Title 5 Septic

Septic Systems

 The Health Division is responsible for reviewing and approving all matters related to residential and commercial septic systems governed by the Massachusetts Title V Regulations and the Town of Yarmouth Sewage Disposal Regulations.  According to the regulations of Title V, all septic systems must be inspected and certified prior to the sale of any property.

 Information, such as location and size of septic systems, on most Yarmouth properties, since 1980, is available at the Health Department in the form of engineered plans, As-Built Location Cards, and septic inspection reports. The information is now available online at Yarmouth Septic As-Builts.  

Pumping records for your property are also available online by visiting Yarmouth Septic Pumping History and clicking on the Reports tab in the upper right section of the page.

The Do’s and Don’ts of Septic System Ownership

 Do:

  • Pump your septic tank every 3-4 years to prevent a build-up of solids that could potentially clog your leaching facility and fail your system prematurely. 
  • Practice water conservation. Repair dripping faucets and leaking toilets. Run washing machines and dishwashers only when full and space your loads to avoid overwhelming the septic system. 
  • Learn the location of your septic system components to avoid unnecessary damage by vehicular traffic or landscaping or construction projects.

 Don’t: 

  • Dump medications or hazardous chemicals down the drain. Use bleach, disinfectants, and other household cleaners sparingly. Overuse of such products will kill the beneficial bugs living in your septic system and will potentially contaminate groundwater and the surrounding environment. 
  • Make or allow repairs to your septic system without obtaining the proper Health Department permits. Use licensed septic contractors to insure proper repairs. 
  • Use commercial septic tank additives. These products usually do not help and may actually damage your system. The DEP and the Health Department does maintain a list of approved products, however, what naturally exists in your septic tank is adequate for the proper function of your system. 
  • Use your toilet as a trash can by dumping nondegradables down your drains. Products such as cigarette butts, Q-tips, diapers, and sanitary napkins do not properly breakdown in your septic tank and will eventually clog the system.

 The Health Department staff is available to answer any questions you may have concerning septic systems Monday through Friday, 8:30 am – 4:30 pm at (508) 398-2231 ext. 1241.