2.19.
High Strength Wastewater.
Wastewater, which exceeds the following parameters; biochemical oxygen demand
(BOD5), of 300 mg/L; total suspended solids (TSS) of 300 mg/L; fats, oils and
grease content of 25 mg/L.
2.20.
High-use Area. Any site accessible to the public for the purposes
of entertainment, recreation, or gathering.
2.21.
High Water Mark. The
established maximum flood elevation of lakes with constructed dams, or when not
available, the line which the water impresses on the soil by covering it for
sufficient periods of time to deprive it of non-aquatic vegetation.
2.22.
Homeowner. A person who
owns and occupies a building as his home.
2.23.
Hydraulic Conductivity.
The proportionality factor in Darcy's Law, as applied to viscous flow of water
in soil, that represents the ability of soil to conduct water and is equivalent
to the flux of water per unit gradient of hydraulic potential.
2.24.
Industrial Wastes. Liquid
wastes resulting from the processes employed in industrial and commercial
establishments.
2.25.
Installer. Any person, firm, corporation, association,
municipality, or governmental agency licensed by the department, which
constructs, installs, alters, or repairs onsite wastewater systems for
others.
2.26.
Interceptor
Drain. A subsurface drain line usually constructed upgrade from the
absorption area to divert seasonal groundwater.
2.27.
Lake. A considerable body
of inland water or an expanded portion of a river generally of appreciable size
and too deep to permit vegetation, excluding subaqueous vegetation, to take
root completely across the expanse of water.
2.28.
Licensees. An encompassing
term used to refer to persons licensed by the state to perform onsite related
services to include Installers, Designated Representatives, Certified
Monitoring Personnel, and Septic Tank Manufacturers.
2.29.
Monitoring Person. An
individual certified by the Department to conduct assessments under the Onsite
Wastewater Systems Monitoring Program.
2.30.
Municipality. A city,
town, county, district, or other public body created by or pursuant to State
law, or any combination thereof, acting cooperatively or jointly.
2.31.
Onsite Wastewater System.
A single system of treatment tanks and/or renovation facilities used for the
treatment of domestic wastewater, exclusive of industrial wastes, serving only
a single building, commercial facility such as an office building, or
industrial plant or institution.
2.32.
Pedon. The smallest volume
for which one should describe and sample the soil to represent the nature and
arrangement of its horizons and variability in the properties that are
preserved in samples. In the usual situation, where all horizons are continuous
and of nearly uniform thickness and composition, the pedon has a horizontal
area of about 1 m².
2.33.
Perched Water Table. A saturated zone, generally above the natural
water table, as identified by redoximorphic features caused by a restrictive
horizon.
2.34.
Person.
Any institution, public or private corporation, individual, partnership, or
other entity.
2.35.
Piezometer. A pipe placed in the soil, which gives the water
pressure at depth. The reading is used to estimate the elevation of a water
table.
2.36.
Pond. A
body of water smaller than a lake, often artificially formed.
2.37.
Potable Water. Water free
from impurities in amounts sufficient to cause disease or harmful physiological
effects with the bacteriological and chemical quality conforming to applicable
standards of the Arkansas State Board of Health.
2.38.
Primary Absorption Area.
The area approved by the Department or its Authorized Agent for the
installation of an onsite wastewater system for a specified tract of
land.
2.39.
Professional Soil
Classifier (P.S.C.). A person who by reason of their special knowledge
of the physical, chemical, and biological sciences applicable to soils as
natural bodies and of the methods and principles of soil classification as
acquired by soils education and soil classification experience in the
formation, morphology, description, and mapping of soils, is qualified to
practice soil classifying, and who has been registered by the Arkansas State
Board of Registration for Professional Soil Classifiers.
2.40.
Property Owner. A person
who owns and may or may not occupy the property.
2.41.
Property Owners'
Association. An association created by and pursuant to State law and
organized for the purpose of maintaining common facilities including onsite
wastewater facilities in unincorporated subdivisions.
2.42.
Redoximorphic Features.
Color patterns in a soil caused by loss (depletion) or gain (concentration) of
pigment compared to the matrix color, formed by oxidation/reduction of Fe
and/or Mn coupled with their removal, translocation, or accrual; or a soil
matrix color controlled by the presence of
Fe2+.
2.43.
Relict Redoximorphic
Features. Soil morphological features that reflect past hydrologic
conditions of saturation and anaerobiosis rather than contemporary hydrology.
Redoximorphic features may not be considered relict unless they have been
evaluated by a monitoring process as specified in Section 7.4.3.
2.44.
Residential Strength
Effluent. Effluent, which does not exceed the following parameters:
biochemical oxygen demand (BOD5) of 300 mg/L; total suspended solids (TSS) of
300 mg/L; fats, oils and grease content of 25 mg/L.
2.45.
Restrictive Soil Layer. A
soil layer that impedes the movement of water, air or growth of plant roots.
Examples of such layers or conditions are claypans, fragipans, pressure or
induced pans, and bedrock.
2.45.1.
Claypan. A natural subsurface horizon with low hydraulic
conductivity and at least 20% more clay than the overlying horizon.
2.45.2.
Fragipan. A natural
subsurface horizon with very low organic matter, high bulk density and/or high
mechanical strength relative to overlying and underlying horizons; has hard or
very hard consistence when dry, but showing a moderate to weak brittleness when
moist. The layer typically has redoximorphic features, is slowly or very slowly
permeable to water, is considered to be root restricting, and usually has few
to many bleached, roughly vertical planes which are faces of coarse or very
coarse polyhedrons or prisms.
2.45.3.
Pressure or Induced Pan.
A subsurface horizon or soil layer having a higher bulk density and a lower
total porosity than the soil directly above or below it, as a result of
pressure that has been applied by normal tillage operations or by other
artificial means. Frequently referred to as a plow pan, plow sole, or traffic
pan.
2.46.
Scum. The accumulated floating material, including grease, oils
and other low-density solids in a septic tank.
2.47.
Secondary Absorption Area.
A location indicated on a lot or plot plan showing where the absorption area is
to be placed in the event of failure or necessary replacement of the system
located on the primary absorption area.
2.48.
Seasonal Water Table
(SWT). A zone of soil that become saturated for periods long enough to
undergo reducing conditions during periods of climatic stress due to an
underlying restrictive layer. The seasonal water table may be classified as
brief, moderate, or long. May also be known as a perched water table.
2.49.
Septic Tank. A single tank
or series of tanks that receive raw domestic wastewater and serve as the
primary treatment unit in an onsite wastewater system. The septic tank provides
skimming and storage of scum, settling and storage of the wastewater solids,
and the partial digestion of accumulated solids by anaerobic action. Clarified
effluent then flows from the septic tank to the absorption area or for further
treatment.
2.50.
Septic Tank
Manufacturer. A person, firm, corporation or association who
manufactures septic tanks, package treatment units or other components for
onsite wastewater systems.
2.51.
Similarly Qualified Individual. A bachelor's degree with 30 hours
of natural science, engineering and/or math, or 3 years' experience verified by
the Department in the design of onsite wastewater systems.
2.52.
Sludge. The accumulated
solids that have settled to the bottom of a septic tank.
2.53.
Soil. A natural body
comprised of solids (minerals and organic matter), liquid, and gases that
occurs on the land surface, occupies space, and is characterized by one or both
of the following: horizons, or layers, that are distinguishable from the
initial material as a result of additions, losses, transfers, and
transformations of energy and matter or the ability to support rooted plants in
a natural environment.
2.54.
Soil Absorption System. The system for the final renovation of the
septic tank effluent and return of the renovated wastewater to the hydrologic
cycle, including the lateral lines, the perforated pipes, the rock or other
authorized conventional trench media products and the soil absorption
trenches.
2.55.
Soil
Horizon. A layer approximately parallel to the surface of the soil
distinguishable from adjacent layers by a distinctive set of properties
produced by the soil forming process.
2.56.
Soil Pit. An onsite
excavation. The excavation shall be of adequate size to observe depth to
seasonal water tables, bedrock, or impervious layers. The soil pit is a minimum
of 2 feet in width and dug to provide ease of access such as steps or a
moderate slope. The excavation shall be 4 feet in depth unless an impervious
layer is encountered and shall provide an exposed sidewall area of at least 3
feet in length. It is used to observe those soil characteristics relevant in
determining soil suitability for wastewater absorption and
renovation.
2.57.
Soil
Textural Class. The relative proportions by weight of the three mineral
fractions sand, silt, and clay as defined by the USDA soil texture
classifications. See Page 76 Soil Texture Triangle
2.58.
Standard Systems. A
standard onsite wastewater system consists of a field of perforated pipe
surrounded by gravel, or other conventional trench media product authorized by
the Department and installed in such a manner that the clarified effluent from
the septic tank or pretreatment unit will be distributed with reasonable
uniformity into the natural soil using loading rates found in Table
1.
2.59.
Stream. A
year-round flowing stream as designated by the United States Geological
Survey.
2.60.
Subdivision. Land divided or proposed to be divided for
predominantly residential purposes into such parcels as required by local
ordinances, or, in the absence of local ordinances, subdivision means any land
which is divided or proposed to be divided by a common owner or owners for
predominantly residential purposes into 3 or more lots or parcels, platted or
unplatted units any of which contains less than three acres, as a part of a
uniform plan of development.
2.61.
Surface Discharging System. A system that applies secondary
treated effluent directly to the soil surface from a single point of
discharge.
2.62.
True Water
Table. The upper surface of a saturated zone within the soil that is
directly connected to a regional aquifer.
2.63.
Undisturbed Soil. Soil,
which has developed, by the actions of the soil forming processes and which has
not been disturbed or altered by the human activities. Exception: plow layers
less than 7 inches from the soil surface.
2.64.
Valid Permit. A permit for
construction is valid for a period of one year from the date of approval. A
permit may be deemed invalid by the Authorized Agent before construction if the
site and/or soil conditions have changed after approval or the information on
the permit is inaccurate. A permit may be re-validated.
2.65.
Wet Season. The period
within a year when rainfall normally exceeds evapotranspiration and a seasonal
water table can be expected to be at its highest level in the soil.
Section 3.
Variances and Exemptions
1.3. Requested variations from these Rules
will be considered and may be approved at the sole discretion of the
Department.
1.4. Submission of
proposed experimental onsite wastewater systems may be approved, disapproved,
or approved on a trial basis for a specific period of time. Such approval or
disapproval shall be at the sole discretion of the Department. Submission of an
experimental design shall include design data as to the efficiency of operation
of the proposed experimental system. A monitoring plan shall be submitted for
approval in addition to the system design.
1.5. Good management practices. Good
management practices are additions or modifications to systems which will make
such systems more efficient, or which could make such systems acceptable in
certain soil conditions. Where good management practices are proposed for
inclusion in a soil absorption system, approval shall be at the discretion of
the Department or its Authorized Agent.
1.6. Existing installation. No onsite
wastewater system in existence on the effective date of these Rules nor any
onsite wastewater system installed after the effective date of these Rules in a
subdivision, wherein individual lots have been developed or sold for use with
onsite wastewater systems for which a plat has been filed on record prior to
the effective date of these Rules shall be required to conform to more
stringent specifications and requirements as to design, construction, density
of improvements, lot size, and installation than those standards contained in
any applicable duly adopted and published rules in effect at the time of
platting of record of such subdivisions. No onsite wastewater system to be
installed on a residential lot for which the Department or its Authorized Agent
has issued a construction permit on or before the effective date of these Rules
shall be required to conform to the design, construction and installation
provisions of these Rules. In a subdivision for which a master plan has been
approved by the Department prior to the effective date of these Rules, or for
which the Department has otherwise previously issued its written approval for
the installation of onsite wastewater systems and where individual lots have
been developed or sold in reliance upon such prior written approval, onsite
wastewater systems shall not be required to conform to more stringent
specifications as to design, construction and installation than those standards
in effect at the time of, or referred to, in such prior written approval.
However, it is provided, that any onsite wastewater system which is determined
by the Department to be a health hazard or which constitutes a nuisance due to
odor or unsightly appearance shall conform to the provisions of these Rules
within 30 working days after notification that such determination has been
made.
1.7. Pursuant to Act 725 of
2021, an applicant may receive a waiver of the initial licensure fee, if
eligible. Eligible applicants are applicants who:
* Are receiving assistance through the Arkansas, or current
state of residence equivalent, Medicaid Program, the Supplemental Nutrition
Assistance Program (SNAP), the Special Supplemental Nutrition Program for
Women, Infants, and Children (SSNP), the Temporary Assistance for Needy
Families Program (TEA), or the Lifeline Assistance Program (LAP);
* Were approved for unemployment within last twelve (12)
months; or
* Have an income that does not exceed two hundred percent
(200%) of the federal poverty income guidelines.
3.5.1 Applicants shall provide documentation
showing their receipt of benefits from the appropriate State Agency.
* For Medicaid, SNAP, SSNP, TEA, or LAP, documentation from the
Arkansas Department of Human Services (DHS), or current state of residence
equivalent agency;
* For unemployment benefits approval in the last twelve (12)
months, the Arkansas Department of Workforce Services, or current state of
residence equivalent agency; or
* For proof of income, copies of all United States Internal
Revenue Service Forms indicating applicant's total personal income for the most
recent tax year e.g., "W2," "1099," etc.
* Applicants shall attest that the documentation provided is a
true and correct copy and fraudulent or fraudulently obtained documentation
shall be grounds for denial or revocation of license.
Section 4.
Permitting Requirements
4.1. All premises shall be connected to a
sanitary sewer when within 300 feet from the point where the sewer exits a
building on the property owner's property and available to said premises when
connection can be made without crossing another person's property. No privies,
onsite wastewater systems or other receptacles for human excreta shall be
constructed, maintained, or used on the premises. Plumbing shall be installed
and maintained in accordance with the ARKANSAS STATE PLUMBING CODE (see Ark.
Code Ann. §§
17-38-101 et. seq.)
4.2. All lots, tracts, or parcels shall have
suitable primary and secondary absorption areas that utilize standard onsite
wastewater systems sized according to natural soil data. In no case shall a
wastewater system utilizing subsurface renovation be approved regardless of lot
size if soils are not suitable for subsurface renovation.
4.3. A completed Onsite Wastewater System
Permit Application and detailed plans and specifications following the
requirements found in Appendix F for the collection, treatment and/or
renovation facilities for all wastes of a domestic nature, containing a
predominance of human excreta and exclusive of industrial wastes shall be
submitted to and receive the approval of the Arkansas Department of Health or
its Authorized Agent, prior to construction of a building or
residence.
4.4. Onsite wastewater
systems in subdivisions or in platted or unplatted lots or tracts of land as
provided in Act 402 of 1977 (A.C.A.
14-236-101, et seq.), shall be
planned, designed and constructed in accordance with the RULES PERTAINING TO
GENERAL SANITATION and the RULES PERTAINING TO ONSITE WASTEWATER SYSTEMS of the
Arkansas Department of Health. Permits for construction and operation of onsite
wastewater systems shall be obtained in accordance with the RULES PERTAINING TO
ONSITE WASTEWATER SYSTEMS prior to the construction, installation or
modification of the Onsite Wastewater System.
4.5. Permit requirement. It shall be unlawful
for any person, firm, corporation, association, municipality, or governmental
agency to begin construction, alteration, repair, or extension of any onsite
wastewater system, owned by any other person, firm, corporation, association,
municipality or governmental agency until the owner first obtains a valid
Permit for Construction issued by the Department or its Authorized
Agent.
4.6. It shall be unlawful
for any person, firm, corporation, association, municipality or governmental
agency to begin operation of any onsite wastewater system until such system has
been inspected and approved by the Department or its Authorized Agent and the
owner has first obtained a Permit for Operation issued by the Department or its
Authorized Agent.
4.7. It shall be
unlawful for any installer to begin construction, alteration, repair or
extension of any onsite wastewater system owned by any other person, firm,
corporation, association, municipality or governmental agency until the permit
holder or installer first notifies the Authorized Agent a minimum of 24 hours
prior to the date he/she plans to begin work on said system. Emergency repairs
may be undertaken without prior notification to the Authorized Agent provided a
permit is obtained within ten working days.
4.8. For those cities or counties with
Authorized Agents, the Authorized Agent shall be the Authorized Agent of the
Department. In the event that an Authorized Agent has not been designated for a
city or county, applications for onsite wastewater systems shall be made to the
Department. Application forms and instructions may be obtained from the
Authorized Agent or from the Department.
4.9. Plan review fee. A fee shall be levied
for the review of each permit. Permit fees shall be made payable to the
Department. The review fee shall be paid before the issuance of Part 1 of the
Permit Application. There shall be no refund of the fee or any part thereof due
to failure to proceed under the Permit Application. Construction shall begin
within one year of issuance or the permit shall be re-validated by the original
submitting Designated Representative or the Department's Authorized Agent.
4.9.1. A fee shall be levied for the review
of Individual Onsite Wastewater Permit Applications as follows:
4.9.1.1. For structures one thousand five
hundred square feet (1,500 sq. ft.) or less, the fee to review a permit
application is thirty dollars ($30.00);
4.9.1.2. For structures more than one
thousand five hundred square feet (1,500 sq. ft.) and up to two thousand square
feet (2,000 sq. ft.), the fee to review a permit application is forty-five
dollars ($45.00);
4.9.1.3. For
structures more than two thousand square feet (2,000 sq. ft.) and up to three
thousand square feet (3,000 sq. ft.), the fee to review a permit application is
ninety dollars ($90.00);
4.9.1.4.
For structures more than three thousand square feet (3,000 sq. ft.) and up to
four thousand square feet (4,000 sq. ft.), the fee to review a permit
application is one hundred twenty dollars ($120.00);
4.9.1.5. For structures more than four
thousand square feet (4,000 sq. ft.), the fee to review a permit application is
one hundred fifty dollars ($150.00);
4.9.1.6. For the alteration, repair, or
extension of any individual sewage disposal system, the fee to review a permit
application is thirty dollars ($30.00).
