Notice of Proposed Rule

DEPARTMENT OF HEALTH
Division of Environmental Health
RULE NO: RULE TITLE
64E-6.001: General
64E-6.002: Definitions
64E-6.003: Permits
64E-6.004: Application for System Construction Permit
64E-6.006: Site Evaluation Criteria
64E-6.008: System Size Determinations
64E-6.009: Alternative Systems
64E-6.010: Septage and Food Establishment Sludge
64E-6.0101: Portable Restrooms and Holding Tanks
64E-6.012: Standards for the Construction, Operation, and Maintenance of Aerobic Treatment Units
64E-6.013: Construction Materials and Standards for Treatment Receptacles
64E-6.014: Construction Standards for Drainfield Systems
64E-6.015: Permitting and Construction of Repairs
64E-6.018: System Location, Design and Maintenance Criteria
64E-6.0181: Cesspit and Undocumented System Replacement and Interim System Use
64E-6.019: Requirements for Registration
64E-6.020: Master Septic Tank Contractors
64E-6.021: Issuance of Registration Certificates and Renewal
64E-6.025: Definitions
64E-6.026: Applications for Innovative System Permits and System Construction Permits
64E-6.030: Fees
PURPOSE AND EFFECT: The proposed changes to Chapter 64E-6, Florida Administrative Code, address the changes recommended by the Technical Review and Advisory Committee, address the concerns of the Joint Administrative Procedures Committee, and incorporate statutory changes from the 2006 legislative session. Throughout the chapter, the term “Registered Engineer” is replaced by the term “Licensed Engineer”. The bureau website is listed as a source for referenced forms and materials. Repair permits are no longer required to splice drip emitter lines. Site plans are required to show existing and proposed excavation areas and the locations of the elevation reference point and the evaluators test borings. Coastal control permits from the Department of Environmental Protection are required before the issuance of system construction permits in affected areas. Design engineers are required when residential or establishment flows are split, systems have 1500 square feet or more drainfield, an engineer-designed system is repaired or modified, or where the seasonal high water table is altered by physical or mechanical means. The changes clarify that pump tank capacity is total capacity and that the capacity label on a service truck is the waste storage tank capacity. Portable restroom companies will be required to maintain a list of the date of installation for each portable holding tank and that portable holding tanks need to be labeled similarly to portable restrooms. Individual installation permits for portable holding tanks will no longer be required. Aerobic treatment unit manufacturers need to demonstrate that the entire state is covered by maintenance entities before the department will approve an installation of their product. The standards for concrete, fiberglass and polyethylene treatment receptacles are clarified. Receptacles of other materials are prohibited. Numerous tank test and design standards were modified. The proposals allow low pressure dosing systems having less than 1500 square feet of drainfield to be designed by master septic tank contractors and provide design specifications for such systems. The number of annual continuing education hours required for registered septic tank contractors and master septic tank contractors increased to 12 hours and 18 hours annually, respectively. Workers compensation is no longer one of the criteria for demonstrating an employer/employee relationship with a registered septic tank contractor.
SUMMARY: Areas addressed include general provisions; definitions; system design specifications, site evaluation, permitting, location and installation; regulation of septage, grease, holding tanks and portable toilets; management of aerobic treatment units; construction of treatment receptacles, drainfields and system repairs; interim system use in the Florida Keys; septic tank contractor and master contractor registration and renewal; innovative system permitting; and fees.
SUMMARY OF ESTIMATED REGULATORY COSTS: No Statement of Estimated Regulatory Cost was prepared.
Any person who wishes to provide information regarding a statement of estimated regulatory costs, or provide a proposal for a lower cost regulatory alternative must do so in writing within 21 days of this notice.
SPECIFIC AUTHORITY: 154.06(1), 381.0011(4), 381.0011(13), 381.006, 381.0065(3)(a), 381.0066, 489.553(3), 489.557(1) FS.
LAW IMPLEMENTED: 381.012, 386.025, 381.0061, 381.0065, 381.00655, 381.066, 381.0067, 386.041, 489.552, 489.553, 489.554, 489.557 FS., Ch. 2001-337, LOF F.
IF REQUESTED WITHIN 21 DAYS OF THE DATE OF THIS NOTICE, A HEARING WILL BE HELD AT THE DATE, TIME AND PLACE SHOWN BELOW:
DATE AND TIME: September 25, 2006, 10:00 a.m.
PLACE: Bureau of Community Environmental Health, Conference Room 225Q, Capital Circle Office Center, 4042 Bald Cypress Way, Tallahassee, Florida
Pursuant to the provisions of the Americans with Disabilities Act, any person requiring special accommodations to participate in this workshop/meeting is asked to advise the agency at least 7 days before the workshop/meeting by contacting: Susan Polangin, Bureau of Onsite Sewage Programs, 4052 Bald Cypress Way, Bin #A08, Tallahassee, Florida 32399-1713. If you are hearing or speech impaired, please contact the agency using the Florida Relay Service, 1(800)955-8771 (TDD) or 1(800)955-8770 (Voice).
THE PERSON TO BE CONTACTED REGARDING THE PROPOSED RULE IS: Gerald Briggs, Chief, Bureau of Onsite Sewage Programs, 4052 Bald Cypress Way, Bin #A08, Tallahassee, Florida 32399-1713

THE FULL TEXT OF THE PROPOSED RULE IS:

64E-6.001 General.

(1) The provisions of Part I of this Chapter rule shall apply to all areas of the state except where specific provisions of law or other parts of this Chapter provide a specific exemption or modification to those provisions. The provisions of this Chapter must be used in conjunction with Chapter 381 and Part III, Chapter 489, F.S. found in Part II which specifically addresses the Florida Keys, or specific provisions found in Part IV which specifically address performance-based treatment systems, exempt or modify compliance with Part I or Part II requirements. Performance-based treatment systems are intended as an alternative to the systems conforming to the preive standards detailed in Parts I and II of this rule and shall be used only for a single family residence. Designs for performance-based treatment systems allow for the use of alternative and innovative methods, materials, processes, and techniques that reduce the total biological, chemical, hydraulic, organic, nutrient, bacterial and viral discharge to the environment. Where used, the performance-based treatment systems shall be designed, operated, constructed, maintained and used in conformance with s. 381.0065(4)(j), F.S. Part III addresses the registration of septic tank contractors and certification of partnerships and corporations. Part V addresses fees for Parts I, II, III, and IV of this rule.

(2) Structures Except for places of employment meeting the provisions of Rule 64E-10, F.A.C., buildings used or intended for human occupancy, employment or service to the public and locations where people congregate, such as construction sites, fairs, and field locations for agricultural workers shall provide connect toilets and other wastewater generating fixtures to an approved wastewater treatment and disposal systems. Except for the provisions of Rule 64E-6.0101, F.A.C., permanent structures shall not rely upon the use of holding tanks and portable toilets for wastewater treatment and disposal. Also, property or locations where people congregate, are employed, or where property is used by the public for temporary and short periods, such as construction sites, fairs, carnivals, revivals, field locations for agricultural workers, encampments or other use shall be provided with an approved wastewater treatment and disposal system. Establishments with permanent structures shall not rely upon systems designed for temporary use as the primary means of wastewater treatment and disposal.

(3) Combination of commercial and domestic sewage into a single system shall require that all the sewage be treatment as commercial sewage. Use of holding tanks and portable toilets shall be in accordance with the provisions of Rule 64E-6.010(10), F.A.C.

(4) Except as provided for in other provisions of law s. 381.00655, F.S, any existing and prior approved system which has been placed into use and which remains in satisfactory operating condition shall remain valid for use under the terms of the rule and permit under which it was approved. Alterations that change the conditions under which the system was permitted and approved, sewage characteristics or increase sewage flow will require that the owner, or their authorized representative, apply for and receive reapproval of the system by the DOH county health department, prior to any alteration of the structure, or system. If an applicant requests that the department consider the previous structure's or establishment’s most recent approved occupancy, the applicant must provide written documentation that the onsite sewage treatment and disposal system was approved by the department for that previous occupancy. An applicant will be required to complete Form DH 4015, 10/97, Application for Onsite Sewage Treatment and Disposal System Construction Permit, herein incorporated by reference, and provide a site plan in accordance with paragraph Rule 64E-6.004(3)(a), F.A.C., to provide information of the site conditions under which the system is currently in use and conditions under which it will be used. The applicant shall have all system tanks, pumped by a permitted septage disposal service to determine tank volume based on the actual measurements of the tank. The service pumping the tank shall perform a visual inspection of the tank when the tank is empty to detect any observable defects or leaks in the tank, and shall submit the results to the DOH county health department as part of the application. If a prior approved existing system has been approved by the DOH county health department within the preceding three years, and the system was determined to be in satisfactory operating condition at that time, a new inspection is not required unless there is a record of failure of the system. If it is determined that a new inspection is not required, only the application fee shall be charged for this application and approval. A commercial system out of service for more than one year shall be brought into full compliance with current requirements of this Chapter prior to the system being placed into service. If the use of a building is changed or if additions or alterations to a building are made which will increase domestic sewage flow, change sewage characteristics, or compromise the integrity or function of the system, the onsite sewage treatment and disposal system serving such building shall be brought into full compliance with the provisions and requirements of these rules. Proper well setbacks shall be maintained. Prior to any modification of the system, the owner shall apply for and obtain a permit for modification of the system from the county health department in accordance with Rule 64E-6.004. The permit shall be valid for 18 months from the date of issue. Where building construction has commenced, it shall be valid for an additional 90 days. Necessary site investigations and tests shall be performed at the expense of the owner by either an engineer with soils training who is licensed registered in the state of Florida pursuant to Chapter 471, F.S., registered septic tank contractors, master septic tank contractors, or persons certified under Section s. 381.0101, F.S., or department personnel for the appropriate fee specified in Section s. 381.0066, F.S.

(a) through (g) No change.

(5) through (6) No change.

(7) All materials forms incorporated herein may be obtained from the Bureau of Onsite Sewage Programs at www.MyFloridaEH.com or 4052 Bald Cypress Way, Bin A08, Tallahassee, Florida 32399-1713 by contacting the department.

Specific Authority 381.0011(4), (13), 381.006, 381.0065(3)(a), 489.553(3), 489.557(1) FS. Law Implemented 154.01, 381.001(2), 381.0011(4), 381.0012, 381.0025, 381.006(7), 381.0061, 381.0065, 381.0067, 386.041, 489.553 FS. History–New 12-22-82, Amended 2-5-85, Formerly 10-6.41, Amended 3-17-92, 1-3-95, 5-14-96, 2-13-97, Formerly 10D-6.041, Amended 11-19-97, 2-3-98, 3-22-00, 9-5-00, 5-24-04, ________.

 

64E-6.002 Definitions.

For the purposes of this Chapter, the following words and phrases shall have the meanings indicated:

(1) through (46) No change.

(47) Repair – replacement of or modifications or additions to a failing system which are necessary to allow the system to function in accordance with its design or must be made to eliminate a public health or pollution hazard. Servicing or replacing with like kind mechanical or electrical parts of an approved onsite sewage treatment and disposal system; or making minor structural corrections to a tank, or distribution box, does not constitute a repair. The use of any treatment method that is intended to improve the functioning of any part of the system, or to prolong or sustain the length of time the system functions, shall be considered a repair. The use of any non-prohibited additive by the system owner, through the building plumbing, shall not be considered a repair. Removal of the contents of any tank or the installation of an approved outlet filter device, where the drainfield is not disturbed, shall not be considered a repair. Replacement of a broken lid to any tank shall not be considered a repair. Splicing a drip emitter line where no emitter is eliminated shall not be considered a repair.

(48) through (55) No change.

(56) Toxic or hazardous chemical – as defined by Section s. 381.0065(2)(p) (n), F.S.

(57) through (59) No change.

Specific Authority 381.0011(4), (13), 381.006, 381.0065(3)(a) FS. Law Implemented 154.01, 381.001(2), 381.0011(4), 381.006(7), 381.0061, 381.0065, 381.00655 FS. History–New 12-22-82, Amended 2-5-85, Formerly 10D-6.42, Amended 3-17-92, 1-3-95, Formerly 10D-6.042, Amended 11-19-97, 3-22-00,________.

 

64E-6.003 Permits.

(1) No change.

(2) System Inspection – Before covering with earth and before placing a system into service, a person installing or constructing any portion of an onsite sewage treatment and disposal system shall notify the county health department of the completion of the construction activities and shall have the system inspected by the department for compliance with the requirements of this Chapter, except as noted in subsection s. 64E-6.003(3), F.A.C., for repair installations.

