Advanced Septic Systems: A Guide for Santa Cruz Residents

Santa Cruz County is rolling out new septic system requirements. They are introducing technologies to better protect the environment. These changes will accommodate local conditions. With approximately 22,000–24,000 homes in rural Santa Cruz County served by septic systems (santacruzlafco.org), the changes affect many homeowners. This guide explains why new septic systems are needed. It outlines the current regulations on installation and maintenance. The guide also provides an overview of advanced septic technologies, especially the MicroSepTec EnviroServer and Orenco AdvanTex systems. Homeowners will also get practical advice on how to care for these new systems. They will learn how to landscape around them to stay in compliance. This will guarantee their septic systems function for years to come.

Why Are New Septic Systems Needed in Santa Cruz County?

Protecting Water Quality: Santa Cruz County’s picturesque environment has suffered from aging septic systems. These systems leach contaminants. The area includes the San Lorenzo River watershed to coastal aquifers. In the past, many septic tanks were even made of redwood, which eventually rot and leak (slvpost.com). Older leach fields installed decades ago are reaching the end of their 25–30 year lifespan (slvpost.com), risking failure. Failing or substandard septic systems can release bacteria and nitrates into groundwater and streams, threatening drinking water and sensitive habitats. In fact, entire regions like the San Lorenzo River watershed and other local creek areas have been identified for required septic upgrades due to nitrate pollution concerns (scceh.comscceh.com). Santa Cruz’s sandy soils in some areas allow wastewater to percolate too quickly, carrying nitrogen into aquifers. New advanced treatment systems are needed to prevent water contamination, by significantly reducing nutrients and pathogens in the effluent before it ever reaches the soil (scceh.com). 

Stricter Environmental Regulations: California has tightened septic regulations via laws like AB 885 (1999), which aimed to ensure septics don’t contaminate water resources (santacruzcountyca.gov). For years implementation lagged, but growing concern over water quality and habitat impacts means stricter rules can no longer be postponed. The State Water Resources Control Board adopted a statewide Onsite Wastewater Treatment Systems Policy, requiring counties to either meet uniform standards or develop a local management program (www2.santacruzcountyca.gov). Santa Cruz County fell behind on providing the state with required septic management plans, which led to state oversight (slvpost.com). Heavy winter storms have also spotlighted problems – when soils become saturated, many traditional septics simply can’t function properly, causing sewage surfacing and runoff (slvpost.com). All these factors have pushed Santa Cruz County to modernize its septic policies and promote enhanced treatment systems that better protect public health and the environment. 

Population and Rebuilding Pressures: Many Santa Cruz homes in the mountains and rural areas rely on septic systems, and new construction or rebuilds (for example, after the 2020 CZU Lightning Complex fire) must meet today’s higher standards. Small lot sizes, steep slopes, high water tables, and proximity to creeks are common in the county (slvpost.com), making it hard or impossible to install a standard septic without risking failures or pollution. Advanced septic technologies allow homes to exist on these challenging sites by shrinking the required drainfield size and improving treatment (slvpost.com). County environmental health officials estimate that as many as 40% of local septic systems may eventually need to upgrade to an enhanced treatment design to meet modern requirements (slvpost.com). In summary, new septic systems are being driven by a perfect storm of aging infrastructure, stricter environmental regulation, and the need to safely accommodate homes in Santa Cruz’s unique landscape.

Overview of Santa Cruz County Septic Regulations (Installation, Permits, and Inspections)

Santa Cruz County’s regulations for onsite wastewater systems (OWTS) have been updated to align with state policy and local environmental needs. County Code Chapter 7.38 and the county’s Local Agency Management Program (LAMP) set the rules for septic system installation, permitting, inspection, and maintenance. Here is an overview of what homeowners need to know:

Installation and Permit Requirements

Any new septic system or significant repair requires a permit from the County Environmental Health Division. A licensed professional must evaluate your site (soil percolation tests, setbacks, etc.) and design an appropriate system. Conventional septic systems (a tank and gravity leach field) are still allowed on suitable sites, but the code prohibits standard systems on sites that don’t meet minimum criteria – for example, too little soil depth, too close to groundwater or streams, or insufficient space (scceh.com). In the past, lots in designated “septic constraint areas” had to meet a minimum size (e.g. 15,000 sq ft), but now the County uses site-specific evaluation instead of a blanket lot size rule (www2.santacruzcountyca.gov), (www2.santacruzcountyca.gov). If your property has challenging conditions, the county may require an alternative system with advanced treatment as a condition of permit approval (scceh.com). 

Key new Santa Cruz County standards include: increasing the vertical separation to groundwater to 5–8 feet for new or replacement leachfields (up from as little as 1–3 feet in the past) unless you use an advanced treatment unit (www2.santacruzcountyca.gov). This means on sites with high water table, a mound or shallow drip dispersal with advanced treatment is often required rather than a deep trench. In areas with coarse sandy soils and known nitrate concerns, all new and replacement systems must include nitrogen-reducing treatment (www2.santacruzcountyca.gov). For example, homes in parts of the San Lorenzo Valley and certain water supply watersheds now must install enhanced treatment units to protect groundwater from nitrate pollution. Likewise, if you are replacing an old seepage pit (an outdated deep vertical disposal pit) or doing a major remodel on a home served by seepage pits, you will be required to upgrade to an enhanced treatment system (www2.santacruzcountyca.gov). The county is moving away from very deep dispersal methods – the maximum trench depth for new or upgraded standard systems is now 4 feet (shallower than older systems that were 8–10 feet deep) to ensure effluent gets plenty of soil treatment (www2.santacruzcountyca.gov). If your site can’t accommodate a code-compliant shallow system, then an advanced system is the solution to mitigate those constraints. 

