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Septic Systems

In the Town of East Lyme, Town/City of Groton, Town of Ledyard, City of New London and Town of Waterford, many homes rely on on-site sewage disposal systems to treat their waste-water. These systems are comprised of a septic tank used in conjunction with a leaching structure. The waste flows from the house to the septic tank, where settling occurs. The solids then accumulate in the bottom of the septic tank (and should be periodically pumped out) and the liquid is dispersed over a large area of soil, where biological filtration takes place. The Ledge Light Health District is responsible for:

• Permitting all activities related to the construction or repair of any subsurface sewage disposal system.
• Investigating any complaints related to failing septic systems.
• Reviewing and approving plans for septic systems.
• Conducting soil evaluations and percolation tests to assure site suitability.
• Retaining records for all new and repaired septic systems including as-built drawings.
• Assuring that any construction activities, or change in use of the property, do not adversely impact the on-site septic system or reduce potential repair area.
  

Homeowners, or their representatives (contractors), who rely on subsurface sewage disposal are required to contact the Ledge Light Health District to obtain a permit if they are:

• Altering or repairing any part of a subsurface sewage disposal system.
• Constructing a new system.
• Planning to construct an addition, accessory structure (decks, etc.) or out-buildings.
• Planning on increasing the number of bedrooms.
• Planning to install a swimming pool.

If you have any questions or comments, please contact a District Sanitarian. You can view the subsurface sewage disposal technical standards on the State Department of Public Health’s website.