What are non-permitted septic systems?

Non-permitted septic systems refer to those that have been installed without the necessary approval from local authorities. In Tennessee, as in many regions, septic systems require formal authorization to ensure they are designed and installed correctly to protect public health and the environment. The approval process typically involves adhering to state codes, regulations, and local guidelines, which are in place to ensure that the systems function properly and do not pose a risk of contamination to groundwater or surface water.

When a septic system is installed without this approval, it is considered non-permitted, highlighting the importance of following legal and regulatory protocols when establishing these systems. This makes option B the appropriate choice for understanding what constitutes a non-permitted septic system. Other options used terms like "operational permits," "health codes," and "temporary permits," which imply compliance or legal authorization rather than the absence of it.