4.9.2. In calculating the square footage of a
residential structure for purposes of determining the applicable fee under this
section, the square footage of all auxiliary areas of the residential structure
shall not be considered.
4.9.2.1. Auxiliary
areas include garages, carports, porches, and other similar areas as determined
by the Division of Environmental Health Protection of the Department of
Health.
4.10.
Permit Procedure
4.10.1. Part I of the Permit
is the Permit for Construction. Part I of the Permit Application form shall be
completed by a Designated Representative and approved by the Department or its
Authorized Agent prior to initiating construction. The information to be
reported in this portion includes the results of the percolation test, soil
determination results, lot dimensions, system design, system layout and other
information required by the Department or its Authorized Agent. NO CHANGES OR
ALTERATIONS MAY BE MADE TO THE SYSTEM PRIOR TO OR DURING CONSTRUCTION WITHOUT
PRIOR APPROVAL OF THE AUTHORIZED AGENT.
4.10.2. Part II of the Permit Application is
the installation inspection. An installation inspection may be made during the
construction of any onsite wastewater system. The inspection may be made during
any phase of the installation.
4.10.2.1. It
shall be the duty of the installer to notify the Authorized Agent or Designated
Representative, when the installation is ready for inspection. It shall be the
duty of the owner or occupant of the property to give the Department, its
Authorized Agent, or Designated Representative, free access to the property at
reasonable times for the purpose of making the installation inspection. Within
five (5) days, the installer shall submit the required documentation to the
local health unit that the system has been installed pursuant to the approved
permit.
4.10.2.2. The inspection
may be made by the Authorized Agent, or may be made by the Designated
Representative at the approval of the Authorized Agent.
4.10.2.3. Any person aggrieved by the
disapproval of an onsite wastewater system installation shall be afforded
review as provided in Act 434 of 1967, the ARKANSAS ADMINISTRATIVE PROCEDURE
ACT.
4.10.3. Part III of
the Permit is the Permit for Operation. After approval of the inspection, the
Authorized Agent will approve and issue a Permit for Operation. The system
shall not be used until the Permit for Operation is issued. The Authorized
Agent will retain the original and return the remaining copies to the
owner.
4.10.4. Refusal of permit.
Except as provided in Section 3.4, a Permit for the construction, alteration,
repair, extension, or operation of an onsite wastewater system or
alternate/experimental system shall be refused where public sewer systems are
reasonably available or economically feasible, or in instances where the
issuance of such Permit is in conflict with the other applicable laws and rules
or where the issuance of such permit is in conflict with the public policy
declared in Act 402 of l977 (A.C.A.
14-236-101, et seq.), except that
emergency repairs may be undertaken without prior issuance of a Permit,
provided a Permit is subsequently obtained within 10 working days after the
repairs are made.
Section
5.
Subdivisions
5.1. Subdivision Review
5.1.1. All subdivision plans, which are
proposed to utilize standard onsite wastewater systems as a method of
wastewater treatment for all or part of the lots or tracts in said subdivision,
shall be submitted to the Arkansas Department of Health for review and approval
of the overall plan for the utilization of onsite wastewater systems. Any lots
or parcels within the boundaries of the proposed subdivision, which are found
to be unsuitable for standard onsite systems, shall be incorporated into
surrounding lots or parcels. Areas designated as green or community space shall
be clearly identified and will not be assigned a lot number or considered in
the approval of the subdivision.
5.1.2. Submission shall be made to the local
health unit and shall include data on soil pits, percolation tests (if
applicable), respective test location, topography, and such other information
as may be required for the review. The Department will establish guidelines on
subdivision plan submission and review policies. These guidelines will be
updated periodically as necessary.
5.1.3. The plan review fee will be a minimum
of one hundred ($100.00) for one (1) lot and twenty-five dollars ($25.00) for
each following lot, with a maximum of one thousand five hundred dollars
($1,500).
5.1.4. The following
items will be included in all subdivision plans:
5.1.4.1. Vicinity map and legal description
indicating the location of the subdivision.
5.1.4.2. Layout of lot boundaries, streets,
easements, all topographical features, and flood level of the area.
5.1.4.3. The corners of both the primary and
secondary absorption areas shall be sized and flagged on each lot and indicated
on the plans.
5.1.4.4. Contour
lines at 5 to 20 feet intervals shall be shown as relating to lot boundaries
and the location of tests performed.
5.1.4.5. Subdivision with wells will show
proposed well location for each lot.
5.1.4.6. Features that may affect the
location of the standard onsite wastewater systems should be identified. These
include but are not limited to streams, existing wells, pipelines (oil, gas or
water), power lines, and topographic features.
5.1.4.7. All lots will be designed for
three-bedroom residences unless otherwise indicated.
5.1.4.8. Subdivisions with Public Water
Facilities require detailed engineering plans and specification for the water
systems submitted by an engineer licensed in the State of Arkansas to the
Engineering Section of the Arkansas Department of Health.
5.1.4.9. Addresses of all parties to receive
copies of the subdivision plans.
5.1.4.10. Three (3) copies of the plans are
required.
5.1.4.11. Flood zone
determination (FEMA Flood Zone Map).
5.2. If an individual water well supply and
an onsite wastewater system are proposed, the lot size shall be such that the
well shall be located at least 50 feet from any lot line, and at least 100 feet
from any part of the onsite wastewater system proposed on the same lot and
onsite wastewater systems proposed on any adjacent lots. Wells should be
located up slope from wastewater systems if possible. Both primary and
secondary onsite wastewater systems shall conform to all set back requirements
established under Section 6.2 of this rule.
5.3. If a public water supply is proposed and
an onsite wastewater system is to be used, the lot size shall be such that a
primary absorption area and a secondary absorption area are present. Both
absorption areas shall conform to the setback requirements outlined in Section
6.2 of this rule.
5.4. No surface
discharging systems shall be allowed in subdivisions.
5.5. Primary and secondary absorption areas
in a subdivision shall be sized according to natural soil conditions for
standard onsite wastewater systems using loading rates found in Table 1.
Capping fill may be used to overcome separation to bedrock; however, no
reduction in loading rate shall be granted for the purpose of determining
minimum lot size. Interceptor drains may be used as a good management practice,
however, no reduction in the loading rate shall be granted for determining
minimum lot size. On lots less than three acres in size proposed for
subdivision development, all undisturbed soils shall have a minimum depth of 13
inches or greater to a brief seasonal water table, and/or a depth of 18 inches
or greater to an adjusted moderate seasonal water table, and/or a depth of 24
inches or greater to an adjusted long seasonal water table. Lots that do not
meet the above minimum soil criteria shall be three acres or larger and sized
on natural soil conditions. Good management practices shall not be used for the
purpose of determining minimum lot size.
5.5.1. Submission shall be made to the local
health unit utilizing one of the following approved methods:
5.5.2. Subdivision Review and Soil Mapping
5.5.2.1. When utilizing soil mapping for
subdivision review, the soil map shall be submitted by a Professional Soil
Classifier. When soil mapping a subdivision for the purpose of designing
standard onsite wastewater systems, a high intensity map is required. A high
intensity map details the location and extent of the soils and landscape
features sufficiently for site evaluation for subsurface wastewater renovation.
The final report consists of a soils map and a soils report.
5.5.2.2. Field procedures for Mapping
Subdivisions
5.5.2.2.1. Soil maps for
subdivisions are to be made from a maximum grid of 100 feet. Grid points shall
be accurately located and identified using flags or stakes. A soil pit shall be
located at each grid point and identified with the corresponding flag or stake.
The maximum distance allowed from a property line to an outside perimeter grid
line is 50 feet.
5.5.2.2.2. The
corners of both the proposed primary and secondary absorption areas shall be
sized and flagged on each lot.
5.5.2.2.3. A soil description shall be made
from each soil pit in accordance with the standards established by the National
Cooperative Soil Survey.
5.5.2.3. The Soil Map
5.5.2.3.1. The soil map should be compiled at
a scale of 1 inch = 100 feet (1: 1,200).
5.5.2.3.2. The soil map shall show all map
units. A map unit is a collection of similar soils defined and named the same
in terms of their properties. Each map unit differs in some respect from all
others and is uniquely identified on a soil map. Each individual area on the
map is delineation. Areas of similar soils consisting of 625 square feet or
more shall be delineated. Areas of contrasting soils consisting of less than
625 square feet are inclusions and shall be identified in the map unit
description. Soil map units are to be named by their numerical ranking with
respect to the soil loading rates designated for each map unit. Example: The
unit with the highest loading rate for subsurface wastewater renovation will be
named Map Unit 1.
5.5.2.3.3. Soil
properties critical for sizing of onsite system absorption areas within each
map unit shall be given in tabular or narrative form on the soil map or in the
soil report. These properties include maximum slope, depth to bedrock,
hydraulic conductivity within the depth zone extending 6 inches above and 12
inches below the planned depth of the base of the absorption trench, minimum
depth to the brief, moderate, and long seasonal water table, if present, and
minimum loading rate based on these properties.
5.5.2.3.4. When a soil pit is not located
within the absorption areas, the primary and secondary absorption areas will be
sized according to the limiting loading rate within the applicable map unit.
Within a map unit, the absorption areas can be moved outside the designated
primary and secondary areas without additional soils information by utilizing
the most limiting loading rate or further soil evaluation in the specific area
being proposed shall be conducted.
5.5.2.3.5. The map unit legend must identify
all symbols used on the soil map.
5.5.2.3.6. A signed statement shall be on the
soil map certifying the map was made in accordance with the current National
Cooperative Soil Survey Standards by a Registered Professional Soil Classifier
Licensed in Arkansas.
5.5.2.3.7.
The following statement shall be on all soil maps: Any modification such as
cutting, filling or compaction of the soil may change the nature of the soils,
and may alter the suitability of the soils for the intended use and will
therefore void the soil map.
5.5.2.4. The Soil Report
5.5.2.4.1. The soil report is a separate
document that shall be submitted as an attachment to the soil map. The report
shall consist of the following:
5.5.2.4.2. Each map unit identified on the
soil map shall have a typical pedon description. Terms used in the description
shall be those used by the National Cooperative Soil Survey.
5.5.2.4.3. The range in characteristics for
each soil map unit shall be given. The characteristics shall include but are
not limited to color, texture, depth, and type of redoximorphic features, and
depth to bedrock. Ranges should be narrow enough that narrow enough that
interpretations will not be different for soils with the same typical
pedon.
5.5.2.4.4. Interpretations
for each typical pedon shall be included in the soil report. The minimum
interpretations required include seasonal water table duration, hydraulic
conductivity classes, depth to bedrock, and the range of soil loading
rate.
5.5.2.4.5. A signed statement
shall be on the soil report certifying the report was made in accordance with
the current National Cooperative Soil Survey Standards by a Registered
Professional Soil Classifier.
5.5.2.5. Sizing based on Seasonal Water Table
loading rates without Soil Mapping Designated Representatives utilizing soil
morphology method shall be soil certified. The following information or items
shall be included:
5.5.2.6. A
minimum of one soil pit in both the primary absorption and secondary absorption
area is required. Soil pit information shall include depth to bedrock, minimum
hydraulic conductivity within the zone extending 6 inches above and 12 inches
below the designed depth of the absorption trench, depth, and type of
restrictive soil layers, and depth to brief, moderate, and long seasonal water
tables.
5.5.2.7. Loading rates
based on the soil properties used to size primary and secondary sites shall be
given.
5.5.2.8. The corners of both
the proposed primary and secondary absorption areas shall be sized and flagged
on each lot.
5.5.3.
Construction of any type shall not begin upon any lot in the subdivision until
final approval of the submission for utilization of onsite wastewater systems
within the subdivision has been made by the Department.
5.5.4. Property Owners' Associations that
construct and maintain or have constructed and maintained wastewater treatment
facilities in accordance with standards and rules established by the Arkansas
Department of Health or the Arkansas Department of Environmental Quality and
that desire to exercise general supervision and authority over the treatment of
wastewater within and for the subdivided area over which their authority
extends, may request the Department or in the case of onsite wastewater
systems, or Engineering, in the case of community wastewater treatment systems,
to delegate such parts of its authority as the Property Owners' Association
wishes to exercise. The Department may, at its discretion, delegate any of its
authority in the administration of these Rules as it shall deem proper and in
accordance with the following:
5.5.4.1. In the
event that such Property Owners' Association constructs and maintains all
onsite wastewater systems within the subdivided area over which their authority
extends, the Department, after determining by the procedure set forth in
Section 5 that the use of the onsite wastewater systems within the subdivision
is acceptable, may, at its discretion, delegate the Property Owners'
Association general supervision and authority over the location, design,
construction, installation and operation of onsite wastewater systems subject,
however, to compliance with these Rules and to the use of the permit forms
established under these Rules and to the final approval of each permit by the
Authorized Agent of the Department.
5.5.4.2. In the event that such Property
Owners' Association constructs and maintains all community wastewater treatment
systems within the subdivided area over which their authority extends,
Engineering may, at its discretion, delegate general supervision and authority
over the location, design, construction, installation, and operation of such
community wastewater treatment systems subject to compliance with applicable
Rules of the Department of Health and of the Arkansas Department of
Environmental Quality, and subject to final approval of designs and issuance of
permits as required by said applicable Rules. Such compliance shall be to the
same degree and extent as would apply if the Property Owners Association were a
municipality.
Section 6.
System
Location
6.1. Minimum
horizontal distances shall be used only where ideal conditions indicate them to
be sufficient and greater distances shall be required where local conditions
demand, as found in Section 6.2. Waivers except with public water supplies
involved shall be submitted to and approved by the Department. Waivers
affecting public water supplies shall be submitted to and approved by
Engineering. Details pertaining to local water wells, such as depth, type of
construction, vertical zone of influence, together with data on the geological
formations and porosity of subsoil strata, should be considered in determining
the safe allowable distance between wells and onsite wastewater
systems.
6.2. Minimum Horizontal
Distances.
6.2.1. Facilities used for the
collection, treatment, and renovation of wastewater shall be at least 300 feet
from the high-water mark of any body of water, if within one quarter mile of a
public water supply intake on that body of water.
6.2.2. Facilities used for the collection,
treatment, and renovation of wastewater shall be at least 300 feet from any
spring used as a public water supply.
6.2.3. Facilities used for the collection,
treatment, and renovation of wastewater shall be at least 100 feet from any
source of domestic water supply.
6.2.4. Facilities used for the collection,
treatment, and renovation of wastewater shall be at least 100 feet from the
high-water mark of any stream or lake.
6.2.5. Facilities used for the collection,
treatment, and renovation of wastewater shall be at least 50 feet from any pond
on the same property and at least 100 feet from any pond on adjacent
properties, if in the pond watershed. In no case shall the minimum separation
distance from any pond be less than fifty feet.
6.2.6. Facilities used for the collection,
treatment, and renovation of wastewater shall be at least 10 feet from any
dwelling or building.
6.2.7.
Facilities used for the collection, treatment, and renovation of wastewater
shall be at least 10 feet from all property lines.
6.2.8. Facilities used for the collection,
treatment, and renovation of wastewater shall be at least 10 feet from any
water service line (See Arkansas Plumbing Code).
6.2.9. Facilities used for the collection,
treatment, and renovation of wastewater shall be at least 100 feet from any
sinkhole.
Section
7.
Soil Criteria
7.1. The first step in the design of any
onsite wastewater system is to determine the suitability of the soil. A minimum
of two soil pits is required to determine the suitability of a site. One pit
shall be in the area of the proposed primary absorption area and one pit shall
be in the area of the proposed secondary absorption area. The soil pits shall
be left open for use by the Authorized Agent. Depths to seasonal water tables,
bedrock (if encountered), and the type and depth of the various soil layers
including both pervious and impervious strata and their relationship with the
proposed soil absorption system's other impervious strata shall be reported. No
soil absorption system shall be installed in fill material.
7.2. Soil Separation Distances
The following are minimum separation distances from the bottom
of the proposed absorption trench to the true water table (aquifer) and
bedrock. These conditions shall be met before the soil is considered suitable
for subsurface renovation.
7.2.1. True
Water Tables
Minimum hydraulic conductivity in depth zone extending 6 inches
above and 12 inches below planned depth to base of soil absorption
trench:
Low or Moderate Hydraulic Conductivity |
24 inches |
High Hydraulic Conductivity |
36 inches |
7.2.2.
Bedrock
Minimum hydraulic conductivity in depth zone extending 6 inches
above and 12 inches below planned depth to base of soil absorption
trench:
Low or Moderate Hydraulic Conductivity features
indicating |
18 inches with redoximorphic |
SWT of moderate duration or longer |
Low or Moderate Hydraulic Conductivity features or
redoximorphic features indicating a brief SWT |
24 inches with no redoximorphic |
High Hydraulic Conductivity |
36 inches |
7.3. Hydraulic Conductivity Classes
Hydraulic conductivity class shall be assigned based on the
soil horizon with the minimum hydraulic conductivity in depth zone extending 6
inches above and 12 inches below planned depth to base of soil absorption
trench. The hydraulic conductivity class may be determined using the
following:
7.3.1. High hydraulic
conductivity
. Natural soil horizons which have not been compacted
by human activities, especially vehicle traffic and tillage operations, and are
in the following particle size classes:
7.3.1.1. Sandy. The texture of the fine earth
fraction (<2 millimeters diameter particles) is sand or loamy sand but not
loamy very fine sand; rock fragments comprise less than 35% of the horizon
volume.
7.3.1.2. Fragmental. Rock
fragments (stones, cobbles, gravel, and very coarse sand particles) comprise
90% or more of the horizon volume; too little fine earth to fill some of the
interstices larger than 1 millimeter.
7.3.1.3. Sandy-Skeletal. Rock fragments 2
millimeters in diameter or larger make up 35% or more but less than 90% of the
horizon volume; enough fine earth to fill interstices larger than 1 millimeter;
the fine earth fraction is sandy as defined for the sandy particle size
class.
