Recent Factsheets

Conventional OWTS

Learn how your Conventional septic system works and how to maintain it

Advanced OWTS Maintenance Requirements

Learn how to take care of your advanced system

Advanced OWTS

overview of Advanced onsite wastewater treatment technologY function and care

Informed Decision Making: Advanced OWTS

suggestions to help homeowers select the advanced technology That is best for their property

Bottomless Sand Filters

What is A Bottomless sand filter AND HOW DOES IT WORK?

RIDEM OWTS Permit Search Guide

Instructions to Access and navigate the RIDEM OWTS Permit Search tool

What’s in your Backyard?

Maintaining your Septic System

What to Expect During a Septic System First Maintenance Inspection

What to Expect During a Septic System Pump-Out

Advanced OWTS: Do you Really Need a Maintenance Contract?

Septic System Additives

Access Risers, Effluent Screens and Two Compartment Tanks

Other Useful Websites and Resources

U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA)- Septic Systems (Decentralized/Onsite Systems)

• Resources for SepticSmart Homeowners
• New Homebuyer’s Brochure and Guide to Septic Systems
• Printables for Owners of Rental Property with Septic Systems

Rhode Island Department of Environmental Management – Septic and Onsite Wastewater Treatment Systems

• Current RI regulations
• Cesspool Phaseout Information
• System Plan & Permit Search Tool: Find info on your system
• Summary of Rhode Island Municipal Onsite Wastewater Programs – we recommend checking with your municipality for any updates!

Massachusetts Department of Environmental Protection – Septic Systems & Title 5

• Current MA regulations
• Massachusetts Alternative Septic System Test Center