Code Corner: 2024 International Private Sewage Disposal Code Chapter 6: Section 602 – Sizing Soil Absorption Systems
The Code Corner, explores sections of the I-Codes each month, focusing on key elements of these essential codes. This month, we’re spotlighting the scope of Chapter 6 Section 602 of the 2024 International Private Sewage Disposal Code: Sizing Soil Absorption Systems.
The International Codes® (I-Codes), developed by the International Code Council, are a family of fifteen coordinated, modern building safety codes that help ensure the design and construction of safe, sustainable and affordable structures.
The I-Codes are the most widely adopted set of model codes globally, implemented in all 50 U.S. states and many countries around the world.
The Building Safety Journal’s series, Code Corner, explores sections of the I-Codes each month, focusing on key elements of these essential codes. This month, we’re spotlighting the scope of Chapter 6 Section 602 of the 2024 International Private Sewage Disposal Code® (IPSDC): Sizing Soil Absorption Systems.
International Private Sewage Disposal Code 602.1 General
Effluent from septic tanks and other approved treatment tanks must be disposed of by soil absorption or another approved manner. Sizing must be in accordance with Chapter 6 of the IPSDC for systems with a daily effluent application of 5,000 gallons (18 925 L) or less. Two systems of equal size must be required for systems receiving effluents exceeding 5,000 gallons (18 925 L) per day. Each system shall have a minimum capacity of 75 percent of the area required for a single system. An approved means of alternating waste application shall be provided. A dual system shall be considered as one system.
Most septic systems are designed and approved for the effluent of the tank to pass through a header or manifold system to disperse in a drain field trench or bed system. Most jurisdictions only allow up to 5,000 gallons per day or less to pass into a private septic system. Systems that treat greater than 5,000 gallons per day are often considered public sewerage systems and have a specific design review and permitting process. See Commentary Figure 602.1.
To learn more about the Code Council’s IPSDC, click here. To stay updated on the latest PMG industry news, subscribe to the Code Council’s PMG newsletter here.
About the Author
Gary has over 40 years of experience working within the Construction and Plumbing Industry. He is a seasoned Construction Project Manager as well as a Licensed Master Plumber in Massachusetts, New Hampshire, Maine and Vermont.
In addition, Gary holds an Unrestricted Construction Supervisor’s License (CSL) within the state of Massachusetts and completely understands the significance of code correlation. Lastly, while working with the International Code Council, he is currently an Adult Educational Master Plumbing & Fuel Gas Instructor and Continuing Education Instructor in the Commonwealth of Massachusetts.
Member of the International Code Council PMG Team responsible for developing, coordinating, directing and implementing programs to ensure the successful completion of the Government Relations goals and objectives as they apply to the International Plumbing Code, International Mechanical Code, International Fuel Gas Code, International Swimming Pool and Spa Code, and the International Private Sewage Disposal Code (and related services and programs of the International Code Council).
