What is the minimum lateral trench depth required?

The minimum lateral trench depth required is 24 inches. This depth is established to ensure that septic systems function effectively by allowing adequate soil treatment and filtration before effluent reaches the groundwater. The 24-inch depth is a standard that helps to ensure that the trench is not too shallow, which could lead to inadequate treatment of wastewater, and not too deep, which could create issues with soil pressure and complicate installation.

This standard considers various factors such as soil type, climate, and the specific design of the septic system. Maintaining the correct trench depth is crucial for the overall performance of the septic system and for protecting public health and the environment. The other depth options are either too shallow or too deep, which do not align with the regulatory requirements aimed at ensuring good septic system management.