ASTM D5879/D5879M-18

Standard Practice for Surface Site Characterization for On-Site Septic Systems

SIGNIFICANCE AND USE
5.1 This practice should be used as the initial step for evaluating a site for its potential to support an on-site septic system and to determine the best location for subsurface observations as covered in Practice D5921.  
5.2 This practice should be used by individuals involved with the evaluation of properties for the use of on-site septic systems. Such individuals may be required to be licensed, certified, or meet minimum educational requirements by the local or state regulatory authority. Generally, such individuals should be familiar with the appropriate regulatory requirements governing the design and placement of on-site septic systems for the area of the site being investigated, and at least some experience or training in geomorphology, soils, geology, and hydrology.  
5.3 This practice is one step in the design of an on-site septic system that also includes subsurface characterization, see Practice D5921, staking and protection of the soil absorption or constructed filter bed area, see Practice D5925, selection of system type, and design of the system size and configuration. Typically, the same individual will perform the surface and subsurface characterization of a site. Local regulation and practice will determine whether the same individual is responsible for all steps in the process of locating and designing an on-site septic system. Effective surface and subsurface characterization of a site for on-site septic systems, however, requires some knowledge of the following for the county or state in which the site is located: (1) on-site septic system types typically used for different soil conditions, and (2) typical soil absorption/filter bed areas required for different wastewater flow rates and areal soil wastewater loading rates.
SCOPE
1.1 Site characterization of surface conditions at a site for evaluating suitability for on-site septic systems requires both simple and complex techniques that may be accomplished by many different procedures and may be variously interpreted. These studies are frequently site specific and are influenced by geological and geographical settings, by the purpose of the site characterization, by design requirements for the project proposed, and by the background, training, and experience of the staff involved.  
1.2 This standard is a guide for using the surface site characterization for on-site septic systems method for projects that require on-site sewage disposal. It is intended to improve consistency of practice and to encourage the use of this method as part of a site characterization program. Since the subsurface conditions at a particular site are usually the result of a combination of natural, geologic, topographic, and climatic factors, and of historical modifications both natural and manmade, an adequate and internally consistent use of a method as part of the exploration program will allow evaluation of the results of these influences.  
1.3 This practice can be used at any site where on-site treatment of residential and nonhazardous commercial wastewaters using septic tanks and natural soils or constructed filter beds is required or an option under consideration. This practice may also be useful when constructed wetlands are used as an alternative wastewater treatment method.  
1.4 This practice should be used in conjunction with Practices D5921 and D5925.  
1.5 Units—The values stated in either SI units or inch-pound units given in brackets are to be regarded separately as standard. The values stated in each system may not be exact equivalents; therefore, each system shall be used independently of the other. Combining values from the two systems may result in nonconformance with the standard. Reporting of results in units other than SI shall not be regarded as nonconformance with this standard.  
1.6 This practice offers a set of instructions for performing one or more specific operations. This document cannot replace education o...

General Information

• Status: Published
• Publication Date: 14-May-2018
• ICS: 13.030.40 - Installations and equipment for waste disposal and treatment
• ICS: 13.060.30 - Sewage water
• Technical Committee: D18 - Soil and Rock
• Drafting Committee: D18.01 - Surface and Subsurface Investigation

