Swimming Pool installation permits are reviewed by the Health Department for 2 basic considerations:

• The distance between the proposed pool and the septic system. 
• Limitations the pool installation may create in the event the septic system requires repair in the future.

Septic System & Pool Separation

The Public Health Code requires separation distances between septic systems and swimming pools. The distance for an above ground pool is fifteen feet and the distance for an in-ground pool is 25 feet. So, pool installation permits need to include a site plan showing the location of the septic system, the proposed location of the pool and the distance between them. Homeowners are reminded that the septic tank does not constitute the entire system. The leaching system is substantially larger than the septic tank and needs to be included in the site plan.

The location of most septic systems can be determined by "as-built" drawings done at the time the septic system was constructed. These are usually available on microfilm at the town campus. Bear in mind the drawings are not to scale although the measurements should be accurate. Use the measurements to field locate the system. At times there is no as-built record of the system location so the system needs to be found, usually involving the help of a licensed septic system pumper or contractor.

Permit Approval

Before approving a pool installation permit the Health Department needs to ask the following question: "After construction, will there be sufficient room on the property, and proper soil conditions to construct a septic system that meets all aspects of the Public Health Code, should the need arise?". If the answer is clearly "yes," the permit will be approved. If that answer is not obvious approval may follow a site visit by the Health Department. If a site visit does not provide the required information soil testing may be required. If a "code complying area" cannot be determined the permit cannot be approved.