The Roanoke Valley-Alleghany Regional Commission is excited to offer a cost-free septic tank pump-out program for eligible residents of Roanoke and Craig Counties.
To learn more, please visit the new septic pump-out program information and application page linked below.
NOTE : The Botetourt County Program has concluded and is no longer providing pump-outs. Use the link below to provide your information and express interest should the program receive continued funding.
Septic systems are designed to treat household wastewater on-site for homes without connection to a centralized wastewater treatment system. Please visit this animated, interactive model created by the Guadalupe-Blanco River Authority to better understand how a household septic system works. Regular maintenance is crucial; septic systems should be inspected every 1 to 3 years and pumped every 3 to 5 years.
A well-maintained septic system separates wastewater into three layers: a solid sludge layer at the bottom, a watery effluent layer in the middle, and a scum layer floating on top. In a healthy septic tank, bacteria break down the sludge while the effluent is pumped into the drainfield, where it is filtered into the soil and groundwater.
In a failing septic tank, the sludge and scum layers can accumulate, leaving insufficient space for effluent to be pumped out. This can lead to backups, causing solid waste to overflow into your yard and home. Regularly pumping out your tank can prevent this.
Roanoke Valley-Alleghany Regional Commission
P.O Box 2569, Roanoke, VA 24010
General Info: rvarc@rvarc.org
Media: rvarc@rvarc.org
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