Relations

• Replaces: ASTM D5879-95(2010) - Standard Practice for Surface Site Characterization for On-Site Septic Systems
• Effective Date: 15-May-2018
• Refers: ASTM D653-14 - Standard Terminology Relating to Soil, Rock, and Contained Fluids
• Effective Date: 01-Aug-2014
• Refers: ASTM D653-11 - Standard Terminology Relating to Soil, Rock, and Contained Fluids
• Effective Date: 01-Sep-2011
• Refers: ASTM D5921-96(2010) - Standard Practice for Subsurface Site Characterization of Test Pits for On-Site Septic Systems (Withdrawn 2019)
• Effective Date: 01-May-2010
• Refers: ASTM D653-09 - Standard Terminology Relating to Soil, Rock, and Contained Fluids
• Effective Date: 01-Jan-2009
• Refers: ASTM D653-08a - Standard Terminology Relating to Soil, Rock, and Contained Fluids
• Effective Date: 01-Dec-2008
• Refers: ASTM D653-08 - Standard Terminology Relating to Soil, Rock, and Contained Fluids
• Effective Date: 01-Nov-2008
• Refers: ASTM D653-07f - Standard Terminology Relating to Soil, Rock, and Contained Fluids
• Effective Date: 15-Dec-2007
• Refers: ASTM D653-07e - Standard Terminology Relating to Soil, Rock, and Contained Fluids
• Effective Date: 01-Nov-2007
• Refers: ASTM D653-07d - Standard Terminology Relating to Soil, Rock, and Contained Fluids
• Effective Date: 01-Aug-2007
• Refers: ASTM D653-07c - Standard Terminology Relating to Soil, Rock, and Contained Fluids
• Effective Date: 01-Jul-2007
• Refers: ASTM D653-07b - Standard Terminology Relating to Soil, Rock, and Contained Fluids
• Effective Date: 01-May-2007
• Refers: ASTM D653-06 - Standard Terminology Relating to Soil, Rock, and Contained Fluids
• Effective Date: 01-Nov-2006
• Refers: ASTM D653-05 - Standard Terminology Relating to Soil, Rock, and Contained Fluids
• Effective Date: 01-Jul-2005
• Refers: ASTM D653-04 - Standard Terminology Relating to Soil, Rock, and Contained Fluids
• Effective Date: 01-Aug-2004

Overview

ASTM D5879/D5879M-18, Standard Practice for Surface Site Characterization for On-Site Septic Systems, provides a structured procedure for evaluating the suitability of a site for installing on-site septic systems. Developed by ASTM International, this standard guides professionals through initial surface site characterization, ensuring consistent, reliable, and regulatory-compliant identification of areas potentially suitable for soil absorption of septic tank wastewater. It emphasizes both visual and field instrument assessment of site characteristics, forming the foundation for subsequent subsurface evaluations (as guided by ASTM D5921).

Surface site characterization is essential for the appropriate design and placement of on-site septic systems, including soil absorption fields and constructed filter beds. By following this standard, practitioners improve their evaluation consistency and help protect public health and the environment through informed wastewater management.

Key Topics

Surface Characterization Methods

• Initial Evaluation: Identification of suitable site areas using existing site data, visual observations, and basic field equipment like clinometers for slope measurement.
• Site Features Assessed: Surface drainage, vegetation, climate, topography, property lines, water sources, human structures, and potential limiting features (such as steep slopes or proximity to water bodies).
• Exclusion of Unsuitable Areas: Objective exclusion of locations with limiting surface conditions as defined by local or state regulations.

Regulatory and Professional Requirements

• Practitioner Qualifications: Site evaluators should meet local licensing, certification, and educational standards. Familiarity with relevant regulatory frameworks and training in geomorphology, soils, geology, and hydrology is recommended.
• Documentation and Reporting: Results of surface characterization are to be integrated with subsurface findings. Practitioners should follow reporting formats mandated by regulatory agencies, typically including site maps, delineation of unsuitable areas, and recommended field areas.

Integration with Additional Site Evaluation Steps

• Subsurface Characterization: Surface site assessment sets the stage for more detailed subsurface investigations using standards like ASTM D5921.
• System Siting and Design: Information from the surface investigation supports the selection, design, and placement of on-site septic system types and the sizing of soil absorption or filter bed areas.

Applications

ASTM D5879/D5879M-18 is relevant to a variety of scenarios where the installation of on-site septic systems or alternative wastewater treatment options (such as constructed wetlands) is considered:

• Residential Properties: Evaluating and identifying locations for septic systems serving single or multi-family dwellings.
• Commercial Developments: Assessing feasibility for nonhazardous commercial wastewater treatment using natural soils or constructed filter beds.
• Land Development: Supporting planning for subdivisions, rural housing developments, or small communities without access to centralized sewage systems.
• Environmental Protection: Ensuring compliance with water quality, public health, and land use regulations by thoroughly evaluating potential septic system impacts before installation.