7.3.2. Moderate
hydraulic conductivity. Natural soil horizons which clearly have some soil
structure other than platy, which have not been compacted by human activities,
especially vehicle traffic and tillage operations, and which have one of the
following textural classes: sandy loam, loam, silt loam, silt, sandy clay loam,
clay loam, or silty clay loam; rock fragment content is less than 90%.
7.3.2.1. Soils with sandy clay, clay, or
silty clay texture and are low shrink-swell will be considered to have moderate
hydraulic conductivity. These residual soils have a hue of 5YR or redder and
have typically formed over limestone and chert parent materials associated with
the Ozark Highlands in northern Arkansas. Alluvial soils such as those
deposited by the Arkansas and Red Rivers and red soils formed from other types
of parent materials and/or in other parts of the State are not included in this
exception. See Appendix I for additional guidance for identification of soils
meeting these criteria.
7.3.3. Low hydraulic conductivity (40% - 60%
clay). Included are soil horizons which have platy structure or
are massive, and horizons which have been compacted by human activities,
especially vehicle traffic and tillage operations. Also included are horizons
with one of the following textural classes: sandy clay, clay, and silty clay;
rock fragment content is less than 90%.
7.3.4. Red Soil Chart (See Appendix
I)
7.3.5. No loading rates are
available for low hydraulic conductivity soils with greater than 60%
clay.
7.4. Seasonal
Water Table (SWT) Classes
7.4.1. The depth to
seasonal water tables of 3 durations can be determined from the following
guides. The guides are interpretations of the type of redoximorphic features
present in a horizon. Each horizon should be placed in the most limiting SWT
class for which the criteria are met. All colors are for moist conditions.
The placing of soil horizons into SWT classes based on
redoximorphic features is an interpretation and requires some understanding of
soil development processes. Redoximorphic features are not expected to occur
unless the horizon has been both saturated and anoxic conditions have led to
reduction of iron and manganese. Reduction of iron and manganese is not
expected to occur until after the horizon has been saturated for a few days or
weeks and the saturation has been periodic or continuous for a substantial
period of time (decades or centuries).
7.4.1.1. Brief. Soil horizons which have
seasonal water tables of brief duration contain one or more of the following:
Concentrations or depletions with chroma >=3: less than 20%
of the mass is chroma 3 depletions.
2% or more black (manganese) masses.
7.4.1.2. Moderate
. Soil horizons
which have seasonal water tables of moderate duration contain one or more of
the following:
Depletions with chroma <=2 comprise less than 50% of the
mass. Chroma 3 depletions comprise more than 20% of the mass.
7.4.1.3. Long
. Soil horizons
which have seasonal water tables of long duration contain the following:
Chroma <=2 in 50% or more of the mass.
7.4.2. Soil horizons that have
chroma and value of <= 3 due to high organic matter contents (A horizons)
present problems for SWT interpretations. Also, with low chroma comprised of
uncoated grains which result from prolonged leaching with organic acids (E
horizons) are not considered to be an indication of a SWT. These horizons (A
and E) shall be considered to contain SWT's only if they also contain
identifiable redox concentrations and/or depletions. A plowed horizon (Ap),
which has chroma of 3 or less, shall not be considered to contain an SWT unless
the first underlying horizon contains an SWT. The duration of the SWT in a
plowed horizon (Ap) with chroma <= 3 and in A and E horizons with chroma
<= 3 and redox concentrations and/or depletions shall be the same as in the
first underlying horizon.
7.4.3.
Monitoring Requirements
7.4.3.1. Some soils
may exhibit redoximorphic features that are not indicative of current soil
conditions. In such soils, monitoring wells or piezometers may be necessary to
determine current soil wetness conditions. Monitoring shall be done during the
wet season.
7.4.3.2. A property
owner or their representative has the option to use observation wells and/or
piezometers to demonstrate that redoximorphic features are not an indication of
zones of saturation. The following procedures for the use of observations
wells/piezometers to evaluate the depth and duration of seasonal water tables
shall be implemented.
7.4.3.3. The
property owner or their representative shall notify the Department, in writing,
of the intent to use observation wells and/or piezometers to evaluate depth and
duration of seasonal water tables.
7.4.3.4. On individual lots, at least one (1)
observation well and/or piezometer shall be installed and monitored on a site
within both the proposed primary and secondary absorption areas. If in the
judgment of the Department, more than one (1) is needed, the property owner or
their representative shall be notified. For subdivision evaluation, at least
one (1) observation well and/or piezometer shall be installed in each soil
mapping unit. However, a minimum of one (1) observation well and/or piezometer
per acre is required.
7.4.3.5. The
wells and/or piezometers shall extend at least 36 inches into the natural soil.
The Department reserves the right to determine the depth of all wells and/or
piezometers. In soils with a fragipan, the observation well and/or piezometer
shall not be installed deeper than the top of the fragipan.
7.4.3.6. All plans and specifications for
observation wells/piezometers shall be submitted and installed under the
supervision of a Professional Soil Classifier.
7.4.3.7. Monitoring of seasonal water tables
shall be conducted by a Professional Soil Classifier or Designated
Representative.
7.4.3.8. Under no
circumstances will the property owner/developer be allowed to monitor the water
levels.
7.4.3.9. The monitoring
period shall be during the wet season (December 1st
through May 15th of the following year) to verify
the depth and duration of the seasonal water tables. Monthly precipitation
during the monitoring period should be near the long-term (30 year) average.
The Department may not accept data from the monitoring period if the deviation
from average is substantial. Several methods are available to document
deviation of monthly and seasonal precipitation from average conditions.
Precipitation data used should be from the nearest weather station. The
monitoring period shall be 8 consecutive weeks and 2 non-consecutive days per
week. A minimum of 16 recorded observations shall be conducted.
7.4.3.10. At its discretion, the Department
shall field check the monitoring periodically during the time of expected
saturated soil conditions.
7.4.3.11. The Department may, at any time
during the observation period, verify the observed water depth by conducting a
soil boring next to, and of equal depth with, any of the observation
wells/piezometers. The well may be declared invalid by the Department if the
water level after 24 hours without precipitation, presents a discrepancy with
the observed water level in the data collected. The owner will be notified by
the Department of such findings.
7.4.3.12. When monitoring determines that the
site is suitable, the Department will request that a new site evaluation be
submitted. The monitoring information shall be incorporated into the new site
evaluation.
7.4.3.13. Some soils
have been extensively studied and have no contemporary seasonal water tables.
These specific areas may be exempted from the soil redoximorphic features but
shall be sized by hydraulic conductivity or percolation
rates.
7.4.4. Lowering
Seasonal Water Tables
7.4.4.1. Interceptor
Drains. Interceptor drains can be utilized to lower the brief seasonal water
table to a maximum depth of 18 inches in soils less than 30% clay on sites with
3% or more slope. No reduction is allowed in the moderate seasonal water
table.
7.4.4.2. Capping Fill. The
depth of the observed seasonal water table may be increased by a factor equal
to half the depth of the settled fill up to a maximum adjustment of 7 inches.
Capping fills are outlined in Section 8.7 of this rule. Systems incorporating
capping fills shall be designed to load to the surface of the settled cap in
order to utilize the adjustment credited for the applied cap.
7.5. On lots less than 3
acres, prior to adjustment for capping fill, where the slope is less than or
equal to 12%, all undisturbed soils exhibiting a depth of 13 inches or greater
to a brief seasonal water table, and/or a depth of 18 inches or greater to an
adjusted moderate seasonal water table, and/or a depth of 24 inches or greater
to an adjusted long seasonal water table shall utilize a standard onsite
wastewater systems as outlined in this rule.
7.6. On lots of 3 acres or greater, prior to
adjustment for the capping fill, all undisturbed soils exhibiting a depth of 12
inches or greater to a brief seasonal water table, and/or a depth of 16 inches
or greater to an adjusted moderate seasonal water table, and/or a depth of 20
inches or greater to an adjusted long seasonal water table, shall utilize
standard onsite wastewater systems as outlined in this rule.
Section 8.
Standard Systems
8.1. A standard onsite wastewater system
consists of a field of perforated pipe surrounded by gravel, or other
conventional trench media product authorized by the Department and installed in
such a manner that the clarified effluent from the septic tank or pretreatment
unit will be distributed with reasonable uniformity into the natural soil. The
individual absorption trench should not be more than 100 feet, and the trench
bottom and perforated pipe or gravel substitute should be installed at a grade
of 0 to 2 inches per 100 feet. In order to ensure even distribution of the
effluent, all onsite wastewater systems utilizing a distribution box shall have
absorption trenches of the same length. Onsite wastewater systems utilizing
serial distribution of the effluent shall be provided with an authorized
diversion device to allow drying of the most used absorption trenches. The most
used absorption trench should be allowed to drain and dry out during the summer
months. A minimum of 2 absorption trenches is required to ensure that the
absorption area will function even if one absorption trench is
disturbed.
8.2. Soil absorption
areas utilizing pipe and gravel provide for a trench 24 inches wide, with a
standard trench depth of 18 inches from the bottom of the trench to the
finished settled grade. Systems designed with trench depths up to 24 inches may
be utilized. There shall be a minimum of 6 inches of gravel below the pipe and
a minimum of 2 inches of gravel above the pipe. A minimum of 6 inches of cover
is required above the gravel bed or gravel substitute. The trench depth may
vary in those instances where the soil absorption area was designed to overcome
limiting soil characteristics. Trench depths shall be specifically called for
in the Designated Representative's design and approved by the Authorized Agent.
The absorption area in square feet is twice the total length of the trenches.
The minimum spacing between the trenches shall be 6 feet between the trenches
and 8 feet center to center. Increased separation between trenches is
encouraged to enhance the effectiveness of the trenching system.
8.3. Gravel substitute products authorized by
the Department shall be a minimum of 8 inches in height and may not exceed 24
inches in width. The Designated Representative shall specify the product name
and model to be installed when utilizing a gravel substitute in the system
design.
8.4. Effluent Strength
8.4.1. Septic tank effluent when applied to
the soil causes a clogging layer (biomat) to form. The biomat, while increasing
treatment performance, reduces the infiltrative capacity of the soil. Septic
tank effluent is considered high strength if the waste stream possesses an
individual parameter outside of the levels established for residential strength
wastewater (see definitions). The Designated Representative shall indicate the
assumed strength of the wastewater entering the system and the effluent values
that the intended design is to achieve. Soil loading rate charts (Appendix
A/Table 1) do not take into consideration the organic loading to the soil.
Loading rates found in Appendix A/Table 1 can only be used when the wastewater
strength has been reduced to residential strength levels.
8.4.2. Establishments or structures producing
high levels of grease and oils, or high TSS or high BOD5 shall reduce
wastewater strength prior to disposal. High strength effluent reducing systems
shall be monitored by licensed Certified Monitoring Personnel.
8.5. Sizing the Absorption Area
If the soil is acceptable for the installation of absorption
trenches, a percolation test or a seasonal water table determination shall be
made at points selected as typical of the area in which the absorption trenches
will be located. Only a Soil Qualified Designated Representative may design a
standard onsite wastewater system based on seasonal water table data.
8.5.1. Sizing the system based on Seasonal
Water Table Data
When a seasonal water table of more than one duration is
present in a soil, the loading rate is determined as follows:
Determine the depth of each seasonal water table. Adjusting the
moderate seasonal water table:
Subtract the depth to the brief SWT from the depth to the
moderate SWT and divide by 3;
Subtract the result from the depth to the moderate SWT to
obtain the adjusted moderate SWT.
Adjusting the long seasonal water table:
Subtract the adjusted moderate SWT from the depth to the long
SWT and divide by 2;
Subtract the above number from the depth to the long SWT to
obtain the adjusted long SWT.
Adjusting the long seasonal water table where only brief and
long seasonal water tables are encountered:
Subtract the depth to the brief SWT from the long SWT and
divided by 6;
Subtract the above number from the depth to the long SWT to
obtain the adjusted long SWT.
Compare the loading rates for the brief, adjusted moderate and
adjusted long duration seasonal water table using the soil loading
charts.
Use the most restrictive loading rate to determine the size of
the absorption area.
Soils that only have one duration of seasonal water table are
loaded by using the loading rate given in the soil loading charts for the
duration of seasonal water table observed.
8.5.2. Sizing the soil absorption area based
on Percolation Data
8.5.2.1. Procedures of
percolation tests
8.5.2.1.1. Number and
location of tests. Three (3) or more test holes spaced uniformly over the
primary absorption area and one (1) test hole in the secondary absorption area
are required. Percolation tests shall be performed at the depth of the proposed
soil absorption system.
8.5.2.1.2.
Type of test holes. The depth of a standard percolation test hole is 18 inches
and the diameter shall be 12 inches. If soil and site characteristics indicate
that a deeper or shallower system is desired, then the percolation test shall
be run at the depth of the bottom of the proposed absorption trench.
8.5.2.1.3. Preparation of test holes.
Carefully scratch the bottom and sides of the holes with a knife blade or
sharp-pointed instrument, in order to remove any smeared soil surfaces and to
provide a natural soil interface into which water may percolate. Remove all
loose material from the holes. Add 2 inches of coarse sand or fine gravel to
protect the bottom from scouring and sediment.
8.5.2.1.4. Saturation and swelling of the
soil. It is important to distinguish between saturation and swelling.
Saturation means that the void spaces between soil particles are full of water.
This can be accomplished in a short period of time. Swelling is caused by
intrusion of water into the individual soil particles. This is a slow process,
especially in clay-type soil, and is the reason for requiring a prolonged
soaking period. To conduct the test, carefully fill the holes with clear water
to a minimum depth of 12 inches above the gravel and maintain at this level,
preferably overnight, but no less than 4 hours. This may be achieved by the use
of an automatic siphon. This procedure is to ensure that the soil is given time
to swell and to approach the condition it will be in during wet seasons of the
year.
8.5.2.1.5. After the
saturation period, adjust the depth of water in the holes to 6 inches above the
gravel. From a fixed reference point, measure the drop-in water level at the
end of a 30-minute period, refilling 6 inches above the gravel as necessary.
The drop of water level that occurs during the 30-minute period is used to
calculate the percolation rate.
8.5.2.1.6. Soils which the first 6 inches of
water seeps away in less than 30 minutes after the 24-hours or greater
saturation period, the time interval between measurements shall be taken at 10
minutes and the test run for one hour. The drop that occurs during the final 10
minutes is used to calculate the percolation rate.
8.5.2.2. The size of the absorption area may
be determined from the results of the percolation test and the data in Appendix
A. As noted in Appendix A, soil in which the percolation rate is greater than
75 minutes per inch (mpi) is unsuitable for a standard onsite wastewater
system.
8.5.2.3. The size of the
absorption area for a system sized using percolation rate data shall not be
smaller than that required by seasonal water table data for the same
site.
8.6.
Serial Distribution
8.6.1. Serial distribution
may be used when lines of even length cannot be achieved. The overflow point of
the tee or hillside box shall be at the top of the trench media for the line(s)
served.
8.6.2. Sizing for both
primary and secondary absorption area shall be increased by 25%.
8.6.3. Serial distribution systems designed
under percolation test shall not be smaller than required by seasonal water
table data.
8.6.4. Serial
distribution systems shall not be approved for dosing situations.
8.7. Capping Fill Systems
8.7.1. Standard onsite wastewater systems
shall not be installed in fill material. However, fill material may be used as
a cap over the natural soil surface to increase the volume available for the
storage of effluent.
8.7.2. Where
capping fill is incorporated in the design of a standard onsite wastewater
system, the distribution system shall be capable of storing effluent to the top
of the settled cap.
8.7.3. The
absorption trenches on capping fill systems shall be designed and installed in
natural soil. However, a variance as provided in 3.1 and 3.2 can be requested
to install the absorption trenches partially in the fill, no less than 4 inches
into the natural soil, to overcome bedrock separation requirements. Systems
utilizing capping fill shall have a minimum 6 inches of settled cover above the
gravel bed or gravel substitute.
8.7.4. The slope of the absorption area
cannot exceed 12%. Submitted plans shall indicate both the original and the
finished elevations referenced to a benchmark.
8.7.5. For absorption areas exhibiting slopes
of 6% or less, the full depth of fill shall extend a minimum of 10 feet beyond
the edge of the absorption trench then graded at a three to one or less slope.
The fill area shall be seeded and watered regularly to prevent erosion. (See
Appendix G, Figures 4 and 5.)
8.7.6. For absorption areas exhibiting slopes
greater than 6% the full depth of fill shall extend 1 foot beyond the
absorption area on the uphill side, 10 feet on the sides of the absorption
area, and 20 feet on the downhill side of the absorption area and then all
sides graded to a three to one slope or less thereafter. The fill area shall be
seeded and watered regularly to prevent erosion. (See Appendix G, Figures 6 and
7.)
8.7.7. For absorption areas
exhibiting slopes greater than 6%, a berm and/or drainage ditch to divert
surface water is required. The berm and/or drainage ditch shall be constructed
no more than 10 feet up slope from the absorption area and extending a minimum
10 feet beyond the applied capping fill.
8.7.8. On slopes of greater than 12%, a
variance for capping fill systems may be granted in accordance to Sections 3.1
and 3.2.
8.7.9. The fill material
used shall be a uniform loamy soil with maximum clay content of 27% and maximum
sand content of 60%. The depth of fill above the original ground surface is
measured after settling. Loamy soils can be expected to settle 25%.
8.7.10. The absorption area shall be
scarified to destroy and remove the vegetative material. The absorption area
shall be tilled to a minimum depth of 4 inches. Stumps should be left in place
at the absorption area to prevent extensive disruption of the soil.
8.7.11. Where capping fill is incorporated
into the design of a system, only track equipment may be utilized when applying
the cap.
8.7.12. The soil cap is a
part of the standard onsite wastewater system and shall meet all the setbacks
outlined in Section 6.2 of this rule.
8.8. Dosing Standard Systems
8.8.1. All components and specifications of
dosed systems shall be submitted for approval to the Department or its
Authorized Agent in accordance with the Department's Guidelines for Submittal
of Onsite Wastewater System Applications.