(a) through (b) No change.

(c) Final installation approval shall not be granted until the DOH county health department has confirmed that all requirements of this Chapter, including building construction and lot grading are in compliance with plans and specifications submitted with the permit application.

1. In addition, if the system was designed by an engineer, who shall be licensed registered in the State of Florida, the DOH county health department shall require the design engineer or the design engineer’s designee, who shall be a licensed registered engineer, to certify that the installed system complies with the approved design and installation requirements. Single family residences are excluded from this requirement, however, all changes to the engineering specifications shall be approved by the design engineer.

2. No change.

(d) through (e) No change.

(3) through (5) No change.

(6) All materials forms incorporated herein may be obtained from the Bureau of Onsite Sewage Programs at www.MyFloridaEH.com or 4052 Bald Cypress Way, Bin A08, Tallahassee, Florida 32399-1713 by contacting the department.

Specific Authority 154.06(1), 381.0011(4), (13), 381.006, 381.0065(3)(a), 489.553(3), 489.557(1) FS. Law Implemented 154.01, 381.001, 381.0011, 381.0012, 381.0025, 381.006, 381.0061, 381.0065, 381.00655, 381.0066, 381.0067, 386.041 FS. History–New 12-22-82, Amended 2-5-85, Formerly 10D-6.43, Amended 3-17-92, 1-3-95, 5-14-96, 2-13-97, Formerly 10D-6.043, Amended 3-22-00, 4-21-02, 5-24-04,________.

 

64E-6.004 Application for System Construction Permit.

(1) through (2) No change.

(3) The suitability of a lot, property, subdivision or building for the use of an onsite sewage treatment and disposal system shall be determined from an evaluation of lot size, anticipated sewage flow into the proposed system, the anticipated sewage waste strength, soil and water table conditions, soil drainage and site topography and other related criteria. Necessary site investigations and tests shall be performed at the expense of the owner by either an engineer with soils training who is licensed registered in the State of Florida pursuant to Chapter 471, F.S. Florida Statutes, by department personnel, registered septic tank contractors, master septic tank contractors, and persons certified under Section 381.0101, F.S. Registered septic tank contractors shall perform site evaluations for system repairs only. When determining that the necessary site investigations and tests be performed by, or under the responsible supervision, direction and control of an engineer licensed registered in the State of Florida, the county health department must consider the criteria listed in subsection Rule 64E-6.004(4), F.A.C. Results of site investigations shall be entered on, or attached to, the construction permit application form for consideration by the county health department. The application shall also include the following data:

(a) A plan or plat of the lot or total site ownership. The site plan shall be drawn to scale and shall be for the property where the system is to be installed.

1. The site plan shall show drawn to scale showing boundaries with dimensions and any of the following features that exist or that are proposed:

a., locations of any existing or proposed residences or buildings Structures;

b., Swimming pools;

c., Recorded easements;

d., the Onsite sewage treatment and disposal system components and their location on the property, the

e. Slope of the property

f. and any existing or proposed Wells;

g., Potable and non-potable water lines, and including valves;

h., Drainage features;

i., Filled areas;

j. Excavated areas for onsite sewage systems;

k., Obstructed areas;

l., And surface water bodies; and

m. Location of the reference point for system elevation.

2. The site plan shall be for the property where the system is to be installed. If the county health department is responsible for performing the site evaluation, the applicant or applicant's authorized representative shall indicate the approximate location of wells, onsite sewage treatment and disposal systems, surface water bodies and other pertinent facilities or features on contiguous or adjacent property. If the features are within 75 feet of the applicant lot, the estimated distance to the feature must be shown but need not be drawn to scale.

3. If the county health department will not be performing the site evaluation, the applicant or authorized agent shall be responsible for the measurements to all features, including the pertinent features within 75 feet of the applicant lot. The location of any public drinking water well, as defined in paragraph Rule 64E-6.002(44)(b), F.A.C., within 200 feet of the applicant's lot shall also be shown, with the distance indicated from the system to the well.

4. If an individual lot is five acres or greater, the applicant may draw a minimum one acre parcel to scale showing all required features, or the minimum size drawing necessary to properly exhibit all required features, whichever is larger. The applicant must also show the location of that one acre or larger parcel inside the total site ownership.

5. All information that is necessary to determine the total sewage flow and proper setbacks on the site ownership shall be submitted with the application. The applicant lot shall be clearly identified. A copy of the legal deion or survey must accompany the application for confirmation of property dimensions only.

(b) No change.

(c) At least two soil profile deions within the proposed system soil absorption area to a minimum depth of six feet or to refusal, for which the minimum information provided is the upper and lower horizon boundaries, Munsell color of the horizon and its components and USDA soil texture; using USDA Soil Classification methodology as described in chapter 3 of the Soil Survey Manual, United States Department of Agriculture, Handbook No. 18, October 1993, herein incorporated by reference. At a minimum, a soil profile shall be provided at the beginning and end of the proposed drainfield site. Where the replacement of severely limited soil is proposed, soil profiles shall be performed to a minimum depth of 6 feet or to the depth of the slightly or moderately limited soil layer lying below the replaced layer, whichever is greater. The evaluator shall document the locations of all soil profiles on the site plan.

(d) through (e) No change.

(f) A Coastal Construction Control Line Permit or an exemption notice from the Department of Environmental Protection if any component of the onsite sewage treatment and disposal system or the shoulders or slopes of the system mound will be seaward of the Coastal Construction Control Line, established under Section 161.053, F.S. Should the location of the proposed onsite system relative to the control line not be able to be definitively determined based on the site plan and the online products available on the DEP website, the applicant shall provide a survey prepared by a certified professional surveyor and mapper showing the location of the control line on the subject property.

(4) The DOH county health department may require for review and approval, the submission of detailed system construction plans prepared by an engineer who is registered in the State of Florida. In determining whether the detailed system construction plans may be required, the department will consider the size of the system, the amount and type of sewage generated by the establishment, the degree of deviation from a standard subsurface drainfield system, any alternative system treatment requirements, and any unusual or varying soil conditions. For establishments with proposed domestic sewage flow rates more than 2500 gallons per day, or commercial sewage flow rates more than 1000 gallons per day, the DOH county health department shall require for review and approval, the submission of detailed system construction plans prepared by an engineer who is registered in the State of Florida. All plans and forms submitted by a licensed registered engineer shall be dated, signed and sealed. Except as provided for in subsection Rule 64E-6.003(2), F.A.C., the DOH county health department shall require the design engineer to certify that the installed system complies with the approved design and installation requirements. Under the following circumstances, the DOH county health department shall require for review and approval, the submission of detailed system construction plans prepared by an engineer who is licensed in the State of Florida:

(a) Systems serving establishments with proposed domestic sewage flow rates of 2500 or more gallons per day.

(b) Systems serving establishments with proposed commercial sewage flow rates of 1000 or more gallons per day.

(c) Systems where the total required drainfield area is 1500 square feet or greater.

(d) The applicant proposes to split the flow from any residence or establishment in a method other than that provided for by rule.

(e) The repair or modification of an engineer-designed system that meets these criteria for requiring an engineered design and that alters the original engineered design.

(f) All performance based treatment systems.

(g) All innovative systems.

(h) All sites where the seasonal high water table has or will be altered by physical or mechanical means.

(i) All sites requiring engineer designs as a condition of a variance or waiver approval.

(j) All drip irrigation systems.

(5) through (8) No change.

Specific Authority 381.0011(4),(13), 381.006, 381.0065(3)(a), 489.553(3) FS. Law Implemented 154.01, 381.001(2), 381.0011(4), 381.0012, 381.0025, 381.006(7), 381.0061, 381.0065, 381.00655, 381.0067, 386.041, 489.553 FS. History–New 12-22-82, Amended 2-5-85, Formerly 10D-6.44, Amended 3-17-92, 1-3-95, 5-14-96, 2-13-97, Formerly 10D-6.044, Amended 11-19-97, 3-22-00, ________.

 

64E-6.006 Site Evaluation Criteria.

Onsite sewage treatment and disposal systems may be utilized where lot sizes are in compliance with requirements of subsection Rule 64E-6.005(7), F.A.C., and all of the following criteria are met:

(1) The effective soil depth throughout the drainfield installation site extends 42 inches or more below the bottom surface of the drainfield. Paragraphs (a), (b) and (c) list soil texture classes with their respective limitation ratings.

(a) through (b) No change.

(c) Clay, bedrock, oolitic limestone, fractured rock, hardpan, organic soil, gravel and coarse sand, when coarse sand is associated with an estimated wet season high water table within 48 inches of the absorption surface are severely limited soil materials. If severely limited soil material can be replaced with slightly limited soil material, see Footnotes 3 and 4 of Table III for minimum requirements. Where limestone is found to be discontinuous along the horizontal plane and is dispersed among slightly or moderately limited soils, the Department Policy for Drainfield Sizing in Areas With Discontinuous Limestone, August 1999, herein incorporated by reference, shall be used. The referenced policy may be obtained by contacting the department.

(2) through (6) No change.

(7) All materials incorporated herein may be obtained from the Bureau of Onsite Sewage Programs at www.MyFloridaEH.com or 4052 Bald Cypress Way, Bin A08, Tallahassee, Florida 32399-1713.

Specific Authority 154.06, 381.0011(4), (13), 381.006, 381.0065(3)(a), 489.553, 489.557 FS. Law Implemented 154.01, 381.001, 381.0011, 381.0012, 381.0025, 381.006, 381.0061, 381.0065, 381.00655, 381.0066, 381.0067, 386.041 FS. History–New 12-22-82, Amended 2-5-85, Formerly 10D-6.47, Amended 3-17-92, 4-16-92, 1-3-95, Formerly 10D-6.047, Amended 3-22-00,________.

 

64E-6.008 System Size Determinations.

(1) No change.

(2) Minimum effective septic tank capacity and total dosing tank capacity shall be determined from Table II. However, where multiple family dwelling units are jointly connected to a septic tank system, minimum effective septic tank capacities specified in the table shall be increased 75 gallons for each dwelling unit connected to the system. With the exception noted in paragraph Rule 64E-6.013(2)(a), F.A.C., all septic tanks shall be multiple chambered or shall be placed in series to achieve the required effective capacity. The use of an approved outlet filter device shall be required. Outlet filters shall be installed within or following the last septic tank or septic tank compartment before distribution to the drainfield. The outlet filter device requirement includes blackwater tanks, but does not include graywater tanks or grease interceptors or laundry tanks. Outlet filter devices shall be placed to allow accessibility for routine maintenance. Utilization and sizing of outlet filter devices shall be in accordance with the manufacturers’ recommendations. The approved outlet filter device shall be installed in accordance with the manufacturers’ recommendations. The Bureau of Onsite Sewage Programs shall approve outlet filter devices per the department’s Policy on Approval Standards For Onsite Sewage Treatment And Disposal Systems Outlet Filter Devices, August 1999, which is herein incorporated by reference.

TABLE II

SEPTIC TANK AND PUMP TANK CAPACITY

AVERAGE                                             SEPTIC TANK                                        PUMP TANK

SEWAGE               MINIMUM EFFECTIVE CAPACITY               MINIMUM                   TOTAL CAPACITY

SEWAGE               MINIMUM EFFECTIVE CAPACITY               MINIMUM                   EFFECTIVE CAPACITY

FLOW                            GALLONS

GALLONS/DAY                                   Residential

                                                                Commercial

0-200                       900                          150                          225

201-300                   900                          225                          375

301-400                   1050                        300                          450

401-500                   1200                        375                          600

501-600                   1350                        450                          600

601-700                   1500                        525                          750

701-800                   1650                        600                          900

801-1000                 1900                        750                          1050

1001-1250               2200                        900                          1200

1251-1750               2700                        1350                        1900

1751-2500               3200                        1650                        2700

2501-3000               3700                        1900                        3000

3001-3500               4300                        2200                        3000

3501-4000               4800                        2700                        3000

4001-4500               5300                        2700                        3000

4501-5000               5800                        3000                        3000

(3) through (5) No change.

(6) All materials incorporated herein may be obtained from the Bureau of Onsite Sewage Programs at www.MyFloridaEH.com or 4052 Bald Cypress Way, Bin A08, Tallahassee, Florida 32399-1713 by contacting the department.

Specific Authority 381.0011(4),(13), 381.006, 381.0065(3)(a), 489.553 FS. Law Implemented 154.01, 381.001(2), 381.0011(4), 381.0012, 381.0025, 381.0061, 381.0065, 381.0067, 386.041, 489.553 FS. History–New 12-22-82, Amended 2-5-85, Formerly 10D-6.48, Amended 3-17-92, 1-3-95, Formerly 10D-6.048, Amended 11-19-97, Amended 3-22-00, 9-5-00, ________.

