FAQs: Individual Sewage Disposal Systems

General Questions

What do I need to do to install a Septic System?

Visit the Nevada Administrative Code (NAC) Chapter 444 to obtain regulation information regarding Individual Sewage Disposal Systems in Nevada. Complete the Permit to Operate and Supplemental Septic Permit Application. A plan review is required for all new systems and repairs.

Do I need to have my system designed by an engineer?

For standard septic tanks and absorption systems (Absorption Trenches and Chambered Systems) an engineer is not required. However, for all alternative treatment systems (Aerobic and Nitrogen Removal Units, Elevated Mound Systems, Stepped Network of Trenches for sloping terrains, exc.) an engineer is required to design the system.

Can I utilize the graywater from my home for irrigation purposes?

Yes, NAC 444.837 allows for graywater to be used for underground irrigation only. The use of graywater for underground irrigation requires a permit to construct, alter, or install a graywater system. Please go through the above regulation in detail for specific requirements for systems that utilize graywater for underground irrigation.

How should I maintain my septic system?

The contents of the septic tank should be pumped every two to three years or when the total depth of sludge and scum exceeds one-third of the liquid depth of the tank. If the tank is not cleaned periodically, the solids are carried into the absorption field; rapid clogging occurs; premature failure follows; and finally, the absorption field must be replaced. Pumping your septic tank is less expensive than replacing your absorption field.

I want to build an accessory structure, can I connect to my existing septic system?

 

ISDS

Considerations for Accessory Structures

Single-Family Dwellings

A "single-family dwelling" means one or more buildings that are designated and used as a home for one family. Only ONE single-family dwelling may be connected to any one septic system. 

 

Multiple-Family Dwellings

A "Multiple dwelling" structure means one or more structures on a lot with separate units used as living quarters.

 

 Accessory Structures

An "Accessory Structure" is a building or structure, including a workshop, a home office, guest quarters, a pool house and a garage, that is separate from a single-family dwelling and does not include BOTH a bathroom unit and a kitchen unit.  An "Accessory Structure" MAY be connected to a septic system with approval from EHS. 

 

Commercial Systems

A "Commercial System" is an ISDS that serves one or more buildings which are NOT used as single-family dwelling and include:  Offices, watchmen's quarters, bunkhouses, labor camps, parking facilities for RV's factories, multiple-dwelling structures, hotels and shopping centers.

 

Contact Us

If you wish to connect an outbuilding to your existing or proposed septic system, you must first let your local EHS office know the intended use of the accessory structure and what plumbing and appliances will be in the structure.  You can find other info on ISDS at http://dpbh.nv.gov/Reg/Environmental_Health/

 

In order to connect a second dwelling unit into the original septic system you will need to contact The Nevada Division of Environmental Protection-Bureau Water Pollution Control at 775-687-9418 for information regarding OSDS.

 

 

 

Nevada Division of Public and Behavioral Health

Environmental Health Section

 


 


 

Carson City

727 Fairview Drive, Ste. D
Carson City, NV 89701 
Phone: (775) 687-7533

 

Elko

1020 Ruby Vista, #103
Elko, NV 89801 
Phone: (775) 753-1138

 

Winnemucca

475 W. Haskell St., Rm 38
Winnemucca, NV 89445
Phone: (775) 623-6588

 

Fallon and Tonopah

485 B Street #103
Fallon, NV 89406
Phone: (775) 423-2281

 

Ely

725 Avenue K
Ely, Nevada 89315
Phone: (775) 289-3325

 

Pahrump and

Armargosa Valley

2080 E. Flamingo Rd., Suite 319
Las Vegas, NV 89119
Phone: (702) 486-5068

 

 

Apply On-Line At:

 

https://nvdpbh.aithent.com/login.aspx

 

 

 

EHS Locations