| TENNESSEE
Other States: Contact: Dan E. Hoover Tennessee Constitutions, Statutes and Codes Regulations to Govern
Subsurface Sewage Disposal Systems Onsite regulations for Tennessee were last updated in April 1997. There are plans to update the current regulations; however, there is no specified time for the update to be completed. Appendix I and possible other sections of the regulations dealing with soils may be updated. The state of Tennessee is not considering the implementation of performance based standards at this time. Alternative technologies are covered in the experimental section of the regulations based on review by the Department of Environment and Conservation (DEC). Aerobic treatment units (ATUs), drip irrigation systems, chamber systems, and evapotranspiration systems are considered experimental systems. These systems are regulated by policy. Alternative soil absorption designs, gravelless systems, mounds, sand filters, lagoons, and composting toilets are all considered alternative technologies and are also regulated by policy. Sand filters must be used in conjunction with an approved system. Spray systems are regulated by the Division of Water Pollution Control. Constructed wetlands may be allowed through variance or exception. Management systems are required for subsurface sewage disposal systems serving multiple owners. By policy, a large onsite system with multiple owners must be managed by a public utility, utility district or a homeowners' association. The state of Tennessee does not provide a funding source to assist homeowners in replacing a failing system or installing a new system. It is up to the individual homeowner to locate private funding sources. There is no state level onsite certification or licensing program for contractors, installers or inspectors; however, installers and septic tank pumpers are assessed a license fee of $100 annually, as well as having their permits reviewed annually. Tennessee does have an onsite wastewater association. For more information contact Mr. Bob Pickney, President, at (615) 356-7294. Tennessee does not have an onsite training center; however, there are plans to develop a training center. Training for wastewater professionals occurs with new employee training and training on alternative systems. For more information, contact Mr. Morse at the address and/or telephone number listed above. Currently, there are no ongoing research or demonstrations occurring in the state of Tennessee. |