8.8.2. Where a pump or dosing siphon is used
to dose an onsite wastewater system, it shall have a capacity sufficient to
deliver the required dose volume. Pump controls shall operate automatically and
be sufficiently adjustable to deliver the required dose volume.
8.8.3. Only effluent quality pumps shall be
utilized in dosing applications. Dewatering and grinder pumps are not approved
for septic applications.
8.8.4.
Dosing systems that incorporate a reduction in the transport piping diameter at
the final point of dispersal or the use of flow reduction orifices shall
require an authorized effluent filter device or method. Effluent shall be dosed
to the absorption area at a rate not greater than twenty-five (25) percent of
the estimated daily usage outlined in Appendix B of this rule.
8.8.5. A visible and audible high-water alarm
shall be required for all electrical dosing situations.
8.8.6. Stand-alone dosing tanks shall have a
capacity sufficient to contain the required dose, storage for ballast not less
than one quarter of the dose tank capacity, and emergency storage above the
high-water alarm not less than one third of the estimated daily
usage.
8.8.7. The compartment of
combination tanks used for dosing shall have a capacity sufficient to contain
the required volume and shall be hydraulically isolated from the primary
compartment.
8.8.8. Pre-cast dosing
tanks shall meet the same construction and testing requirements for pre cast
septic tanks outlined in Section 10.7 of this rule.
8.8.9. The approval of any distribution
device utilized in dosing situations shall be at the sole discretion of the
Department or its Authorized Agent.
8.8.10. Designs utilizing seven (7) or more
distribution box outlets and the elevation across the absorption area is
greater than six (6) inches, mechanical dosing is required.
8.8.11. Dosing Utilizing a Filtered Pump
Vault
8.8.11.1. When dosing from a single
compartment septic tank, the tank capacity shall be increased by not less than
two hundred fifty (250 gallons) above that specified in Appendix C of this
rule.
8.8.11.2. The filtered pump
vault shall be securely mounted to the tank in a manner that prevents movement
of the vault during operation.
8.8.11.3. The minimum horizontal separation
between the inlet baffle of the septic tank and the filtered pump vault shall
be 3 feet.
8.8.11.4. When a system
is dosed from a single compartment septic tank, the drawdown per dose cycle
shall not be greater than 3 inches.
8.8.12. Dosing Utilizing a Solids Handling
Pump Basin
8.8.12.1. Solids Handling Pump
Basins used in conjunction with an individual onsite wastewater system require
approval by the Arkansas Department of Health prior to any use or installation.
Macerating or grinder pump basins are not covered by this section.
8.8.12.2. The pump basin shall be constructed
of a durable material such as concrete, high strength plastic, fiberglass, or
other authorized material.
8.8.12.3. The bottom of the pump basin shall
be solid and structurally capable of supporting the solids handling
pump.
8.8.12.4. The pump basin
shall have a gas tight removable lid or cover. The lid or cover shall be
structurally capable of supporting the weight of the load it will receive based
on the location of the pump basin.
8.8.12.5. The pump basin shall be properly
vented.
8.8.12.6. The pump basin
shall be properly sized to receive or contain no more than 12 hours of normal
discharge or one half (1/2) of the daily flow rate whichever is the smallest.
Additionally, the pump basin shall be sized so when the pump is activated the
pump will operate for a minimum of 15 seconds.
8.8.12.7. Minimum structural dimensions of 18
inches in diameter and 24 inches in depth.
8.8.12.8. Pump basin shall incorporate in its
design a means to prevent floating during any given period of low effluent
levels within the basin.
8.8.12.9.
Each pump basin shall contain as part of the pump discharge assembly a full-
open valve and a check valve.
8.8.12.10. The effluent level control device
or floats shall be adjusted and maintained at all times to prevent the effluent
in the pump basin from rising within 2 inches of the invert of the building
drain inlet into the basin.
8.8.12.11. Solids handling pumps used with
this type of basin shall be capable of handling spherical solids with a
diameter of up to and including 2 inches.
8.8.12.12. Solids handling pump shall be
sized to provide for peak flow events and provide a full flow velocity of at
least 2 feet per second in the discharge piping.
8.8.12.13. Solids handling pump and basin
shall be equipped with an audio and visual alarm.
8.8.13. Electrical Connections
8.8.13.1. Electrical connections shall be
complete at the time of final system inspection unless otherwise specified by
the Department's Authorized Agent.
8.8.13.2. System wiring shall be encased in
electrical conduit.
8.8.13.3.
Splices within system wiring shall be made with heat shrink connectors or
waterproof wire nuts. System wiring may use control floats and/or pump
electrical leads of such length allowing connections at remote control panel
location.
8.8.13.4. Electrical
connections which terminate shall be in an internal and or external splice
boxes and shall be of watertight construction.
8.8.13.5. Conduit and connection boxes shall
be sealed with electrical grease or other waterproof electrical sealant in
order to minimize corrosion due to moisture and/or gasses escaping the
system.
8.8.13.6. System wiring
shall comply with the Arkansas State Electrical Code.
8.8.13.7. Pumps and pump alarms shall not be
on the same circuit.
8.9. Low Pressure Distribution (LPD)
8.9.1. Low pressure distribution allows an
absorption area or secondary treatment filter to be dosed evenly across the
entire area. The discharge assembly of LPD systems consists of small diameter
piping with orifices drilled at predetermined intervals through which effluent
is dosed to the absorption area or secondary treatment filter. All LPD systems
shall meet the following requirements. (See Appendix G, figure 10.)
8.9.2. Piping in LPD systems shall be
constructed of schedule 40 PVC pipe. Joints or connections shall be primed and
welded with the appropriate chemical agents.
8.9.3. Orifices may range in size from 0.125
(1/8) inch to 0.1875 (3/16) inch. Orifices shall be centered in the pipe,
pointed up or down, and shielded. For soils with high hydraulic conductivity,
the orifice spacing shall not exceed 24 inches. For soils with moderate
hydraulic conductivity, the orifice spacing shall not exceed 48 inches.
Orifices shall not be installed within twelve inches of the manifold pipe. LPD
applications require an authorized effluent filter.
8.9.4. In situations where the LPD manifold
discharge assembly is located at a lower elevation than the pump, a 0.25 (1/4)
inch siphon-breaker hole shall be drilled in the pump effluent line or vacuum
breaker above the high-water level to prevent siphoning. An extra 2 gallons per
minute shall be added to the system flow rate to accommodate the siphon-breaker
hole.
8.9.5. The squirt height also
referenced as, distal pressure, distal height, or residual head or height shall
not be less than 5 feet.
8.9.6. The
dose volume shall not exceed 0.5 gallons per orifice.
8.9.7. Plastic or brass valves, either globe
or gate, shall be installed between the manifold and distribution laterals in
order to facilitate orifice head adjustment. Control valves shall be encased in
readily accessible valve boxes or similar encasement.
8.9.8. A 90-degree electrical sweep with
threaded cleanout or valve shall be installed at each end of the laterals for
maintenance. Cleanouts shall be encased in readily accessible valve boxes or
similar encasement.
8.9.9. LPD
absorption trenches shall contain a minimum of 8 inches of gravel and 4 inches
of cover above the gravel bed. Authorized gravel substitutes may be used in LPD
design. See Appendix G, figure 3.
8.10. Construction Considerations
8.10.1. Careful construction is important in
constructing a satisfactory absorption area. Attention shall be given to the
protection of the natural absorption properties of the soil. Care shall be
taken to prevent sealing of the surface on the bottom and sides of the trench.
Trenches shall not be excavated when the soil is wet enough to smear or compact
easily. When significant smearing of the sidewalls or bottom of the absorption
trench occurs during installation, construction shall be halted and the local
Authorized Agent shall be contacted for guidance. During the wet season periods
of the year or after any significant rainfall event, failure to obtain
authorization from the local Authorized Agent for beginning construction of an
onsite wastewater system may void the Onsite Wastewater System Permit. Open
trenches shall be protected from surface run-off to prevent the entrance of any
silt and debris. If it is necessary to walk in the trench, a temporary board
laid on the bottom will reduce damage by compaction. Smeared or compacted
surfaces shall be raked to a depth of one inch, and loose material removed,
before the gravel is placed in the trench. Perforated pipes shall be bedded on
undisturbed earth to prevent settling, lateral lines shall be surrounded by
clean, graded gravel, washed rock, or other authorized aggregate. The aggregate
material may range in size from 1/4 inch to 1-1/2 inches.
8.10.2. The top of the gravel shall be
covered with untreated building paper or other authorized materials before
placing the earth backfill. This will help prevent the gravel from becoming
clogged with the earth. An impervious covering shall not be used, as this
interferes with evaporation. The cover over a new absorption trench shall be
adequately overfilled to allow for settling.
8.10.3. Heavy machinery, exclusive of the
equipment needed to install the system, shall be excluded from the absorption
area unless special provision is made to support the weight.
8.10.4. Distribution boxes/devices. A
distribution box/device is required for every standard absorption system.
Distribution devices shall be designed for serviceability, including but not
limited to, risers to grade. The purpose of the box/device is to ensure equal
distribution of septic tank effluent to the lateral lines. It is important that
the entrance to each lateral line from the distribution box be set at the same
elevation to attempt to ensure equal flow into all lines. The design of the
distribution box and absorption system can be varied to meet most topographical
conditions encountered, while giving proper grade and alignment for all
laterals. Distribution boxes shall be sealed, bedded in concrete or gravel on
undisturbed ground, and water leveled with leveling devices. Distribution boxes
shall have an easily removable cover to facilitate leveling, inspection, and
repairs. Inlet and outlet lines at the distribution box shall be installed in
such a manner as to be firmly supported and adequately sealed as approved by
the Authorized Agent. Where the elevation across the absorption area is greater
than six inches, the outlet invert (flowline) of the distribution box shall be
installed at an elevation equal to or greater than the finished ground
elevation of the highest line of the absorption area. See Appendix G, Figure
2.
8.10.5. Septic tanks. On sites
that do not have sufficient slope to allow the distribution box to be installed
as in 8.10.4, the flow line of the septic tank outlet shall be at an elevation
equal to or greater than the finished ground elevation of the highest line of
the absorption area. See Appendix G, Figure 1.
8.10.6. Absorption trenches shall not start
closer than 5 feet from the distribution box. A horizontal separation of 5 feet
shall be required between the absorption area and tight line trench. In systems
utilizing a distribution box, lateral lines shall be of the same length.
Distribution devices used in conjunction with soil absorption systems shall be
approved by the Department prior to their use or installation.
8.10.7. The tight line or manifold trench
shall not be excavated lower than the flow line of the trench media to be
installed; however, in no case will the tight line trench be excavated lower
than twelve (12) inches from the ground surface.
8.10.8. Materials used in the construction of
the onsite wastewater system shall meet the following requirements (New
products may be authorized by the Department as technology allows).
8.11. SOLID PIPE
8.11.1. Pipe installed from the outlet tee of
the septic tank to the distribution box or diversion device shall be Schedule
40 pipe for whatever distance is required to reach undisturbed soil, but in no
case shall be less than ten (10) feet. Once a solid trench bottom is achieved
the Schedule 40 pipe may be adapted to SDR 35 PVC pipe or ASTM 3034 PE
(polyethylene) pipe for the remaining distance to the distribution box or
diversion device. SDR 35 PVC, ASTM 3034 PE or Schedule 40 PVC shall be used
from the distribution box or diversion device to the perforated field line
pipe.
8.12. PERFORATED
DRAIN PIPE
8.12.1. Perforated pipe in
absorption lines shall be ASTM D2729 PVC or ASTM F-810-12 PE.
8.13. Any pipe under driveways,
roadways, parking areas, or any area where traffic will pass over shall be
constructed of Schedule 40 PVC, cast iron, or use a steel sleeve. A cleanout
shall be located between the stub-out and the septic tank.
8.14. House sewer lines shall be installed
and maintained in accordance with the Arkansas State Plumbing Code.
Section 9.
Alternate Systems
9.1. Alternate systems outlined in this
section shall not be approved as a uniform plan of development in any
municipality, community, subdivision, or other developed area.
9.2. Alternate systems outlined in this
section shall be installed by a licensed septic system installer. Installers
may be required to attend special training sessions before being allowed to
install certain types of alternate systems.
9.3. In addition to the permitting
requirements outlined in Section 4 of this rule, a Memorandum of Agreement
signed by the property owner shall be submitted as part of the Onsite
Wastewater System Application for all alternate systems.
9.4. The Department or its Authorized Agent
may require the Designated Representative to oversee the construction of
projects with unusual or rarely used designs.
9.5. Surface Discharging Systems
9.5.1. Surface discharging systems shall not
be approved for sites with soil conditions, which meet the standards referenced
in Sections 7.5, and 7.6 for the installation of standard onsite wastewater
systems.
9.5.2. Prior to approval,
sites proposed for surface discharging systems, concurrence shall be obtained
from one of the following individuals in addition to the Local Authorized
agent.
9.5.2.1. A Professional Soil Classifier
of the Department or a designated Authorized Agent trained and proficient in
soil analysis.
9.5.2.2. A private
Professional Soil Classifier holding a current Designated Representative
License retained at the discretion of the Permit Applicant.
9.6. Surface
discharging systems are subject to National Pollutant Discharge Elimination
System (NPDES) Permit requirements.
9.7. Disinfection
9.7.1. Surface discharging systems shall be
adequately disinfected prior to discharge.
9.7.2. Chlorination, ozone induction, and
ultraviolet exposure are all acceptable means of disinfection for surface
discharges. Installation, operation, and performance data supplied by the
manufacturer shall be submitted with all designs incorporating ozone or
ultraviolet light devices. A sample port shall be installed within five (5)
feet of the disinfection outlet or chlorine contact chamber with a minimum six
(6) inches of fall for sample collection.
9.7.3. Chlorinators used in surface
discharging systems shall produce a minimum 10 parts per million chlorine
solution during peak flow.
9.7.4. A
baffled contact chamber sufficient in size to provide a thirty (30) minute
retention time with a minimum flow of one (1) gallon per minute shall be
required after the chlorinator for all surface discharging systems utilizing
chlorine disinfection. The minimum size of a chlorine contact chamber shall be
thirty (30) gallons.
9.7.5. The
point of discharge from the chamber shall be above the high-water level of a
receiving stream or ditch. The chamber discharge elevation shall also be below
its influent elevation to prevent flooding of the treatment unit.
9.7.6. When a surface discharging system
fails to function properly or does not consistently meet the discharge
requirements, the discharge of wastewater shall stop immediately. The owner
shall be allowed to use the septic tank or mechanical treatment unit as a
holding facility until adequate repairs are made.
9.8. Sites considered for a surface
discharging system shall meet the following minimum requirements in addition to
setback requirements outlined in Section 6.2 of this rule.
9.8.1. The lot size for a surface discharging
system shall be 3 acres or greater.
9.8.2. The point of discharge shall be 300
feet or greater from any adjacent dwelling or commercial
establishment.
9.8.3. The point of
discharge shall be 150 feet or greater from any adjacent property line not in
the direction of horizontal flow.
9.8.4. The point of discharge shall be 200
feet or greater from any property line in the direction of flow on sites
exhibiting slopes of 12% or less.
9.8.5. The point of discharge shall be 100
feet or greater from the dwelling or building served by the surface discharging
system.
9.8.6. The slope of the
discharge area shall not be greater than 12%. However, variances for sites
proposed for surface discharges that exhibit a slope greater than 12% may be
requested of the Department in writing. Approval of such variances shall be at
the sole discretion of the Department.
9.9. Drip Dispersal Systems
9.9.1. See Rules Pertaining to Drip
Dispersal.
9.10. Holding
Tanks
9.10.1. Holding tanks shall not be
approved on sites acceptable for the installation of standard onsite wastewater
systems as outlined in Section 7.5 and 7.6 of this rule.
9.10.2. Holding tanks shall be approved only
for domestic waste from commercial establishments, excluding grocery stores and
/ or food service establishments.
9.10.3. Holding tanks shall not be approved
for residencies, full or part time.
9.10.4. The minimum capacity of any holding
tank shall be ten (10) times the estimated daily usage as outlined in Appendix
B of this rule or 1000 gallons, whichever is greater. When two or more tanks
are required to meet the holding capacity, detailed plans shall be
submitted.
9.10.5. A service riser
with a minimum diameter of 12 inches and installed above ground surface shall
be required on all holding tanks. Service risers installed on holding tanks
shall be adequately secured to prevent unauthorized access.
9.10.6. Facilities shall be maintained to
allow a pumper vehicle to drive within 10 feet of the service riser in all
weather conditions.
9.10.7. Proof
of a notarized contract with a licensed septic tank cleaner shall be submitted
with the application for construction. The contact shall provide for cleaning
with 24 hours of notification and shall state when the wastewater will be
deposited.
9.10.8. Holding tank
contents shall not be land applied. The contents of a holding tank shall only
be disposed of by means of deposition into a municipal wastewater treatment
plant with which the septic tank cleaner has permission to discharge.
9.10.9. Holding tanks shall comply with the
specifications for septic tanks outlined in Section 10 of this rule.
9.10.10. A visible and/or audible high-water
alarm indicating when the tank has reached 75% capacity shall be installed
inside the structure served by the holding tank. Information on the alarm
system's brand name, manufacturer, use, and installation shall be provided with
the submittal of plans. The name of the licensed cleaner and his telephone
number shall be displayed on the alarm.
9.10.11. A monitoring contract is required.
See Section 12.
9.11.
Composting/Incinerating Toilets
9.11.1. A
composting toilet is a device specifically designed to retain and process body
wastes and, in some cases, household garbage by biological degradation. The
process may be either thermophilic or mesophilic, depending on the design of
the toilet. Thermophilic devices are normally smaller and require some type of
energy input to maintain the desired temperature. Mesophilic devices rely on
the heat produced by the biological process to maintain the required
temperature. Whether or not a device can accept household garbage is dependent
on product design and intended use. An incinerating toilet is a device designed
to reduce body wastes, both urine and feces, to an ash residue. The type of
energy used to incinerate wastes is dependent upon the design of the device
used.