Consistent use of this standard helps ensure that on-site wastewater treatment systems are appropriately sited to maximize performance and minimize risk to ground and surface waters.

Related Standards

Implementing ASTM D5879/D5879M-18 is typically done in conjunction with other ASTM standards and resources, including:

• ASTM D5921: Practice for Subsurface Site Characterization of Test Pits for On-Site Septic Systems
• ASTM D5925: Practice for Preliminary Sizing and Delineation of Soil Absorption Field Areas for On-Site Septic Systems
• ASTM D653: Terminology Relating to Soil, Rock, and Contained Fluids

Additional valuable references include US EPA documents on onsite wastewater treatment and state regulatory guidance on site evaluation, percolation testing, and application rates.

By following ASTM D5879/D5879M-18 alongside these related standards, professionals and regulators promote best practices in the siting and design of on-site septic systems, leading to more sustainable and compliant wastewater management solutions.

Standards Content (Sample)

This international standard was developed in accordance with internationally recognized principles on standardization established in the Decision on Principles for the
Development of International Standards, Guides and Recommendations issued by the World Trade Organization Technical Barriers to Trade (TBT) Committee.
Designation: D5879/D5879M − 18
Standard Practice for
Surface Site Characterization for On-Site Septic Systems
This standard is issued under the fixed designation D5879/D5879M; the number immediately following the designation indicates the
year of original adoption or, in the case of revision, the year of last revision. A number in parentheses indicates the year of last
reapproval. A superscript epsilon (´) indicates an editorial change since the last revision or reapproval.
1. Scope results in units other than SI shall not be regarded as noncon-
formance with this standard.
1.1 Site characterization of surface conditions at a site for
evaluating suitability for on-site septic systems requires both 1.6 This practice offers a set of instructions for performing
simple and complex techniques that may be accomplished by one or more specific operations. This document cannot replace
many different procedures and may be variously interpreted. education or experience and should be used in conjunction
These studies are frequently site specific and are influenced by with professional judgment. Not all aspects of this practice may
geological and geographical settings, by the purpose of the site be applicable in all circumstances. This ASTM standard is not
characterization, by design requirements for the project intended to represent or replace the standard of care by which
proposed, and by the background, training, and experience of the adequacy of a given professional service must be judged,
the staff involved. nor should this document be applied without consideration of
a project’s many unique aspects. The word “Standard” in the
1.2 This standard is a guide for using the surface site
title of this document means only that the document has been
characterization for on-site septic systems method for projects
approved through the ASTM consensus process.
that require on-site sewage disposal. It is intended to improve
1.7 This international standard was developed in accor-
consistency of practice and to encourage the use of this method
dance with internationally recognized principles on standard-
as part of a site characterization program. Since the subsurface
ization established in the Decision on Principles for the
conditions at a particular site are usually the result of a
Development of International Standards, Guides and Recom-
combination of natural, geologic, topographic, and climatic
mendations issued by the World Trade Organization Technical
factors, and of historical modifications both natural and
Barriers to Trade (TBT) Committee.
manmade, an adequate and internally consistent use of a
method as part of the exploration program will allow evalua-
2. Referenced Documents
tion of the results of these influences.
2.1 ASTM Standards:
1.3 This practice can be used at any site where on-site
treatment of residential and nonhazardous commercial waste- D653 Terminology Relating to Soil, Rock, and Contained
Fluids
waters using septic tanks and natural soils or constructed filter
beds is required or an option under consideration.This practice D5921 Practice for Subsurface Site Characterization of Test
Pits for On-Site Septic Systems
may also be useful when constructed wetlands are used as an
alternative wastewater treatment method. D5925 Practice for Preliminary Sizing and Delineation of
Soil Absorption Field Areas for On-Site Septic Systems
1.4 This practice should be used in conjunction with Prac-
(Withdrawn 2005)
tices D5921 and D5925.
1.5 Units—The values stated in either SI units or inch-
3. Terminology
pound units given in brackets are to be regarded separately as
3.1 Definitions:
standard. The values stated in each system may not be exact
3.1.1 For definitions of common technical terms used in this
equivalents;therefore,eachsystemshallbeusedindependently
standard, refer to Terminology D653.
of the other. Combining values from the two systems may
result in nonconformance with the standard. Reporting of 3.2 Definitions of Terms Specific to This Standard:
1 2
This practice is under the jurisdiction of ASTM Committee D18 on Soil and For referenced ASTM standards, visit the ASTM website, www.astm.org, or
Rock and is the direct responsibility of Subcommittee D18.01 on Surface and contact ASTM Customer Service at [e-mail]. For Annual Book of ASTM
Subsurface Characterization. Standards volume information, refer to the standard’s Document Summary page on
Current edition approved May 15, 2018. Published June 2018. Originally the ASTM website.
approved in 1995. Last previous edition approved in 2010 as D5879 – 95 (2010). The last approved version of this historical standard is referenced on
DOI: 10.1520/D5879_D5879M-18. www.astm.org.
Copyright © ASTM International, 100 Barr Harbor Drive, PO Box C700, West Conshohocken, PA 19428-2959. United States