 

64E-6.009 Alternative Systems.

When approved by the DOH county health department, alternative systems may, at the discretion of the applicant, be utilized in circumstances where standard subsurface systems are not suitable or where alternative systems are more feasible. Unless otherwise noted, all rules pertaining to siting, construction, and maintenance of standard subsurface systems shall apply to alternative systems. In addition, the DOH county health department may, using the criteria in subsection 64E-6.004(4), F.A.C., require the submission of plans prepared by an engineer licensed registered in the State of Florida, prior to considering the use of any alternative system. The DOH county health department shall require an engineer licensed registered in the state of Florida to design a system having a total absorption area greater than 1000 square feet and shall require the design engineer to certify that the installed system complies with the approved design and installation requirements.

(1) through (2) No change.

(3) Mound systems – are used to overcome certain limiting site conditions such as an elevated seasonal high water table, shallow permeable soil overlying slowly permeable soil and shallow permeable soil located over creviced or porous bedrock. Special installation instructions or design techniques to suit a particular site shall, using the criteria in subsection 64E-6.004(4), F.A.C., be specified on the construction permit in addition to the following general requirements.

(a) through (e) No change.

(f) There shall be a minimum 4 feet separation between the shoulder of the fill and the nearest trench or absorption bed sidewall. Where a portion of the mound slope will be placed adjacent to building foundations, pilings or supports for elevated structures, mobile home walls, swimming pool walls, retaining walls, or similar obstructions there shall be a minimum 5 foot separation between the sidewall of the absorption area and the obstruction. Such obstructions shall impact the slope on no more than 50 percent of the shoulder perimeter. Retaining walls must be designed by a professional engineer licensed registered in the state of Florida to withstand the lateral earth forces under saturated conditions and to prevent seepage. Where mounds are placed on slopes exceeding 2 percent, the toe of the slope on the downslope side of the mound shall extend an additional 4 inches for each additional 1 percent of slope. To taper the maximum elevation of the mound at the outer perimeter of the shoulder down to the toe of the slope, additional moderately or slightly limited fill shall be placed at a minimum 2 foot horizontal to 1 foot vertical grade where mound height does not exceed 36 inches. Mound heights which exceed 36 inches shall have a slope not steeper than 3 foot horizontal to 1 foot vertical. The entire mound including slopes, shoulders and the soil cap shall be stabilized with vegetation. Slopes steeper than 5:1 shall be sodded. Soil caps and unsodded slopes must, at a minimum, be seeded with grass and a layer of hay or similar cover. Where fill material is present in the amount so as to provide a level surface from the top of the required cover over the system over the area where the slopes would normally be located, no slopes shall be required. For example, if the neighboring lot has been permanently filled to the same level as the applicant’s lot, a five-foot separation from the property line to the system will be required, as opposed to requiring the slope area. Stabilization of a mound shall be the responsibility of the septic tank contractor who constructed the mound system unless the written agreement for system construction clearly states the system owner is responsible. Mound slopes which do not conform to permit requirements shall at a minimum be restored to permit specifications prior to stabilizing. Other vegetative covers providing protection from mound erosion equal to or better than sod shall be approved by the State Health Office. Final installation approval shall not be granted until sodding or seeding and haying or other approved stabilization of the mound has occurred. No portion of the drainfield or shoulder area shall be covered with asphalt or a concrete driveway or be subject to vehicular traffic. Landscaping features such as boulders or trees which obstruct drainfield or fill shoulder area shall not be used.

(g) through (i) No change.

(4) No change.

(5) Drip irrigation systems – Drip irrigation systems may, at the option of the applicant, be used in lieu of a mineral aggregate drainfield. Drip irrigation systems shall meet all requirements of this Chapter except as noted below.

(a) Drip irrigation systems receiving effluent from an approved aerobic treatment unit shall meet the following requirements:

1. Drip irrigation systems shall be designed by an engineer licensed registered in the state of Florida.

2. through 23. No change.

(b) No change.

(6) No change.

(7) Alternative system component and design approval – After innovative system testing is completed, requests for approval of system components and designs which are not specifically addressed in this chapter shall be submitted to the department’s Bureau of Onsite Sewage Programs.

(a) Requests for alternative system component material and design approval shall include:

1. detailed system design and construction plans by an engineer licensed registered in the State of Florida.

2. certification of the performance capabilities of the product submitted by an engineer licensed registered in the State of Florida.

3. through 5. No change.

(b) through (d) No change.

(8) Other alternative systems – systems such as low pressure distribution networks, small diameter gravity sewers, low pressure sewer systems, alternating absorption fields, and sand filters designed and submitted by an engineer who is licensed registered in the State of Florida, meeting the general requirements of this Chapter, shall be approved by the DOH county health department where evidence exists that use of such systems will not create sanitary nuisance conditions, health hazards or pollute receiving waters. Use of an alternative system may require the establishment of procedures for routine maintenance, operational surveillance, and environmental monitoring to assure the system continues to function properly.

(9) No change.

(10) All materials incorporated herein may be obtained from the Bureau of Onsite Sewage Programs at www.MyFloridaEH.com or 4052 Bald Cypress Way, Bin A08, Tallahassee, Florida 32399-1713 by contacting the department.

Specific Authority 381.0011(4),(13), 381.006, 381.0065(3)(a), 489.553(3), 489.557(1) FS. Law Implemented 154.01, 381.001(2), 381.0011(4), 381.0012, 381.0025, 381.006(7), 381.0061, 381.0065, 381.0067, 386.041, 489.553 FS. History–New 12-22-82, Amended 2-5-85, Formerly 10D-6.49, Amended 3-17-92, 1-3-95, Formerly 10D-6.049, Amended 11-19-97, 2-3-98, 3-22-00, 4-21-02, 6-18-03, ________.

 

64E-6.010 Septage and Food Establishment Sludge.

(1) No change.

(2) Application for a service permit shall be made to the DOH county health department on Form DH 4012, 01/92, “Application for Septage Disposal Service Permit, Temporary System Service Permit, Septage Treatment and Disposal Facility, Septic Tank Manufacturing Approval” herein incorporated by reference, which may be obtained by contacting the department. The following must be provided for the evaluation prior to issuance of a service permit:

(a) through (c) No change.

(3) When a permit is issued, the number of said permit along with the name of the company, its phone number, and the gallon capacity of the waste storage tank truck shall be prominently and permanently displayed on the service truck in contrasting colors with 3 inch or larger letters. Use of removable magnetic signs shall not be considered permanent display of vehicle identification information. A septage disposal service permit shall be suspended, revoked or denied by the department in accordance with Chapter 120, F.S., for failure to comply with requirements of this Chapter.

(4) through (9) No change.

(10) All materials incorporated herein may be obtained from the Bureau of Onsite Sewage Programs at www.MyFloridaEH.com or 4052 Bald Cypress Way, Bin A08, Tallahassee, Florida 32399-1713 by contacting the department.

Specific Authority 154.06, 381.0011(4), (13), 381.006, 381.0065(3)(a), 489.553(3), 489.557 FS. Law Implemented 154.01, 381.001, 381.0011, 381.0012, 381.0025, 381.006, 381.0061, 381.0065, 381.00655, 381.0066, 381.0067, 386.041 FS. History–New 12-22-82, Amended 2-5-85, Formerly 10D-6.52, Amended 3-17-92, 1-3-95, 5-14-96, Formerly 10D-6.052, Amended 3-22-00, 5-24-04, ________.

 

64E-6.0101 Portable Restrooms and Portable or Stationary Holding Tanks.

(1) Persons servicing portable restrooms, portable hand washing facilities and portable or stationary holding tanks shall obtain an annual permit on Form DH 4013, 01/92, Operating Permit, herein incorporated by reference, from the county health department in the county in which the service company has an office or storage yard. No portable restroom or holding tank shall have its contents removed and disposed of until the service company has obtained an annual written permit (form DH 4013, 1/92, Operating Permit) from the DOH county health department in the county in which the service company holds a business office. The service company need not be permitted in neighboring counties in which the service company operates but does not have an office or storage yard. Service persons shall carry proof of possession of a current annual operating permit and vehicle inspection for review by department personnel in neighboring counties. Permits issued under this rule authorize the disposal service to handle liquid waste associated with portable restrooms, portable hand washing facilities, restroom trailers, shower trailers and portable or stationary holding tanks containing domestic wastewater produced in the State of Florida. Permits issued under this section authorize the disposal service to handle liquid waste associated with portable restrooms and holding tanks.

(2) Application for a service permit shall be made to the DOH county health department on Form DH 4012, 01/92, “Application for Septage Disposal Service Permit, Temporary System Service Permit, Septage Treatment and Disposal Facility, Septic Tank Manufacturing Approval” herein incorporated by reference, which may be obtained by contacting the department. The following must be provided for the evaluation prior to issuance of a service permit:

(a) Evidence that the applicant possesses adequate equipment such as a tank truck, pumps, off truck stabilization tanks and pH testing equipment where lime stabilization and land application are proposed, as well as other appurtenances and tools necessary to perform the work intended. Equipment may be placed into service only after it has been inspected and approved by the DOH county health department. Tanks used for the stabilization and storage of portable or stationary holding tank waste and portable restroom waste shall be constructed, sized, and operated in accordance with the provisions of subparagraphs 64E-6.010(2)(a)1-3., F.A.C.

(b) The proposed disposal method and the site to be used for disposing of the waste from portable restrooms or portable or stationary holding tanks.

(c) The contractor registration number and certificate of authorization number, if applicable.

(3) When a permit is issued, the number of said permit along with the name of the company, its phone number, and the gallon capacity of the waste storage tank truck shall be prominently and permanently displayed on the service truck in contrasting colors with 3 inch or larger letters. Use of removable magnetic signs shall not be considered permanent display of vehicle identification information.

(4) After waste is removed from a portable or stationary holding tank, the original cap or lid of the tank shall be put back in place, or be replaced with a new cap or lid if the original one is broken. Tank lids shall be completely sealed and secured as per paragraph 64E-6.013(2)(i), F.A.C. The site shall be left in a nuisance-free condition.

(5) Waste from portable or stationary holding tanks or portable restrooms shall be transported to an approved treatment facility in such a manner as to preclude leakage, spillage or the creation of a sanitary nuisance.

(6) All portable restroom and portable or stationary holding tank waste haulers regulated by Chapter 64E-6, F.A.C. are to maintain a collection and hauling log at the main business location which provides the information listed below. Records shall be retained for five (5) years.

(a) Date of septage or waste collection.

(b) Estimated volume, in gallons, of septage or waste transported.

(c) Location of the approved treatment facility.

(d) Date and time of discharge to the treatment facility.

(e) Acknowledgement Acknowledgement from treatment facility of receipt of septage or waste.

(f) The location and the installation or placement date of all portable holding tanks placed into service. When a county health department requests to see the list of holding tank installation locations, only those locations within the health department’s county of jurisdiction need be provided.

(7) Portable Restrooms, Portable Holding Tanks, Stationary Holding Tanks, Mobile Restroom Trailers, Mobile Shower Trailers, and Portable Sinks

(a) The department shall allow, on a temporary basis, portable restrooms, mobile restrooms, mobile shower trailers, and portable or stationary holding tanks for fairs, carnivals, revivals, field locations, encampments and other locations which lack permanent structures where people congregate for short periods of time, provided the construction, maintenance, and utilization of such systems conform to the general provisions of this Chapter. Portable restrooms, portable or stationary holding tanks or other restroom facilities shall be provided at commercial and residential building sites for the duration of construction any time workers are present, and shall not be bound by the definition of temporary. All required restroom facilities shall remain accessible whenever the intended users are present. Where the department determines that no health hazard will result, portable restrooms, portable holding tanks, stationary holding tanks, mobile restroom trailers, mobile shower trailers, and portable sinks shall be permitted meeting setbacks that are 50% of the setback requirements of subsections Rule 64E-6.005(1) through (3), F.A.C. provided portable or stationary holding tanks shall be placed within secondary containment structures with a containment capacity of no less than 110% of the total waste capacity of the holding tank. For purposes of this rule, a holding tank is any sealed, water tight fixture for receiving and storing domestic wastewater from plumbing fixtures in remote locations or at building sites or special events. For purposes of this rule, a portable restroom is a transportable, self contained static or flush-type toilet constructed to promote a sanitary environment at remote locations, building sites or special events, comprised of at least a waste storage receptacle, a riser and toilet seat and a protective enclosure. Portable restrooms, mobile restrooms, and mobile shower trailers at building sites or at a location for a temporary period of time do not require a permit from the department but must comply with the provisions of this rule. A construction permit (DH 4016) shall be obtained before placing or installing any portable or stationary holding tanks.