9.11.2. Only pre-manufactured
composting or incinerating toilets authorized by the Department shall be
utilized in the onsite wastewater system. Under NSF standard 41, composting and
incinerating devices shall be evaluated by an ANSI approved
laboratory.
9.11.3. Wastewater,
exclusive of urine and feces, produced by the structure served by a
composting/incinerating toilet shall be renovated or disposed of in accordance
with Sections 8 or 9 of this rule.
9.11.4. The stabilized compost from a
composting toilet shall be buried onsite or deposited in an approved sanitary
landfill.
9.11.5. The ash from an
incinerating toilet requires no special handling since any pathogen would be
destroyed in the incineration process.
Section 10.
Septic
Tanks
10.1. The minimum
liquid capacities required in Appendix C, allow for the use of standard
household appliances. Garbage grinders are not recommended for standard onsite
wastewater systems.
10.2. Location.
Consideration should also be given to the location from the standpoint of
cleaning and maintenance. Septic tanks shall be located so that septic tank
cleaning equipment trucks can be driven within reasonable vertical and
horizontal distance of the tank for the purpose of tank cleaning. Where public
sewers may be installed at a future date, provision should be made in the
household plumbing system for connection to such sewer.
10.3. Septic tanks, septic holding tanks,
pump basins and dosing tanks used in Arkansas shall be manufactured by an
individual holding a current septic tank manufacturer license issued by the
Department. The manufacturer is responsible for producing septic tanks, pump
basins, and dosing tanks that meet current requirements as outlined in these
rules.
10.4. The septic tank
installer is responsible for inspecting the tank(s) delivered to the jobsite to
ensure a licensed manufacturer produced it and that it remains in a sound,
watertight condition throughout the installation. Septic tanks, septic holding
tanks, pump basins and dosing tanks shall be installed and bedded on a firm,
level, gravel surface or according to manufacturer's instructions. Influent and
effluent lines connected to the tank shall be sealed in a manner that prevents
groundwater infiltration and pipe movement. Only authorized rubber boot type
pipe penetration seals shall be cast into the tank.
10.5. Septic holding tanks shall be
manufactured with only an inlet pipe penetration. No outlet(s) or other means
of discharge shall be cast into the tank.
10.6. Septic tanks no longer in use shall be
pumped out by a licensed septic tank cleaner, collapsed, and filled with clean
material at the time of abandonment.
10.7. Specifications for septic tanks and
dosing tanks.
10.7.1. General. Septic tanks
shall be of watertight construction. . Approved materials include concrete,
fiberglass, and polyethylene. Approval of other materials will be considered on
a case-by-case basis. Septic tanks sold or installed in the State of Arkansas
shall meet the specifications in these rules and be approved by the Department.
With the exception of wall and bottom thickness, pre-cast tanks and cast-
in-place tanks shall meet the same design requirements.
10.7.2. Cast-in-place concrete tanks. Permit
applications utilizing a cast-in-place concrete tank shall include a plan
approved by a professional engineer.
10.7.3. Pre-cast concrete septic tanks.
Pre-cast septic tanks sold or installed in Arkansas shall be manufactured in
accordance with the AMERICAN SOCIETY FOR TESTING AND MATERIALS (ASTM) STANDARD
SPECIFICATION FOR PRE-CAST CONCRETE SEPTIC TANKS C 1227-05-cast septic tanks
shall be constructed with high strength concrete made with Portland cement and
achieve compressive strength of 4000 pounds / square inch at 28 days of age. No
aggregate used in the concrete mix is to exceed a diameter or length of 0.5
inch. Lightweight aggregates shall meet ASTM SPECIFICATION C 330 SPECIFICATION
FOR LIGHTWEIGHT AGGREGATES FOR STRUCTURAL CONCRETE. Water used in mixing
concrete shall be clean and free of injurious amounts of oil, alkalines, acids,
salts, or other substances that may be incompatible with concrete. Tanks shall
be designed so they will not collapse or rupture when subjected to anticipated
earth and hydrostatic pressures when the tanks are either full or empty.
10.7.3.1. Pre-cast concrete tanks shall be
reinforced with a minimum of #10, 6 inches by 6 inches, welded concrete
reinforcement wire overlapped a minimum of 6 inches and tied at the edges.
Reinforcement rods are required to be added at lift points. Chairs, bolsters,
braces, and spacers in contact with the forms shall have a corrosion resistant
surface. Reinforcement shall be placed as near the center of the walls as
possible and shall have a minimum of one-inch concrete cover.
10.7.3.2. The Department shall approve new
forms or modifications to existing forms.
10.7.3.3. The forms used in septic tank
manufacture shall be sufficiently rigid and accurate to maintain the dimensions
of the tank. Casting surfaces shall be of a smooth, non-porous material. Form
releasing agents used shall not be injurious to the concrete.
10.7.3.4. Concrete for the tank walls and
floor shall be placed in the forms in a single, continuous pour. The concrete
shall be placed in the forms at a rate that allows the concrete to consolidate
in all parts of the form and around all reinforcement steel and imbedded
fixtures without segregation of materials. The finished tank wall shall be
smooth and have a uniform thickness not less than 3.0 inches. The lid and floor
of the tank shall be no less than 4.0 inches thick and adequately reinforced to
support the load to which it may be subjected. At a minimum, the lid shall be
reinforced with #10, 6 inches by 6 inches, welded wire mesh and 0.5-inch
reinforcement rods (#4 rebar) on 18-inch centers. During delivery, the tanks
are to be properly handled to assure the installation of a tank that is
watertight and otherwise in good condition.
10.7.3.5. Concrete septic, holding and dosing
tanks buried two (2) feet or greater shall require the manufacturer's
certification relating to structural integrity.
10.7.3.6. Joints between the tank body and
lid or between sections of multi-piece tanks shall be sealed to prevent leakage
during settling or shifting. The sealant shall be resistant to corrosion and
anaerobic activity and meet ASTM C990-09 Standard Specification for Joints for
Concrete Pipe, Manholes, and Precast Box Sections Using Preformed Flexible
Joint Sealants. The inside joint seam gap, between the 2 sections placed
together before sealing, is not to exceed 1/4 (0.25) inch.
10.7.3.7. The lid and upper and lower
sections of septic tanks shall be connected with noncorrosive mechanical
devices by the manufacturer to ensure no separation occurs.
10.7.3.8. Septic tank manufacturers are
required to demonstrate the water tightness on their products when requested by
the system designer, installer or the Authorized Agent. Vacuum testing shall be
the only method for water tightness during septic tank manufacturers annual
production plant inspection. Testing for leakage may be done using either
vacuum testing or water pressure testing at the time of delivery. Small leaks
found during testing may be sealed with an appropriate sealer. In no case will
a tank be considered acceptable which has evidence of large cracks or repairs
that compromise the structural integrity and water tightness of the tank.
10.7.3.8.1. Vacuum testing. Seal the empty
tank and apply a vacuum to 4 inches (100 mm) of mercury. The tank is approved
if 90% of the vacuum is held for 2 minutes. Manufacturers shall be capable of
vacuum testing all tanks.
10.7.3.8.2. Water-pressure testing. Seal the
tank; fill with water to the level of the top of the access port, let stand for
24 hours. Refill tank. The tank shall be considered water tight if the water
level is held for 60 minutes.
10.7.3.9. Precast concrete septic tanks
manufactured and installed in Arkansas shall be clearly, permanently, and
legibly labeled with the following:
10.7.3.9.1. The name of the individual or
company that manufactured the tank.
10.7.3.9.2. The liquid capacity of the tank
in gallons.
10.7.3.9.3. The inlet
and outlet shall be indicated. Tanks with more than one outlet shall utilize
authorized tank penetration seals.
10.7.3.9.4. The date of manufacture of the
tank and lid.
10.7.4. Tank proportions. The liquid depth of
any tank compartment shall not be less than 36 inches and shall not exceed 72
inches. The minimum horizontal distance from the inlet to the outlet of any
tank may not be less than 72 inches. Storage capacity is required above the
liquid line to provide for that portion of scum that floats above the liquid in
all septic tanks. One inch shall be provided at the top of the tank to permit
the free passage of gas back to the inlet and house vent pipe. For tanks having
vertical sides, the distance between the inside top of the tank and the liquid
level shall be 12.5% of the liquid capacity or 9 inches, whichever is greater.
In horizontal, cylindrical tanks, this distance should be equal to 20% of the
tank diameter.
10.7.5. Inlet and
outlet. Four-inch or larger sanitary tees shall be used as inlet and outlet
devices in all septic tanks. The septic tank manufacturer shall provide
properly constructed inlet and outlet devices with each tank. The effluent line
leaving the tank shall be Schedule 40 PVC. The inlet invert shall enter the
tank 2 to 4 inches above the liquid level in the tank to allow for a momentary
rise in liquid level during discharges to the tank. This free drop prevents
black water and standing of solid material in the house sewer leading to the
tank. The inlet tee shall extend at least 6 inches below the liquid level in
the tank and extend above the liquid level to a minimum of one inch from the
top of the tank. In no case shall the inlet device be greater in length than
the outlet device.
10.7.5.1. Outlet tees shall
extend to a distance below the surface 35% to 45% of the liquid
depth.
10.7.6.
Authorized outlet filter products are recommended on all septic tanks. Outlet
filters have been shown to reduce total suspended solids (TSS) and biochemical
oxygen demand (BOD) and should be utilized to protect and lengthen the life of
the absorption area. Proprietary gas deflectors designed to deflect or
otherwise prevent solids from entering the outlet tee are not required but are
recommended to increase the efficiency of the septic tank. Where gas
deflectors, outlet filters, or other devices requiring routine maintenance are
installed in the tank, a service riser extending to grade shall be installed
over the outlet inspection port. Inlet and outlet baffles and devices shall be
evaluated and authorized by the Department prior to use. Manufacturers may
submit product samples and ancillary documentation to the Department for
evaluation. After evaluation, the Department may give authorization for use in
the state. The list of authorized products will be routinely updated on the ADH
website.
10.7.7. Fiberglass and
Plastic septic tanks. Fiberglass and Plastic septic tanks shall
comply with International Association of Plumbing and Mechanical Officials. The
manufacturer shall supply without charge satisfactory evidence of approval and
compliance with IAPMO PS 1-2004e1 construction and manufacturing requirements.
Fiberglass and Plastic septic tanks shall be tested for water tightness using
one to the prescribed methods found in IAPMO PS 1-2004e1.
10.7.8. Service Risers. Access shall be
provided over the inlet and outlet tees or other devices, and to each tank
compartment by means of a service riser. Maintenance ports shall be sealed and
watertight. Where the top of the tank is located below the finished grade,
service risers shall extend to or above the finished grade. The extension can
be made using risers of authorized material and fitted with tight covers and
secured to prevent unauthorized access. Proper attention shall be given to the
accident hazard involved when maintenance ports are extended close to the
ground surface. Service risers shall be a minimum of 12 inches in diameter.
Service risers providing access to a pump compartment or dosing tank shall be a
minimum of 18 inches in diameter. Risers shall be installed by the
manufacturer.
10.7.8.1. An entry prevention
device is recommended for riser openings greater than 12 inches in
diameter.
10.8. Grease Interceptors. Pre-cast grease
interceptors sold and used in Arkansas shall be manufactured in accordance with
the AMERICAN SOCIETY FOR TESTING AND MATERIALS (ASTM) Standard Specification
for Precast Concrete Grease Interceptor Tanks C1613-10. Grease interceptors
shall be installed and maintained in accordance with the ARKANSAS STATE
PLUMBING CODE. The minimum volume for a grease interceptor utilized with an
onsite wastewater system shall be 500 gallons. Grease interceptors installed
below finished grade will be installed with service risers to the finished
grade. The size of the service riser will be adequate in size to accommodate
proper inspection and maintenance. See Appendix G, Figure 11.
10.9. House sewer. The house sewer is an
important part of the private sewage disposal system. It should convey the
sewage from the building to the septic tank inlet, but not at a high velocity
that would cause disturbance in the septic tank. The house sewer shall not be
reduced in size from the house drain to the septic tank.
10.10. House sewer grade. The house sewer
should be installed with a uniform slope that complies with the Arkansas
Plumbing Code.
10.11. Cleanouts.
The house sewer line shall contain a 4-inch cleanout before entering the septic
tank or treatment plant. Changes in direction greater than 45 degrees and/or
every 100 feet require a cleanout.
10.12. Septic Tanks in Series.
10.12.1. When more than one septic tank is
used in series, the first tank shall be no less than 50% of the total septic
tank design capacity.
Section 11.
Secondary
Treatment
Secondary treatment systems utilize an additional means of
septic effluent treatment subsequent to the primary treatment performed by a
septic tank. Some aerobic treatment units (ATU's) do not require that effluent
be treated by a septic tank prior to treatment by the ATU. Secondary treatment
units incorporated into the design of an onsite wastewater system shall comply
with the following specifications.
11.1. Secondary treatment units with surface
discharge shall meet current N.P.D.E.S. discharge requirements.
11.2. Onsite wastewater systems incorporating
secondary treatment units shall comply with the Onsite Wastewater Systems
Monitoring Program outlined in Section 12 of this rule.
11.3. Aerobic Treatment Units (ATUs)
11.3.1. Only ATUs authorized by the
Department shall be utilized in onsite wastewater systems. ATUs shall meet and
be listed under current American National Standards Institute/National
Sanitation Foundation (ANSI/NSF) Standard 40 requirements.
11.3.2. ATUs shall be installed according to
the manufacturer's specifications as authorized by the Department. ATU's shall
be installed as provided in Section 10.4. Some ATUs require installer
certification provided by the manufacturer in order to install and/or maintain
the unit.
11.3.3. Aerobic Treatment
Units (ATU) may be substituted for a septic tank under the following
conditions:
11.3.3.1. The tank construction of
an ATU shall comply with the requirements found within Section 10.
11.3.3.2. No aeration, filter media or other
treatment device within said tank shall restrict the flow of effluent into or
out of the tank or reduce the capacity in gallons as stated in Appendix
C.
11.3.3.3. No aeration, filter
media or other treatment device shall be connected directly or indirectly to
the outlet baffle of the tank.
11.3.3.4. The substitution of an ATU in place
of septic tank shall be at the sole discretion of the Department.
11.4. Multiple Pass
Filters
11.4.1. Recirculating Sand Filters
(RSF)
11.4.1.1. Recirculating Sand Filters
pass effluent treated by a septic tank or ATU through a sand and/or gravel bed,
built on site, prior to subsurface absorption or surface discharge.
Recirculating sand filters shall meet the following criteria:
11.4.1.2. A septic tank or ATU shall be
required as the primary treatment of effluent prior to treatment by an
RSF.
11.4.1.3. Effluent shall be
dosed to an RSF by a pump housed in a filtered pump vault authorized by the
Department.
11.4.1.4. Effluent
shall be distributed to an RSF by means of low pressure distribution as
outlined in Section 8.9 of this rule.
11.4.1.5. The collection line in the bottom
of an RSF shall not be less than 4 inches perforated or slotted schedule 40 PVC
pipe.
11.4.1.6. The dosing rate for
RSFs shall not be greater than 0.25 gallons per orifice per dose
(gal/orifice/dose).
11.4.1.7. The
initial recirculation rate for RSFs shall be 4:1. Depending upon water usage,
the recirculation rate may be adjusted after system evaluation.
11.4.1.8. The loading rate for RSFs shall not
be greater than 5 gallons per square foot per day
(gal/ft2/day).
11.4.1.9. RSFs may be installed either in or
above ground. However, the top of the RSF bed shall not be installed below the
finished grade of the ground surface.
11.4.1.10. A PVC liner not less than 30 mils
in thickness, with inlet and outlet boots shall be required in all RSFs in
order to minimize groundwater infiltration into the system.
11.4.1.11. Not less than 2 inches of gravel
cover shall be applied atop the collection pipe in the bottom of an RSF. The
gravel used shall be crushed rock or rounded rock, 0.5 inch to 1.5 inches in
diameter.
11.4.1.12. Not less than
4 inches of 3/8-inch pea gravel shall be applied atop the crushed or rounded
rock in the bottom of an RSF in order to prevent migration of filter sand into
the collection piping and out of the filter.
11.4.1.13. Not less than 24 inches of filter
sand shall be applied atop the pea gravel in the bottom of an RSF. Filter media
used shall be 1.5 millimeters to 2.0 millimeters in diameter, with a uniformity
coefficient of 2.0 or less.
11.4.1.14. Not less than 3 inches of 3/8-inch
pea gravel shall be applied atop the filter sand in a RSF. The low pressure
distribution system servicing an RSF shall be installed atop this layer of pea
gravel.
11.4.1.15. Not less than 3
inches of gravel shall be installed as cover over the low pressure distribution
system servicing an RSF.
11.4.1.16.
The top of the RSF filter bed shall be left uncovered.
11.5. Other Filters
Proprietary media filters such as peat filters, gravel filters,
and geo-textile filters shall be designed and installed in accordance with the
manufacturer's specifications as authorized by the Department.
Section 12.
Onsite Wastewater Systems Monitoring
Program
Owners of holding tanks, or alternative wastewater systems are
required to maintain a Monitoring Contract with a Monitoring Person registered
by the Department for the life of the system. A Monitoring Person shall be
authorized by the manufacturer in order to provide a contract for the
monitoring of any proprietary system. No homeowner shall be allowed to monitor
their own system.
12.1. The Monitoring
Contract and the Memorandum of Agreement shall be submitted with the
Application for an Onsite Wastewater System Permit (EHP-19).
12.2. Monitoring Contracts shall include the
following minimum terms or services: Frequency of system assessments
Assessment of system components
Assessment of proper servicing of grease interceptor, if
applicable Reporting to the Arkansas Department of Health
12.3. Assessments shall be conducted for all
systems monitored under the program a minimum of once every 6 months.