Before installation, your system design must be reviewed and approved by Environmental Health. Standard systems can often be designed by qualified contractors for simple repairs, but most enhanced systems or difficult sites will require a design by a registered engineer or environmental health specialist. The county closely reviews alternative technology proposals to ensure they meet treatment standards. Only county-approved proprietary treatment units can be installed (we’ll discuss examples like MicroSepTec and Orenco below) (scceh.com). In fact, manufacturers had to pilot their systems in the county and demonstrate performance before getting approval for general use (scceh.com), (scceh.com). This vetting process means homeowners must stick to proven systems on the county’s approved list.

Point-of-Sale Inspections and Disclosures

One of the most significant new rules (effective July 1, 2023) is a mandatory septic inspection at the time of property sale (santacruzcountyca.gov). When you sell your home in Santa Cruz County, the septic system must be pumped and inspected by a qualified inspector before transfer of ownership (santacruzcountyca.gov). The seller (or buyer by agreement) will be responsible for fixing any deficiencies identified. The goal is to ensure no one unknowingly buys a home with a failing septic. You’ll need to provide the buyer with a standard disclosure report on the system’s condition, permit status, and performance. If the inspection finds the system failing or not up to code, the county will require repair or replacement – with 90 days given for compliance (and extensions possible for complex upgrades) (slvpost.com), (slvpost.com). This point-of-sale inspection policy adds a layer of protection for homebuyers and pushes aging septics to be upgraded proactively. 

Importantly, if your home has an advanced treatment system (enhanced OWTS) that is subject to ongoing operating requirements (see next section), the seller must disclose any active annual service contracts and provide service records to the buyer (santacruzcountyca.gov). The county wants the new owner to be fully aware of their maintenance obligations for those higher-tech systems. In short, before selling a home with a septic in Santa Cruz County, be prepared to inspect and possibly upgrade the system, and to hand over all relevant documents. This is now as routine as a termite inspection in the selling process.

Ongoing Maintenance and Monitoring

Owning a septic system in Santa Cruz County comes with continuing responsibilities. All systems should be properly maintained, but for enhanced treatment systems, a maintenance service contract is not just wise – it’s required by county code (scceh.org). Owners of these advanced systems must maintain an annual service agreement with a qualified service provider (scceh.org). The service provider will perform regular inspections, sampling (if required), and maintenance of pumps, filters, and mechanical components to keep the treatment system working as designed. The county keeps a registry of service providers and even requires them to have local approval, ensuring they are qualified to work on these systems (www2.santacruzcountyca.gov). 

Additionally, Santa Cruz County operates a septic oversight program (often funded through County Service Area 12, which septic owners pay into via a small annual fee on property tax bills). Under this program, properties with septics may be periodically checked for signs of failurewww2.santacruzcountyca.gov. For enhanced systems, the county tracks compliance with maintenance contracts and may require periodic reporting. Advanced systems also typically include an alarm or telemetry – for example, the county mandates that enhanced units have a telemetric alarm system that the service provider can access remotelyscceh.com. This means if something goes wrong (like a high water level in the tank or an aerator failure), you or your service provider will be alerted by an alarm panel. The bottom line is that homeowners must actively maintain their septic systems. Neglecting maintenance isn’t just risky for your property – it could eventually lead to code enforcement actions if a failing system isn’t promptly fixedsantacruzcountyca.govwww2.santacruzcountyca.gov. 

In summary, the county’s regulations today ensure that septic systems are properly designed for the site, routinely inspected, and maintained. Whether you are installing a brand-new septic or managing an existing one, following these rules will help avoid environmental problems and costly failures down the road.

New and Alternative Septic Technologies in Santa Cruz (MicroSepTec & Orenco Systems)

To meet the stricter standards and site challenges mentioned above, Santa Cruz County allows the use of advanced onsite wastewater treatment systems, sometimes called enhanced treatment or alternative technology systems. These are essentially “high-tech” septic systems that go beyond the traditional septic tank and leach field by including additional treatment processes (like aeration, filtration, and disinfection) to clean the wastewater more thoroughly before it enters the soil. The County Health Officer has approved a list of proprietary treatment units that have proven they can reliably reduce pollutants such as nitrogen in the effluentscceh.com. On that list are MicroSepTec’s EnviroServer and Orenco’s AdvanTex systems – two leading technologies now being installed across Santa Cruz County for difficult sites or to meet nitrogen-reduction requirements. In this section, we’ll explain how these systems work, their benefits and differences from a conventional septic, and why they are well-suited for our region.

MicroSepTec EnviroServer System (Advanced Treatment Unit)

The MicroSepTec EnviroServer® ES is a self-contained multi-chamber treatment tank that processes household sewage through several stages of biological treatment and clarification. Unlike a single-compartment septic tank, the EnviroServer has “one tank, five chambers, total treatment” – meaning all the treatment steps occur within a single buried tank divided into multiple zonesmicroseptec.com. In essence, it turns your backyard septic tank into a mini wastewater treatment plant. The system is based on an MBBR (Moving Bed Biofilm Reactor) design, using plastic biomedia and aeration to promote robust microbial digestion of wastefoxonsitesolutions.comfoxonsitesolutions.com. 