(b) The department shall approve, for permanent use or placement, portable restrooms or stationary holding tanks at continually used locations where restroom facilities are desirable for the promotion of public health and where conventional facilities are neither available nor practical. Examples of such locations would be boat ramps, remote areas of golf courses, office or sales trailers, or other places where people congregate which meet the above criteria. A construction permit (DH 4016) shall be obtained before placing or installing any portable restroom or stationary holding tank for permanent use. The portable restroom service company providing portable restrooms or stationary holding tanks shall be responsible for maintenance of the unit and removal if conventional facilities are made available.

(c) Portable restrooms shall be self-contained, have self closing doors and shall be designed and maintained so that insects are excluded from the waste container.

(d) Portable restroom service company operators shall use Table PR I to determine the required number of facilities for special events for use in situations where no local or state codes provide a minimum number of toilet facilities. Table PR I assumes that the portable restrooms are serviced only once per day. If the restrooms are serviced twice per day, the value from the table shall be divided by two. If they are pumped three or more times per day, the value shall be divided by three. All resulting fractional numbers of restrooms required shall be rounded up to the next higher whole number of restrooms. If permanent restroom facilities are available for use by the attendees, the number of portable restrooms may be reduced based on the number of attendees the permanent facilities are designed to accommodate. At least one working day prior to the special event, special event organizers shall provide to the county health department a signed contract, or facsimile copy thereof, with the portable restroom service company specifying the dates the facilities will be on the event site, the number of restroom facilities to be provided, the servicing frequency and the removal date for the units.

(e) Table PR II shall be used to determine the number of required facilities at remote locations and commercial and residential building sites.

1. Table PR II assumes that the portable restrooms are serviced only once per week. If the restrooms are serviced twice per week, the value from the table shall be divided by two. If they are pumped three or more times per week, the value shall be divided by three. All resulting fractional numbers of restrooms required shall be rounded up to the next higher whole number of restrooms.

2. Where a contractor has multiple building sites, the individual sites shall be considered a single site for purpose of determining the number of facilities. Portable restrooms serving multiple individual building sites may be shared between sites provided they are no more than 300 feet from any individual building site served.

(f) Waste receptacles shall be watertight and made of non-absorbent, acid resistant, corrosion-resistant and easily cleanable material.

(g) The floors and interior walls shall have a non-absorbent finish and be easily cleanable.

(h) Portable restrooms shall be serviced at least weekly and the inside of the structure housing the storage compartment shall be cleaned on each service visit.

(i) Each portable restroom shall have listed in a conspicuous place the name and telephone number of the servicing company.

(j) Portable restrooms shall be maintained in a sanitary condition. Portable restrooms at special events shall be serviced at least daily.

TABLE PR I

NUMBER OF PORTABLE RESTROOMS REQUIRED FOR SPECIAL EVENTS

(ASSUMES SERVICING ONCE PER DAY)

NUMBER OF PEOPLE PER DAY NUMBER OF HOURS FOR EVENT PER DAY

                           1         2         3         4         5         6         7         8         9         10

        250             2         2         2         2         2         3         3         3         3         3

        500             2         3         4         4         4         4         4         4         4         4

        1000           4         5         6         7         7         8         8         8         8         8

        2000           6         10       12       13       14       14       14       15       15       15

        3000           9         14       17       19       20       21       21       21       21       22

        4000           12       19       23       25       28       28       28       30       30       30

        5000           15       23       30       32       34       36       36       36       36       36

        6000           17       28       34       38       40       42       42       42       44       44

        7000           20       32       40       44       46       48       50       50       50       50

        8000           23       38       46       50       54       57       57       58       58       58

        9000           26       42       52       56       60       62       62       62       64       64

        10,000        30       46       57       63       66       70       70       72       72       72

        12,500        36       58       72       80       84       88       88       88       88       92

        15,000        44       70       84       96       100     105     105     110     110     110

        17,500        50       80       100     110     115     120     125     125     126     126

        20,000        57       92       115     125     132     138     138     144     144     150

        25,000        72       115     144     154     168     175     175     176     176     184

        30,000        88       138     168     192     200     208     208     216     216     216

TABLE PR II

PORTABLE RESTROOMS REQUIRED FOR REMOTE LOCATIONS AND COMMERCIAL AND RESIDENTIAL BUILDING SITES

PER SITE OR LOCATION

(ASSUMES SERVICING ONCE PER WEEK)

NUMBER OF PEOPLE PER SITE              NUMBER OF RESTROOMS REQUIRED

8 HOURS PER DAY – 40 HOURS PER WEEK

                1-10                                                                   1

                11-20                                                                 2

                21-30                                                                 3

                31-40                                                                 4

                41-50                                                                 5

                over 50                                                              Add 1 restroom for every 10 additional people or fraction thereof

 

TABLE PR III

HOLDING TANK CAPACITY REQUIRED FOR REMOTE LOCATIONS, AND SPECIAL EVENTS

PER SITE OR LOCATION

(ASSUMES SERVICING TWICE PER WEEK)

NUMBER OF PEOPLE PER SITE              MINIMUM HOLDING TANK CAPACITY
                                                                        (IN GALLONS)

8 HOURS PER DAY – 40 HOURS PER WEEK

                1                                                                         125

                2-3                                                                     250

                4-5                                                                     500

                6-7                                                                     750

                over 7                                                                Add 125 gallons for each additional person

(k) Portable hand washing facilities shall be self-contained and have access to a fresh water compartment and a wastewater compartment. A sign shall be posted near the hand washing apparatus to advise users that the water is not for drinking.

(l) Portable hand washing facilities shall be provided in a proportion of one hand wash facility to every ten portable restrooms required, and shall be provided at special events and remote locations where food is served or picnic areas are provided. With the exception of locations where food is served, hand sanitizers may be used in lieu of hand washing facilities, at the option of the applicant.

(m) The number and location of portable restroom and hand washing facilities for food handlers at special events shall be based on this section or applicable local or state food hygiene requirements, whichever is greater.

(n) An applicant for a stationary holding tank installation permit shall provide to the county health department a copy of a contract with a permitted disposal company that states the holding tank capacity and the scheduled pumping frequency.

(o) All stationary stationery holding tanks shall be constructed in compliance with the construction standards for treatment receptacles in Rule 64E-6.013, F.A.C.

(p) Portable holding tanks shall meet the following requirements:

1. The total effective capacity of the portable holding tank shall not exceed 300 gallons;

2. No portion of the portable holding tank shall be more than 12 inches below the surface of the ground;

3. The portable holding tank shall be used for a construction site or temporary use;

4. The portable holding tank shall be rigid, water-tight, impervious;

5. Polyethylene holding tanks shall meet the requirements of International Association of Plumbing and Mechanical Officials (IAPMO) PS 1-93, Paragraph 5.4 "Polyethylene”, herein incorporated by reference. Where the requirements of IAPMO PS 1-93 Paragraph 5.4 "Polyethylene" conflict with the standards in this section, the standards in this section shall apply;

6. Multiple portable holding tanks, if used, shall be connected in such a manner that leakage from one tank will not result in the loss of any liquid from any other tanks; ,

7. Each portable holding tank shall have listed in a conspicuous place the name and telephone number of the servicing company, and;

8.7. The portable holding tank shall be removed from the site when no longer needed.

9. The portable holding tank servicing company shall maintain a list of the location and the installation or placement date of all portable holding tanks placed into service. The list shall be made available to the Department upon request.

(q)(p) Portable or stationary holding Holding tanks shall be serviced at least weekly to prevent insanitary conditions.

(r)(q) Table PR III shall be used to determine the required total capacity of portable or stationary holding tanks serving a remote location, construction site, or special event. The values from Table PR III shall be adjusted proportionately to the number of times per week the holding tank will be emptied.

(r) Persons servicing portable restrooms, portable hand washing facilities and holding tanks shall obtain an annual permit on Form DH 4013, 01/92, Operating Permit, herein incorporated by reference, from the county health department in the county in which the service company has an office or storage yard. Permits issued under this section authorize the disposal service to handle liquid waste associated with portable restrooms, portable hand washing facilities and holding tanks containing domestic wastewater produced in the State of Florida.

(s) Application for a service permit shall be made to the county health department on Form DH 4012, 01/92, “Application for Septage Disposal Service Permit, Temporary System Service Permit, Septage Treatment and Disposal Facility, Septic Tank Manufacturing Approval” herein incorporated by reference, which may be obtained by contacting the department. The following must be provided for the evaluation prior to issuance of a service permit:

1. The permanent location and address of the business where operations will originate and where equipment is to be stored when it is not in use.

2. The proposed disposal method and the site to be used for disposing of the waste.

(t) The following equipment, maintenance and service requirements shall be complied with:

1. Vehicles used for servicing portable restrooms shall be provided with two separate tanks or a dual compartment tank. One compartment or tank shall be used for receiving and removing wastes and the other shall be used for clean water storage and shall have adequate capacity to allow proper cleaning of each serviced unit. Vehicles servicing holding tanks shall be equipped with a tank for receiving and removing wastes. The waste tank on all vehicles servicing portable restrooms or portable or stationary holding tanks shall be equipped with a suction hose having a cut-off valve not more than 36 inches from the intake end.

2. Standby portable restroom and holding tank service equipment shall be available for use during breakdowns or emergencies. If equipment from another approved service is to be used for stand-by purposes, a written agreement between the services must be provided to the county health department.

3. The waste storage compartment of a tank truck shall be maintained as necessary to prevent the creation of sanitary nuisance conditions.

(u) Portable or stationary holding Holding tank, portable restroom, and portable hand sink wastes shall be disposed of into a septage treatment and disposal facility approved by the department or into a treatment facility approved or permitted for such disposal by the Department of Environmental Protection. These wastes shall be land applied under provisions of subsection Rule 64E-6.010(7), F.A.C., provided a DEP-approved treatment facility is not available. Companies which service portable or stationary holding tanks or portable restrooms which use quaternary ammonium sanitizing and deodorizing compounds are prohibited from having the wastes treated or disposed of at lime stabilization facilities.

(v) When disposed of in a department approved lime stabilization facility, the portable restroom, portable hand washing and portable or stationary holding tank wastes shall be blended with domestic septage at a rate of no less than 3 parts septage to 1 part holding tank, portable restroom or portable hand washing facility waste prior to lime stabilization. Treatment and disposal shall comply with the provisions of paragraphs Rule 64E-6.010(7)(a)-(u), F.A.C.

(w) Contents of portable restrooms and portable or stationary holding tanks shall be removed in their entirety when pumped.

(x) Persons who own portable restrooms but are not a permitted service company shall maintain a service contract with a permitted service company for every portable restroom in use. The name and telephone number of the owner shall be displayed on every portable restroom in use.

(8) All materials incorporated herein may be obtained from the Bureau of Onsite Sewage Programs at www.MyFloridaEH.com or 4052 Bald Cypress Way, Bin A08, Tallahassee, Florida 32399-1713 by contacting the department.

Specific Authority 154.06, 381.0011(4), (13), 381.006, 381.0065(3)(a), 489.553(3), 489.557 FS. Law Implemented 154.01, 381.001, 381.0011, 381.0012, 381.0025, 381.006, 381.0061, 381.0065, 381.00655, 381.0066, 381.0067, 386.041 FS. History–New 5-24-04, Amended_________.

 

64E-6.012 Standards for the Construction, Operation, and Maintenance of Aerobic Treatment Units.

When aerobic treatment units are used for treating domestic and commercial sewage waste, each unit shall be installed, operated and maintained in conformance with the following provisions:

(1) Aerobic systems designed to treat up to 1500 gallons of sewage waste per day shall be listed by a third party certifying program approved by the State Health Office. Aerobic treatment units shall be in compliance with standards for Class I systems as defined by ANSI/NSF International Standard Number 40, revised July, 2000, herein incorporated by reference. An approved third party certifying program shall comply with the following provisions in order for units which it has certified to be approved for use in Florida:

(a) through (i) No change.

(j) Manufacturers shall provide a listing of approved maintenance entities they have authorized to provide service in the state and shall demonstrate that the entire state is covered by at least one maintenance entity. A system using a manufacturer’ s unit shall not be approved in the state if the manufacturer cannot demonstrate that there are maintenance entities to service it.