12.4. Monitoring Contracts with Certified
Onsite Wastewater Systems Monitoring Personnel with additional monitoring terms
and services may be required by the Department for approval of systems
permitted under the variance and experimental sections 3.1 and 3.2
12.5. Onsite Monitoring reports shall be
submitted to the homeowner, local health unit, and the Department's database.
Certified Monitoring Personnel shall maintain a copy for their
records.
12.6. Monitoring personnel
shall be registered by the Department. To maintain certification, Onsite
Wastewater Systems Monitoring Personnel shall pay a fifty dollar ($50.00)
annual fee and attend an annual training session. Failure to pay the
registration renewal fee by March 1 shall result in a late fee equal to one
half of the renewal fee. Failure to renew within a calendar year shall require
re-examination in order to become registered.
12.7. The monitor's license may be revoked or
suspended whenever any provision of these Rules is violated pursuant unto the
Arkansas Administrative Procedures Act. Each monitor shall furnish proof of
current registration upon request by an Authorized Agent of the Department.
Section 13.
Designated Representative
13.1. A fee of one-hundred dollars ($100.00)
shall be levied annually for the registration of each Designated
Representative. Each Designated Representative who operates within the State of
Arkansas, regardless where their home office is located, shall be registered by
the Department. The registration will be issued by the Department upon
successful completion of an examination and compliance with the provisions of
the Rules. Each Designated Representative shall attend an annual training
course approved by the Department and continue to demonstrate competency in
practice to ensure the purpose of this rule. Registration renewal fees shall be
renewable on January 1 of each year. Failure to pay the registration renewal
fee by March 1 shall result in a late fee equal to one half of the renewal fee.
Failure to pay the registration renewal fee within a calendar year or failure
to attend an approved training course shall require re-examination in order to
become registered.
13.2. The
Designated Representative's license may be revoked or suspended whenever any
provision of these Rules is violated pursuant unto the Arkansas Administrative
Procedures Act. Each Designated Representative shall furnish proof of current
registration upon request by an Authorized Agent of the Department.
Section 14.
Installers
14.1. Each installer who operates within the
State of Arkansas, regardless of wherever the home office may be, shall be
registered by the Department. The registration will be issued by the Department
or its Authorized Agent upon successful completion of an examination and
compliance with the provisions of the Rules. A registered installer shall be
present at the job site during all phases of system construction. In order to
maintain registration, an installer shall attend at least one (1) annual
training course approved by the Department and continue to demonstrate
competency in practice to ensure the purpose of this rule. The registration
shall be renewable on January 1 of each year. Failure to renew by March 1 shall
result in a late fee equal to one half of the renewal fee. Failure to renew
within a calendar year shall require re-examination in order to become
registered. Installers licensed at the time of the effective date of this rule
will be exempt from the initial examination.
14.2. The installer's license may be revoked
or suspended whenever any provision of these Rules is violated pursuant unto
the Arkansas Administrative Procedures Act. Each installer shall furnish proof
of current registration upon request by an Authorized Agent of the
Department.
14.3. It shall be a
violation of these Rules for an installer to start the actual construction,
alteration, repair or extension of any onsite wastewater system without first
notifying the Department or its Authorized Agent 24 hours in advance.
14.4. Installer's registration fee. A fee of
one-hundred dollars ($100.00) shall be levied annually for the registration of
each installer. The registration fee shall be made payable to the Arkansas
Department of Health and shall be attached to the completed application and
forwarded to the Arkansas Department of Health.
Section15.
Manufacturers
Septic tank manufacturers doing business in Arkansas shall hold
a valid registration issued by the Department. A registration fee of one
hundred dollars ($100.00) will be levied annually, payable by July
1st. Septic tank manufactures shall submit an annual
inspection report conducted within 60 days prior to registration renewal.
Production plant inspection conducted by a National Pre- Cast Concrete
Association Onsite Wastewater Certified Program Representative will be
considered to meet the registration inspection requirement.
Section 16.
Reciprocity
and Licensure (A.C.A.§
17-1-108(c),(d)(1)(A))
16.1. Required
Qualifications. An applicant applying for reciprocal licensure shall meet the
following requirements:
16.1.1. The applicant
shall hold a substantially similar license in another United States
jurisdiction.
16.1.1.1. A license from
another state is substantially similar to an Arkansas license if the other
state's licensure qualifications require:
16.1.1.1.1. Designated Representatives must
be a Registered Land Surveyor, Registered Sanitarian, Plumber, Engineer, or a
similarly qualified individual. (Similarly qualified is defined as a person
with a degree with 30 credit hours in the natural sciences).
16.1.1.1.2. Certified Monitoring Personnel
and Installers have no minimum educational requirements.
16.1.1.2. The applicant shall hold his or her
occupational licensure in good standing;
16.1.1.3. The applicant shall not have had a
license revoked for:
16.1.1.3.1. An act of
bad faith; or
16.1.1.3.2. A
violation of law, rule, or ethics;
16.1.1.4. The applicant shall not hold a
suspended or probationary license in a United States jurisdiction;
16.1.2. The applicant shall be
sufficiently competent in the design; or installation; or monitoring of onsite
wastewater systems.
16.2. Required documentation. An applicant
shall submit a fully-executed application, the required fee, and the
documentation described below.
16.2.1. As
evidence that the applicant's license from another jurisdiction is
substantially similar to Arkansas', the applicant shall submit the following
information:
16.2.1.1. Evidence of current and
active licensure in that state. The Department may verify this information
online if the jurisdiction at issue provides primary source verification on its
website or by telephone to the other's state's licensing board; and
16.2.1.2. Evidence that the other state's
licensure requirements match those listed in 16.1.1. The Department may verify
this information online or by telephone to the other's state's licensing
group
16.2.2. To
demonstrate that the applicant meets the requirements in 16.1.1.2. through
16.1.1.4, the applicant shall provide the Department with:
16.2.2.1. The names of all states in which
the applicant is currently licensed or has been previously licensed;
16.2.2.2. Letters of good standing or other
information from each state in which the applicant is currently or has ever
been licensed showing that the applicant has not had his license revoked for
the reasons listed in 16.1.1.3 and does not hold a license on suspended or
probationary status as described in 16.1.1.4. The Department may verify this
information online if the jurisdiction at issue provides primary source
verification on its website or by telephone to the other's state's licensing
department.
16.2.3. As
evidence that the applicant is sufficiently competent in the field of design;
or installation; or monitoring of onsite wastewater systems. An applicant shall
pass the Designated Representative test, or Installer test, or the Certified
Monitoring Test conducted by the Department.
16.3. Temporary and Provisional License
16.3.1. The Department shall issue a
temporary and provisional license immediately upon receipt of the application,
the required fee, and the documentation required under 16.2.1.1 and
16.2.1.2.
16.3.2. The temporary and
provisional license shall be effective for least 90 days or until the
Department makes a decision on the application, unless the Department
determines that the applicant does not meet the requirements in [Reciprocity
sections 16.1.1 and 16.1.2], in which case the provisional and temporary
license shall be immediately revoked.
16.3.3. An applicant may provide the rest of
the documentation required above in order to receive a license, or the
applicant may only provide the information necessary for the issuance of a
temporary and provisional license.
16.4. License for person from state that does
not license profession. Act 1011, A.C.A § 17-1- 108(d)(2)
16.4.1. Required Qualifications. An applicant
from a state that does not license Designated Representatives, Installers, and
Certified Monitoring Personnel shall meet the following requirements
16.4.1.1. The applicant shall be sufficiently
competent in the onsite wastewater design; installation; or
monitoring.
16.4.1.2. The applicant
for a Designated Representative license shall meet the qualifications in
16.1.1.1.1.
16.4.2.
Required documentation. An applicant shall submit a fully-executed application,
the required fee, and the documentation described below.
16.4.2.1. As evidence that the applicant is
sufficiently competent in the field of onsite wastewater design, installation,
or monitoring an applicant shall:
16.4.2.1.1.
Pass the required tests for Designated Representative, Installer, or Certified
Maintenance Person.
16.4.2.1.2.
Submit any design or other paperwork indicating experience in onsite
wastewater.
16.5. Reciprocity and state-specific
education. Act 1011, A.C.A § 17-1-08(d)(3)
16.5.1. The Department shall require an
applicant to take the Designated Representative, Installer, or Certified
Maintenance Person test if the applicant is licensed in another state that does
not offer reciprocity to Arkansas residents that is similar to reciprocity
provided to out-of-state applicants in A.C.A. §
17-1-108.
16.5.2. Reciprocity in another state will be
considered similar to reciprocity under A.C.A. § 17- 1-108 if the
reciprocity provisions in the other state:
16.5.2.1. Provide the least restrictive path
to licensure for Arkansas applicants;
16.5.2.2. Do not require Arkansas applicants
to participate in the apprenticeship, education, or training required as a
prerequisite to licensure of a new professional in that state, except that the
state may require Arkansas applicants to participate in continuing education or
training that is required for all professionals in that state to maintain the
licensure.
16.5.2.3. Do not require
Arkansas applicants to take a state-specific education.
16.6. Automatic licensure for
active duty service members, returning military veterans, and spouse.
16.6.1. "Automatic licensure" means granting
the occupational licensure without an individual having met occupational
licensure requirements provided under the Arkansas Code or by other provisions
in these Rules.
16.6.2. "Uniformed
service member" means an active or reserve component member of the United
States Air Force, United States Army, United States Coast Guard, United States
Marine Corps, United States Navy, United States Space Force, or National Guard;
an active component member of the National Oceanic and Atmospheric
Administration Commissioned Officer Corps; or an active or reserve component
member of the United States Commissioned Corps of the Public Health
Service.
16.6.3. "Uniformed service
veteran" means a former member of the United States uniformed services
discharged under conditions other than dishonorable.
16.7. This Rule applies to:
16.7.1. Uniformed service member stationed in
the State of Arkansas;
16.7.2.
Uniformed service veteran who resides in or establishes residency in the State
of Arkansas;
16.7.3. The spouse of
16.7.1 or 16.7.2 including a:
16.7.3.1.
Uniformed service member who is assigned a tour of duty that excludes the
spouse from accompanying the uniformed service member and the spouse relocates
to Arkansas;
16.7.3.2. Uniformed
service member who is killed or succumb to his or her injuries or illness in
the line of duty if the spouse establishes residency in Arkansas.
16.8. Automatic
Licensure shall be granted to persons listed in Section 16.7 if the person is a
holder in good standing of occupational licensure with similar scope of
practice issued by another state, territory, or district of the United States
and the person pays the licensure fee
16.9. Relevant and applicable uniformed
service education, training, or service-issued credential shall be accepted
toward initial licensure for a uniformed service member or a uniformed service
veteran who makes an application within one (1) year of his or her discharge
from uniformed service.
16.10. A
license expiration date shall be extended for a deployed uniformed service
member or spouse for one hundred eighty (180) days following the date of the
uniformed service member's return from deployment.
16.11. A uniformed service member or spouse
shall be exempt from continuing education requirements for one hundred eighty
(180) days following the date of the uniformed service member's return from
deployment.
16.12. Any uniformed
service member or spouse exercising the exemption shall provide evidence of
completion of continuing education before renewal or grant of a subsequent
license.
Section 17.
Code of Ethics
All licensees shall disclose all known or potential conflicts
of interest that could influence or appear to influence their judgment or the
quality of their services. All licensees shall not accept compensation,
financial or otherwise, from more than one party for services on the same
project, or for services pertaining to the same project, unless the
circumstances are fully disclosed and agreed to by all interested parties. All
licensees shall not solicit or accept financial or other valuable
consideration, directly or indirectly, from outside agents in connection with
the work for which they are responsible.
Section 18.
Penalties
Any person, firm, corporation or association who violates any
of the provisions of Act 402 of 1977 (A.C.A.
14-236-101, et seq.), or any Rules
promulgated under the authority of Act 402 of 1977 (A.C.A.
14-236-101, et seq.), shall upon
conviction, be deemed guilty of a misdemeanor and shall be punished by a fine
of not less than one hundred dollars ($100.00) nor more than one thousand
dollars ($1,000.00). I nstallers, Designated Representatives, Certified
Monitoring Personnel and Septic Tank Manufacturers who do not renew their
licenses prior to 60 days after the annual expiration date will be charged a
late fee equal to one half (1/2) the annual fee.
Section 19.
Severability
I f any provisions of these Rules, or the application thereof
to any person is held invalid, such invalidity shall not affect other
provisions or applications of these Rules which can affect without the invalid
provisions of application, and to this end the provisions hereto are declared
to be severable.
Section 20.
Repeal
All Regulations and parts of Regulations in conflict herewith
are hereby repealed.
Section
21.
Certification
This will certify that the foregoing Rules Pertaining to Onsite
Wastewater Systems were adopted by the Arkansas Department of Health at a
regular session of the Board of Health on the 28th day of October,
2021.
Appendix A
Absorption Area Requirements
Percolation Rate (Minutes required for water to drop 1
inch in prepared test hole) |
Loading Rate (Required gallon of effluent per square
foot per day) |
15 |
.75 |
20 |
.69 |
25 |
.63 |
30 |
.59 |
35 |
.56 |
40 |
.53 |
45 |
.50 |
50 |
.48 |
56 |
.45 |
60 |
.42 |
65 |
.40 |
70 |
.38 |
75 |
.37 |
TABLE 1
LOADING RATES FOR RESIDENCES AND COMMERCIAL
ESTABLISHMENTS
A.
SOILS
WITH A MODERATE HYDRAULIC CONDUCTIVITY
SEASONAL WATER TABLE (SWT)
DEPTH |
BRIEF SWT GPD/Sq. Ft. |
MODERATE SWT GPD/Sq. Ft. |
LONG SWT GPD/Sq. Ft. |
Inches |
8 Ft. Centers |
10 Ft. Centers |
8 Ft. Centers |
10 Ft. Centers |
8 Ft. Centers |
10 Ft. Centers |
8 |
0.00 |
0.00 |
0.00 |
0.00 |
0.00 |
0.00 |
9 |
0.03 |
0.03 |
0.01 |
0.01 |
0.00 |
0.00 |
10 |
0.06 |
0.06 |
0.02 |
0.02 |
0.01 |
0.01 |
11 |
0.10 |
0.10 |
0.03 |
0.03 |
0.02 |
0.02 |
12 |
0.16 |
0.16 |
0.05 |
0.05 |
0.03 |
0.03 |
13 |
0.22 |
0.22 |
0.07 |
0.07 |
0.04 |
0.04 |
14 |
0.29 |
0.29 |
0.10 |
0.10 |
0.05 |
0.05 |
15 |
0.40 |
0.40 |
0.13 |
0.13 |
0.07 |
0.07 |
16 |
0.51 |
0.51 |
0.17 |
0.17 |
0.09 |
0.09 |
17 |
0.62 |
0.63 |
0.21 |
0.21 |
0.11 |
0.11 |
18 |
0.73 |
0.75 |
0.24 |
0.26 |
0.12 |
0.13 |
19 |
0.75 |
0.75 |
0.28 |
0.30 |
0.14 |
0.15 |
20 |
0.75 |
0.75 |
0.32 |
0.35 |
0.17 |
0.18 |
21 |
0.75 |
0.75 |
0.36 |
0.40 |
0.19 |
0.20 |
22 |
0.75 |
0.75 |
0.40 |
0.44 |
0.21 |
0.23 |
23 |
0.75 |
0.75 |
0.44 |
0.49 |
0.23 |
0.25 |
24 |
0.75 |
0.75 |
0.48 |
0.54 |
0.25 |
0.28 |
25 |
0.75 |
0.75 |
0.52 |
0.59 |
0.26 |
0.30 |
26 |
0.75 |
0.75 |
0.57 |
0.64 |
0.28 |
0.32 |
27 |
0.75 |
0.75 |
0.60 |
0.68 |
0.30 |
0.34 |
28 |
0.75 |
0.75 |
0.64 |
0.73 |
0.32 |
0.36 |
29 |
0.75 |
0.75 |
0.67 |
0.75 |
0.34 |
0.39 |
30 |
0.75 |
0.75 |
0.71 |
0.75 |
0.35 |
0.41 |
31 |
0.75 |
0.75 |
0.75 |
0.75 |
0.37 |
0.43 |
32 |
0.75 |
0.75 |
0.75 |
0.75 |
0.39 |
0.46 |
33 |
0.75 |
0.75 |
0.75 |
0.75 |
0.41 |
0.48 |
34 |
0.75 |
0.75 |
0.75 |
0.75 |
0.43 |
0.50 |
35 |
0.75 |
0.75 |
0.75 |
0.75 |
0.45 |
0.53 |
36 |
0.75 |
0.75 |
0.75 |
0.75 |
0.47 |
0.55 |
37 |
0.75 |
0.75 |
0.75 |
0.75 |
0.49 |
0.58 |
38 |
0.75 |
0.75 |
0.75 |
0.75 |
0.51 |
0.60 |
39 |
0.75 |
0.75 |
0.75 |
0.75 |
0.53 |
0.63 |
40 |
0.75 |
0.75 |
0.75 |
0.75 |
0.55 |
0.65 |
41 |
0.75 |
0.75 |
0.75 |
0.75 |
0.57 |
0.68 |
42 |
0.75 |
0.75 |
0.75 |
0.75 |
0.59 |
0.70 |
43 |
0.75 |
0.75 |
0.75 |
0.75 |
0.61 |
0.73 |
44 |
0.75 |
0.75 |
0.75 |
0.75 |
0.63 |
0.75 |
45 |
0.75 |
0.75 |
0.75 |
0.75 |
0.65 |
0.75 |
46 |
0.75 |
0.75 |
0.75 |
0.75 |
0.68 |
0.75 |
47 |
0.75 |
0.75 |
0.75 |
0.75 |
0.70 |
0.75 |
48 |
0.75 |
0.75 |
0.75 |
0.75 |
0.72 |
0.75 |
49 |
0.75 |
0.75 |
0.75 |
0.75 |
0.75 |
0.75 |
B.
