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All municipalities in the U.S. require a permit for septic tank installation or septic system alteration, and the permit will usually cost between $450 and $2,500. Some municipalities also require permits for septic system repair. You’ll either need to contact your local building department or your septic tank company to ask if this is necessary before carrying out the work. Permits are not typically required to have your septic tank pumped, so provided your septic company is licensed, you can move forward with the work as needed.

Several things can ruin a septic tank over time, including dumping harsh chemicals (like bleach and ammonia), pesticides, and paint thinners down your drain because they can kill the bacteria in your septic tank. You should also make sure to only flush waste and toilet paper in your toilet—otherwise, you could clog your system.

Plumbing leaks, roof failures, poor drainage systems, and severe weather events that lead to flooding or inundation are common causes of water accumulation.

Your garbage disposal will only affect the health of your septic tank if you’re using it too frequently, or filling it with organic waste that doesn’t fully break down. If the tank fills up with too many solids, the bacteria won’t have enough time to consume it before more is added, which can lead to an overflow in the drain field. Your tank will need to be pumped more frequently with excessive or improper garbage disposal use.