Before You Dig: Avoid Hitting Your Septic System

Common Situations Where Septic Damage Happens

Septic systems are often buried and forgotten over time. When homeowners begin yard projects, they may unknowingly dig into septic components.

• Installing fences or posts
• Planting trees or large shrubs
• Building decks or patios
• Installing irrigation systems
• Excavating for trenching, landscaping, or drainage work
• Installing sheds or small yard structures
• Planning pool installation

If the septic tank or pipes are struck during digging, the system can be damaged and sewage leaks may occur.

Parts of the Septic System That May Be Underground

A typical septic system includes several buried components that may be located somewhere in the yard.

• Septic tank
• Septic inlet and outlet pipes
• Distribution box
• Drain field (also called leach field)

Because these components are underground, homeowners often do not know their exact location until a problem occurs.

Clues That a Septic System Is Nearby

Even if you do not know the exact location, certain clues may indicate that a septic system is buried nearby.

• Slight depressions or raised areas in the yard
• Greener grass patches during dry weather
• Plastic or metal inspection lids
• Pipes exiting the home foundation

Ways to Locate Your Septic System

If you are unsure where your septic system is located, several methods may help narrow down the location.

• Review property records and building permits
• Trace plumbing lines exiting the house
• Use septic locating tools
• Contact professionals who specialize in septic location

You can learn more about specific locating approaches in these guides:

• Does 811 mark septic tanks, lines, and drain fields?
• How to find your septic tank
• How to locate septic lines
• How to find a septic drain field
• When a private utility locator may make sense

When Homeowners Should Stop Digging

If you suspect that septic components may be buried in the area where you plan to dig, it is usually safer to pause the project and determine the system location first.

Professional septic locating services use specialized equipment that can identify buried tanks, pipes, and distribution boxes without unnecessary excavation.