15.06.060 Outlet baffle filter maintenance.
(1) General Requirements. All POWTS that includes an anaerobic treatment component whose Sanitary Permit was issued on or after July 1, 2000 shall be equipped with an outlet baffle filter of proper size for the wastewater flow it is treating.
(2) Product Approval. All filters shall be a product approved through Comm 84 Wisconsin Administrative Code.
(3) Existing Septic Tanks. May be fitted with a baffle filter provided a watertight seal can be accomplished at the outlet opening and there is an existing manhole over the outlet. Tanks with center manholes or off-set manholes shall be prohibited from receiving an outlet baffle filter. No existing tank may be altered or cored to provide surface access to a filter unless state approval is obtained in writing from the product review division of the Department.
(4) Baffle Filter Accessibility. All filters must be accessible for ease of service for the service provider or the homeowner. The following features shall be provided to provide safety and ease of service:
(a) Manhole risers over the outlet baffle at or above grade if in an area where surface water may seasonally pond.
(b) Lock and chain securing the manhole lid to the riser thus preventing any unauthorized access.
(c) Service “T” handle on the filter component within 12 inches of the riser opening to accommodate ease of removal for servicing.
(5) Maintenance of Baffle Filters. Shall occur each time a septic or anaerobic treatment tank is serviced to have its solids and scum removed. A filter may require more frequent servicing when the following conditions occur:
(a) The manufacturers specifications indicate a more frequent maintenance schedule or periodic maintenance.
(b) Owner observes slow drains in the structure being served by the POWTS or poor performance from plumbing fixtures.
(c) Rental properties or multiple family dwellings or multiple tenants may cause peak wastewater flows into a POWTS thus causing premature clogging of a filter.
(d) Hydraulic overload or introduction of wastes that cause an increase in total suspended solids may cause a filter to be serviced more frequently.
(e) The owner of the POWTS shall be responsible for the periodic maintenance of the outlet baffle filter.
(f) All contents removed from a baffle filter shall be properly disposed of in accordance with NR113 Wisconsin Administrative Code or placed back into the anaerobic treatment unit.
(g) Improper disposal of baffle filter sludge shall be considered a human health hazard and a violation of this ordinance.
(h) It shall be a violation of this ordinance if the baffle filter is removed from its canister and the POWTS is allowed to function without it for any period of time. [Code § 15.06-6.]