On-site Wastewater Treatment System

The State of Iowa requires any home or building that generates wastewater be connected to a public wastewater treatment system or have a private on-site wastewater treatment system.  A permit to construct a private on-site wastewater treatment system must be obtained at the Lee County Health Department prior to construction.

In Iowa, domestic wastewater is defined as waterborne wastes carried off by toilet, lavatories, laundries, and sinks.  An on-site wastewater treatment system consists of a septic tank (primary treatment) and drain field (secondary treatment).  Untreated wastewater is a threat to human health when it pollutes surface water or groundwater.

Additional Resources

Iowa Administrative Code 567 - Chapter 69

Iowa Department of Natural Resources, Septic Information

Iowa's Time of Transfer Inspection

Iowa's On-site Wastewater Loan Program

NPDES General Permit #4 - Discharge from On-site Wastewater Treatment and Disposal Systems