What is the purpose of a septic system reserve area?

The purpose of a septic system reserve area is to serve as a backup location for a new drain field, which is crucial for maintaining the long-term functionality of the septic system. In the event that the primary drain field becomes saturated or fails due to various factors such as soil compaction, clogging, or biological overload, the reserve area can be used to install a new drain field. This ensures that the household continues to have an effective means of wastewater disposal without significant disruption.

Having a designated reserve area is a key requirement in septic system design, as it allows for adequate preparation for potential future problems. This also ensures compliance with local health regulations and standards, which often mandate the reservation of such an area when a septic system is installed.

The other options do not align with the intended function of a reserve area. Landscaping, composting toilet installation, or chemical storage are unrelated to the primary purpose of ensuring the reliable disposal of wastewater through a backup drainage solution.