SOILS WITH HIGH HYDRAULIC CONDUCTIVITY
SEASONAL WATER TABLE (SWT)
DEPTH |
BRIEF SWT GPD/Sq. Ft. |
MODERATE SWT GPD/Sq. Ft. |
LONG SWT GPD/Sq. Ft. |
Inches |
8 Ft. Centers |
10 Ft. Centers |
8 Ft. Centers |
10 Ft. Centers |
8 Ft. Centers |
10 Ft. Centers |
8 |
0.00 |
0.00 |
0.00 |
0.00 |
0.00 |
0.00 |
9 |
0.03 |
0.03 |
0.01 |
0.01 |
0.00 |
0.00 |
10 |
0.08 |
0.08 |
0.03 |
0.03 |
0.01 |
0.01 |
11 |
0.14 |
0.14 |
0.05 |
0.05 |
0.02 |
0.02 |
12 |
0.23 |
0.23 |
0.08 |
0.08 |
0.04 |
0.04 |
13 |
0.33 |
0.34 |
0.11 |
0.11 |
0.05 |
0.06 |
14 |
0.42 |
0.46 |
0.14 |
0.15 |
0.07 |
0.07 |
15 |
0.54 |
0.60 |
0.18 |
0.20 |
0.09 |
0.10 |
16 |
0.66 |
0.75 |
0.23 |
0.24 |
0.11 |
0.12 |
17 |
0.79 |
0.90 |
0.27 |
0.29 |
0.13 |
0.15 |
18 |
0.91 |
1.05 |
0.30 |
0.35 |
0.15 |
0.17 |
19 |
1.04 |
1.21 |
0.35 |
0.40 |
0.17 |
0.20 |
20 |
1.17 |
1.25 |
0.39 |
0.46 |
0.20 |
0.22 |
21 |
1.25 |
1.25 |
0.44 |
0.51 |
0.22 |
0.25 |
22 |
1.25 |
1.25 |
0.48 |
0.56 |
0.25 |
0.28 |
23 |
1.25 |
1.25 |
0.53 |
0.62 |
0.27 |
0.31 |
24 |
1.25 |
1.25 |
0.58 |
0.68 |
0.30 |
0.34 |
25 |
1.25 |
1.25 |
0.62 |
0.74 |
0.31 |
0.37 |
26 |
1.25 |
1.25 |
0.67 |
0.80 |
0.34 |
0.40 |
27 |
1.25 |
1.25 |
0.72 |
0.85 |
0.36 |
0.43 |
28 |
1.25 |
1.25 |
0.76 |
0.91 |
0.38 |
0.45 |
29 |
1.25 |
1.25 |
0.81 |
0.96 |
.040 |
0.48 |
30 |
1.25 |
1.25 |
0.85 |
1.02 |
0.43 |
0.51 |
31 |
1.25 |
1.25 |
0.90 |
1.08 |
0.45 |
0.54 |
32 |
1.25 |
1.25 |
0.95 |
1.14 |
0.47 |
0.57 |
33 |
1.25 |
1.25 |
1.00 |
1.20 |
0.50 |
0.60 |
34 |
1.25 |
1.25 |
1.05 |
1.25 |
0.52 |
0.63 |
35 |
1.25 |
1.25 |
1.10 |
1.25 |
0.55 |
0.66 |
36 |
1.25 |
1.25 |
1.15 |
1.25 |
0.57 |
0.69 |
37 |
1.25 |
1.25 |
1.20 |
1.25 |
0.60 |
0.73 |
38 |
1.25 |
1.25 |
1.25 |
1.25 |
0.63 |
0.76 |
39 |
1.25 |
1.25 |
1.25 |
1.25 |
0.65 |
0.79 |
40 |
1.25 |
1.25 |
1.25 |
1.25 |
0.68 |
0.83 |
41 |
1.25 |
1.25 |
1.25 |
1.25 |
0.71 |
0.86 |
42 |
1.25 |
1.25 |
1.25 |
1.25 |
0.74 |
0.90 |
43 |
1.25 |
1.25 |
1.25 |
1.25 |
0.76 |
0.93 |
44 |
1.25 |
1.25 |
1.25 |
1.25 |
0.79 |
0.97 |
45 |
1.25 |
1.25 |
1.25 |
1.25 |
0.82 |
1.01 |
46 |
1.25 |
1.25 |
1.25 |
1.25 |
0.85 |
1.04 |
47 |
1.25 |
1.25 |
1.25 |
1.25 |
0.88 |
1.08 |
48 |
1.25 |
1.25 |
1.25 |
1.25 |
0.91 |
1.12 |
49 |
1.25 |
1.25 |
1.25 |
1.25 |
0.95 |
1.16 |
50 |
1.25 |
1.25 |
1.25 |
1.25 |
0.98 |
1.20 |
51 |
1.25 |
1.25 |
1.25 |
1.25 |
1.01 |
1.24 |
52 |
1.25 |
1.25 |
1.25 |
1.25 |
1.04 |
1.25 |
53 |
1.25 |
1.25 |
1.25 |
1.25 |
1.08 |
1.25 |
54 |
1.25 |
1.25 |
1.25 |
1.25 |
1.11 |
1.25 |
55 |
1.25 |
1.25 |
1.25 |
1.25 |
1.14 |
1.25 |
56 |
1.25 |
1.25 |
1.25 |
1.25 |
1.18 |
1.25 |
57 |
1.25 |
1.25 |
1.25 |
1.25 |
1.21 |
1.25 |
58 |
1.25 |
1.25 |
1.25 |
1.25 |
1.25 |
1.25 |
C.
SOILS WITH LOW HYDRAULIC CONDUCTIVITY
SEASONAL WATER TABLE (SWT)
DEPTH |
BRIEF SWT GPD/Sq. Ft. |
MODERATE SWT GPD/Sq. Ft. |
LONG SWT GPD/Sq. Ft. |
Inches |
8 Ft. Centers |
10 Ft. Centers |
8 Ft. Centers |
10 Ft. Centers |
8 Ft. Centers |
10 Ft. Centers |
8 |
0.00 |
0.00 |
0.00 |
0.00 |
0.00 |
0.00 |
9 |
0.02 |
0.02 |
0.01 |
0.01 |
0.00 |
0.00 |
10 |
0.05 |
0.05 |
0.02 |
0.02 |
0.01 |
0.01 |
11 |
0.08 |
0.08 |
0.03 |
0.03 |
0.01 |
0.01 |
12 |
0.12 |
0.12 |
0.04 |
0.04 |
0.02 |
0.02 |
13 |
0.16 |
0.16 |
0.05 |
0.05 |
0.03 |
0.03 |
14 |
0.21 |
0.21 |
0.07 |
0.07 |
0.03 |
0.03 |
15 |
0.28 |
0.28 |
0.09 |
0.09 |
0.05 |
0.05 |
16 |
0.30 |
0.30 |
0.12 |
0.12 |
0.06 |
0.06 |
17 |
0.30 |
0.30 |
0.15 |
0.15 |
0.07 |
0.07 |
18 |
0.30 |
0.30 |
0.18 |
0.18 |
0.09 |
0.09 |
19 |
0.30 |
0.30 |
0.21 |
0.21 |
0.10 |
0.10 |
20 |
0.30 |
0.30 |
0.24 |
0.24 |
0.12 |
0.12 |
21 |
0.30 |
0.30 |
0.27 |
0.27 |
0.14 |
0.14 |
22 |
0.30 |
0.30 |
0.30 |
0.30 |
0.15 |
0.15 |
23 |
0.30 |
0.30 |
0.30 |
0.30 |
0.17 |
0.17 |
24 |
0.30 |
0.30 |
0.30 |
0.30 |
0.19 |
0.19 |
25 |
0.30 |
0.30 |
0.30 |
0.30 |
0.21 |
0.21 |
26 |
0.30 |
0.30 |
0.30 |
0.30 |
0.23 |
0.23 |
27 |
0.30 |
0.30 |
0.30 |
0.30 |
0.24 |
0.25 |
28 |
0.30 |
0.30 |
0.30 |
0.30 |
0.26 |
0.27 |
29 |
0.30 |
0.30 |
0.30 |
0.30 |
0.27 |
0.29 |
30 |
0.30 |
0.30 |
0.30 |
0.30 |
0.29 |
0.30 |
31 |
0.30 |
0.30 |
0.30 |
0.30 |
0.30 |
0.30 |
32 |
0.30 |
0.30 |
0.30 |
0.30 |
0.30 |
0.30 |
33 |
0.30 |
0.30 |
0.30 |
0.30 |
0.30 |
0.30 |
34 |
0.30 |
0.30 |
0.30 |
0.30 |
0.30 |
0.30 |
35 |
0.30 |
0.30 |
0.30 |
0.30 |
0.30 |
0.30 |
36 |
0.30 |
0.30 |
0.30 |
0.30 |
0.30 |
0.30 |
37 |
0.30 |
0.30 |
0.30 |
0.30 |
0.30 |
0.30 |
38 |
0.30 |
0.30 |
0.30 |
0.30 |
0.30 |
0.30 |
39 |
0.30 |
0.30 |
0.30 |
0.30 |
0.30 |
0.30 |
40 |
0.30 |
0.30 |
0.30 |
0.30 |
0.30 |
0.30 |
41 |
0.30 |
0.30 |
0.30 |
0.30 |
0.30 |
0.30 |
42 |
0.30 |
0.30 |
0.30 |
0.30 |
0.30 |
0.30 |
43 |
0.30 |
0.30 |
0.30 |
0.30 |
0.30 |
0.30 |
44 |
0.30 |
0.30 |
0.30 |
0.30 |
0.30 |
0.30 |
45 |
0.30 |
0.30 |
0.30 |
0.30 |
0.30 |
0.30 |
46 |
0.30 |
0.30 |
0.30 |
0.30 |
0.30 |
0.30 |
47 |
0.30 |
0.30 |
0.30 |
0.30 |
0.30 |
0.30 |
48 |
0.30 |
0.30 |
0.30 |
0.30 |
0.30 |
0.30 |
49 |
0.30 |
0.30 |
0.30 |
0.30 |
0.30 |
0.30 |
50 |
0.30 |
0.30 |
0.30 |
0.30 |
0.30 |
0.30 |
51 |
0.30 |
0.30 |
0.30 |
0.30 |
0.30 |
0.30 |
52 |
0.30 |
0.30 |
0.30 |
0.30 |
0.30 |
0.30 |
53 |
0.30 |
0.30 |
0.30 |
0.30 |
0.30 |
0.30 |
54 |
0.30 |
0.30 |
0.30 |
0.30 |
0.30 |
0.30 |
55 |
0.30 |
0.30 |
0.30 |
0.30 |
0.30 |
0.30 |
56 |
0.30 |
0.30 |
0.30 |
0.30 |
0.30 |
0.30 |
57 |
0.30 |
0.30 |
0.30 |
0.30 |
0.30 |
0.30 |
58 |
0.30 |
0.30 |
0.30 |
0.30 |
0.30 |
0.30 |
Appendix B
QUANTITIES OF WASTEWATER FLOW FOR VARIOUS TYPES OF
ESTABLISHMENTS
ESTABLISHMENT
TYPE |
GALLONS PER DAY |
Airports, Bus Terminals, Train
Stations
Per passenger
Add per employee per 8-hour shift |
5
20 |
Barber & Beauty Shops (per
chair)
|
100
|
Bowling Alleys
Toilet wastes per lane
For food service, add Food Service usage below
|
100
|
Camps
Campground with central comfort stations per
camper
Day camps (no meals served) per camper w/ food service,
add Food Service usage below
|
35
15
|
Churches
Per seat/no food service
For food service, add Food Service usage below
For daycares, add school usage below
|
5 |
Grocery Stores
Per 100 square feet of floor space
Add per 100 square feet of deli floor space
Add per 100 square feet of bakery floor space
Add per 100 square feet of meat market floor
space |
5
50
50
100 |
Country Clubs
Per resident member (see Food Service usage
below)
Per non-resident member |
25
10 |
Dentists Offices
Per practitioner
Add per employee per 8-hour shift |
200
20 |
Doctors Office
Per practitioner
Add per employee per 8-hour shift |
200
20 |
Factories (exclusive of industrial
waste)
Gallons per employee per 8-hour shift
No showers provided
Showers provided |
20
35 |
Hospitals
Per bed space
For food service excluding patients, add Food Service
usage below |
200 |
Hotels & Motels
Regular per room
Resort hotels & cottages
Add for establishments with self-service laundry
facility per machine |
150
75
750 |
Mobile Home Parks
per single wide mobile home space
per double wide mobile home space |
300
450 |
Nursing Homes, Rest Homes, Adult Congregate
Living Facilities
Per bed
Add for food service |
100
65 |
Office Buildings (per employee per
8-hour shift) |
15 |
Parks, Public Picnic |
Toilets only per person |
5 |
With bath house, showers, & toilets per
person |
10 |
Recreation Vehicle Park
Recreational vehicle space for overnight stay,without
water & sewer hookup per vehicle space
Recreational vehicle space for overnight stay, With
water & without sewer hookup per vehicle space
Recreational vehicle space for overnight stay, with
water & sewer hookup per vehicle space |
50
75
125 |
Food Service
Per day per seat
Using single service articles only per seat
Bar and cocktail lounge per seat
Carry out only
Per meal served without public restrooms
Per meal served with public restrooms
Add per employee per 8-hour shift |
40
25
30
5
10
15 |
Residences
Single or multiple family per dwelling unit
1 bedroom
2 bedrooms
3 bedrooms
4 bedrooms
For each additional bedroom add
Rooming houses per occupant space |
150
270
370
450
50
75 |
Schools (per
student)
Day schools & day cares
Add for food service
Add for day school workers
Boarding schools |
15
5
20
75 |
Service Stations & Convenience
Stores
Per vehicle served (See Food Service) |
10 |
Stadiums, Race Tracks, Ball Parks
(per seat) |
5 |
Swimming Pools and Bathhouses (per
patron) |
10 |
Theaters (per
seat)
Indoor, movies/auditorium |
5 |
Outdoor, Drive-Ins (per
space) |
10 |
FOOTNOTES:
The estimated flows for residential systems assume a maximum
occupancy of 2 persons per bedroom. Where residential care facilities
(non-institutional) will house more than 2 persons in any bedroom, estimated
flows are to be increased by 75 gallons per each additional occupant.
Waste from food service operations is commercial in nature and
may require special system sizing and treatment/disposal considerations. For
food service operations, kitchen wastewater flows are normally to be calculated
at 66% of the total wastewater flow.
Systems serving high volume establishments, such as fast food
restaurants, convenience stores, and service stations require special sizing
consideration due to above average wastewater volume expected from restroom
facilities.
Residential Strength Wastewater as the primary sewage effluent
from a septic tank must not exceed the following parameters: Five-Day
Biochemical Oxygen Demand (BOD5) of 300 mg/L; Total Suspended Solids (TSS) of
300 mg/L; and Fats, Oil and Grease of 25 mg/L. Other contaminants may also be
present in the wastewater; however, they shall not exceed the concentrations or
quantities normally found in residential sewage.
Appendix C
MINIMUM CAPACITY OF SEPTIC TANKS LIQUID CAPACITY OF TANK
(GALLONS)
NUMBER OF BEDROOMS |
RESIDENTIAL |
1, 2, and 3 |
1000 |
4 |
1250 |
Note: For each additional bedroom add 250 gallons.
COMMERCIAL: Capacity greater than or equal to a minimum 48-hour
flow or in no case not less than 1000-gallon tank
Appendix D
Requirements for the Approval of Residential Aerobic
Treatment Units for Distribution in Arkansas.
Aerobic Treatment Units may be used for treating domestic
wastewater waste, provided that each unit is installed, operated and maintained
in conformance with the following provisions:
1. Aerobic treatment systems designed to
treat up to 2,000 gallons of wastewater waste per day shall be tested and
listed by an American National Standards Institute (ANSI) certified third party
previously approved by the Department. Aerobic treatment units shall be in
compliance with the standards for Class I systems as defined by the ANSI/NSF
Standard Number 40 (revised 2005).
2. The following additional requirements
shall also apply to the construction, design, and operation of aerobic
treatment units treating 2,000 gallons per day or less:
a. A visual and audio warning device shall be
installed in a conspicuous location so that activation of the warning device
will alert property occupants of aerobic unit malfunction or failure. The
wiring device shall be wired separately from the ATU so that disconnecting the
ATU from the electrical supply will activate the alarm.
b. Each unit shall be designed or equipped so
that regardless of unusual patterns or frequencies of wastewater flow into the
system effluent discharged will be in compliance with Class I effluent quality
standards as defined by the General NPDES Permit ARG550000, Discharges from
Individual Home Treatment Facilities.
c. The minimum required treatment capacities
for systems serving any structure, building or group of buildings; shall be
based on estimated daily wastewater flows as determined by the Rules Pertaining
to Onsite Wastewater Systems.
Appendix E
Requirements for becoming an Aerobic Treatment Unit
Distributor
The following items are required to become a distributor of
aerobic treatment units used for domestic wastewater treatment. Application is
made to the Department:
1. A current
septic tank installer's license, septic tank manufacturer's license, or a
Designated Representative's license.
2. Factory trained installation and service
personnel capable of providing service within 48 hours. Service personnel must
also be currently licensed by the Department as a Certified Monitoring
Person.
3. A statement from the
Corporate Office stating that in the event of the local franchise going out of
business, the service contracts in Arkansas will be honored and renewed by
another franchise in an adjoining state or region of Arkansas.
4. Provide orientation seminars to Certified
Monitoring Personnel and provide parts and seminars to installers certified to
repair aerobic treatment units.
Appendix F
Requirements for Submission of an Onsite Wastewater
System Permit Application
1.
All items will be submitted in triplicate to the local health unit with the
permit fee.
2. Completed Onsite
Wastewater System Permit Application Form.
3. Vicinity Map.
4. The drawing to be to scale using either 1
inch = 20 feet or 1 inch = 30 feet. The drawing shall indicate the house,
Onsite wastewater system components, and other features affecting the location
of primary and secondary absorption areas.
