Septic systems are individual wastewater treatment systems that use the soil to treat small wastewater flows, usually from individual homes. There are many types of septic systems in use today. While all systems are individually designed for each site, most systems are based on the same principles.

Title 5 requires the proper siting, construction, and maintenance of all on-site wastewater disposal systems. On-site systems that are not properly located and maintained can contribute pathogens and nutrients to surface and ground waters, endangering drinking water supplies, wildlife habitat, and surface water bodies.