D5879/D5879M − 18
3.2.1 constructed filter bed, n—a material, usually of a certified, or meet minimum educational requirements by the
sandy texture, placed above or in an excavated portion of the local or state regulatory authority. Generally, such individuals
naturalsoilforfiltrationandpurificationofwastewaterfroman shouldbefamiliarwiththeappropriateregulatoryrequirements
on-site septic system. governing the design and placement of on-site septic systems
for the area of the site being investigated, and at least some
3.2.2 on-site septic system, n—any wastewater treatment
experience or training in geomorphology, soils, geology, and
and disposal system that uses a septic tank or functionally
hydrology.
equivalent device for collecting waste solids and treats waste-
water using natural soils, or constructed filter beds with
5.3 This practice is one step in the design of an on-site
disposal of the treated wastewater into the natural soil.
septic system that also includes subsurface characterization,
see Practice D5921, staking and protection of the soil absorp-
3.2.3 potentially suitable field area, n—the portions of a site
tion or constructed filter bed area, see Practice D5925, selec-
that remain after observable limiting surface features, such as
tion of system type, and design of the system size and
excessive slope, unsuitable landscape position, proximity to
configuration. Typically, the same individual will perform the
water supplies, and applicable setbacks, have been excluded.
surface and subsurface characterization of a site. Local regu-
3.2.4 recommended field area, n—the portion of the poten-
lation and practice will determine whether the same individual
tially suitable field area at a site that has been determined to be
is responsible for all steps in the process of locating and
most suitable for an on-site septic system soil absorption field
designing an on-site septic system. Effective surface and
or filter bed based on surface and subsurface observations.
subsurface characterization of a site for on-site septic systems,
3.2.5 soil absorption area, n—an area of natural soil used
however, requires some knowledge of the following for the
for filtration and purification of wastewater from an on-site
county or state in which the site is located: (1) on-site septic
septic system.
system types typically used for different soil conditions, and
3.2.6 soil absorption field area, n—an area that includes soil (2) typical soil absorption/filter bed areas required for different
absorption trenches and any soil barriers between the trenches.
wastewater flow rates and areal soil wastewater loading rates.
Also called a leachfield.
6. Field Equipment
3.2.7 soil absorption trench, n—an excavated trench, usu-
6.1 In addition to equipment identified in Practice D5925,
ally 0.5 to 1 m [1.5 to 3 ft] wide that receives wastewater for
additional equipment useful for site surface investigations
treatment. Also called a lateral or leachline.
include the following:
3.2.8 wastewater load rate, n—the rate with which waste-
6.1.1 Clinometer or Hand Level, and a Surveyor’s or other
water enters the soil.
rod for slope measurements;
6.1.2 Hammer, Stakes and Flagging, for marking probe or
4. Summary of Practice
auger holes and the recommended field area. If an extendable
4.1 This practice describes a procedure using existing infor-
surveyor’s rod is used, a tripod for stabilizing the rod may also
mation about a site, simple field equipment, and visual obser-
be useful. Accurate measurement of distances requires a tape
vation for identifying and evaluating all significant conditions
measure (30 m or 100 ft), although in many cases pacing may
at the surface of a site, including climate, vegetation,
be adequate for measuring approximate distances.
topography, surface drainage, water sources, and human influ-
6.2 At some sites, surveying equipment may be required to
ences (structures, property lines), that may affect the suitability
determine more definitively suitability for an on-site septic
for design and construction of an on-site septic system.
systemortoprovideadditionalinformationatthedesignstages
4.2 The procedure involves exclusion of areas that are
as described in 7.1.1. This practice does not address the use of
unsuitable for natural soil absorption or constructed filter beds
surveying equipment for such purposes.
as a result of topography, landscape position, and proximity to
surface drainage, water sources, and other limiting surface
7. Procedure
characteristics (structures, utilities, property lines). If no areas
7.1 Preliminary Documentation—All readily available in-
at a site comply with applicable regulatory requirements, no
formation about the site should be obtained and reviewed prior
additional field investigations are required.This procedure also
to visiting the site.
provides guidance on selection of the specific area or areas at
7.1.1 A survey showing the boundaries of the site is the
a site for subsurface investigation as covered in Practice
preferred method for locating the site because it can also serve
D5921.
as a base map for field observations.Alegal description of the
property can also be used to plot the site on other available
5. Significance and Use
maps or for drawing a sketch map of the site. A topographic
5.1 This practice should be used as the initial step for
survey with contour intervals of 0.25 m to 1.5 m [1 to 5 ft] will
evaluating a site for its potential to support an on-site septic
facilitate preliminary identification of potentially suitable field
system and to determine the best location for subsurface
areas and final map preparation. Usually, such maps will not be
observations as covered in Practice D5921.
available unless the site is part of a larger planned subdivision.
5.2 This practice should be used by individuals involved 7.1.2 The following information concerning local or state
with the evaluation of properties for the use of on-site septic regulatory on-site septic system siting requirements should be
systems. Such individuals may be required to be licensed, available fo
...

