Legal Documents of Bulls Gap

When connection of building sewers to the public sewer by gravity flow lines is impossible due to elevation differences or other encumbrances, Septic Tank Effluent Pump (STEP) or Grinder Pump (GP) systems may be installed subject to the regulations of the town.

1. Equipment requirements.
   1. Septic tanks shall be of water tight construction and must be approved by the town.
   2. Pumps must be approved by the town and shall be maintained by the town.
2. Installation requirements.  Location of tanks, pumps, and effluent lines shall be subject to the approval of the town.  Installation shall follow design criteria for STEP and GP systems as provided by the superintendent.
3. Costs.  STEP and GP equipment for new construction shall be purchased and installed at the developer's, homeowner's, or business owner's expense according to the specification of the town and connection will be made to the town sewer only after inspection and approval of the town.
4. Ownership and easements.  Homeowners or developers shall provide the town with ownership of the equipment and an easement for access to perform necessary maintenance or repair.  Access by the town to the STEP and GP system must be guaranteed to operate, maintain, repair, restore service, and remove sludge.  Access manholes, ports, and electrical disconnects must not be locked, obstructed or blocked by landscaping or construction.
5. Use of STEP and GP systems.
   1. Home or business owners shall follow the STEP and GP users guide provided by the superintendent.
   2. Home or business owners shall provide an electrical connection that meets specifications and shall provide electrical power.
   3. Home or business owners shall be responsible for maintenance of drain lines from the building to the STEP and GP tank.
   4. Prohibited uses of the STEP and GP system.
      1. Connection of roof guttering, sump pumps or surface drains.
      2. Disposal of toxic household substances.
      3. Use of garbage grinders or disposers.
      4. Discharge of pet hair, lint, or home vacuum water.
      5. Discharge of fats, grease, and oil.
6. Tank cleaning.  Solids removal from the septic tank shall be the responsibility of the town.  However, pumping required more frequently than once every five years shall be billed to the homeowner.
7. Additional charges.  The town shall be responsible for maintenance of the STEP and GP equipment.  Repeat service calls for similar problems shall be billed to the homeowner or business at a rate of no more than the actual cost of the service call including but not limited to transportation, labor, materials, excavation, subcontractors, engineering fees, cleanup expenses, and other expenses related to the service call. In addition if the town receives regulatory fines related to equipment failure and sewage overflows all such fines will be passed on to the user. 

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