Frequently Asked Questions

The septic systems is determined by the amount of separation from the highest point that groundwater reaches (seasonal saturation) and the point where sewage treatment begins (bottom of pipe) which must be three feet. Since most of Benton County has a high water table mounds will be the most common septic system put in. For more information, contact us at 320-968-5065.

Benton County has a point of sale ordinance which requires a compliance inspection when property transfers unless the seller has an updated certificate of compliance that is less than five years or three years depending on who inspected it. There are a few exemptions, if the property has a community of central sewer system, building with no plumbing fixtures or are not suitable for human habitation. Also if the certificate of real estate value is less than $1,000 or a completion of a contract for deed or purchase agreement extended into before June 18, 2002. For more information, contact us at 320-968-5065.

The major cause of freezing is settling of the two inch pipe that pumps to the drain fields which causes back flow to settle in the pipe instead of going back into the pump station. Most contractors install a 10 foot 4 inch sleeve and use a more rigid pipe to prevent this. Other causes are too little water use since sewage heats the drain field. High water tables which slow down percolation into the ground. Also running sump pump water, humidifier water or dripping faucets. The best way to prevent freezing is to put straw over the drain field and the pump station pipe. 

For more information, contact us at 320-968-5065.

The purpose of pumping your septic tank is to prevent solids from getting into the drain field. Over time solids accumulate in the septic and will eventually plug up your drain field. For more information, contact us at 320-968-5065.

It depends, any building permit in the shore land, a variance or conditional use permit would trigger a compliance inspection. Otherwise no compliance inspection would be required. For more information, contact us at 320-968-5065.

You can hire any state-licensed inspector to certify your septic system.  Septic professionals that have requested to be on our Licensed Professional List (PDF). Inclusion on the website list does not constitute endorsement or recommendation by Benton County. For more information, contact us at 320-968-5065.