(j) through (l) renumbered (k) through (m) No change.

(n)(m) The DOH county health department shall, at least annually, inspect the maintenance and performance of aerobic treatment units. The DOH county health department shall also inspect each authorized maintenance entity, including review of their service records and maintenance agreements. Aerobic treatment units shall be sampled as necessary to determine compliance with performance criteria.

(2) No change.

(3) An aerobic treatment unit used for treating domestic sewage flows in excess of 1500 gallons per day but not exceeding 10,000 gallons per day shall be designed and certified by an engineer licensed registered in the State of Florida. The certification shall state that the unit is capable of consistently meeting, at minimum, secondary treatment standards established by DEP in Rule 62-600.420, F.A.C. In addition, the following requirements shall also be met:

(a) through (e) No change.

(4) No aerobic treatment unit shall be serviced or repaired by a person or entity engaged in an aerobic treatment unit maintenance service until the service entity has obtained an annual written permit issued on Form DH 4013 from the DOH county health department in the county where the service company is located. Each service entity shall employ at least one plumbing contractor licensed under Section s. 489.105(3)(m), F.S., septic tank contractor registered under Part III of Chapter 489, F.S., or a state-licensed wastewater treatment plant operator, who is responsible for maintenance and repair of all systems under contract. Application for a Maintenance Service Permit, Form DH 4066, shall be made to the DOH county health department and shall contain the following information:

(a) through (c) No change.

(5) No change.

Specific Authority 154.06(1), 381.0011(4), (13), 381.006, 381.0065(3)(a), 489.553(3), 489.557(1) FS. Law Implemented 154.01, 381.001(2), 381.0011(4), 381.0012, 381.0025, 381.006(7), 381.0061, 381.0065, 381.0067, Part I 386 FS. History–New 3-17-92, Amended 1-3-95, Formerly 10D-6.0541, Amended 11-19-97, 4-21-02, 6-18-03,________.

 

64E-6.013 Construction Materials and Standards for Treatment Receptacles.

(1) Onsite wastewater treatment receptacle design – The following requirements shall apply to all onsite wastewater treatment receptacles manufactured for use in Florida unless specifically exempted by other provisions of these rules:

(a) Onsite wastewater treatment receptacles include: septic tanks, graywater tanks, laundry tanks, grease interceptors, pump tanks, aerobic treatment unit tanks, tanks containing treatment media and stationary holding tanks not described in paragraph 64E-6.0101(7)(p), F.A.C. Treatment receptacles shall be constructed of concrete, fiberglass or polyethylene.

(b) Design and testing of concrete treatment receptacles:

1. Structural design of receptacles shall be by calculation or by performance.

2. Structural design shall be verified by actual vacuum load or hydrostatic test in accordance with the department’s policy for Test Requirements for Structural Proofing, August 16, 2005, herein incorporated by reference. The vacuum test shall be followed by a water tightness test.

3.Treatment receptacles shall be watertight as defined in ASTM C1227 98, Standard Specification for Precast Concrete Septic Tanks, paragraph 9.2., herein incorporated by reference. ASTM C1227 98, paragraph 9.2.2, herein incorporated by reference, shall be modified to read as follows: Water tightness testing – Fill the receptacle with water to the invert of the outlet and let stand for 24 hours. Refill the receptacle. The receptacle is approved as water tight if the water level is held for one hour.

4. Manufacturers may use calculations provided by the design engineer in lieu of proof testing for receptacles using reinforcement bars for structural strength and having a wall thickness of 5 inches or greater. Design by calculation shall be completed using the Strength Design Method (ultimate strength theory) or the Alternate Design Method (working stress theory) outlined in the American Concrete Institute (ACI) publication ACI 318-99, Building Code Requirements for Structural Concrete (318-99) and Commentary (318R-99), herein incorporated by reference. The Strength Design Method is outlined in Chapter 9 and the Alternate Design Method is in Appendix A. Equation (9-1), herein incorporated by reference, shall be modified to read as follows: U=1.4L + 1.4D. When the Strength Design Method is used to verify satisfaction of the required strength a strength reduction factor of 0.90 shall be applied per ACI 318-99 paragraph 9.3.2.1.

(c) Design and testing of fiberglass and polyethylene treatment receptacles:

1. Vacuum testing shall be conducted in accordance with the department’s policy for Test Requirements for Structural Proofing. The vacuum test shall be followed by a water-tightness test.

2. Vacuum testing shall demonstrate a distortion of volume of no more than 1% at a safety factor of 1.0 and 2% at a safety value of 1.4 followed by passing a water-tightness test to be considered satisfactory. To determine the vacuum at a 1.0 safety factor, divide the required total vacuum values by 1.4. There shall be no distortion of the access hatch perimeters at the full vacuum load and the access hatch must be able to be removed and reinstalled at the conclusion of the test.

3. Water-tightness testing shall be performed as follows: Fill the receptacle with water to the invert of the outlet. The receptacle is approved as water tight if the water level is held for one hour.

(b) Treatment receptacles shall be watertight as defined in ASTM C1227 98, Standard Specification for Precast Concrete Septic Tanks, paragraph 9.2., herein incorporated by reference. ASTM C1227 98, paragraph 9.2.2, herein incorporated by reference, shall be modified to read as follows: Water-pressure testing – Fill the tank with water to the invert of the outlet and let stand for 24 hours. Refill the tank. The tank is approved as water tight if the water level is held for one hour.

(c) Structural design of receptacles shall be by calculation or by performance. Design by calculation shall be completed using the Strength Design Method (ultimate strength theory) or the Alternate Design Method (working stress theory) outlined in the American Concrete Institute (ACI) publication ACI 318-99, Building Code Requirements for Structural Concrete (318-99) and Commentary (318R-99), herein incorporated by reference. The Strength Design Method is outlined in Chapter 9 and the Alternate Design Method is in Appendix A. Equation (9-1), herein incorporated by reference, shall be modified to read as follows: U=1.4L + 1.4D.

(d) When the Strength Design Method is used to verify satisfaction of the required strength a strength reduction factor of 0.90 shall be applied per ACI 318-99 paragraph 9.3.2.1.

(e) Structural design of receptacles shall be verified by actual vacuum load or hydrostatic test in accordance with the department’s policy for Test Requirements for Structural Proofing August 1999, herein incorporated by reference. All vacuum testing shall be followed by a watertightness test as defined in ASTM C1227 98, Standard Specification for Precast Concrete Septic Tanks, paragraph 9.2. Manufacturers may use calculations provided by the design engineer in lieu of proof testing for tanks using reinforcement bars for structural strength and having a wall thickness of 5 inches or greater. Curve-shaped tanks, fiberglass tanks and polyethylene tanks shall be vacuum tested followed by a watertightness test. Vacuum testing of polyethylene tanks shall demonstrate a distortion of volume of no more than 5% at a safety factor of 1.0 and watertightness at a safety value of 1.4 to be considered satisfactory. To determine the vacuum or hydrostatic pressure at a 1.0 safety factor, divide by 1.4 the values required on pages 3 through 5 of the department’s policy entitled “Test Requirements for Structural Proofing, August 1999”, herein incorporated by reference.

(d)(f) Testing shall be conducted in the presence of an engineer licensed registered in the state of Florida, or by an employee of the department that has been authorized certified by the State Health Office to perform or witness receptacle tank testing. Test results shall be certified by the witnessing engineer or department state employee.

(e)(g) Receptacle tank lids for non-traffic residential installations shall be designed for a dead load of 12 inch earth cover with a dry soil density of 100 pounds per cubic foot or a live load of two concentrated loads of 1750 pounds at a 60 inch spacing or a concentrated load of 1750 pounds located at the center of the tank lid, whichever provides the greater shear and moment stresses to the tank lid. The required strength shall be per ACI 318-99, equation (9-1) as follows: U=1.4D + 1.7L. Structural integrity proof test or calculations for the 12 inch overburden earth load and the 1750 pound concentrated loading shall be provided. Designs sealed by an engineer licensed registered in the state of Florida shall be acceptable for design proof of receptacle tank lid designs.

(f)(h) Receptacles and receptacle tank lids for traffic installations shall be designed, signed and sealed by an engineer licensed registered in the state of Florida. Whenever vehicular traffic is anticipated to cross over the septic tank or other onsite waste receptacle, traffic lids shall be installed with manhole covers to finished grade. Traffic receptacles and lids shall be designed in accordance with ASTM C 890-91 (Reapproved 1999), Standard Practice for Minimum Structural Design Loading for Monolithic or Sectional Precast Concrete Water and Wastewater Structures, herein incorporated by reference, for the appropriate loading. Application of paragraph 5.2.4 of ASTM C 890-91 (Reapproved 1999), shall be at the discretion of the design engineer.

(2) Onsite wastewater treatment receptacle design requirements – The following details shall be incorporated into the design:

(a) Septic tanks and graywater tanks shall have multiple compartments, or single compartment tanks shall be placed in series to achieve the required effective capacity. Grease interceptors, laundry tanks, pump tanks, aerobic treatment unit tanks and retention tanks shall be either multi-compartment or single compartment tanks. All receptacle stiffening members such as ribs shall be a homogeneous integral part of the structure. When slide-in type compartment walls are proposed, the structural testing for such tanks shall be conducted without the slide-in wall in place. There shall be a maximum of two horizontal seams between the topside of the bottom of the receptacle and the underside of the lid. There shall be no vertical seams. Except as noted in this paragraph, the first chamber of a dual compartment septic or graywater tank or the first tank of single compartment tanks in series shall have a minimum effective capacity of at least 2/3 of the total required effective capacity. The second single compartment tank or chamber of a multi-compartment tank shall have a minimum effective capacity of at least 1/5 of the total required effective capacity. The combined effective capacities of the first and second chambers or the first and second single-compartment tanks shall equal or exceed the total required effective capacity. Systems with daily flows in excess of 3500 gallons per day may utilize two tanks to achieve the total required effective capacity, provided that the first tank shall provide no less than 1/2 and no more than 4/5 of the total required effective capacity. The second tank shall provide no less than 1/5 of the total required effective capacity and the total effective capacities of the two tanks combined shall be no less than the total required effective capacity.

(b) The liquid depth of compartments for septic tanks and grease interceptors shall be at least 40 42 inches. The liquid depth of compartments for graywater tanks, laundry interceptors and pumping tanks shall be at least 30 inches. Liquid depths greater than 84 inches shall not be considered in determining the effective capacity.

(c) A minimum free board or airspace of 15 percent by volume of the effective capacity of all blackwater, graywater and laundry tanks shall be provided. The volume of risers above the liquid level line cast as an integral part of the tank may be included as free board or airspace. For pump tanks, the 15% airspace may be included in the pump tank minimum effective capacity.

(d) The inlet invert of septic tanks, graywater tanks and laundry tanks interceptors shall enter the tank 1 to 3 inches above the liquid level of the tank. A vented inlet tee, vented sweep or a baffle may be provided at the discretion of the manufacturer to divert the incoming sewage. The inlet device, if utilized, shall have a minimum diameter of 4 inches and shall not extend below the liquid surface more than 33 percent of the liquid depth.

(e) In septic tanks, graywater tanks and laundry tanks interceptors, a minimum 4 inch diameter vented outlet tee, sweep or baffle shall extend below the liquid level of the tank so that the invert level of the outlet device is a distance not less than 30 percent nor greater than 40 percent of the liquid depth. The outlet device shall extend at least 4 inches above the liquid level. The submerged intake orifice of any outlet fixture not incorporating an approved outlet filter device shall be provided with an approved solids deflection device to reduce, by a minimum of 90 percent, the intake area of the outlet fixture exposed to the vertical rise and fall of solid particles within the tank. Turning the intake orifice of an outlet tee or sweep 90 degrees from the vertical will satisfy the solids deflection device requirement.

(f) The inlet and outlet devices shall be located at opposite ends of the receptacle tank so as to be separated by the maximum distance practical and shall be in accordance with ASTM C 923-98, Standard Specification for Resilient Connectors Between Reinforced Concrete Manhole Structures, Pipes, and Laterals, herein incorporated by reference. The head pressure noted in paragraph 7.1.1 of ASTM C 923-98 shall be reduced from 23 feet to 10 feet. The building sewer can enter the side of the tank no more than 12 inches from the inlet end of the tank if this construction will allow for better plumbing routing of the building sewer to the septic tank. The outlet device can exit the side of the tank no more than 12 inches from the outlet end of the tank if this construction will allow for better plumbing routing from the septic tank to the drainfield. Inlets and outlets on the sides of any treatment receptacle must be located no more than 12 inches from the end of the receptacle.