Here’s a simplified look at how it works: When wastewater flows in from the house, it first enters a primary settling chamber where heavy solids sink to form sludge and oils rise to form scumfoxonsitesolutions.com. This initial stage is similar to a traditional septic tank’s role and ensures solid material is retained. Next, the partially clarified water flows into an aeration chamber. An air compressor and diffuser continuously bubble air into this chamberfoxonsitesolutions.com, supplying oxygen to support aerobic bacteria that break down organic matter (reducing the BOD – biological oxygen demand – of the wastewater)foxonsitesolutions.com. The EnviroServer’s design includes special free-flowing plastic media in these aerobic chambers, giving the beneficial microbes a lot of surface area to grow onfoxonsitesolutions.com. The media and vigorous mixing prevent clogging and help the system handle surges in flow without flushing out the microorganismsfoxonsitesolutions.com. 

After the first aeration zone, water may flow into a second aeration chamber for further treatment – this staged approach ensures nearly all the biodegradable material is consumed. By the time the water leaves the aerated sections, most of the organic waste is gone, but ammonia (from urine, etc.) has been converted to nitrate by the aerobic nitrifying bacteriafoxonsitesolutions.com. The water then enters a final clarifier chamber, where any remaining fine solids settle out so that the effluent becomes very clearfoxonsitesolutions.com. Now comes a clever part: to remove nitrogen, the system takes the nitrate-rich effluent and recirculates it back into the primary chamber (anaerobic zone) to undergo denitrificationfoxonsitesolutions.com. In the oxygen-poor primary chamber, different bacteria use the nitrate for respiration and release harmless nitrogen gas, which escapes to the atmospherefoxonsitesolutions.com. By looping the water through anoxic and oxic phases, the EnviroServer can typically reduce total nitrogen by 50–75% or more, often achieving under 10 mg/L nitrogen in the effluentscceh.com – a huge improvement over conventional septics. 

Finally, the treated water passes through an effluent filter (screening out any particles larger than ~1/16 inch) and into an effluent storage chamber ready for discharge to the leach fieldfoxonsitesolutions.com. At this stage, the water is remarkably clear – homeowners are often surprised to see that it looks nearly clean. An optional UV disinfection unit can be added in the tank as well, if additional pathogen kill is needed (this might be required in some sensitive areas or for drip irrigation reuse)foxonsitesolutions.com. The end result is high-quality effluent that can be dispersed into a much smaller or shallower drain field without risking contaminationslvpost.com. 

Benefits: The MicroSepTec EnviroServer is ideal for Santa Cruz sites that need a compact, high-performance system. Because it’s a single underground tank, it has a small footprint and minimal excavation compared to systems that require multiple tanks or large sand filtersmicroseptec.com. This is great for tight parcels or preserving your yard – you can even install it in a driveway or under landscaping (the tank is structurally reinforced for traffic with proper installation)microseptec.com. All that will be visible are a few green access lids at ground level for service access. The treated effluent from an EnviroServer is so clean that you can reduce the leach field size by up to 50% on many sitesscceh.comscceh.com – a critical benefit in Santa Cruz’s small mountain lots. Advanced treatment also mitigates issues with poor soil absorption; even if the soil percolation is marginal, the cleaner water is less likely to clog the field. 

From an environmental perspective, EnviroServer systems protect groundwater and streams by dramatically lowering pollutants. They reliably achieve BOD and TSS (total suspended solids) below 10–30 mg/L, far cleaner than raw septic effluentscceh.com. And importantly for our region, they remove a large portion of nitrogen which helps prevent nitrate contamination of drinking wells and algae growth in creeks. These systems have been tested and shown to meet strict standards for nutrient reduction. In recognition of this capability, Santa Cruz County specifically requires such advanced units in areas of high nitrate concernwww2.santacruzcountyca.gov. 

Differences from a Traditional Septic: Unlike a passive septic tank, MicroSepTec units have mechanical and electrical components (e.g. the air pump and control panel) and thus require power and active maintenance. They also store and treat sewage for a longer period (extended aeration) versus quickly sending it to a leach field, which is why the effluent is much cleaner. Homeowners will need to maintain the blower and ensure the system is inspected regularly (more on maintenance later). However, the routine care is usually handled via service contract and the system is designed to be user-friendly (only one moving part – the air compressor – in many modelsmicroseptec.com). Many owners find that aside from a gentle hum from the compressor and an annual service visit, they don’t even notice the system in daily use. It handles wastewater quietly underground and produces very little odor (a properly functioning aeration system should be virtually odorless). In Santa Cruz County, the EnviroServer has become a popular solution for homeowners who need to upgrade failing septics on difficult sites – it meets regulatory requirements while allowing them to continue living in areas where a conventional septic would no longer be allowed.

Orenco AdvanTex Treatment System (Textile Packed-Bed Filter)

Another leading technology in Santa Cruz County is the Orenco AdvanTex® treatment system. The AdvanTex is an example of a recirculating packed-bed filter system – a different approach to advanced wastewater treatment that is also highly effective, energy-efficient, and low maintenancefoxonsitesolutions.com. Orenco’s AdvanTex is essentially a small-scale filter unit that receives septic tank effluent and purifies it by trickling it through an engineered filter media. Santa Cruz County has approved Orenco AdvanTex units (such as the AX20 model) for nitrogen reduction and enhanced treatment, and they are commonly used for homes on poor soils, small lots, or areas needing extra protectionorenco.comorenco.com. 

