New Hampshire Code of Administrative Rules
Env - Department of Environmental Services
Subtitle Env-Wq - Water Quality and Quantity Programs
Chapter Env-Wq 1000 - SUBDIVISIONS; INDIVIDUAL SEWAGE DISPOSAL SYSTEMS
Part Env-Wq 1010 - SEPTIC TANKS
Section Env-Wq 1010.05 - Access to Interior of Septic Tank

Universal Citation: NH Admin Rules Env-Wq 1010.05

Current through Register No. 13, March 27, 2025

(a) Access shall be provided to each compartment of a septic tank for inspection and cleaning, and to each baffle within the tank for inspection and repair, by means of at least one removable cover that is:

(1) Directly on the septic tank or on a riser, provided that if a riser is used, a cover that is directly on the septic tank may also be used; and

(2) Of a shape or otherwise of a construction that prevents the cover from falling into the septic tank or riser.

(b) Of the covers required by (a), above:

(1) At least one cover shall be not less than 20 inches but not more than 24 inches in diameter; and

(2) All other covers shall be not less than 12 inches in diameter.

(c) The cover for a septic tank compartment shall be:

(1) At or within 12 inches of finished grade, if the tank does not have an effluent filter; or

(2) At finished grade, if the tank has an effluent filter.

(d) If a riser that is required to comply with (c), above, is greater than 24 inches in height, the riser and cover shall each have a diameter of not less than 24 inches.

(e) A cover at finished grade shall be protected against unauthorized inadvertent opening, for example by locking closed, being mechanically fastened to the septic tank or riser such as with screws, or being made of cast-iron or other material that is at least equal in weight to cast iron.

(f) The bottom of the septic tank shall not be more than 15 feet below the grade of the area where the septage pumping truck will park when the tank needs to be pumped out.

(g) Septic tanks shall be accessible by truck to within 125 feet of the nearest road or driveway.

(See Revision Note at chapter heading for Env-Wq 1000) #9086, eff 2-9-08; ss by#9904-A, eff 4-16-11

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