Wastewater generated by homes and businesses is either transported by sewers to central facilities for treatment and disposal or treated and disposed of onsite by some type of septic system. Because septic systems have performed ineffectively, they have come to be regarded as temporary methods of wastewater treatment. Septic systems generally fail, however, as a result of human error or neglect.

Septic systems are environmentally and technologically sound. Properly designed, constructed, operated, and maintained septic systems should not fail and can be as permanent as central treatment systems. Alternative septic system technologies are available to overcome soil, geological, and hydrological conditions which may limit the use of conventional sewage systems. These alternative systems can provide as good or better treatment than central systems, use less energy, and provide an additional benefit by replenishing groundwater. Federal agencies do not encourage the building of septic systems to permanently solve wastewater treatment problems, and various state regulations and local enforcement have not provided effective controls to assure good septic system performance. Good management could reduce septic systems' failure and make them part of a community-wide strategy to reduce, prevent, and eliminate water pollution.

Status Legend:

Review Pending-GAO has not yet assessed implementation status.

Open-Actions to satisfy the intent of the recommendation have not been taken or are being planned, or actions that partially satisfy the intent of the recommendation have been taken.

Closed-implemented-Actions that satisfy the intent of the recommendation have been taken.

Closed-not implemented-While the intent of the recommendation has not been satisfied, time or circumstances have rendered the recommendation invalid.

• Review Pending
• Open
• Closed - implemented
• Closed - not implemented

Recommendation for Executive Action

Recommendation: The Administrator, Environmental Protection Agency, should: (1) revise regulations to require that facility plans consider water pollution problems in all community areas; (2) encourage states and communities to obtain the necessary authority to establish effective public management programs for septic systems; (3) establish minimum standards for public management of septic systems; and (4) emphasize to public entities that grant assistance is available for major rehabilitation and upgrading of septic systems.

Agency Affected:

Status: Closed

Comments: Please call 202/512-6100 for additional information.