subject: Marginalized Areas In Utah Code For Wastewater Management [print this page] Representatives of the planning department of Utah lately addressed the Utah Division of Health in a letter to bring up the use of the septic tanks as a way to dispose sewage in developing localities of the county. Requests were made of a description of a long term vision involving an in depth research that can allocate the safety level for the septic tanks when used in developing recreational areas. They also asked if any information is available, or if they knew of any that would be available in the future which could help the planning commission in the development approval process.
In response to that request for information, the Deputy Director of the local health office said that the state does not have any plans at the moment that would adversely affect the environment or endanger the health of the citizens of the county. A special mention was made on the demands included in the Utah State Code of Waste minimum requirement for wastewater, as he continues speaking about their mindfulness for disposal of human and other domestic wastes. The building in of underground wastewater drainage systems will be secluded to places with ample availability of acceptable soil. This adequate class of soil is the type where the wastewater can be correctly sorted from surface and ground water so that the wastes will remain at the bottom until aptly purified.
The state has a negligible ability to reinforce in Utah County the requirements of the code. The option to apply a more stringent demand compared to the current state code will be taken if an issue concerning the public officials and residents of Utah County regarding usage of individual wastewater disposal system surfaces. These specifications will put limitations on the expanse of the lots which the said systems occupy. They can also reinforce the right soil to utilize, cater for a better separation of wastewater from ground and surface waters, and establish other limitations deemed necessary to keep away from health problems.
One adequate technique to put the installation of septic tanks and drain fields in order is for the city and county officers to help the local health department especially in handling those who fail in the minimum requirements. It is a common sight for local commissioners to miss the point of the local health agency for not permitting an individual to install a wastewater system on a certain property even with the obvious shortcoming of the said person with regard to the requirements of the Code of Waste Disposal Regulations. As expected, the Deputy Director is persistent in supporting the need to uphold the local government participation.
He stresses that the funds of the State Division of Health are not sufficient to support a study to identify the limits of the septic tanks count and absorption systems that can be used safely in the Utah County or even statewide. His willingness to take part in any study or research initiative of the Utah County to the best of their budget and ability was also stated in his reply. He believes the present rules are fine as long as they are reinforced.
