Everything You Need to Know About Residential Sewage Lagoons

If you live in a rural area, you probably don’t have access to a public sewer hookup. You might not even have a private septic system. Instead, your wastewater may be processed through a residential sewage lagoon.

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What Is a Residential Sewage Lagoon?

A residential sewage lagoon is a shallow pond that breaks down liquid waste, known as effluent, that drains from a private residence. Sometimes referred to as sewage ponds, these systems are often used in low-population areas where the soil drains poorly, and access to safe, effective wastewater processing isn't available. Treatment through a wastewater lagoon is accomplished through natural processes, such as evaporation.

What Does a Residential Sewage Lagoon Look Like?

Residential sewage lagoons can be square, round or rectangular, and they typically have less than 3 feet of water. Their banks, which are sloped between 15 and 20 degrees, are composed of gravel, rock or concrete and free from vegetation, including grass. The pond water is also free of vegetation and other obstructions.

For a single-family residence, residential wastewater lagoons typically have only a single pond. However, for larger treatment areas, multiple ponds may be used.

To keep out children and animals, lagoon sewer systems are typically protected by a high fence with a gate that’s securely locked at all times. In many areas, this is a legal requirement.

How Does a Residential Wastewater Lagoon Work?

Residential sewage lagoons typically consist of two components: a septic tank and a shallow earthen pond. Wastewater from the house enters the septic tank, where solids, liquids and floatable materials, such as grease, are separated. While the solids and floatable materials remain in the septic tank, the liquid effluent travels through a pipe to the bottom center portion of the lagoon, where it’s discharged.

These ponds sit on the surface, where sunlight and wind facilitate the growth of bacteria and algae. These microscopic plants and organisms help safely and naturally break down the effluent. Some of these broken-down materials evaporate into the air, and some liquid may seep into grassy areas surrounding the pond. These grassy areas help minimize contamination of the ground or surface water, protecting the environment. However, if the pond isn't functioning optimally, small amounts of solid waste may settle to the bottom, where it may eventually need to be removed.

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Is It Legal to Install a Residential Sewage Lagoon?

Residential sewage lagoons aren't underground like traditional septic systems. Consequently, if they aren’t built and maintained to stringent standards, these wastewater lagoons can pose significant health and safety concerns to people and animals that live in the area. For this reason, sewage lagoons are strictly regulated in many regions and must be built by state-licensed professionals.

Septic Lagoon Regulations

Domestic sewage is harmful to human health. To find out if a residential septic lagoon is legal in your area and what permits are required to build one, contact your local health department.

Sewage Lagoon Maintenance

If your sewage lagoon includes a septic tank, it needs to be pumped out every two to five years. The lagoon’s mechanical and natural components should be inspected annually by a licensed septic professional, including periodic testing of the treatment process. Keep records of all inspections, maintenance and repairs in a safe, accessible place.

Property owners must also maintain a grassy area around the pond, keeping it free of trees and shrubs. Fencing around the area should also be regularly inspected and maintained to limit access by children, pets and other animals.

Additionally, if you want to keep your sewage lagoon in good working condition, you should never:

• Pour toxic or hazardous substances down drains or into toilets

• Park on or near your septic tank or pipes

• Add commercial enzymes to your system

• Plant trees or shrubs in the area around the lagoon

How Do You Know If a Lagoon Sewer System Isn’t Working?

A failing wastewater lagoon can have serious impacts on the health and safety of people and animals that live nearby. Signs that an effluent pond isn’t working include:

• Foul odors

• Swampy or spongy areas or other signs of overflow

• Mosquito breeding

• Bank erosion

• Dark-colored water

If repairs are required, make sure to obtain the proper permits, and always hire a certified, state-licensed contractor to do the work.