Can You Install a Septic Tank Above Ground?

If you've ever spent a vacation on a camping site, you may have noticed small waste collection tanks around camper vans and trailers. These temporary above-ground septic tanks provide a convenient alternative to trudging to the toilet block at night, but are they suitable for longer-term use?

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Figuring out how to dispose of wastewater can be challenging if your area isn't connected to a municipal sewer system and you can't install a conventional septic system where you live. However, a temporary above-ground septic tank probably isn't the right solution to your dilemma. Below, we'll explain the practicalities of installing a septic tank above ground and explore alternatives.

Can You Install a Septic Tank Above Ground?

While installing an above-ground septic tank is possible, it's relatively unusual and rarely a good long-term option. Above-ground septic tanks, also known as septic holding tanks, are low-capacity units designed for temporary use. They connect to a regular plumbing system to receive wastewater and aren't intended for use with a septic field, so they require manual emptying. The tank gradually collects blackwater waste from toilets and gray water waste from fixtures and appliances, such as showers and dishwashers.

Why Are Some Septic Tanks Above Ground?

The most common purpose of above-ground, portable septic tanks is to collect waste on a short-term basis, often on remote or temporary job sites. For example, construction companies may use above-ground septic tanks on sites without regular sewer lines. Other potential applications include:

• Camper vans

• Trailers

• Remote cabins and cottages

• Agricultural buildings

• Camping grounds

Above-ground septic tanks are particularly well-suited to motor homes and other camping vehicles because they're compact and often have a low profile. They can fit neatly under structures and collect waste during a vacation.

Temporary Septic Waste Systems

Temporary above-ground septic tanks are most common in rural areas without a connection to municipal sewer systems. However, a regular septic system with a below-ground tank and leach field is usually a more practical long-term option in these locations.

How Does an Above-Ground Septic Tank Work?

Most above-ground septic tanks come in a single, seamless piece. This design prevents leaks, reducing the risk of sewage contamination. While connection types vary between makes and models, many styles have multiple inlet ports. Having several ports makes connecting the tank to a plumbing system in confined spaces easier.

Some above-ground septic tanks are suitable for connecting in a relay. You can sometimes link several tanks, enabling you to collect a larger volume of waste over a longer period.

An above-ground septic tank doesn't dispose of waste like a regular septic system with a drain field. Instead, it holds the waste flowing from your plumbing system until you empty it. You must schedule septic tank services at the intervals recommended in your owner's manual.

Depending on the size of your sewage tank, you may need to have it emptied when it reaches around two-thirds full. A larger tank may become too heavy to hoist onto a flatbed truck if you allow it to get completely full. Full above-ground septic tanks are also more likely to leak and contaminate the surrounding area.

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Are Above-Ground Septic Tanks Legal?

Long-term use of above-ground septic tanks is illegal in most areas of the United States. Most jurisdictions legislate against their use because they can degrade in harsh environments or extreme weather, creating an unacceptable contamination risk. However, some areas permit above-ground tanks for short-term projects and camping trips. You should check the rules in your area before buying or using an above-ground septic tank to ensure compliance with local laws.

While temporary above-ground septic tanks aren't allowed in most American jurisdictions, many areas permit above-ground septic systems. Above-ground septic systems differ significantly from portable septic tanks because they're designed for long-term use and contain a raised drain field to dispose of waste safely.

Although above-ground systems are uncommon, they could be a good option in areas where a conventional below-ground septic system won't work. For example, an above-ground system could be suitable if you live in an area with a high water table or thick bedrock that prevents waste from draining effectively.