What is an I/A septic system and why is it necessary?
An Innovative/Alternative (I/A) Septic System is an advanced wastewater treatment system designed to provide superior environmental protection and efficiency compared to traditional septic systems. Mandated in Suffolk County for new residential and major reconstruction projects via a 2018 amendment to Article 6 of the Suffolk County Sanitary code, I/A septic systems reduce nitrogen outputs, protect local water sources, especially in high-density or environmentally-sensitive areas.
Credibility Mapped: DAE's Septic Success Across Long Island
Project Overview
At DAE, our expertise in I/A Septic Design ensures that we are able to provide solutions for a variety of complex site conditions and project needs. We are highly skilled in navigating the Suffolk County Department of Health Services (SCDHS) Office of Wastewater Management (OWM) septic permitting process, ensuring a seamless experience from start to finish.
0/1 I/A SEPTIC DESIGN
CAPABILITIES
• Wetlands + Poor Draining Soil
Our expertise in designing shallow leaching systems, including pressurized drain fields, enables us to create efficient septic solutions for areas with high groundwater. Our designs provide reliable performance and environmental protection, even in challenging wetland and poor drainage conditions.
• Commercial
Our team specializes in I/A septic solutions for commercial properties, conducting precise flow rate assessments to maximize the proposed use of a property. We address the unique challenges posed by sectors such as food processing, motels/resorts, restaurants, industrial facilities, and medical practices, ensuring that our designs meet specific usage demands while adhering to regulatory requirements.
• Site Plan Coordination
We design minimally intrusive I/A septic systems that are thoughtfully integrated into the overall site plan. Through close coordination with architects, landscape architects, and other key stakeholders, we deliver septic and drainage systems that are seamlessly incorporated while maintaining the efficiency and integrity of the entire site.
• Private Water Wells
DAE has extensive experience in managing the complexities of septic system design and permitting for areas relying on private water wells. Our team is skilled at addressing the unique challenges of these systems, ensuring compliance with health regulations and protecting water quality in areas without public water access.
02 / I/A SEPTIC DESIGN
FEATURED I/A-OWTS SYSTEMS
In Suffolk County, FujiClean and Hydro Action are the two main I/A-OWTS systems fully approved for residential use by Suffolk County Department of Health Services (SCDHS), both surpassing the County's nitrogen reduction requirements of 19mg/L. DAE's expertise extends to proficiently utilizing these technologies as well as provisionally approved systems, ensuring optimal performance and compliance with regulatory standards, even in challenging site conditions such as high groundwater.
Fuji Clean System
With millions of installations worldwide, FujiClean systems offer a small footprint and operate with just one pump, minimizing moving parts and maintenance. Their advanced aeration technology ensures effective nitrogen reduction, ideal for properties with limited space.
High Groundwater System
For sites with high groundwater conditions, DAE excels at designing I/A septic systems tailored to handle elevated water tables effectively. We deploy shallow drain fields to keep the leaching system elevated above the groundwater, which is crucial for maintaining efficient wastewater treatment and distribution. Our designs often incorporate advanced leaching technologies such as chamber systems or mounded systems, carefully selected based on detailed assessments of soil permeability and groundwater levels. This approach prevents system flooding and ensures compliance with regulatory standards, providing reliable and efficient wastewater management even in challenging high groundwater conditions.
Hydro Action System
With 30 years of experience delivering wastewater solutions, Hydro Action systems are known for their higher liquid capacity compared to similarly rated units. Their durable design, combined with flexible invert options, makes them adaptable to a variety of site conditions.
Typical Groundwater System
In areas with stable or absent groundwater, DAE offers I/A septic systems designed to operate efficiently in conventional soil conditions. Our solutions include designing conventional leaching systems such as gravity-red leach fields or chamber systems, optimized for effective wastewater management based on soil percolation rates and site characteristics. We ensure that our systems adhere to local regulation and standards, delivering dependable wastewater management solutions for sites without groundwater concerns, maximizing efficiency and compliance while addressing each site's unique characteristics.
The DAE Experience
Since the introduction of septic system requirements in eastern Long Island, DAE has excelled in designing and securing permits for I/A septic systems across a range of projects. From residential to high-end luxury homes and commercial developments, our expertise spans both residential and commercial projects, utilizing advanced technologies to enhance effluent quality and ensure compliance with Suffolk County Health Department standards. Trust DAE to deliver efficient, environmentally friendly solutions tailored to your project.
John currently serves as the lead engineer for the Civil Division at DAE, focusing on site, civil and I/A OWTS design. Over the past six years in his role, he has collaborated extensively with architects, planners, surveyors, and various government departments, managing the development and permitting of both residential and commercial projects in environmentally sensitive areas.
John Ledermann
LEAD CIVIL ENGINEER
FAQ 1: Neighboring properties impact?
The county requires verification of water sources from neighboring properties within 150 feet of your property line to determine if they are connected to public water or still using well water. Our team uses this information to ensure that your septic system is adequately distance from your neighbor's well, in compliance with county regulations aimed at protecting drinking water. If a neighbor's well is located within 150 feet of your septic system, it will need to be relocated or positioned on your site to meet the required offset.
FAQ 2: Are there grants to help with cost?
Yes, there are three distinct grant opportunities available: Town grants, Suffolk County grants, State grants. You can apply for each grant separately according to the application processes set by each municipality. If approved, you may use more than one grant to cover your costs. However, please note that each grant has its own specific requirements, so be sure to review them carefully.
FAQ 3: Renovations & Additions?
In most cases, yes. You must upgrade to an I/A OWTS if you meet either local township requirements and the county triggers triggers listed: New construction, Substantial system upgrade required by SCHD, Major Reconstruction, Environment Division, Parcel in a high-priority area.
FAQ 4: Wetlands or DEC regulations?
It's crucial to identify whether your site includes any wetlands or requires DEC approvals and additional permits. If you're unsure, you can contact the town for verification. You also have the option to hire an environmental consultant to assist you with the process.
Civil Engineering Resources or Insights & Tools
Discover valuable tools and insights to support your projects and deepen your understanding of civil design.