Restrictions on Lagoon Vs. Septic in Missouri

Lagoons for Isolated Homes

• A correctly installed lagoon is an acceptable solution for an isolated home with moderate waste. It needs to be properly sealed on the bottom so that the waste water does not seep into local aquifers. This is an especially important consideration in Missouri because of its karst topography. Karst topography means that Missouri has a limestone underlayment throughout much of the state, which lends itself to numerous underground caves and streams. The lagoon should be downhill from water wells, and should not drain into any streams. Many rural areas in Missouri do not have restrictions, but some do. Check with county zoning authorities before building, as regulations vary across the state.

Septic Tank Installations

• Septic tanks with a leach field are the preferred sanitation solution in suburbs and housing developments. Each house will need its own septic system. Aside from industry standards, actual regulations governing the installation of septic tanks will vary from county to county and from town to town. Be sure to check zoning laws and local regulations before building.

Urban Areas

• Most towns and cities in Missouri have sewers and wastewater management plants, and do not allow septic tanks or lagoons within their city limits. A home owner must connect to the city's sewer and water system. These regulations help prevent sanitation problems from improperly installed or regulated sanitary systems in a more heavily populated area.

Alternatives to Lagoons, Septic Tanks and Sewer Systems

• Many Missouri parks provide outhouses. These are toilets that sit directly above a concrete-lined pit. This type of sanitary facility was once also provided to rural schools. Once or twice yearly, depending upon the frequency of use of the facility, a tanker truck will pump out the contents of the pit and take it to a waste treatment plant. Individual home owners may choose to install modern composting toilets. Installed according to manufacturers directions and correctly maintained, these will meet local standards anywhere a lagoon is allowed.