04-22-1985 Council Packet - Laserfiche WebLink

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But, where an existing drainfield is failing and needs to be replaced, it is not generally feasible to tear up the existing drainfield and re -use the same site unless the existing drainfield is taken out of commission for a period of time and allowed to totally dry out. Then, it is conceivable that the old trenches could be re -excavated to a width and depth just greater than the old system, i.e. removing the trench wall areas that have become reduced in absorption capacity due to the biomat. This would only be considered if the existing drainfield site is the only possible site, and if soil and water conditions are suitable for a drainfield system. As described in the system inventory, many existing systems could not be'replaced within the confines of the minimum code standards. In general, Orono's policy has been to allow repairs to failing systems by salvaging whatever components can be expected to continue satisfactorily without jeopardizing the rest of the system, and replacing system components that have outlived their usefulness or would be detrimental to proper functioning if they remained as part of the system. A typical septic system repair will include the addition of drainfield using the existing tanks, often adding a 3rd pumping tank when the drainfield needs to be located uphill. Tanks in poor condition or located in high groundwater areas usually are replaced with sealed, precast concrete tanks. Approximately 1/3 to 1/2 of all repair jobs include a pump system or re-routing of plumbing in the house in order to place drainfield on higher, dryer gound. In gene•i1, drainfield additions, when proposed, are required to meet all standards of the code for location in suitable soils and soil water conditions, and are sized based on standards for new homes. In past cases where these standards were not met, some replacement drainfields failed to function from the day they were installed. Given the lot area requirements, lot line and structural setback requirements, soil permeability and water table depth criteria, the mizcL of houses, the topography, locations and construction of exist- ing systems and the locatiu,i �,f existing wells, the replacement of existing septic systems in Crystal Bay with systems tnaL file6t the minimum acceptable code standards is impossible on 26% of the proper- ties and is severely limited or questionable on another 45%. Only 29% of the properties have what could be considered as adequate area for replacement and permanent usage of septic systems. Note also that the continued use of septic systems will in many cases effectively limit the opportunity for expansion of houses or for adding garages where none exist and act as a severely limiting factor in the upgrading of the Crystal Bay neighborhood. At least one bed- room addition proposal is on hold pending resolution of the Crystal Bay sewer situation. Estimated costs for replacing septic systems in Crystal Bay vary depending on the specific site, access to it, and capability for replacement. In general current costs are as follows: 9