On-Site Septic Systems

Many Lincoln County residents use on-site septic systems for wastewater treatment and/or disposal. An on-site septic system receives, treats and disposes of domestic wastewater on the property from which it originates.

In Lincoln County, Ordinance 1995-12 and its amendments govern on-site septic systems. This ordinance took effect in 1996 and the amendments were added in 1999. It is based on Section 701 of Missouri Law and Title 19 Division 20 Chapter 3 of Department of Health Rules.

• View the Lincoln County Ordinance 1995-12.

Most on-site septic systems in Lincoln County are of conventional design. That is, sewage flows from the home into a septic tank, where it is separated into three layers: solids on the bottom; fats, oils and greases on top; and effluent in the middle. The effluent flows out of the septic tank and into a soil absorption field (drain field).

In Lincoln County, a permit is required for installing a new on-site septic system or making major modifications to an existing system. However, with single-family residential lots over forty acres, no permit is required. Certain state rules still apply; contact us if you have any questions regarding applicability.

On-site septic systems require routine maintenance to keep them running properly. There are also many things to avoid placing into an on-site septic system. For more information, see our "Do's and Don'ts" page here.

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