I’m purchasing a property which will not perc for a conventional septic system. There are alternative septic systems that are possible, but also I’m wondering, what about an alternative system altogether? Does anyone have experience with handling greywater and waste separately (say composting for waste) in a home with several members?

  • tallwookie@lemmy.world
    1·
    1 year ago

    whereabouts (just general area) can you get away without a septic system? the little bit I’ve looked into it (not seriously considering buying property yet but maybe in the future) you’re basically legally required to have septic, even out in the middle of nowhere.

    • CadeJohnson@slrpnk.netM
      2·
      1 year ago

      I think it depends on the country to a large degree. In industrialized nations, regulations are much more complex and surface- and ground-water protections tend to be more stringent. In more agricultural locales, the issue becomes one of not creating a nuisance or hazard with one’s waste, more than complying with the letter of a regulation. But you still need some means of managing waste - septic tanks are common because they are effective, but they depend on an abundant supply of water. If there is not water to flush, there will not be a septic tank.

  • radec@slrpnk.net
    1·
    1 year ago

    Are you trying to be permitted by the county/local gov?

    It’s definitely possible to do graywater separate and compost human waste. I’ve done composting in the past and it can work great. But getting the county (I’m from the US) to sign off on it is really depends on your local government.

    One great resource in general is the The Humanure Handbook By Joseph Jenkins

  • Skjeggape @lemmy.world
    1·
    11 months ago

    It massively depends on your local code enforcement officer. If they are a dick, don’t buy the property. If you haven’t met them yet, you will. You didn’t say where you are, so ymmv. If you’re in Maine, I dug my own, town approved primitive wastewater disposal, and could help.