How it Works: In an AdvanTex system, wastewater first goes into a standard septic tank (or sometimes a two-compartment tank), where solids settle just as in any septic system. This primary treatment is crucial – Orenco emphasizes using a good quality, watertight septic tank with an effluent filter on the outletorenco.comorenco.com. After the septic tank, the partially clarified effluent is pumped at intervals to the AdvanTex filter unit, often called a “pod.” The AdvanTex pod is a fiberglass or plastic container (usually a low-profile rectangular box about the size of a large chest freezer) filled with sheets of a special textile fabric mediafoxonsitesolutions.com. When the effluent enters the pod, it is sprayed or dripped over the textile material. The high surface area textile is colonized by a biofilm of bacteria that aerobically digest the wastewater contaminants as the liquid filters through itfoxonsitesolutions.com. Essentially, the AdvanTex pod acts like a miniature trickling filter (a well-proven method in wastewater treatment) – but instead of rocks or sand, it uses an engineered textile that is lightweight and easy to maintain compared to traditional mediafoxonsitesolutions.com. 

The AdvanTex system is designed to recirculate the water multiple times to achieve very high treatment levels. After percolating through the textile, the effluent collects and a portion of it is returned back to the septic tank or recirculation basin. This mixing provides an opportunity for denitrification, similar in concept to the EnviroServer’s recirculation loop. By routing some of the now-nitrate-rich water back into the septic tank (which is anaerobic), the AdvanTex allows naturally occurring bacteria to convert nitrates into nitrogen gas, cutting down the total nitrogen in the final effluent. The system’s control panel and float switches regulate the cycling – dosing the filter intermittently throughout the day rather than in big surgesorenco.com. This is beneficial because it prevents hydraulic overload and gives bacteria steady conditions to work in. Finally, when treatment is complete, the effluent is either discharged by gravity or pumped to the disposal field. The treated effluent is very clean – often meeting “better-than-secondary” standards (well under 20 mg/L BOD and TSS) and with greatly reduced nitrogenorenco.com. 

Benefits: The Orenco AdvanTex is known for its reliability and low energy use. One advantage is that it doesn’t require a continuously running air blower like many ATUs; the only electrical component is a small effluent pump that doses the filter intermittently. According to specifications, energy costs can be on the order of only $6–$8 per month for an AX20 unit treating a household’s wastewaterinnoflow.co.nzinnoflow.co.nz. The system is also modular – for a single home, one pod is typically used (like the AX20 pod), but for larger flows or community systems, multiple pods can be installed in parallel. Orenco’s technology has been recognized with industry awards for innovation and sustainabilityfoxonsitesolutions.com, and it has a proven track record across North America and internationally. In Santa Cruz County, AdvanTex units are ideal for sites with very limited space, because they can often reduce the required drainfield area (the county may allow a size reduction since the effluent is high qualityorenco.com). They also can be installed in shallow or subsurface drip dispersal fields, making them suitable on steep slopes or areas with high water tables where a traditional leach line could never be placed. 

Homeowners appreciate that AdvanTex systems are quiet and odor-free – the pod is vented but the treatment process does not generate the strong smells that an undersized septic might, as long as it’s functioning correctlyfoxonsitesolutions.com. The equipment has a low profile; a residential AdvanTex pod usually sits flat on the ground or can be buried up to its lid, so it blends into landscaping easilyfoxonsitesolutions.com. You might see only a rectangular green lid and perhaps a couple of round maintenance risers for the septic tank. This unobtrusive appearance is a plus in rural residential settings. Orenco’s systems are also touted as having low maintenance requirements over time – for instance, the textile media does not need frequent replacement (only every many years if ever), and the filtered, low-strength water means your drainfield is protected from cloggingorenco.com. In fact, the company claims that AdvanTex owners may spend much less on pumping and repairs over the decades, compared to owners of other types of treatment systems, due to the durability of the components and the protective effect on the leach fieldorenco.com. 

Why They Suit Santa Cruz: AdvanTex treatment units have been a game-changer for meeting Santa Cruz County’s nitrogen reduction goals. They can reliably produce effluent with total nitrogen levels around or below 10 mg/L when operated in a denitrifying modeinnoflow.co.nzinnoflow.co.nz, which helps the county comply with state water board mandates in nitrate-sensitive watersheds. Their adaptability to tough sites means homeowners don’t have to abandon properties that have clay soil or limited setback distances – the advanced treatment compensates for these limitsscceh.comscceh.com. Many homeowners in the San Lorenzo Valley and other parts of the county have already installed AdvanTex as part of remodels or replacement of failing systems, finding that it allows them to keep their homes while satisfying the strict new codes. Both Orenco AdvanTex and MicroSepTec EnviroServer units have effectively become standard solutions in Santa Cruz County’s toolbox for onsite wastewater management. The county explicitly allows and encourages these technologies where conventional systems would pose a pollution riskscceh.com.

Comparing Advanced Systems to Conventional Septics

In contrast to a traditional septic system – which relies on a septic tank for minimal treatment and then the soil to do the rest – these advanced treatment systems perform the majority of wastewater treatment upfront, inside the system. This results in effluent that is much cleaner than what a normal septic tank would output. For example, a conventional system might discharge effluent with 200+ mg/L of BOD and 60+ mg/L of total nitrogen, whereas an advanced unit might cut those down to <20 mg/L BOD and ~10–30 mg/L nitrogenscceh.com. The cleaner effluent from advanced systems means less pollution risk: pathogens are greatly reduced (especially if UV is used), algae-fueling nutrients are lowered, and organic matter that can clog soils is largely removed. Thus, advanced systems protect local water quality – a key reason Santa Cruz requires them near streams and in recharge areasscceh.com. 

