Our property is in a volcanic area. On the northeast corner is an eroded cone with lava exposed. Prior to purchasing the property we dug test holes to insure we could install a traditional septic system. It’s not uncommon for expensive alternative systems to be required. Because much of the surface is cinders, the ground perks too quickly. Water is 1,400 feet deep so the county granted a routine exception to the required perk test results and issued a permit.
Unfortunately, it’s not uncommon for illegal systems to be installed. I sought the help of a former county inspector in designing a system and completing the permit application. He made the statement “there are a lot of bootleg systems out there.†I know of one person who moved on to property after digging a pit and installing two 55 gallon drums as his system. Another person lived on his property for a few months without a septic system or any type of waste disposal. I’m not opposed to owners performing their own work. I’m not opposed to owners bending some codes where safety, functionality and reliability are not compromised. I am opposed strongly to behavior that harms the environment, endangers the welfare of people and creates a problem for future owners or occupants.
I know of people who have obtained permits and inspections and installed their own systems. Since I work fulltime, I didn’t consider this option. I obtained estimates for installation of the system. The estimates ranged from $1,500 to $3,500. (Alternative systems can cost ten times as much.) I did not feel comfortable with the less expensive estimates and chose an installer on the high end and was well pleased with his work, his timely installation and his friendly manner. (If you need a system installed in the Flagstaff area, let me know and I’ll provide his name and phone number. I highly recommend him.)
I also live off grid. We’re in Northern California and really enjoy it. Good for you guys!
Hey there. I am moving off the grid in April. I just started my own blog today to chronicle the ups and downs of living on the road less travelled. Maybe we can link to eachother and help when needed? Nice pics.
Hi, I’m wondering if you know of a contractor to do a perk test in Mohave Co.(Chloride) the ones I called want 6 to 800 dollars! I can dig the holes, but need someone certified to render a county acceptable opinion.
Thanks gene
Sorry, I don’t know of anyone. I’d suggest contacting the county inspector and asking them for suggestions. I’m not certain but I think the county inspector can perform the actual test. In my situation, I had the holes dug prior to purchasing the land to insure there were no ledges below the surface. The county inspector looked at the holes but didn’t require a perk test due to the depth of naturally occuring cinders.
Not quite Flagstaff, but I am in Sedona and require an alternative septic system. Do you know any good engineers and/ or installers to talk to? thx.
Can you recommend someone to do a perk test in Apache county near Show Low and Concho, AZ?? Also can you recommend someone to install the whole septic system? Prices I’ve gotten are quite steep. Thanks.
Jessica,
My situation didn’t require a perc test. The area in which I live percs too fast and exemptions are granted. Sorry, I can’t recommend anyone.
I had my system installed by a man who lives within 15 miles of my house. I know he travels long distances and may give you a quote. He wasn’t the least expensive. I got a quote of $2000 from one person and the man who installed it charged $3,500. I didn’t have confidence in the lowest quote.
My system was installed by Ralph Pinheiro (Pinheiro’s Excavating and Contruction) — 928-526-3818.
Good luck!
Would like to have the name of the septic system installer that did the work for you.
Why no composting toilet and greywater system? I am planning to to install one soon on my own off grid property and am looking for input.
All the best