Septic in Washoe County
Many homes in Reno and Sparks are on public sewer, but a large number of properties in the valleys and foothills of Washoe County rely on septic systems, often alongside private wells. If you're on septic, knowing where your tank and drain field are and keeping service records is part of owning the property.
Freezing and septic lines
Washoe County's residential design criteria set a 24-inch frost line depth and a 17°F winter design temperature, and NOAA's engineering weather data for the Reno airport records about 123 freeze-thaw cycles a year. Septic systems rely on a steady flow of relatively warm wastewater to keep pipes from freezing. Problems can occur when lines are shallow, when snow cover that normally insulates the ground is compacted by vehicles or foot traffic, when the house is vacant and no warm water flows, or when a leaking fixture sends a slow trickle that freezes in the line.
To reduce the risk:
- Keep a layer of snow, mulch or grass over the tank and lines in winter; don't plow or drive over them.
- Fix dripping faucets and running toilets, which can freeze in lines.
- If you leave the house for a long time in winter, ask a septic contractor about precautions.
- Make sure tank lids and risers are insulated if they're exposed.
Dry soils, sudden water
The National Weather Service notes Reno's high-desert setting, and soils can be dry much of the year. But heavy rain, rapid snowmelt or broken irrigation can saturate soil over the drain field. Direct downspouts and surface runoff away from the field, and avoid irrigating over it.
Wells and septic
Many rural Washoe County homes have both a private well and a septic system. Keeping the septic system working protects your well and your neighbors'. Test your well water regularly, and keep records of septic pumping.
Permits
Septic repairs, replacements and new systems in Washoe County require a permit through the local health authority. Soil conditions and depth to groundwater determine what's allowed.
Before you hire
Ask Reno-area septic contractors how they handle frozen lines, whether they'll pump through the main access and check baffles and filters, whether they evaluate the drain field, and who handles permits. Look up the contractor with the Nevada State Contractors Board.
Signs of trouble
Soggy ground over the drain field after snowmelt, sewage odors, slow drains and gurgling toilets are signs the system needs attention. In dry months, a strip of unusually green growth over the field can point to effluent surfacing. Call for an inspection before a backup.
Records
Keep the permit, a location diagram, pumping receipts and inspection reports together. They save time on service visits and help when you sell.
Water use in winter
Winter can bring holiday guests and heavy laundry days. Spread out loads, fix running toilets promptly, and avoid sending large volumes of water into the system all at once while the ground is cold.