(g) Compartment walls shall be designed to withstand the stresses induced by pumping out either of the compartments. There shall be no relief holes. However, the compartment walls may be inserted in grooves without grouting, fiberglassing or otherwise permanently attaching in place, unless such attachment is required for proving structural integrity of either the receptacle tank or compartment wall.

(h) Sewage flow between the first and second chamber of a multi-chamber receptacle tank shall interconnect utilizing either a minimum 4 inch diameter hole or equivalent size slot in the wall or with a minimum 4 inch diameter vented and inverted U-fitting or a tee. Receptacles Tanks in series shall interconnect utilizing a minimum 4 inch diameter vented, inverted U-fitting or a tee. The outlet device or slot shall extend below the liquid level of the receptacle tank so that the invert level is located not less than 30 percent nor greater than 40 percent of the liquid depth.

(i) Joints of receptacles tanks, including mid-seams, risers, and tank lids shall be sealed using a bonding compound that meets ASTM C 990-96, Standard Specification for Joints for Concrete Pipe, Manholes, and Precast Box Sections using Preformed Flexible Joint Sealants, herein incorporated by reference.

(j) The State Health Office’s designated approval number for the receptacle tank, and the effective capacity of the receptacle tank in gallons shall be cast or stamped into the wall or permanently stenciled or decaled onto the wall at the inlet end, to begin within 6 inches of the top of the wall. All identifying marks shall be inscribed or affixed at the point of manufacture only. All information supplied in the legend shall be provided with a minimum of two inch high lettering.

(k) Each compartment shall have access using manholes, with each manhole having a minimum area of 225 square inches. Septic tanks and pump tanks with an effective capacity of 1200 gallons or less shall have a lid of one-piece construction. Septic tanks and pump tanks with an effective capacity of greater than 1200 gallons shall have a one piece lid or a lid with a maximum of three sections with each being equal in size. Manholes shall be located so as to allow access to the inlet and outlet devices. A minimum 6-inch diameter opening shall be placed at the inlet and outlet ends of the tank lid if a minimum 225 square inch access port is placed in the middle of the tank lid. The access manhole over the inlet and outlet shall extend to within 8 inches of finished grade, however the entire septic tank shall be covered with a minimum of four inches of soil cover. If a riser is used, and if the riser access lid opens directly to the receptacle tank interior, joints around the riser and receptacle tank shall be sealed and made watertight as specified in paragraph 64E-6.013(2)(i), F.A.C., to prohibit intrusion of ground water into the receptacle tank. For multi-compartment receptacles tanks or receptacles tanks in series, manholes shall extend to within 8 inches of finished grade over the first compartment inlet and the last compartment outlet. An appropriate mechanism shall be provided to make access manholes vandal, tamper, and child resistant. Acceptable protection of openings shall consist of one or more of the following methods as specified by the tank manufacturer:

1. A padlock.

2. A twist lock cover requiring special tools for removal.

3. Covers weighing 58 pounds or more, net weight.

4. A hinge and hasp mechanism which uses stainless steel or other corrosion resistant fasteners to fasten the hinge and hasp to the lid and receptacle tank for fiberglass, metal or plastic lids.

(l) Receptacle Tank designs that specify a monolithic compartment wall from the bottom of the receptacle tank up to the invert of the pass-through orifice and a drop-in section for the upper portion of the wall shall be approved for both single and multi-compartment use.

(m) Treatment receptacles shall have a one-piece lid or a lid with a maximum of three sections.  All lids shall be designed by Licensed Engineers in accordance with paragraphs 64E-6.013(1)(e) and (f), F.A.C., and approved by the Department.

(3) Onsite wastewater treatment receptacle design approval – All onsite wastewater treatment receptacles distributed in the state shall be approved for use by the department prior to being offered for sale or installed. Such approval shall not be obtained until the manufacturer of a specific receptacle tank model has submitted the following:

(a) Detailed design drawings of the receptacle tank and tank lid showing:

1. Design calculations or proof testing results in accordance with subsection 64E-6.013(1), F.A.C.

2. Dimensions, including location and size of all inlets, outlets, access hatches, manholes and pass through orifices.

3. Effective capacity in gallons.

4. Freeboard or air space in gallons.

5. Production materials. For concrete receptacles tanks include 28 day compressive strength, in pounds per square inch (psi).

6. Reinforcing materials. For concrete receptacles tanks, include size and location of all rebar, if any; and fiber reinforcing material size and quantity (in pounds) per cubic yard, if any.

(b) For concrete receptacles tanks – see subsection 64E-6.013(5)(6)(k), F.A.C.

(c) For fiberglass and, polyethylene receptacles and similar material tanks-see subsection 64E-6.013(6)(7)(f), F.A.C.

(d) Certification that the receptacle has undergone flow testing to confirm the effective capacity, airspace, and water tightness. Flow testing shall be conducted by an engineer licensed in the state of Florida, a third-party certified testing laboratory or a Department employee. Test results shall be certified by the engineer, laboratory or state employee.

(e) Designs shall be submitted to the State of Florida Department of Health, Bureau of Water and Onsite Sewage Programs.

(f) There shall be two receptacle tank design classifications. The following criteria shall be used for each category:

1. Category 3 receptacles tanks shall be designed for saturated soil with the saturation at finished grade the top of the tank surface. The design shall provide for a maximum of 18 6 inches of saturated wet soil cover over the top of the receptacle tank. Soil cover shall be limited to 18 inches over the top of the tank lid. Wet soil density shall be 100 110 pounds per cubic foot. The lateral earth pressure coefficient (K) shall be no less than 0.33 0.50.

2. Category 4 receptacles tanks shall be designed for saturated soil with the saturation at finished grade the top of the tank surface. The design shall provide for a maximum of 48 inches of saturated wet soil cover over the top of the receptacle tank. Soil Wet soil density shall be 100 110 pounds per cubic foot. The lateral earth pressure coefficient (K) shall be no less than 0.33 0.50. Where a receptacle tank will be placed with greater than 48 inches of soil over the top of the tank receptacle, an engineer licensed registered in the state of Florida shall design the receptacle for the specific conditions anticipated at the site tank.

(g) A series of receptacles may be approved by successful demonstration of the largest in a series of receptacles tanks. Approval for inclusion of the receptacles to be considered in a series must be obtained from the state health office prior to testing the receptacles. A series is either where only one dimension, this being height, length, or width, is changed or where two dimensions change in the same proportion to offer a different capacity of treatment receptacle tank.

(h) The manufacturer shall notify the state health office in writing, stipulating the date, time and location of the test, no less than ten working days prior to the receptacle proof testing. The notice shall include the receptacles tanks to be tested. Approval shall not be granted until after successfully passing the required tests, and submitting the testing results.

(i) The department will issue an approval number to the manufacturer. Form DH 4012, 01/92, “Application for Septage Disposal Service Permit, Temporary System Service Permit, Septage Treatment and Disposal Facility, Septic Tank Manufacturing Approval” herein incorporated by reference, shall be used to apply for septic tank manufacturing approval. The form can be obtained from the department.

(4) Reapproval of receptacles approved prior to effective date of this rule- It shall be the responsibility of each manufacturer to apply for reapproval of existing tank designs. The reapproval request shall list the existing State of Florida approval numbers, indicating the effective capacity in gallons, liquid depth, and wall thickness. The state health office will review the manufacturer's files on record at the state office for verification of approval numbers and satisfactory detailed drawings. The state health office shall notify the manufacturer of deficiencies that must be corrected. The manufacturer shall provide engineering drawings or utilize a standard drawing and dimension table format provided by the state office. Designs shall be submitted to the State of Florida Department of Health, Bureau of Water and Onsite Sewage Programs. Flat concrete lid designs will be evaluated either by requesting in writing that the state health office perform the calculations using the working stress theory or by the manufacturer performing proof testing and submitting satisfactory results. Cylindrical tanks shall be proof tested. Reapproval shall be obtained only after the manufacturer of a specific tank model has submitted the following:

(a) Details of the tank and tank lid showing:

1. Proof testing results in accordance with 64E-6.013(1).

2. Dimensions.

3. Effective capacity in gallons.

4. Freeboard or air space in gallons.

5. Production materials.

6. Reinforcing materials. Drawings on file with the state health office that do not detail reinforcing must be updated by the manufacturer.

(b) There shall be four tank design classifications. The criteria and categories in 64E-6.013(3)(f) shall be used.

(c) A series of receptacles may be approved by successful demonstration of the largest in a series of tanks. Approval for inclusion of the receptacles to be considered in a series must be obtained from the state health office prior to testing the receptacles.

(d) The manufacturer shall notify the state health office no less than ten working days prior to the receptacle proof testing. Approval shall not be granted until after successfully passing the required tests, and submitting the testing results.

(e) The department will issue an approval number to the manufacturer. Form DH 4012, 01/92, “Application for Septage Disposal Service Permit, Temporary System Service Permit, Septage Treatment and Disposal Facility, Septic Tank Manufacturing Approval” herein incorporated by reference, shall be used to apply for septic tank manufacturing approval. The form can be obtained from the department.

(4)(5) Onsite wastewater treatment manufacturer’s yearly inspection – Yearly inspection of the manufacturer’s facility shall consist of the following:

(a) Verify that the manufacturer has the design mix recorded and in a readily accessible location for the plant operators.

(b) Verify that the production process is recorded and that the operators are following the process.

(c) Verify that the necessary tests are being conducted by a certified testing lab or by a technician certified by the ACI. The preparation of the test specimens shall be performed by certified third party testing laboratory personnel; or manufacturers, or their employees, that have successfully passed the ACI certification program. Each manufacturer shall submit a minimum of three cylinders per year. The specimens shall be taken from a production mix.

(d) Verify that the manufacturer has the proper number of tests for the year and that the results are recorded. Review the results for compliance with the design.

(e) Examine the material stockpiles to insure that the materials are free from deleterious materials.

(f) Examine the measuring equipment to insure that the equipment has been calibrated within the last year.

(g) Examine conveyors to insure that material is transported as measured.

(h) Inspect a minimum of five receptacles tanks in the manufacturers’ inventory. For different series, a minimum of one receptacle tank shall be inspected from each series. Report the following unacceptable defects:

1. Cracks in all interior and exterior surfaces of the receptacles tanks.

2. Cold joint lines. This is an indication of non-monolithic pours. Examine both the interior and exterior of the receptacle tank for confirmation of a cold joint that extends across the thickness of the wall.

3. Evidence of improper steel cover. Rebar and wire mesh shall not be exposed.

4. Watertight inlets and outlets shall be provided per rule.

(i) Where cold-joint lines that appear to extend through the wall, or cracks in any surface of the receptacle tank exist, conduct a watertightness test on a maximum of two receptacles tanks per ASTM C 1227-98, Standard Specification for Precast Concrete Septic Tanks, paragraph 9.2. The receptacles tanks shall not be tested until they have cured for 28 days. If there are no indications of cold-joint lines that appear to extend through the wall, or cracking of receptacle tank surfaces, two receptacles tanks shall be tested at random. Record all data and submit results to the department.

(j) Verify that the manufacturer is not relocating the receptacles tanks prior to the receptacle tank achieving 75% of the design compressive strength. Record how this is accomplished.

(k) Conduct impact hammer Schmidt Hammer tests-record data.

(l) Examination of the manufacturer’s receipts for material used during the previous year. Receptacle Tank manufacturers shall retain all receipts from the previous year for material used in the manufacture of treatment receptacles and make them available for inspection.

(5)(6) Concrete onsite wastewater receptacles shall be built of precast or poured in place concrete in accordance with ACI 318-99, Building Code Requirements for Structural Concrete (1999) or ASTM C 1227-98, Standard Specification for Precast Concrete Septic Tanks (1998), except as revised herein.

(a) For design and analysis of concrete septic tanks, the publication “Rectangular Concrete Tanks” revised 5th edition (1998), as published by the Portland Cement Association may be used at the designer's discretion, herein incorporated by reference. When computing length to height and width to height ratios the designer may interpolate between tables for intermediate ratios and values or may use the table and values for the higher ratios.

