Public and Private Sewer Systems

This manual provides guidance for the design, permitting, installation, operation and maintenance of Small Flow Treatment Facilities. These facilities are intended to serve single-family residences, duplexes and small commercial establishments that generate 2,000 gallons per day (gpd) or less of domestic wastewater. The systems described in this manual may be eligible for coverage under an NPDES General Permit and Water Quality Management (WQM) General Permit. These general permits are published statewide one time and coverage is obtained under the statewide permit by documenting compliance with the provisions of this manual and a commitment to meet any conditions contained in the statewide permit. Proposals for systems not described in this manual must apply for individual NPDES and WQM permits that involve a more complex siting, design, and approval process.

This manual has been prepared as a guide to those persons responsible for the discharge of treated wastewater to waters of the Commonwealth, and for the construction of sewers, pump stations, and treatment facilities. The manual provides information regarding the responsibility and the functions of the Department of Environmental Protection (DEP) in carrying out the policies and provisions of the Clean Streams Law. It also provides the procedures to obtain permits for discharge and for construction and operation of treatment facilities. The manual is a detailed technical guide for consultants and sanitary engineers, containing the minimum requirements and limiting factors used by the Bureau of Clean Water in the review of applications for treatment facilities permits.