Septic System Landscaping: Best Practices

The Dos

Do Enjoy Creating a Beautiful Landscaping Design

It may seem like a lot, but the goal is still to have a beautiful outdoor space. We want to make sure that you can enjoy both your yard and your landscaping! No matter what else, create a landscape design that works for you!

Do Plant Shallow-Rooted Plants

Shallow-rooted plants are great to plant over or around your septic tank! Native grasses are a great choice because they won’t damage your tank. They can handle the soil, water levels, and temperatures of your area, and can be tall enough to hide the cover lid. It’s a win-win!

Do Use Faux Rocks to Cover the Septic Lid

Another great option is to use a faux rock to cover the septic lid. This type of septic tank landscaping is a great option because it is very easy to remove when you need to access your tank. You can purchase a faux rock well cover at any garden center!

Do Keep the Area Clear of Heavy Foot Traffic

Heavy foot traffic can compress the soil above your septic tank, slowly packing it. This can make it harder to access and could even cause damage. The occasional person walking around is no big deal; just don’t place a walkway right above!

Do Keep the Lid Accessible

The septic cover lid is how septic professionals access your tank. It’s important to keep it accessible. You don’t want to have to rip up a lot of landscaping in the event of an emergency!

The Don’ts

Don’t Plant Large Trees or Shrubs

When landscaping around your septic tank, rule out large trees and shrubs. Many of these plants have long root systems that can damage your septic tank. They could also become infected with the bacteria if they access it.

Don’t Plant Vegetables Nearby

While it can be tempting to plant a fruit or vegetable garden above your tank to utilize the fertile soil, we don’t recommend it. The plants could absorb some of the bacteria from the tank, which could be harmful if consumed. Plant your garden somewhere else to be on the safe side.

Don’t Build Anything On Top of the Septic Tank

As convenient as a gazebo or pavilion would be in covering up any unsightly elements of your septic tank, it would not be convenient when there’s an issue. Besides the weight slowly crushing your tank, access would be very difficult. Any buildings, heavy stones, or anything like that is discouraged.

Don’t Restrict Access with a Fence

Fences are great for privacy or security but not so great for septic tanks. It’s perfectly all right to have a fence in your yard; just ensure you’re not blocking access to your septic tank. Our trucks and team still need a way to get through!

Don’t Build a Pond

Water damage and erosion can wreak havoc on a septic system, so keep ponds or swimming pools far away. They can also cause the soil to compact more, damaging your tank.

Table of Contents

• Septic System Landscaping 101
• The Dos and Don’ts of Septic System Landscaping
• The Dos
• Do Enjoy Creating a Beautiful Landscaping Design
• Do Plant Shallow-Rooted Plants
• Do Use Faux Rocks to Cover the Septic Lid
• Do Keep the Area Clear of Heavy Foot Traffic
• Do Keep the Lid Accessible
• The Don’ts
• Don’t Plant Large Trees or Shrubs
• Don’t Plant Vegetables Nearby
• Don’t Build Anything On Top of the Septic Tank
• Don’t Restrict Access with a Fence
• Don’t Build a Pond
• Contact Us for Help With Landscaping Around Your Septic Tank