For the homeowner, the trade-off of an advanced system is primarily cost and complexity. Upfront costs for systems like MicroSepTec or AdvanTex can be several times that of a basic septic; locally, complete installation of an enhanced system (including tanks, pumps, engineering, etc.) might cost on the order of $60k–$85k, versus $15k–$25k for a simple septic replacement on an ideal siteslvpost.comslvpost.com. However, in many cases a conventional system simply isn’t allowed or feasible on the property, so the choice is between an advanced system or no project at all. And while advanced systems do require electricity and regular check-ups, they are designed to be efficient and long-lasting. With proper care, these systems can function for decades, and their use can actually extend the life of your leach field significantly by preventing biomat over-accumulationscceh.comscceh.com. In Santa Cruz, homeowners are finding that investing in a modern septic technology not only keeps them in compliance with regulations but also gives peace of mind that they won’t inadvertently pollute their own (or neighbors’) wells or see sewage bubbling up in the yard after a storm. 

Both MicroSepTec and Orenco provide robust solutions – the “best” choice may depend on site specifics or personal preference. MicroSepTec’s all-in-one tank is convenient for limited space and has been favored in some rebuild projects. Orenco’s modular filter pods offer flexibility and a track record of low operating costs. Santa Cruz County does not endorse one over the other as long as the system meets the required performance. Homeowners typically work with a septic designer or contractor who will recommend the appropriate system for their situation. Either way, advanced treatment is the new normal for many Santa Cruz properties, and understanding these systems helps homeowners make informed decisions.

Caring for Your New Advanced Septic System

Once you have a new septic system – especially an advanced treatment unit – proper care and maintenance are essential. Not only is this required by county regulations, but it will ensure your system performs well and lasts as long as possible. Here are some guidelines for homeowners on how to care for and maintain these new systems:

• Maintain Your Service Contract: If you have a MicroSepTec, Orenco, or other enhanced system, you are required to keep a yearly service contract with a certified maintenance providerscceh.org. Take this contract seriously – schedule the regular service visits (typically every 6 months to a year, depending on the system). During these check-ups, the technician will inspect pumps, clean or replace filters, test alarm systems, and sometimes take effluent samples. They will also remove any excess sludge if needed. These preventive visits can catch problems early and are usually included in the service fee. Remember, the county may ask for proof of maintenance at intervals or during a property sale, so file away your service reports.
• Regular Pumping of the Tank: Even with high-tech treatment, sludge will accumulate in the primary chamber of your system over time. Both traditional and advanced septics need periodic pumping to remove this solids build-up. Santa Cruz County recommends pumping a typical septic every 3–5 years, depending on usageslvpost.com. Advanced systems like the EnviroServer often promote better breakdown of solids (MicroSepTec notes its primary clarifier can hold 1–3 years worth of sludge)foxonsitesolutions.comfoxonsitesolutions.com, but they still require pumping when needed. Don’t neglect this basic maintenance – if too much sludge accumulates, it can reduce treatment efficiency or even cause backups. Have a licensed septic pumper clean out the tank compartments on the schedule your service provider suggests. Also make sure the effluent filter is cleaned during pumping/service visits so it doesn’t clogfoxonsitesolutions.com.
• Watch What Goes Down the Drain: Treat your septic system kindly by being mindful of what you flush or pour into it. Avoid flushing non-biodegradable items – no baby wipes, diapers, feminine hygiene products, paper towels, or dental floss. Even “flushable” wipes or cat litter are big no-no’s, as they can clog pumps and pipes (and they don’t break down in the system). Only toilet paper and human waste should be flushed. Never dump grease or oil down the kitchen drain; fats can solidify and foul both your tank and the treatment mediaslvpost.com. Instead, wipe out greasy pans and dispose of oils in the trash. Limit harsh chemicals: cleaning products like bleach, drain cleaners (e.g. Drano), solvents, or antibacterial agents can kill the beneficial bacteria in your septic system that do the treatment workslvpost.com. Use such chemicals sparingly, and opt for septic-safe or biodegradable cleaners when possible. Similarly, medications (especially antibiotics) should not be flushed, as they can disrupt the microbial ecosystem in your unit. If you have a water softener, be cautious about discharging the salt brine into the septic; high salinity can harm microbial activity (Santa Cruz County specifically advises against softener discharges to septic)slvpost.com.
• Conserve Water & Avoid Overloads: Advanced systems can handle typical household flows, but it’s still wise to practice water conservation to reduce strain on the system. Repair any leaky faucets or toilets promptly – even a small leak can send hundreds of extra gallons into the system over timeslvpost.com. Try to stagger heavy water usage. Don’t run multiple long showers, loads of laundry, and the dishwasher all at once; spread them out through the day or week so the system isn’t flooded with a big surge at one timeslvpost.com. Many septic pros advise “laundry throughout the week” instead of doing all your loads on one dayslvpost.com. Using a graywater system for laundry can also take a load off your septic – in fact, Santa Cruz encourages graywater reuse; a basic laundry-to-landscape system (costing around $2,000) can bypass the septic for washing machine water and irrigate your landscape insteadslvpost.com. By reducing peak flows, you ensure the advanced treatment has time to work effectively and you prevent pushing solids out to the drainfield.
• Landscaping and Site Care: Pay attention to the area where your septic tank and drainfield are located. It’s fine (even beneficial) to plant grass or other very shallow-rooted plants over a leach field to prevent erosion, but avoid deep-rooted trees or shrubs near any part of the septic systemslvpost.com. Tree roots naturally seek out water and nutrient sources and can invade leach field pipes or even crack tanks. Keep trees like willows, redwoods, eucalyptus, and fruit trees well away from the septic components (consult an arborist or your septic installer for safe distances based on tree species). If you want to landscape the area, choose native grasses or perennials with modest root systems. Over an AdvanTex pod or EnviroServer tank, you can place mulch, gravel, or decorative rock gardens – just be sure access lids are not covered permanently. Many owners camouflage green riser covers with artificial rocks or plantings; this is fine as long as you know how to uncover them for servicemicroseptec.com.
• Protect the System from Damage: Never park or drive vehicles over your septic tank or drainfield. The weight can crack tank lids and compact soil, ruining the field’s ability to absorb water. If you’re doing construction or landscaping, flag or fence off the septic area to prevent heavy equipment from crossing it. Also, do not build structures or pave over the drainfield – no patios, decks, or home additions on top of it. The leach field needs to “breathe” and allow evaporation; covering it can impede function and make repairs impossible (plus it’s against code). If your system uses shallow drip irrigation lines or half-round infiltrator pipes for effluent dispersal, be mindful not to till or deeply dig in those areas. Follow any specific guidance your installer gave about protecting drip tubing from rodents or not planting certain types of plants above it.
• Monitor and Respond to Alarms: If your advanced system has an alarm panel, understand what the signals mean. Typically, a red light or audible alarm might indicate high water level (pump issue) or an aerator failure. There may also be a silent telemetry alert that goes directly to your service provider. If an alarm activates, call your service technician promptly – do not ignore it or disable the alarm. These systems will usually have a reserve capacity, so an alarm doesn’t mean immediate crisis, but it does mean something needs attention soon (e.g. a pump may need servicing before the tank overfills). By responding quickly, you can often prevent a minor issue from becoming a major problem like an overflow.
• Keep Records: Maintain a file of all permits, design documents, inspection reports, pumping receipts, and maintenance service reports for your septic system. This documentation is valuable for your own reference and will be required when you eventually sell or refinance the home. It shows that you’ve been a responsible owner and that the system is in compliance. Santa Cruz County’s point-of-sale ordinance means you’ll be handing these records to the next ownersantacruzcountyca.gov, so organize them well. Some advanced system providers also log data online or provide homeowners with inspection summaries; be sure to request copies.