(b) Temperature and shrinkage crack control in concrete receptacles shall be accomplished by use of steel reinforcing in accordance with ACI 318-99 Chapter 16, or by use of fiber reinforcement. Minimum ratio of vertical and horizontal reinforcement area to gross concrete area shall be 0.0010 for deformed bars or welded wire fabric. Fiber reinforcing materials may be used by the manufacturer to achieve crack control equivalent to the use of deformed bars or welded wire fabric. To be considered equivalent, acceptable fibers shall at least meet or exceed ACI recommendations regarding materials, fiber sizing, and required fiber quantities. Any current or future revisions to the ACI recommendations may be used by the manufacturer, at their option. Materials other than materials recognized by ACI for crack control use will not be acceptable. Minimum reinforcement shall be as outlined in the document entitled Reinforcement Required to Meet 64E-6.013(5)(b) dated April 15, 2005, herein incorporated by reference.

(c) Concrete mixes shall be in accordance with the Portland Cement Association (PCA) publication entitled PCA Design and Control of Concrete Mixtures, Thirteenth Edition (1994), herein incorporated by reference.

(d) Terminology relating to concrete and concrete aggregates shall be in accordance with ASTM C 125-98, Standard Terminology Relating to Concrete and Concrete Aggregates (1998), herein incorporated by reference.

(e) Concrete aggregates used in the manufacturing of all precast or poured-in-place concrete receptacles for use in onsite sewage treatment and disposal systems shall conform to ASTM C 33-99, Standard Specification for Concrete Aggregates (1999), herein incorporated by reference.

(f) Minimum concrete cover over structural steel reinforcing shall be 3/4 inches. The minimum bend radius for structural reinforcing shall be three times the reinforcing bar diameter.

(g) Temperature and shrinkage crack control steel shall not be exposed. Exposure of fiber reinforcing is acceptable.

(h) Minimum 28-day compressive strength shall be 4000 psi.

(i) Three compressive test cylinders shall be prepared, cured, and tested in accordance with ASTM C 31-98, Standard Practice for Making and Curing Concrete Test Specimens in the Field (1998), herein incorporated by reference, and ASTM C 39-96, Standard Test Method for Compressive Strength of Cylindrical Concrete Specimens (1996), herein incorporated by reference, at least one time every year, or whenever the manufacturer changes the design mix or the manufacturing process.

(j) The bottoms of concrete receptacles septic tanks shall be monolithic and shall either be an integral part of the walls or shall be sealed to the walls using water-stops cast into the wall and bottom. Receptacle Tank bottoms shall not contain openings for any purpose, for example, to facilitate the removal of rainwater.

(k) Approval Reapproval of designs approved prior to the effective date of this rule and approval of new designs shall not be granted until the following has been completed and submitted as part of the application:

1. Establish a design mix and production process. Record the aggregate material, size and gradation; type and strength of cement; cement to aggregate ratios; water to cement ratio; and any other pertinent design data. Record the production process, for example; measuring equipment, batch sizes, mixing sequence, transportation techniques from mixer to mold, pouring techniques with consolidation of concrete methods detailed.

2. Construct three receptacles tanks using the design mix.

3. Test two sets of cylinders from the design mix at 7 day and 28 days.

4. Structural proof test three receptacles tanks to the design strength in accordance with paragraph Rule 64E-6.013(1)(b)(e), F.A.C., for receptacles tanks having an effective capacity of 1350 gallons or less.

5. Structural proof test one receptacle tank to the design strength in accordance with paragraph Rule 64E-6.013(1)(b)(e), F.A.C., for receptacles tanks having an effective capacity greater than 1350 gallons but not more than 1500 gallons.

6. Structural proof test one receptacle tank or provide receptacle tank strength calculations in accordance with paragraph Rule 64E-6.013(1)(b)(e), F.A.C., for receptacles tanks having an effective capacity exceeding 1500 gallons.

7. Verify that the manufacturer is not removing receptacles tanks from the producer’s facility prior to the receptacle tank achieving 75% of the design compressive strength. Record how this is accomplished.

(6)(7) Fiberglass reinforced plastic onsite wastewater receptacles The following structural requirements are applicable to fiberglass and polyethylene receptacles, and receptacles made of a comparable class of materials:

(a) Materials and sealants used in the receptacle tank manufacturing process shall be capable of effectively resisting the corrosive influences of the liquid components of sewage, sewage gases and soil burial. Materials used shall be formulated to withstand shock, vibration, normal household chemicals, deterioration from sunlight and other environmental factors.

(b) Not less than 30 percent of the total weight of the fiberglass tank shall be fiberglass reinforcement.

(c) Internal surfaces shall be coated with an appropriate gel coating or resin to provide a smooth, pore-free, watertight surface.

(b)(d) Fiberglass receptacles tanks shall be constructed so that all parts of the receptacle tank meet the following mechanical requirements. A test report from an independent testing laboratory is required to substantiate that individual receptacle designs and material formulations meet these requirements.

1. Ultimate tensile strength – minimum 12,000 psi when tested in accordance with ASTM D 638-98, Standard Test Method for Tensile Properties of Plastics (1998), herein incorporated by reference.

2. Flexural strength – minimum 19,000 psi when tested in accordance with ASTM D 790-98, Standard Test Methods for Flexural Properties of Unreinforced and Reinforced Plastics and Electrical Insulating Materials (1998), herein incorporated by reference.

3. Flexural modulus of elasticity – minimum 800,000 psi when tested in accordance with ASTM D 790-98 Standard Test Methods for Flexural Properties of Unreinforced and Reinforced Plastics and Electrical Insulating Materials (1998), herein incorporated by reference.

4. Not less than 30 percent of the total weight of the fiberglass receptacle shall be fiberglass reinforcement.

5. Internal surfaces shall be coated with an appropriate gel coating or resin to provide a smooth, pore-free, watertight surface.

(c)(e) Polyethylene receptacles tanks shall meet the requirements of International Association of Plumbing and Mechanical Officials (IAPMO) PS 1-93, Paragraph 5.4 “Polyethylene”, herein incorporated by reference. Where the requirements of IAPMO PS 1-93 Paragraph 5.4 “Polyethylene” conflict with the standards in this section, the standards in this section shall apply. A test report from an independent testing laboratory is required to substantiate that individual receptacle designs and material formulations meet these requirements.

(f) A test report from an independent testing laboratory is required to substantiate that individual tank designs and material formulations meet the requirements of (d) above.

(d) Approval (g) Reapproval of designs approved prior to August 31,1999 and approval of new designs shall not be granted until the following has been completed and submitted as part of the application:

1. Establish a design mix and production process. Record the fiberglass and resin material specifications and other pertinent design data. Record the production process, for example; measuring equipment, batch sizes, mixing sequence, transportation techniques from mixer to mold, and spraying techniques.

2. Construct three receptacles tanks using the design mix.

3. Test two sets of test strips from the design mix.

4. Structural proof test three receptacles tanks to the design strength per paragraph 64E-6.013(1)(c)(e), F.A.C., for receptacles tanks having an effective capacity of 1350 gallons or less.

5. Structural proof test one receptacle tank to the design strength in accordance with paragraph Rule 64E-6.013(1)(c) (e), F.A.C., for receptacles tanks having an effective capacity greater than 1350 gallons.

6. Verify that the manufacturer is not planning to relocate the receptacles tanks prior to the receptacle tank achieving 75% of the design compressive strength. Record how this is accomplished.

(7)(8) No change.

(8)(9) Laundry waste interceptor – when a separate system is installed to accept effluent from a single home washing machine only, the retention tank or interceptor for such system shall meet the following minimum standards:

(a) The minimum effective capacity shall be 225 gallons for establishments with an estimated sewage flow of up to 300 gallons per day and shall be increased by 50 gallons for every 100 gallons of additional daily sewage flow.

(b) The interceptor shall be provided with a vented inlet tee, vented sweep, or a baffle.

(c) The interceptor shall not receive waste flow from kitchen fixtures or be used as a grease trap.

(9)(10) Pump tanks and pumps – when used as part of an onsite sewage treatment and disposal system, the following requirements shall apply to all pump tanks manufactured for use in Florida unless specifically exempted by other provisions of these rules:

(a) through (b) No change.

(c) The electrical conduit and effluent dosing pipe shall exit the dosing chamber through the tank outlet using plumbing fittings and reducers to produce a watertight seal or, when risers are used, the electrical line and the effluent dosing pipe may penetrate the riser wall provided the penetration is above the wet season seasonal high water table elevation and there is a soil-tight seal around the penetrations. When the top of the dosing tank is placed more then 8 inches below the finished grade, risers shall be used to provide access within 8 inches of the finished grade. Where risers are used, risers shall be attached to the tank in accordance with paragraph section 64E-6.013(2)(i), F.A.C. The unused tank outlet shall be sealed with a length of capped PVC pipe installed in accordance with paragraph section 64E-6.013(2)(f), F.A.C.

(d) No change.

(10)(11) No change.

(11)(12) No change.

(12)(13) All materials incorporated herein may be obtained from the Bureau of Onsite Sewage Programs at www.MyFloridaEH.com or 4052 Bald Cypress Way, Bin A08, Tallahassee, Florida 32399-1713 by contacting the department.

Specific Authority 381.0011(4),(13), 381.006, 381.0065(3)(a), 489.553 FS. Law Implemented 154.01, 381.001(2), 381.0011(4), 381.0012, 381.0025, 381.006(7), 381.0061, 381.0065, 381.0067, 386.041, 489.553 FS. History–New 12-22-82, Amended 2-5-85, Formerly 10D-6.55, Amended 3-17-92, 1-3-95, Formerly 10D-6.055, Amended 11-19-97, 2-3-98, 3-22-00, 4-21-02, 5-24-04, ________.

 

64E-6.014 Construction Standards for Drainfield Systems.

(1) through (2) No change.

(3) Low-Pressure Automatic dosing – where the total required area of drainfield is greater than 1000 square feet or where the applicant proposes to use low-pressure dosing, an automatic dosing device discharging into a low pressure distribution network consisting of 2 inch or smaller diameter schedule 40 PVC or equal pipe with 1/2 inch or smaller diameter drilled holes designed by a registered engineer shall be used. All piping shall use solvent welded connections or equal throughout to prevent dislocation of connections under pressure. The network shall be designed for equal distribution of effluent. For the purposes of this section, equal distribution shall mean that the flow from the least effective hole in the network shall deliver no less than 75% of the flow from the most effective hole. The selected pump capacity (as measured in Gallons Per Minute) versus total dynamic head shall be indicated on a pump curve and shall be shown by calculation to achieve an effluent velocity through the network of at least 2 ft per second to the first exit hole on each lateral. Each line of the pressure network shall individually connect to a pressure manifold and be sealed on their distal ends and shall not be looped with other lines regardless of whether the drainfield is a bed or a trench or whether it is in a mound, filled subsurface installation. Plans and equipment specifications for automatic low-pressure dosing systems shall be approved by the department prior to construction or installation.

(a) through (b) No change.

(c) The volume dosed between the pump operating levels shall be adequate to assure that the entire drain pipe network is dosed filled at least four times each cycle, or as stipulated by the design engineer.

(d) When a drainfield is installed in slightly limited soil, operating levels shall be adjusted to dose the drainfield a maximum of six times in a 24 hour period. For moderately limited soils the drainfield shall be dosed no more than two times in a 24 hour period. More frequent dosing may be allowed with systems designed by engineers licensed registered in the state of Florida.

(e) The distribution network for drainfields having an absorption area less than 1500 square feet shall be designed by a Florida licensed professional engineer or a master septic tank contractor. The network for drainfields having an absorption area of 1500 square feet or larger shall be designed by a Florida licensed professional engineer.

(f) Drip emitter systems shall be designed in accordance with subsection 64E-6.009(5), F.A.C.

(4) No change.

(5) Drain trenches and absorption beds – drain trenches and absorption beds are the standard subsurface drainfield systems used for disposing of effluent from septic tanks or other sewage waste receptacles. When used, these systems shall be constructed as specified below.

(a) through (h) No change

(i) The maximum length of drain lines shall not exceed 100 feet for all gravity-fed and lift-dosed drainfields. and where two or more drain lines are used, they shall be, as near as practical, the same length. The ends of two or more drain lines in bed and mound systems shall be connected to produce a continuous circuit. A continuous circuit arrangement is also recommended but not required for standard drain trench systems. However, when a continuous circuit arrangement is not used, the distal ends of the drain lines shall be capped or sealed.

(j) through (k) No change.

(6) All materials incorporated herein may be obtained from the Bureau of Onsite Sewage Programs at www.MyFloridaEH.com or 4052 Bald Cypress Way, Bin A08, Tallahassee, Florida 32399-1713 by contacting the department.

