When selecting a site for a septic system, which factor is most important?

Soil type and permeability are critical factors when selecting a site for a septic system because they directly influence the system's ability to treat and disperse wastewater effectively. The soil must have adequate permeability to allow for the absorption of effluent while also retaining enough moisture to support the biological processes necessary for treatment. If the soil is too dense or sandy, it may lead to surface pooling of wastewater or inadequate filtering, which can result in system failure and environmental contamination.

In addition, different soil types have varying capacities for breaking down waste materials. For example, clay soils can retain water but may not allow for sufficient drainage, causing backup issues, while sandy soils drain quickly but may not provide enough retention time for effective treatment. Understanding the local soil characteristics helps in correctly sizing the septic system and ensuring it adheres to health and environmental regulations.

While other factors, such as the location of nearby buildings and local traffic volume, are also important in ensuring the system's viability and preventing potential disturbances, they do not impact the function of the septic system as significantly as soil type does.