By following these practices, homeowners can significantly extend the life of their septic systems and ensure they operate trouble-free. An advanced septic system represents a substantial investment, and protecting that investment – through good habits and regular upkeep – pays off in avoided repair costs and reliable performance. Moreover, you’ll have the satisfaction of knowing that you are doing your part to safeguard Santa Cruz County’s environment. A well-maintained modern septic system will quietly treat your wastewater to a high standard, reducing pollution and helping keep our groundwater, rivers, and beaches clean.

Conclusion

The new septic systems being implemented in Santa Cruz County might seem complex, but they are a critical part of a larger effort to protect our community’s health and natural beauty. Stricter regulations and advanced technologies have arrived in response to real problems – from leaking redwood tanks to rising nitrate levels – and they offer effective solutions. As a homeowner, staying informed about these changes empowers you to make the best decisions for your property. Whether you’re upgrading an old septic to meet code, installing a MicroSepTec or Orenco unit on a tough site, or simply adjusting your habits to be septic-friendly, you are contributing to a sustainable future for Santa Cruz County. 

Embracing these advanced septic systems means cleaner water, longer-lasting infrastructure, and peace of mind. By understanding the regulations and properly caring for your system, you can ensure your home’s wastewater is managed safely and responsibly. Santa Cruz County’s Environmental Health staff and local septic professionals are great resources if you have questions or need guidance on your specific situation. With the information in this guide and the support available, homeowners can confidently navigate the era of new septic systems – keeping their households running smoothly while preserving the environment we all cherish. 

Sources:

• Santa Cruz Co. Environmental Health, Enhanced Treatment System Regulationsscceh.comscceh.comscceh.com
• M.C. Dwyer, San Lorenzo Valley Post – “New Septic Regulations Taking Effect July 2023”slvpost.comslvpost.comslvpost.com
• Santa Cruz County Board of Supervisors Press Release (Oct 26, 2022)santacruzcountyca.govsantacruzcountyca.gov
• Santa Cruz County LAMP Update (2022)www2.santacruzcountyca.govwww2.santacruzcountyca.gov
• Fox Onsite Solutions – Septic Basics (“What is a MicroSepTec/Orenco System?”)foxonsitesolutions.comfoxonsitesolutions.com
• Orenco Systems Inc. – AdvanTex Product Informationorenco.comorenco.com
• SLV Post, “Septic Maintenance Tips”slvpost.comslvpost.com
• Santa Cruz County Code & OWTS Policy Documentswww2.santacruzcountyca.govscceh.org.

