Septic Systems

Septic systems or private sewage disposal systems are underground systems that are designed to collect and treat wastewater. Septic systems are primarily used to treat wastewater in areas where sanitary sewers are not currently available. Many homes in Midwest City use these systems to treat their household wastewater (wastewater coming from toilets, sinks, kitchens).

There are more than 1,000 septic systems in Midwest City. The most common septic systems in the city are conventional and aerobic. To find out how conventional septic systems work click here. To find out how aerobic septic systems work click here.

Harmful viruses, bacteria, and pathogens can be released into the local area if these septic systems are not properly operated and maintained. This poses as a serious health hazard to the community and environment. Please help protect the community's health by maintaining your septic systems properly and reporting malfunctioning systems. Call (405) 739-1040 to report malfunctioning septic systems.

Septic System Regulations

The Oklahoma Department of Environmental Quality (ODEQ) has several regulations on septic systems. The most applicable ODEQ regulation concerning septic systems is Title 252 Chapter 641 Individual and Small Public On-Site Sewage Treatment Systems. A copy of this regulation can be found here.

The primary Midwest City code that regulates septic systems (private sewage disposal systems) is Midwest City Code of Ordinances Chapter 43, Article III, Division 3. A copy of this regulation can be found here.

Financial Aid

Installing, operating, and repairing a septic system can be expensive. Additionally, once sanitary sewers are made available, septic systems are required to be abandoned and a connection with the sanitary sewer made. This abandonment and connection can be expensive. To find financial aid resources click here.

Maintaining and Pumping your Septic System

Septic systems must be maintained and pumped regularly in order to ensure proper operation. Below are some guidelines, frequently asked questions, supporting documents, and resources to help ensure your septic system runs smoothly.

Click any thumbnail image to view a slideshow

Sewage seepage over malfunctioning septic system

Sewage discharging from malfunctioning septic system

Frequently Asked Questions

When should I pump my septic system?

Pumping your tank depends on 4 major factors.

Household size: the more people utilize your system, the more often it needs to be pumped
Total wastewater generated
Volume of solids in wastewater: Garbage disposal/food waste, along with other solid waste will fill the tank up quicker and take longer to decompose
Septic tank size: The larger the tank the greater the capacity to handle wastewater

According to the EPA septic systems generally are inspected every 1-3 years and pumped periodically (3-5 years). Aerobic systems need to be inspected and pumped more often than conventional septic systems.

A list of ODEQ approved septic pumpers can be found HERE.

Category: Septic

Who should I contact to repair and/or pump my septic system?

A list of ODEQ certified installers can be found HERE.

A list of ODEQ certified pumpers can be found found HERE.

Depending on the malfunction, a licensed plumber may also be able to repair the septic system.

Category: Septic

How can I tell if my septic system is malfunctioning?

Malfunctioning septic systems may display some of the following indicators

Sewage seepage and/or discharge
Bad odors around septic system
Cleanout overflowing
Water or sewage from toilets, drains, or sinks are backing up into the home
Bathtubs, showers, sinks drain very slowly
Standing water or damp spots around the septic tank or absorption field
Bright green, spongy lush grass over the drainfield even during dry weather
Algal blooms in nearby ponds or lakes
High levels of nitrates or coliform bacteria in water wells

Above are some photos of malfunctioning septic systems.

Category: Septic

Why should I maintain and pump my septic system?

Properly maintaining your septic system

Protects the health of you, your family, your neighbors and community. A properly functioning system treats harmful bacteria and viruses found in sewage, preventing these harmful pathogens from putting your family at risk. This treatment prevents contamination of the community's drinking water and local waterways. Contaminated waterways can spread infectious diseases to unknowing swimmers and outdoor enthusiasts.
Protects the environment. Malfunctioning systems can release bacteria, viruses, and chemicals toxic to local streams, rivers, and lakes. This can result in algae blooms and can kill local fauna and flora.
Protects your property value. An unusable septic system can lower the property value. It may also result in legal liability. The average lifespan of a septic system is 15-40 years, but can last much longer if properly maintained.
Saves you money. According to the EPA, replacing a malfunctioning system may cost between $3,000 and $7,000. Paying routine maintenance fees every few years is an excellent way to avoid prematurely replacing an entire septic system.

Category: Septic

How do I find the location of my septic system?

Look at your home's "as built" drawing. Also, ODEQ and/or Midwest City Stormwater Quality may have a copy of the septic system installation drawings
Contact a professional such as a septic system installer, inspector, and/or pumper to locate it
Contact the previous homeowner
To locate your septic tank
- Check your yard for risers, lids, or manhole covers
- A metal detector may help detect metal septic tanks, concrete reinforcement in concrete septic tanks, or metal lids & handles
- Locate your cleanout and see which direction the pipe below runs. A plumbing cleanout snake may help
- Carefully use a metal soil probe or metal rod, preferably doing so when the soil is soft
- Use a flushable transmitter and a receiver
- The grass above shallow septic tanks may look dead or unhealthy during hot & dry months
To locate your lateral lines
- Look for bright green grass lines in your backyard
- Locating the drainfield distribution box or inspection ports may also help