Press Release: Septic Systems

“Flushing Out The Facts On Septic Systems” 

For most of the residents that live on or near Cazenovia Lake a septic system is a vitally important part of their home. While not everyone may be aware of how a septic system functions, we know that periodic maintenance is necessary. A non-functioning septic system is not something anyone wants. 

Being good stewards of our lake with regards to the maintenance of our septic systems extends beyond just those homes on or near the water. In fact there is a designated Cazenovia Lake Watershed that defines a boundary whereby residents must exercise extra care with their septic system. 

For any homeowner within the Cazenovia Lake Watershed they are required to have their septic tank pumped and visually inspected by a contractor approved by the Town of Cazenovia prior to the sale of their home. On average septic tanks should be pumped every 3-5 years depending on size, age, location and usage. For residents outside of the watershed only a septic dye test is required. The four currently approved contractors are Automatic Utilities, AALCO, Hullar’s Septic and Northrup Septic service. Using an outside vendor will require the approval of Cazenovia’s Codes Enforcement Officer and a fee will be assessed. 

For homes on or immediately adjacent to Cazenovia Lake the Town of Cazenovia will send out letters every 5 years requiring the homeowner to have their septic tank pumped and inspected regardless if the home is for sale or not. 

Following this inspection, the septic contractor will complete an inspection form that is returned to the Codes Enforcement Officer. No further action is required for 5 years if the inspection is satisfactory. If the inspection is unsatisfactory the Codes Enforcement Officer will contact the resident and determine what action is required to make the septic system fully functioning and compliant. Failure to comply with the required inspection will result in action by the Town of Cazenovia. 

These inspections are intended to protect Cazenovia Lake. There are many things we cannot control with regards to maintaining and improving the water quality but we can and must ensure that all septic systems within the watershed are in good condition and operating properly. 

Septic systems that are not functioning can discharge excess nutrients into our lake even worse raw sewage. It is up to each and every one of us to maintain our septic systems. 

Beyond the maintenance and inspection of your septic system there are other things you should be doing to keep your septic system healthy. For instance, avoid pouring harsh products such as chemicals, grease or paint down the drain. Keep cars and heavy equipment away from your septic system and leach field. Avoid vegetation near the septic tank, distribution box and leach field which could clog the pipes. Avoid the use of a garbage disposal as it can overload the waste entering your septic system. Also, it is a good idea to manage any leaks in your home that could unnecessarily add to your septic tank and leach field’s capacity. Finally, use only septic safe soaps, detergents and toilet paper that are low suds, biodegradable and low or phosphate free. 

While the topic of sewage is far from glamorous, we owe it to our friends, neighbors and visitors to Cazenovia to do our part to ensure that the septic systems around our watershed are working properly. 

As always we invite you to share your comments or concerns with us through our website, cazlake.org.