This document is not an ASTM standard and is intended only to provide the user of an ASTM standard an indication of what changes have been made to the previous version. Because
it may not be technically possible to adequately depict all changes accurately, ASTM recommends that users consult prior editions as appropriate. In all cases only the current version
of the standard as published by ASTM is to be considered the official document.
Designation: D5879 − 95 (Reapproved 2010) D5879/D5879M − 18
Standard Practice for
Surface Site Characterization for On-Site Septic Systems
This standard is issued under the fixed designation D5879;D5879/D5879M; the number immediately following the designation indicates
the year of original adoption or, in the case of revision, the year of last revision. A number in parentheses indicates the year of last
reapproval. A superscript epsilon (´) indicates an editorial change since the last revision or reapproval.
1. Scope
1.1 This practice covers procedures for the Site characterization of surface conditions at a site for evaluating suitability for an
on-site septic system for disposal and treatment of wastewater. This practice provides a method for identifying potentially suitable
areas for soil absorption of septic tank wastewater.systems requires both simple and complex techniques that may be accomplished
by many different procedures and may be variously interpreted. These studies are frequently site specific and are influenced by
geological and geographical settings, by the purpose of the site characterization, by design requirements for the project proposed,
and by the background, training, and experience of the staff involved.
1.2 This standard is a guide for using the surface site characterization for on-site septic systems method for projects that require
on-site sewage disposal. It is intended to improve consistency of practice and to encourage the use of this method as part of a site
characterization program. Since the subsurface conditions at a particular site are usually the result of a combination of natural,
geologic, topographic, and climatic factors, and of historical modifications both natural and manmade, an adequate and internally
consistent use of a method as part of the exploration program will allow evaluation of the results of these influences.
1.3 This practice can be used at any site where on-site treatment of residential and nonhazardous commercial wastewaters using
septic tanks and natural soils or constructed filter beds is required or an option under consideration. This practice may also be useful
when constructed wetlands are used as an alternative wastewater treatment method.
1.4 This practice should be used in conjunction with Practices D5921 and D5925.
1.5 Units—The values stated in either SI units or inch-pound units given in brackets are to be regarded separately as standard.
The values stated in each system may not be exact equivalents; therefore, each system shall be used independently of the other.
Combining values from the two systems may result in nonconformance with the standard. Reporting of results in units other than
SI shall not be regarded as nonconformance with this standard.
1.6 This practice offers a set of instructions for performing one or more specific operations. This document cannot replace
education or experience and should be used in conjunction with professional judgment. Not all aspects of this practice may be
applicable in all circumstances. This ASTM standard is not intended to represent or replace the standard of care by which the
adequacy of a given professional service must be judged, nor should this document be applied without consideration of a project’s
many unique aspects. The word “Standard” in the title of this document means only that the document has been approved through
the ASTM consensus process.
1.7 This international standard was developed in accordance with internationally recognized principles on standardization
established in the Decision on Principles for the Development of International Standards, Guides and Recommendations issued
by the World Trade Organization Technical Barriers to Trade (TBT) Committee.
2. Referenced Documents
2.1 ASTM Standards:
D653 Terminology Relating to Soil, Rock, and Contained Fluids
