Question
Hi Marc,
I just had a sand filter septic system installed about 6'x20' in my front yard.  It rises a couple of feet out of the ground and is truly an eyesore.  I was shocked to hear from the engineer that I cannot cover it with topsoil.  It is framed in wood with a layer of gravel within the box. It is also at an odd angle relative to the driveway.  My original idea was to square off the box with RR ties and then cover the whole thing with crushed stones, but he does not want me to do even that!  Have you ever worked with anything like this?  He is trying to research what if anything I can do to alleviate this problem.  Help!  This is seriously going to devalue my property.

Mary

Answer
Hello, Mary -

Sand filters are used where conventional septic tank/absorption field systems have failed. They are a good option for sites with high groundwater, shallow bedrock, poor soils, or other site restrictions.

There are two types of sand-filter systems; single-pass, and re-circulating, which requires a pump.  There are two types of sand filtering fields: above ground or 揻ree-access? and buried.  

The Federal  EPA buried-filter design allows for topsoil and sod with a weed/silt barrier, but not much else.  Obviously, the above ground model is just like a gravelly beach, which sounds like the kind you have.  揊ree access?designs are much more unsightly, but can handle a greater system load (more effluent).

How it works is through oxygen exchange so you MUST keep deep rooting plants off of it, as well as surface runoff, or heavy traffic that could compact the sandy media. You cannot block air movement over the surface of the system with buildings or thick plantings ?So no concrete, patios, decking, or heavy hedges & trees. However, you can plant AROUND it to screen it from view, which is what the link below, suggests.

This discussion from Minnesota抯 Ag Extension:
http://www.extension.umn.edu/distribution/naturalresources/DD7570.html

Bottom line:  Sorry to say, but it is an ugly eyesore, however it allows you to live where you do.  Otherwise NO building would be permitted, due to site restrictions and limitations.  6' x 20' isn't that large, so I'd see if you cannot remove the wood frame, and soften the edges a bit with boulders, different sizes of river rock, or mulch on the EDGES of the system.  Part of the reason it is ugly is it is square, boxy, and uniform-looking (I'm sure the Engineer loves it!)

I would suggest something be planted or installed near the driveway approach so that it doesn't become the overflow parking area off of the driveway, which will KILL your system though compaction.  Maybe a landscaped berm and/or low fence in front of it.  I know - sounds counterintuitive - Add MORE mounding. You are trying to "hide it" in plain view.

Without actually seeing how much area you have to work with, it is tough to give you further suggestions.  Good luck!

~Marc