Citations

[PDF] County Service Area 12, Septic Maintenance – Santa Cruz LAFCO

https://santacruzlafco.org/wp-content/uploads/2018/07/4a4-CSA-12-Review.pdfNew Septic Regulations Taking Effect July 2023 – San Lorenzo Valley Posthttps://slvpost.com/new-septic-regulations-taking-effect-july-2023/New Septic Regulations Taking Effect July 2023 – San Lorenzo Valley Posthttps://slvpost.com/new-septic-regulations-taking-effect-july-2023/https://scceh.com/Portals/6/Env_Health/LAMP/AppDEnhancedTreatmentSystemsRegulationsEHS-28711-14-19.pdfhttps://scceh.com/Portals/6/Env_Health/LAMP/AppDEnhancedTreatmentSystemsRegulationsEHS-28711-14-19.pdfhttps://scceh.com/Portals/6/Env_Health/LAMP/AppDEnhancedTreatmentSystemsRegulationsEHS-28711-14-19.pdfPRESS RELEASEhttps://www.santacruzcountyca.gov/Portals/0/County/CAO/press%20releases/2022/SepticOrdinance.10262022.pdfAgenda Item 10302 – Update on Onsite Wastewater Treatment Systems Local Agency Management Programhttps://www2.santacruzcountyca.gov/planning/plnmeetings/PLNSupMaterial/PC/agendas/2022/20220622/009.pdfNew Septic Regulations Taking Effect July 2023 – San Lorenzo Valley Posthttps://slvpost.com/new-septic-regulations-taking-effect-july-2023/New Septic Regulations Taking Effect July 2023 – San Lorenzo Valley Posthttps://slvpost.com/new-septic-regulations-taking-effect-july-2023/New Septic Regulations Taking Effect July 2023 – San Lorenzo Valley Posthttps://slvpost.com/new-septic-regulations-taking-effect-july-2023/New Septic Regulations Taking Effect July 2023 – San Lorenzo Valley Posthttps://slvpost.com/new-septic-regulations-taking-effect-july-2023/https://scceh.com/Portals/6/Env_Health/LAMP/AppDEnhancedTreatmentSystemsRegulationsEHS-28711-14-19.pdfAgenda Item 10302 – Update on Onsite Wastewater Treatment Systems Local Agency Management Programhttps://www2.santacruzcountyca.gov/planning/plnmeetings/PLNSupMaterial/PC/agendas/2022/20220622/009.pdfAgenda Item 10302 – Update on Onsite Wastewater Treatment Systems Local Agency Management Programhttps://www2.santacruzcountyca.gov/planning/plnmeetings/PLNSupMaterial/PC/agendas/2022/20220622/009.pdfhttps://scceh.com/Portals/6/Env_Health/LAMP/AppDEnhancedTreatmentSystemsRegulationsEHS-28711-14-19.pdfAgenda Item 10302 – Update on Onsite Wastewater Treatment Systems Local Agency Management Programhttps://www2.santacruzcountyca.gov/planning/plnmeetings/PLNSupMaterial/PC/agendas/2022/20220622/009.pdfAgenda Item 10302 – Update on Onsite Wastewater Treatment Systems Local Agency Management Programhttps://www2.santacruzcountyca.gov/planning/plnmeetings/PLNSupMaterial/PC/agendas/2022/20220622/009.pdfAgenda Item 10302 – Update on Onsite Wastewater Treatment Systems Local Agency Management Programhttps://www2.santacruzcountyca.gov/planning/plnmeetings/PLNSupMaterial/PC/agendas/2022/20220622/009.pdfAgenda Item 10302 – Update on Onsite Wastewater Treatment Systems Local Agency Management Programhttps://www2.santacruzcountyca.gov/planning/plnmeetings/PLNSupMaterial/PC/agendas/2022/20220622/009.pdfhttps://scceh.com/Portals/6/Env_Health/LAMP/AppDEnhancedTreatmentSystemsRegulationsEHS-28711-14-19.pdfhttps://scceh.com/Portals/6/Env_Health/LAMP/AppDEnhancedTreatmentSystemsRegulationsEHS-28711-14-19.pdfhttps://scceh.com/Portals/6/Env_Health/LAMP/AppDEnhancedTreatmentSystemsRegulationsEHS-28711-14-19.pdfPRESS RELEASEhttps://www.santacruzcountyca.gov/Portals/0/County/CAO/press%20releases/2022/SepticOrdinance.10262022.pdfNew Septic Regulations Taking Effect July 2023 – San Lorenzo Valley Posthttps://slvpost.com/new-septic-regulations-taking-effect-july-2023/New Septic Regulations Taking Effect July 2023 – San Lorenzo Valley Posthttps://slvpost.com/new-septic-regulations-taking-effect-july-2023/PRESS RELEASEhttps://www.santacruzcountyca.gov/Portals/0/County/CAO/press%20releases/2022/SepticOrdinance.10262022.pdf[PDF] ENHANCED TREATMENT SYSTEM REGULATIONShttps://www.scceh.org/Portals/6/Env_Health/LAMP/AppDEnhancedTreatmentSystemsRegulationsEHS-28711-14-19.pdfAgenda Item 10302 – Update on Onsite Wastewater Treatment Systems Local Agency Management Programhttps://www2.santacruzcountyca.gov/planning/plnmeetings/PLNSupMaterial/PC/agendas/2022/20220622/009.pdf[PDF] Enhanced Treatment System Regulations – County of Santa Cruzhttps://scceh.com/Portals/6/App%20D%20Enhanced%20Treatment%20System%20Regulations%208_2_2021%20v2_1%20%282%29.pdf[PDF] PRESS RELEASE – Santa Cruz Countyhttps://www.santacruzcountyca.gov/Portals/0/County/CAO/press%20releases/2022/SepticOrdinance.10262022.pdfMicroSepTec – Leading the Way in Advanced On-site Wastewaterhttps://microseptec.com/What Is A MicroSepTec System?https://www.foxonsitesolutions.com/what-is-a-microseptec-systemWhat Is A MicroSepTec System?https://www.foxonsitesolutions.com/what-is-a-microseptec-systemWhat Is A MicroSepTec