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When septic systems begin to fail, your waste will start to seep into the groundwater. You may notice a foul odor (it’ll smell like sewage) or a squishy, moist lawn. The grass right over your tank or drain field might grow super lush and green because your waste actually fertilizes it. Other signs include standing water in your drain field, slow-draining sinks and tubs, and gurgling noises in the plumbing.

The best times of year to empty or pump a septic tank are spring and fall. Many professionals recommend spring because the ground has thawed, making the tank easier to access and the waste less likely to be frozen. Pumping before summer also helps avoid conflicts with vacations or outdoor gatherings. Fall is another great option, as contractors may be less busy, and servicing the tank can reduce the risk of overflow from winter and spring precipitation. While summer is also a suitable time, winter is generally not recommended due to frozen ground.

Needing to pump the tank as soon as it “looks” full is a common myth about septic systems, as wastewater will eventually drain into the leach field. Instead, it’s better to determine how many solids have accumulated. A septic maintenance technician near you can test this to find out whether pumping is necessary.

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.