5. The direction of North shall be
indicated.
6. Property lines shall
be defined and their dimensions shown. Dimensions that cannot be indicated by
scale shall be designated by a shown distance between 2 indicated points. The
distance to 2 adjacent property lines shall be shown to tie the system to one
location on the lot.
7. Onsite
wastewater system setbacks and their distances shall be shown. Structures and
their dimensions and all features, which affect the locations of system
setbacks including the location of utility/service lines, shall be
shown.
8. The driveway and parking
area dimensions shall be shown.
9.
The location and elevation of the water well shall be shown along with their
distance from all parts of the onsite wastewater system and secondary
absorption area. For public water systems, show the distances from the onsite
wastewater system's components and secondary absorption area location to the
water mains and the water service lines.
10. The location, elevation and distances of
all wells and/or onsite wastewater systems on adjoining properties that are
within 100 feet of the proposed septic system and secondary absorption area
shall be shown.
11. Locate and
properly size the primary and secondary absorption area and include contour
lines or arrows indicating the direction and degree of the lot's slope shall be
shown.
12. A benchmark shall be
designated and elevation shots or rod readings shall be shown for all parts of
the wastewater system. Ground elevation and flow-line elevations shall be
provided for all system components. This includes the stub-out and the
beginning, middle and end of each absorption trench. Each absorption trench
shall be designed on contour, not to exceed 2 inches difference in elevation
from beginning to end.
13. The tank
sizes and locations shall be indicated.
14. Unusual soils or topographies that affect
the site shall be shown and identified. Examples include: excavations, ponds,
streams, rock outcrops, drainages, government take lines, etc.
15. The location of percolation test holes on
the property shall be shown. All percolation test holes used in determining the
absorption area size shall be within the primary absorption area
location.
16. The location of all
soil pits on the property shall be shown.
17. The flow line elevation of the building
sewer stub-out shall be indicated on the plans. The flow line elevations of all
tank inlets and outlets shall be provided. The flow line elevation of the
distribution box or other device inlet and outlet shall be provided. The
elevation of each trench bottom shall be provided.
18. The location of the cleanout(s) shall be
shown.
19. Pipe specifications for
all parts of the system shall be provided.
20. The absorption trench depth shall be
indicated.
21. The absorption trench
media/product shall be indicated.
22. Soil information including hydraulic
conductivity, redoximorphic features and depth to bedrock found in the primary
and secondary absorption areas from the soil pit shall be provided.
23. Pumped effluent systems
a. All pertinent data required for
conventional system shall be provided.
b. Indicate the calculated dose
volume.
c. Provide the construction
details on the dose tank.
d.
Indicate the length and diameter of the pumped effluent line.
e. Indicate the length and diameter of the
pipe from dose chamber to the distribution system.
f. Indicate the elevation difference between
the inlet to the distribution system and pump's shut-off elevation.
g. Provide the brand, model number and pump
curve of effluent pump specified. Include the calculations used to determine
the dose volume per minute and friction head.
h. Provide details of the pump control
assembly not limited to floats, alarm or control panels, electrical
wiring
24. Indicate the
diversion device to be used and its location.
25. Systems included in the Onsite Monitoring
Program shall be submitted with a valid contract with a Certified Monitoring
Provider.
Designated Representative Responsibilities in Application
Submittal
The Designated Representative submits a completed Individual
Onsite Wastewater System Permit Application (EHP-19) along with detailed plans,
product specifications, and required fees. This application package is
submitted to the appropriate local health unit.
The following information shall be provided on the Individual
Onsite Wastewater System Permit Application (EHP-19). The requirements for each
item are explained below. Print or type the information required.
The type of application being requested is indicated by
checking the appropriate box in the upper left corner of the EHP-19. The permit
choices are:
[RIGHT] NEW INSTALLATION - Any individual onsite wastewater
system that has not been permitted.
[RIGHT] ALTERATION/REPAIR
Alteration - Any change or extension to an existing, permitted
system.
Repair - The restoration of a malfunctioning existing,
permitted system to proper function.
The fee amount is calculated from the chart in the upper right
corner of the EHP-19 and marked with a check in the appropriate box.
In the first block of Part I (Treatment Type), check the
Treatment Type proposed. If the Treatment Type is not listed on the EHP-19,
mark Other (OTH).
In the second block of Part I (Disposal Method), check the
Disposal Method proposed. If the Disposal Method is not listed on the EHP-19,
mark Other (OTH).
The information required for items 1-24 is explained by the
item's number as found on the EHP-19, for information not applicable use
N/A:
1. The name of the
owner/applicant. If the structure is a "spec house," the builder's name can be
used, but the homeowner's name should be added prior to the final
inspection.
2. The telephone number
of the person listed in item 1. This is required in the event the Environmental
Health Specialist needs to discuss an issue with the property owner.
3. The mailing address of the
applicant.
4. The county in which
the proposed system is located.
5.
The address of the proposed system. If a 911 address is not available, simple
and accurate directions are required.
6. The name of the subdivision where the
system is located. If the proposed system site is not located in a subdivision,
mark this space with N/A.
7. The
date the subdivision in item 6 was approved by the Department of
Health.
8. The date the subdivision
in item 6 was recorded at the county courthouse. If the subdivision was not
recorded, mark this space with "not recorded." If the subdivision was filed and
recorded prior to July 1, 1977, the permit may be reviewed under either the
current rules or the applicable rules. This must be addressed on the permit
application. If not applicable, mark this space with N/A.
9. The subdivision lot number of the proposed
system. If not applicable, mark this space with N/A.
10. The dimensions, in feet, of the property.
These dimensions shall correspond to the dimensions shown on the plat drawing.
The dimensions shall be entered. Do not use the notation "refer to the plat
drawing".
11. The total area of the
lot in acres.
12. For residential
systems, list the total number of bedrooms. For non-residential systems, list
the number of people using the system on a daily basis.
13. Indicate the estimated daily flow in
gallons per day (GPD). For residential systems, the gallons per day per bedroom
rates used to design the system shall be stated. Non-residential systems are
based on Appendix B, Quantities of Wastewater Flow for Various Types of
Establishments, which can be found in the Rules Pertaining to Individual Onsite
Wastewater Systems.
14. Provide a
brief legal description for the site of the proposed system. The legal
description should be taken down to a minimum of two and one-half (2 1/2)
acres.
15. Indicate whether the site
will be supplied water by either a public water system or a private well. If
the water will be from a public system, list the name of the
supplier.
16. Indicate the GPS
coordinates (longitude and latitude) of the center of both the primary and
secondary disposal sites or the point of discharge, whichever is
appropriate.
17. Indicate the
loading rates (Should be the same as found on Soil Criteria 22(h) Primary Area
and 23(h) Secondary Area). If applicable, indicate the percolation rates for
the Primary Area and the Secondary Area. The percolation rate for the secondary
area shall not be used in finding the average percolation rate.
18. System Specifications: Record the
size/dimensions of the proposed system's components.
a. Record the total liquid capacity, in
gallons, of the septic tank(s) to be used.
b. Record the liquid capacity of the dose
tank, in gallons, to be used. If no dose tank is required, mark N/A.
c. Record the size, in square feet, of the
absorption area required.
d. Record
the number of absorption trenches (field lines) to be used.
e. Record the length of the absorption
trenches (field lines). If the absorption trenches are of different lengths,
record all lengths used. Absorption trenches of different lengths are only
allowed for serial distribution and pressure distribution designs. If more
space is needed, use the comments section on page two.
f. Record the depth, in inches, at which the
proposed absorption trenches are to be installed.
g. Indicate the minimum absorption trench
spacing, center to center, to be used.
Remarks. This space is provided for any additional information
the Designated Representative deems pertinent.
h. Indicate the trench media
options.
i. Indicate the trench
width appropriate to the trench media options.
19. The signature of the applicant or use the
EHP-19, OPT-A form and indicate in the signature space. "See EHP-19,
OPT-A".
20. The information in this
box must be either typed or printed, with the exception of the Designated
Representative's signature.
21. The
Environmental Health Specialist responsible for the system review completes
this item.
22. Soil Criteria for the
Primary Disposal Area. If percolation tests are used to design the system,
items 22 (e-h) and 23 (e-h), are marked N/A.
a. Record the depth, in inches, to bedrock.
For the definition of bedrock, refer to the Department of Health's Bedrock
policy.
b. Record the depth, in
inches, to the observed brief seasonal water table. List N/A, if a seasonal
water table is not present.
c.
Record the depth, in inches, to the observed moderate seasonal water table.
List N/A, if a seasonal water table is not present.
d. Record the depth, in inches, to the
observed long seasonal water table. List N/A, if a seasonal water table is not
present.
e. Record the depth, in
inches, to the adjusted moderate seasonal water table.
f. Record the depth, in inches, to the
adjusted long seasonal water table.
g. Record the class and depth of the
hydraulic conductivity used to design the system.
h. Record the loading rate, in gallons per
square foot per day, used in the system design.
23. Soil Criteria for the Secondary Disposal
Area.
a. Record the depth, in inches, to
bedrock. For the definition of bedrock, refer to the Department of Health's
Bedrock policy.
b. Record the depth,
in inches, to the observed brief seasonal water table. List N/A, if a seasonal
water table is not present.
c.
Record the depth, in inches, to the observed moderate seasonal water table.
List N/A, if a seasonal water table is not present.
d. Record the depth, in inches, to the
observed long seasonal water table. List N/A, if a seasonal water table is not
present.
e. Record the depth, in
inches, to the adjusted moderate seasonal water table.
f. Record the depth, in inches, to the
adjusted long seasonal water table.
g. Record the class and depth of the
hydraulic conductivity used to design the system.
h. Record the loading rate, in gallons per
square foot per day, used in the system design.
24. If present, indicate the seasonal water
table. Should be the same as items 22 (b, c, d) and 23 (b, c, d). List the
Redoximorphic Features and/or Clay Content Restrictions (Refer to Section 8, in
the Rules Pertaining to Onsite Wastewater Systems, for wording). List N/A, if a
seasonal water table is not present.
Comments: Use as needed for additional system
information.
Part 2 Installation Inspection: Completed and signed by the
Environmental Health Specialist (EHS) responsible for the system review, or may
be made by the Designated Representative (DR) at the approval of the Authorized
Agent. If no final inspection has been conducted, the installer may complete
the inspection information, but shall sign and date in the System Installation
Verification Section.
Part 3 Permit for Operation: Completed and signed by the
Environmental Health Specialist (EHS) responsible for the system review.
Comments: Use as needed for additional system
information.
Site Revalidation: Use as needed for site revalidation
completed and signed by the EHS or DR. Attach additional sheets, if
necessary.
These Items Shall Be on or Provided with the Plot
Drawing
1. A Vicinity
Map.
2. The drawing to be to scale
using either 1 inch = 20 feet or 1 inch = 30 feet. The drawing shall indicate
the house, all septic system components and all other features affecting the
location of primary and secondary disposal locations.
3. The direction of North shall be
indicated.
4. Property lines shall
be defined and their dimensions shown. Dimensions which cannot be indicated by
scale shall be designated by a shown distance between two indicated points. The
distance to two adjacent property lines shall be shown to tie the system to one
location on the lot.
5. Structures
and their dimensions shall be shown. All features shall be shown which affect
the locations of system setbacks, including the location of utility/service
lines.
6. The driveway and parking
area dimensions shall be shown.
7.
The location and elevation of the water well and water supply line shall be
shown, along with their distance from all parts of proposed septic system
location and alternate disposal location. For public water systems, show the
distances from the septic system's components and secondary disposal location
to the water mains and the water service lines.
8. The location, elevation and distances of
all wells and/or septic systems on adjoining properties that are within 100
feet of the proposed septic system and secondary area shall be shown.
9. All septic system setbacks and their
distances shall be shown.
10. In the
primary and secondary disposal site locations, contour lines or arrows
indicating the direction and degree of the lot's slope shall be
shown.
11. A benchmark shall be
designated and elevation shots or rod readings shall be shown for all parts of
the sewage system. Ground elevation and flow-line elevations shall be provided
for all system components.
12. The
septic tank size and location shall be indicated.
13. Unusual soils or topographies that affect
the site shall be shown and identified. Examples include: excavations, ponds,
streams, rock outcrops, drainages, government take lines, etc.
14. The location of all percolation test
holes on the property shall be shown.
15. The location of all soil pits on the
property shall be shown.
16. The
flow line elevation of the building sewer stub-out shall be indicated on the
plans. The flow line elevations of septic tank inlets and outlets shall be
provided. The flow line elevation of the distribution box or other device shall
be provided. The elevation of each trench bottom shall be provided.
17. The location of the cleanout(s) shall be
shown.
18. Pipe specifications and
lengths for all parts of the system shall be provided.
19. The primary absorption area shall be
properly sized.
20. The absorption
trench depth shall be indicated.
21.
The secondary area shall be indicated and properly sized.
22. The soil determination, percolation test
or soil pit in the secondary area shall be indicated.
23. Soil information in regards to
redoximorphic features and bedrock found in the primary disposal site soil pit
shall be provided.
24. Pumped
effluent systems
a. All pertinent data
required for a conventional system shall be provided. Indicate the calculated
dose volume.
b. Provide the dose
tank size (item 18b on EHP-19) and the construction details,. If a pump vault
is used, indicate the proper, increased septic tank size in item 18a and on the
plat drawing.
c. Provide details of
the control panel, riser, and pump control assembly. Indicate whether the dose
interval is controlled by timer or by demand. Specify what brand panel and
control assembly are to be used.
d.
Calculate the draw down in the dose tank and the show calculations used.
Examples are: "On-off" points, elevations inside tank alarms, etc.
e. Provide the brand, model number and pump
curve of effluent pump specified. Include the calculations used to determine
the dose volume per minute and friction head.
f. Indicate the length and diameter of the
pumped effluent line.
g. Indicate
the length and diameter of the pipe from dose chamber to the distribution
system.
h. Indicate the elevation
difference between the inlet to the distribution system and pump's shut-off
elevation.
i. Provide details of the
distribution system.
25.
Indicate any diversion or distribution device to be used and its
location.
26. Systems included in
the Onsite Monitoring Program shall be submitted with a valid contract with a
Certified Maintenance Provider.
Designated Representative Site
Responsibilities
1. All major
system components shall be staked-out with all stakes identified. Examples,
include but not limited to, the stub-out, tank, distribution device, beginning,
middle and end of each lateral line.
2. The beginning, middle and end of all
laterals shall be flagged in both the primary and secondary site.
Exception: The secondary site shall have only the field corners
flagged on grade provided the lot is 1.5 acres or larger in size.
3. The house/structure location shall be
flagged.
4. All percolation test
holes shall be flagged.
5. All soil
pits shall be flagged.
6. The
proposed system design shall be appropriate for the site: flat ground, pumped
effluent, serial distribution, dual absorption field, distribution box, dosed,
etc.
7. Note observations or other
findings.
8. All wells on the
property and adjacent properties within 100' of the proposed system shall be
identified and flagged.
Appendix G
Drawings
Fig. 1
Click here to view
image
* The slope across the drain field starting from the frist line
to the line is < 6 inches.
* THE outlay flow line of the septic tank is at or above the
highest ground elevation within absorption area.
* Distribution box height is not critical.
Fig. 2
Click here to view
image
* Elevation change from the frist line to last line is>= 6
inches.
* Outlet flow line of D-box is at or above the ground
elevation of the highest line of the absorption area.
Fig. 3
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image
Fig. 4
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image
Figure 5
Capping Fill System - Side View (Less than 6% Slope)
Location of the distribution box or septic tank outlet
determined by the fall across the absorption field. See Sections 9.11.5 and
9.11.6
Click here to view
image
Note: Capping material must extend 10 ft. from trenches before
the start of the slope. The tapered slope shall be 3:1 or less.
Fig.6
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image
Fig.7
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image
Fig.8
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image
Fig.9
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image
Fig.10
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image
Figure 11
Grease Interceptor Design
Click here to view
image
NOTES: * 1000 US Gallon Capacity
* 4" Boot Type Seals
* 4' schedule 40 Inlet Baffle
* Concrete: 4000psi min
* ASTM C 1227
* T&G joint sealed with butyl sealant
* Covers 18' nominal diameter
Appendix H
Soil Textural Triangle
Click here to view
image
Appendix I
RED SOIL CHART
Only the following counties are to be exclusively considered as
containing soils which may exhibit low shrink swell properties.
Baxter
Benton
Boone
Carroll
Fulton
Independence
Izard
Lawrence
Madison
Marion
Madison
Newton
Randolph
Searcy
Sharp
Stone
Washington
Appendix J
Conversion Table
1 millimeter |
= |
0.03937 inches |
1 centimeter |
= |
0.39370 inches |
1 meter |
= |
39.37008 inches |
1 inch |
= |
2.54 centimeters |
1 foot |
= |
30.48 centimeters |
1 yard |
= |
91.44 centimeters |
1 sq. centimeters |
= |
0.15500 sq. inches |
1 sq. inch |
= |
6.4516 sq. centimeters |
1 sq. foot |
= |
929.0303 sq. centimeters |
1 cubic cm |
= |
0.06102 cubic inches |
1 cubic meter |
= |
35.31467 cubic feet |
1 cubic inch |
= |
16.38706 cubic centimeters |
1 cubic foot |
= |
0.02832 cubic meters |
1 cubic yard |
= |
0.76455 cubic meters |
1 gram |
= |
0.035274 ounces |
1 kilogram |
= |
2.20462 pounds |
1 kilogram |
= |
35.27396 ounces |
1 ounce |
= |
28.34952 grams |
1 pound |
= |
453.59237 grams |
1 milliliter |
= |
0.033814 fluid ounces |
1 liter |
= |
33.814022 fluid ounces |
1 fluid ounce |
= |
29.57353 milliliters |
1 pint |
= |
473.1 7648 milliliters |
1 gallon, liquid |
= |
3.7854 liters |