System?https://www.foxonsitesolutions.com/what-is-a-microseptec-systemWhat Is A MicroSepTec System?https://www.foxonsitesolutions.com/what-is-a-microseptec-systemWhat Is A MicroSepTec System?https://www.foxonsitesolutions.com/what-is-a-microseptec-systemWhat Is A MicroSepTec System?https://www.foxonsitesolutions.com/what-is-a-microseptec-systemWhat Is A MicroSepTec System?https://www.foxonsitesolutions.com/what-is-a-microseptec-systemhttps://scceh.com/Portals/6/Env_Health/LAMP/AppDEnhancedTreatmentSystemsRegulationsEHS-28711-14-19.pdfWhat Is A MicroSepTec System?https://www.foxonsitesolutions.com/what-is-a-microseptec-systemWhat Is A MicroSepTec System?https://www.foxonsitesolutions.com/what-is-a-microseptec-systemMicroSepTec – Leading the Way in Advanced On-site Wastewaterhttps://microseptec.com/https://scceh.com/Portals/6/Env_Health/LAMP/AppDEnhancedTreatmentSystemsRegulationsEHS-28711-14-19.pdfhttps://scceh.com/Portals/6/Env_Health/LAMP/AppDEnhancedTreatmentSystemsRegulationsEHS-28711-14-19.pdfMicroSepTec – Leading the Way in Advanced On-site Wastewaterhttps://microseptec.com/What Is An Orenco AdvanTex System?https://www.foxonsitesolutions.com/what-is-an-orenco-advantex-systemChoose A Septic Tank System | Residential Septic, Advanced Treatment & Pumpinghttps://www.orenco.com/applications/residential/choose-a-systemChoose A Septic Tank System | Residential Septic, Advanced Treatment & Pumpinghttps://www.orenco.com/applications/residential/choose-a-systemChoose A Septic Tank System | Residential Septic, Advanced Treatment & Pumpinghttps://www.orenco.com/applications/residential/choose-a-systemChoose A Septic Tank System | Residential Septic, Advanced Treatment & Pumpinghttps://www.orenco.com/applications/residential/choose-a-systemWhat Is An Orenco AdvanTex System?https://www.foxonsitesolutions.com/what-is-an-orenco-advantex-systemChoose A Septic Tank System | Residential Septic, Advanced Treatment & Pumpinghttps://www.orenco.com/applications/residential/choose-a-systemOrenco AdvanTex | Wastewater and Greywater Treatment Systems | Packed Bed Filtrationhttps://www.orenco.com/products/treatment-systems#58313-ax20supspan-stylefont-size-10pxregspansupAdvanTex® AX20 Package | Innoflowhttps://www.innoflow.co.nz/products-resources/all-products/advantex-ax20-package/AdvanTex® AX20 Package | Innoflowhttps://www.innoflow.co.nz/products-resources/all-products/advantex-ax20-package/What Is An Orenco AdvanTex System?https://www.foxonsitesolutions.com/what-is-an-orenco-advantex-systemWhat Is An Orenco AdvanTex System?https://www.foxonsitesolutions.com/what-is-an-orenco-advantex-systemChoose A Septic Tank System | Residential Septic, Advanced Treatment & Pumpinghttps://www.orenco.com/applications/residential/choose-a-systemAdvanTex® AX20 Package | Innoflowhttps://www.innoflow.co.nz/products-resources/all-products/advantex-ax20-package/AdvanTex® AX20 Package | Innoflowhttps://www.innoflow.co.nz/products-resources/all-products/advantex-ax20-package/https://scceh.com/Portals/6/Env_Health/LAMP/AppDEnhancedTreatmentSystemsRegulationsEHS-28711-14-19.pdfhttps://scceh.com/Portals/6/Env_Health/LAMP/AppDEnhancedTreatmentSystemsRegulationsEHS-28711-14-19.pdfNew Septic Regulations Taking Effect July 2023 – San Lorenzo Valley Posthttps://slvpost.com/new-septic-regulations-taking-effect-july-2023/https://scceh.com/Portals/6/Env_Health/LAMP/AppDEnhancedTreatmentSystemsRegulationsEHS-28711-14-19.pdfhttps://scceh.com/Portals/6/Env_Health/LAMP/AppDEnhancedTreatmentSystemsRegulationsEHS-28711-14-19.pdfNew Septic Regulations Taking Effect July 2023 – San Lorenzo Valley Posthttps://slvpost.com/new-septic-regulations-taking-effect-july-2023/What Is A MicroSepTec System?https://www.foxonsitesolutions.com/what-is-a-microseptec-systemWhat Is A MicroSepTec System?https://www.foxonsitesolutions.com/what-is-a-microseptec-systemNew Septic Regulations Taking Effect July 2023 – San Lorenzo Valley Posthttps://slvpost.com/new-septic-regulations-taking-effect-july-2023/New Septic Regulations Taking Effect July 2023 – San Lorenzo Valley Posthttps://slvpost.com/new-septic-regulations-taking-effect-july-2023/New Septic Regulations Taking Effect July 2023 – San Lorenzo Valley Posthttps://slvpost.com/new-septic-regulations-taking-effect-july-2023/New Septic Regulations Taking Effect July 2023 – San Lorenzo Valley Posthttps://slvpost.com/new-septic-regulations-taking-effect-july-2023/PRESS RELEASEhttps://www.santacruzcountyca.gov/Portals/0/County/CAO/press%20releases/2022/SepticOrdinance.10262022.pdfPRESS RELEASEhttps://www.santacruzcountyca.gov/Portals/0/County/CAO/press%20releases/2022/SepticOrdinance.10262022.pdfNew Septic Regulations Taking Effect July 2023 – San Lorenzo Valley Posthttps://slvpost.com/new-septic-regulations-taking-effect-july-2023/