What is the characteristic feature of a subsurface sewage disposal system?

A subsurface sewage disposal system is designed to manage and treat wastewater on private property rather than through public sewer lines. This characteristic is crucial because it indicates that such systems are meant for individual homes or establishments that are not connected to municipal sewage infrastructure.

By operating independently from public sewer systems, subsurface sewage disposal systems allow homeowners in rural or less densely populated areas to effectively manage their waste. This aspect emphasizes the reliance on the soil's natural filtration processes to treat wastewater before it enters groundwater.

In contrast, options that suggest government licenses, the types of waste accepted, or multiple treatment methods do not specifically define the fundamental characteristic of subsurface sewage disposal systems. These aspects may be relevant in broader discussions of septic systems and waste management, but they do not accurately capture the essence of what distinguishes subsurface systems from public sewage management.