D5921 Practice for Subsurface Site Characterization of Test Pits for On-Site Septic Systems
This practice is under the jurisdiction of ASTM Committee D18 on Soil and Rock and is the direct responsibility of Subcommittee D18.01 on Surface and Subsurface
Characterization.
Current edition approved May 1, 2010May 15, 2018. Published September 2010June 2018. Originally approved in 1995. Last previous edition approved in 20032010 as
D5879 – 95 (2003).(2010). DOI: 10.1520/D5879-95R10.10.1520/D5879_D5879M-18.
For referenced ASTM standards, visit the ASTM website, www.astm.org, or contact ASTM Customer Service at [e-mail]. For Annual Book of ASTM Standards
volume information, refer to the standard’s Document Summary page on the ASTM website.
Copyright © ASTM International, 100 Barr Harbor Drive, PO Box C700, West Conshohocken, PA 19428-2959. United States
D5879/D5879M − 18
D5925 Practice for Preliminary Sizing and Delineation of Soil Absorption Field Areas for On-Site Septic Systems (Withdrawn
2005)
3. Terminology
3.1 clinometer, n—Definitions: an instrument for measuring inclination, as in topographic slope.
3.1.1 For definitions of common technical terms used in this standard, refer to Terminology D653.
3.2 constructed filter bed, n—a material, usually of a sandy texture, placed above or in an excavated portion of the natural soil
for filtration and purification of wastewater from an on-site septic system.
3.2 Definitions of Terms Specific to This Standard:
3.2.1 constructed filter bed, n—a material, usually of a sandy texture, placed above or in an excavated portion of the natural soil
for filtration and purification of wastewater from an on-site septic system.
3.2.2 on-site septic system, n—any wastewater treatment and disposal system that uses a septic tank or functionally equivalent
device for collecting waste solids and treats wastewater using natural soils, or constructed filter beds with disposal of the treated
wastewater into the natural soil.
3.2.3 potentially suitable field area, n—the portions of a site that remain after observable limiting surface features, such as
excessive slope, unsuitable landscape position, proximity to water supplies, and applicable setbacks, have been excluded.
3.2.4 recommended field area, n—the portion of the potentially suitable field area at a site that has been determined to be most
suitable for an on-site septic system soil absorption field or filter bed based on surface and subsurface observations.
3.2.5 soil absorption area, n—an area of natural soil used for filtration and purification of wastewater from an on-site septic
system.
3.2.6 soil absorption field area, n—an area that includes soil absorption trenches and any soil barriers between the trenches. Also
called a leachfield.
3.2.7 soil absorption trench, n—an excavated trench, usually 0.5 to 1 m [1.5 to 3 ft] wide that receives wastewater for treatment.
Also called a lateral or leachline.
3.2.8 wastewater load rate, n—the rate with which wastewater enters the soil.
3.3 on-site septic system, n—any wastewater treatment and disposal system that uses a septic tank or functionally equivalent
device for collecting waste solids and treats wastewater using natural soils, or constructed filter beds with disposal of the treated
wastewater into the natural soil.
3.4 potentially suitable field area, n—the portions of a site that remain after observable limiting surface features, such as
excessive slope, unsuitable landscape position, proximity to water supplies, and applicable setbacks, have been excluded.
3.5 recommended field area, n—the portion of the potentially suitable field area at a site that has been determined to be most
suitable for an on-site septic system soil absorption field or filter bed based on surface and subsurface observations.
3.6 soil absorption area, n—an area of natural soil used for filtration and purification of wastewater from an on-site septic
system.
3.7 soil absorption field area, n—an area that includes soil absorption trenches and any soil barriers between the trenches. Also
called a leachfield.
3.8 soil absorption trench, n—an excavated trench, usually 1.5 to 3 ft wide that receives wastewater for treatment. Also called
a lateral or leachline.
4. Summary of Practice
4.1 This practice describes a procedure using existing information about a site, simple field equipment, and visual observation