Specific Authority 381.0011(4), (13), 381.006, 381.0065(3)(a), 489.553(3), 489.557(1) FS. Law Implemented 154.01, 381.001(2), 381.0011(4), 381.0012, 381.0025, 381.006(7), 381.0061, 381.0065, 381.0067, 386.041 FS. History–New 12-22-82, Amended 2-5-85, Formerly 10D-6.56, Amended 3-17-92, 1-3-95, Formerly 10D-6.056, Amended 2-3-98, 3-22-00, 5-24-04,________.

 

64E-6.015 Permitting and Construction of Repairs.

All repairs made to a failing onsite sewage treatment and disposal system shall be made only with prior knowledge and written approval from the DOH county health department having jurisdiction over the system. Approval shall be granted only if all of the following conditions are met:

(1) No change.

(2) Site evaluations necessary to obtain the above referenced information shall be conducted at the expense of the owner or lessee by department personnel, by an engineer who is licensed registered in the State of Florida, or by other qualified persons as per subsection Rule 64E-6.004(3), F.A.C. Site specific information may be obtained by the applicant through examination of department records of permits previously issued for the site.

(3) through (12) No change.

Specific Authority 381.0011(4), (13), 381.006, 381.0065(3)(a), 489.553(3), 489.557(1) FS. Law Implemented 154.01, 381.001(2), 381.0011(4), 381.0012, 381.0025, 381.006(7), 381.0061, 381.0065, 381.0067, 386.041 FS. History–New 3-17-92, Amended 1-3-95, 2-13-97, Formerly 10D-6.0571, Amended 2-3-98, 3-22-00, 5-24-04,   ________.

 

64E-6.018 System Location, Design and Maintenance Criteria.

Table III of Chapter 64E-6, F.A.C., Part I, and other subsections of Part I pertaining to soil texture, soil depth, and maximum sewage loading rates for specific soils shall not apply to areas subject to the provisions of this Part except for Table III, footnote 2. as it relates to the falling head percolation test procedure. However, approved system design criteria, system location, operation, maintenance and monitoring requirements of subsections 64E-6.018(1), (2), (3), and (4), F.A.C., shall apply. A minimum of one soil profile and one percolation test per application shall be required for site evaluations performed in the Florida Keys. However, a soil profile and percolation test is not required when the system design engineer chooses the use of an injection well for effluent disposal. All new onsite sewage treatment and disposal systems shall be performance-based treatment systems designed by an engineer licensed registered in the State of Florida and shall meet the minimum level of waste treatment as defined in Rule 64E-6.017, F.A.C. All receptacles subject to a positive buoyancy exposure shall be anchored or otherwise weighted to prevent flotation during flooding periods. The receptacles shall be evaluated for buoyancy while in their normal operating condition.

(1) through (4) No change.

Specific Authority 381.0011(4),(13), 381.006, 381.0065(3)(a) and (4)(k) FS. Law Implemented 154.01, 381.001(2), 381.0011(4), 381.006(7), 381.0061, 381.0065, 381.00655 FS. History–New 7-15-86, Amended 3-17-92, 1-3-95, Formerly 10D-6.063, Amended 3-3-98, 3-22-00, 4-21-02,________.

 

64E-6.0181 Cesspit and Undocumented System Replacement and Interim System Use.

(1) through (2) No change.

(3) Interim systems standards shall be:

(a) No change.

(b) A performance-based treatment system designed and certified by a professional engineer, licensed registered in the state, as producing an effluent meeting at a minimum the treatment standards for a system designed in accordance with paragraph rule 64E-6.0181(3)(a), F.A.C., and permitted, constructed and monitored in accordance with Part IV.

Specific Authority 381.0011(4), (13), 381.006, 381.0065(3)(a), (4)(k) FS. Law Implemented 154.01, 381.001(2), 381.0011(4), 381.006(7), 381.0061, 381.0065, 381.00655, 386.01, 386.03, 386.041 FS., 2001-337, LOF. History–New 3-3-98, Amended 3-22-00, 4-21-02, 5-24-04,________.

 

64E-6.019 Requirements for Registration.

(1) through (2) No change.

(3) A person shall be eligible to take the registration examination if they submit necessary exhibits and fees and meet the requirements of Section s. 489.553(4), F.S.

(a) Under the supervision and control of a registered septic tank contractor or a plumbing contractor in Section 489.553(4)(d), F.S., is defined as an employment relationship where compensation can be documented by the regular deduction of FICA and federal withholding tax and the provision of worker’s compensation, all as required by law. Principal officers of a corporation or partners of a partnership providing onsite sewage contracting services shall be recognized as being under the supervision and control of the corporation's or partnership’s qualifying registered septic tank contractor or plumbing contractor.

(b) through (c) No change.

(4) Completed applications for registration must be received by the department's Onsite Sewage Program at least 21 days prior to examination. In order to be complete, the application must have all appropriate spaces filled, be signed by the applicant, be reviewed by the county health department where the applicant provides service, include a money order or sufficiently funded check in the correct amount and contain all necessary support documentation. Support documentation shall include:

(a) through (c) No change.

(d) Documentation of payment of federal withholding tax and social security and worker’s compensation, all as required by law. For principle corporate officers of a corporation or partners in a partnership the corporation, legal documentation of their position in the corporation or partnership may be substituted for withholding tax and, social security and worker's compensation documentation.

(e) No change.

(5) No change.

Specific Authority 154.06(1), 381.0011(4),(13), 381.006, 381.0065(3)(a), 489.553(2), (3), 489.557(1) FS. Law Implemented 154.01, 381.001, 381.0011(4), 381.0012, 381.006, 381.0061, 381.0065, Part III 489.552, 489.553 FS. History–New 10-25-88, Amended 3-17-92, 1-3-95, 5-14-96, 2-13-97, Formerly 10D-6.072, Amended 2-3-98, 4-21-02, 6-18-03,________.

 

64E-6.020 Master Septic Tank Contractors.

(1) through (4) No change.

(5) Master septic tank contractor certificates shall be renewed only after the contractor has completed 18 12 classroom hours of approved instruction for each renewal cycle. At least 6 classroom hours must be successfully completed in an approved master contractor course. Instructional time spent by a master septic tank contractor in providing department approved continuing education training shall receive credit as master contractor course hours. Application for renewal shall be made on Form DH 4076, 01/03, Application for Septic Tank Contractor Registration Renewal, herein incorporated by reference, accompanied by the required supporting documentation and fees.

(a) A master septic tank contractor who only completes 12 6 classroom hours of approved instruction during the renewal cycle shall revert to registered septic tank contractor status and shall apply for renewal under Rule 64E-6.021, F.A.C.

(b) through (e) No change.

(6) All materials incorporated herein may be obtained from the Bureau of Onsite Sewage Programs at www.MyFloridaEH.com or 4052 Bald Cypress Way, Bin A08, Tallahassee, Florida 32399-1713 by contacting the department.

Specific Authority 154.06(1), 381.0011(4),(13), 381.006, 381.0065(3)(a), 489.553(2), (3), 489.557(1) FS. Law Implemented 154.01, 381.001, 381.0011(4), 381.0012, 381.006, 381.0061, 381.0065, Part III 489.552, 489.553 FS. History–New 2-13-97, Formerly 10D-6.0725, Amended 2-3-98, 4-21-02, 6-18-03,________.

 

64E-6.021 Issuance of Registration Certificates and Renewal.

(1) Certificates of registration shall be renewed only after information has been provided to the department that the contractor has successfully completed 12 6 classroom hours of department-approved instruction within the previous 12-month period. However, if a registered contractor successfully completes more hours of approved instruction than are required for registration renewal 12 or more classroom hours of approved instruction within a 12-month period, a maximum of 6 unused hours can be rolled over to renew their next year's certificate of registration. Such information shall be accompanied by necessary renewal fees and a completed renewal application on Form DH 4076, Application for Septic Tank Contractor Registration Renewal.

(2) No change.

(3) A registered contractor may request inactive status. Inactive registrations not renewed in five renewal cycles from the date of inactivation shall be considered null and void. Persons wishing to renew an inactive registration must make application on Form DH 4076 and substantiate 12 six classroom hours of approved instruction for each year the registration was considered inactive. Application must be accompanied by necessary exhibits and renewal fees.

(4) through (6) No change.

(7) All materials incorporated herein may be obtained from the Bureau of Onsite Sewage Programs at www.MyFloridaEH.com or 4052 Bald Cypress Way, Bin A08, Tallahassee, Florida 32399-1713 by contacting the department.

Specific Authority 154.06, 381.0011, 381.006, 381.0065, 489.553(3), 489.557(1) FS. Law Implemented 154.01, 381.001, 381.0011, 381.0012, 381.0025, 381.006, 381.0061, 381.0065, 381.00655, 381.0066, 381.0067, 386.041, Part III 489.552, 489.553, 489.554 FS. History–New 10-25-88, Amended 3-17-92, 1-3-95, 5-14-96, 2-13-97, Formerly 10D-6.073, Amended 3-22-00, 4-21-02, 5-24-04,________.

 

64E-6.025 Definitions.

Definitions in Chapter 64E-6, Parts I and II, are also applicable to Chapter 64E-6, Part IV.

(1) through (9) No change.

(10) Performance-based treatment system – a specialized onsite sewage treatment and disposal system designed by a professional engineer with a background in wastewater engineering, licensed registered in the state of Florida, using appropriate application of sound engineering principles to achieve specified levels of CBOD5 (carbonaceous biochemical oxygen demand), TSS (total suspended solids), TN (total nitrogen), TP (total phosphorus), and fecal coliform found in domestic sewage waste, to a specific and measurable established performance standard. This term also includes innovative systems.

(11) through (15) No change.

Specific Authority 381.0011(4), (13), 381.006, 381.0065(3)(a), 489.553(3), 489.557(1) FS. Law Implemented 154.01, 381.001(2), 381.0011(4), 381.0012, 381.0025, 381.006(7), 381.0061, 381.0065, 381.0067, 386.041, 489.553 FS. History–New 2-3-98, Amended 3-22-00, 6-18-03,________.

 

64E-6.026 Applications for Innovative System Permits and System Construction Permits.

(1) Applications for innovative system permits – Applications for innovative system permits shall be made using form DH 3143 herein incorporated by reference. The application and all supporting information shall be signed, dated and sealed by an engineer, licensed registered in the State of Florida. Except as provided for in subsection 64E-6.028(3) F.A.C., alternative drainfield materials and designs shall not be approved which would result in a reduction in drainfield size using the mineral aggregate drainfield system as described in Rule section 64E-6.014, F.A.C., and the total surface area of soil at the bottom of the drainfield as the criteria for drainfield sizing comparisons. Applications shall include:

(a) through (b) No change.

(2) No change.

(3) All materials incorporated herein may be obtained from the Bureau of Onsite Sewage Programs at www.MyFloridaEH.com or 4052 Bald Cypress Way, Bin A08, Tallahassee, Florida 32399-1713 by contacting the department.

Specific Authority 381.0011(4), (13), 381.006, 381.0065(3)(a), 489.553(3), 489.557(1) FS. Law Implemented 154.01, 381.001(2), 381.0011(4), 381.0012, 381.0025, 381.006(7), 381.0061, 381.0065, 381.0067, Part I 386, 489.553 FS. History–New 2-3-98, Amended 6-18-03,_________.

 

64E-6.030 Fees.

(1) No change.

(2) Except for the time limited research fee which is to be placed in a designated account, all fees collected pursuant to paragraphs Rule 64E-6.030(1)(a) through (w)(v), F.A.C., shall be deposited in an individual county health department trust fund to be used to meet the cost of administering the onsite sewage treatment and disposal program.

(3) No change.

Specific Authority 154.06(1), 381.0011(13), 381.006, 381.0065(3)(a), 381.0066, 489.553(3), 489.557(1) FS. Law Implemented 154.01, 381.001(2), 381.0011(4), 381.0012, 381.0025, 381.006(7), 381.0061, 381.0065, 381.0066, 381.0067, 386.041, 489.553, 489.554, 489.555, 489.557 FS. History–New 2-3-98, Amended 3-22-00, 4-21-02, 5-24-04, ________.


NAME OF PERSON ORIGINATING PROPOSED RULE: Dale Holcomb, Environmental Manager, Bureau of Onsite Sewage Programs
NAME OF SUPERVISOR OR PERSON WHO APPROVED THE PROPOSED RULE: Gerald Briggs, Chief, Bureau of Onsite Sewage Programs
DATE PROPOSED RULE APPROVED BY AGENCY HEAD: August 14, 2006
DATE NOTICE OF PROPOSED RULE DEVELOPMENT PUBLISHED IN FAW: June 3, 2005 and June 16, 2006