Driving over a septic tank

   / Driving over a septic tank #1  

shooterdon

Elite Member
Joined
Nov 24, 2012
Messages
3,585
Location
Near Johannesburg MI but in the middle of nowhere
Tractor
2019 LS XR4140 HST Cab; 2020 Kawasaki Mule SX; 2021 Bad Boy 54" ZT Elite
I have an LS 4140 with cab and loaded tires. Estimated weight is 5500 lbs.

Would it be safe to drive over a septic tank buried 10” below grade?
 
   / Driving over a septic tank #2  
Lot of weight for plastic pipes running to and from. But then again, I drive 3k# over mine on occasion. My pipes are a bit deeper though.
 
   / Driving over a septic tank #7  
If it is a flat top tank you might be going for an unpleasant swim. If round tank they are less susceptible to collapse.

I have broken through the top of an unknown abandoned tank and it does surprise you to point of needing septic service 💩
 
   / Driving over a septic tank #9  
Septic tank shouldn’t be an issue if it’s at proper depth, and in good condition. I drive over mine pretty often.
The leach field is a different story. I avoid compacting the soil and possibly cracking pvc pipes
 
   / Driving over a septic tank #10  
Round tanks here (one septic and one pump because the drain field is higher). The pipes are a couple feet down. Drain field is PVC in a thick stone bed with at least a foot of soil over it. the only thing I don't drive over would be the concrete lids. I won't say it's the best practice, but that's what I've been doing since 1990.
 

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