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Yes—septic tank systems are superior to cesspools in every conceivable way. If you’re not able to connect your home to a greater sewage network, a septic tank system and a drain field are great for responsibly disposing of waste. It’s also cheaper to pump a septic tank, easier to find a local septic tank professional than those who work with cesspools, and better for the environment.

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.

There are several signs that can indicate your leach lines are broken, failing, or in need of repair, including puddles of water or a marshy consistency to the ground above or around the pipes, slow drainage or plumbing backups inside your home, and noticeable odors or gurgling sounds coming from your leach field. Keeping your septic system properly maintained, including having your septic tank pumped at regular intervals, can help ensure your leach lines stay in good working order for a long time.

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.