for identifying and evaluating all significant conditions at the surface of a site, including climate, vegetation, topography, surface
drainage, water sources, and human influences (structures, property lines), that may affect the suitability for design and
construction of an on-site septic system.
4.2 This practice describes a procedure using existing information about a site, simple field equipment, and visual observation
for identifying and evaluating all significant conditions at the surface of a site, including climate, vegetation, topography, surface
drainage, water sources, and human influences (structures, property lines), that may affect the suitability for design and
construction of an on-site septic system. The procedure involves exclusion of areas that are unsuitable for natural soil absorption
or constructed filter beds as a result of topography, landscape position, and proximity to surface drainage, water sources, and other
limiting surface characteristics (structures, utilities, property lines). If no areas at a site comply with applicable regulatory
The last approved version of this historical standard is referenced on www.astm.org.
D5879/D5879M − 18
requirements, no additional field investigations are required. This procedure also provides guidance on selection of the specific area
or areas at a site for subsurface investigation as covered in Practice D5921.
5. Significance and Use
5.1 This practice should be used as the initial step for evaluating a site for its potential to support an on-site septic system and
to determine the best location for subsurface observations as covered in Practice D5921.
5.2 This practice should be used by individuals involved with the evaluation of properties for the use of on-site septic systems.
Such individuals may be required to be licensed, certified, or meet minimum educational requirements by the local or state
regulatory authority. Generally, such individuals should be familiar with the appropriate regulatory requirements governing the
design and placement of on-site septic systems for the area of the site being investigated, and at least some experience or training
in geomorphology, soils, geology, and hydrology.
5.3 This practice is one step in the design of an on-site septic system that also includes subsurface characterization, see Practice
D5921, staking and protection of the soil absorption or constructed filter bed area, see Practice D5925, selection of system type,
and design of the system size and configuration. Typically, the same individual will perform the surface and subsurface
characterization of a site. Local regulation and practice will determine whether the same individual is responsible for all steps in
the process of locating and designing an on-site septic system. Effective surface and subsurface characterization of a site for on-site
septic systems, however, requires some knowledge of the following for the county or state in which the site is located: (1) on-site
septic system types typically used for different soil conditions, and (2) typical soil absorption/filter bed areas required for different
wastewater flow rates and areal soil wastewater loading rates.
6. Field Equipment
6.1 In addition to equipment identified in Practice D5925, additional equipment useful for site surface investigations include the
following:
6.1.1 Clinometer or Hand Level, and a Surveyor’s or other rod for slope measurements;
6.1.2 Hammer, Stakes and Flagging, for marking probe or auger holes and the recommended field area. If an extendable
surveyor’s rod is used, a tripod for stabilizing the rod may also be useful. Accurate measurement of distances requires a tape
measure (30 m or 100 ft), although forin many investigationscases pacing may be adequate for measuring approximate distances.
6.2 At some sites, surveying equipment may be required to determine more definitively suitability for an on-site septic system
or to provide additional information at the design stages. Examples of suchstages as described in 7.1.1situations include marginal
sites where accurate measurements of a recommended field area are required to determine if the suitable area is large enough and
sites where accurate topographic contours are required for engineering design of constructed filter beds. . This practice does
...