Septic vs. Sewer: 5 Easy Ways to Tell What Your House Has

Every home has a wastewater system, but they generally fall into two categories: a private septic system or a connection to a municipal sewer. The type of system you have impacts your maintenance responsibilities, utility bills, and even what you can plant in your yard. Here’s how to find out which one you have.

Method 1: Check Your Water Bill

This is often the quickest and most definitive method. Your monthly water utility bill contains detailed line items for the services you receive.

• Look for a "Sewer" Charge: If you see a line item for "sewer service," "wastewater treatment," or something similar, your home is connected to a municipal sewer system.
• No Sewer Charge: If your bill only shows charges for water usage, you are almost certainly on a septic system. Homeowners with septic systems are responsible for their own wastewater treatment and don't pay a monthly sewer fee.

Method 2: Inspect Your Yard for Clues

A walk around your property can reveal tell-tale signs of a septic system. You're looking for components that wouldn't be present with a sewer connection.

• Lids or Covers: The most obvious sign is one or two concrete or green plastic lids in your yard. These are the access ports for the septic tank.
• Drain Field: Look for a large, open area of your yard where the grass might look different. This could be the drain field (or leach field), where treated wastewater is dispersed into the soil.
• Vent Pipe: Sometimes, a vent pipe sticking out of the ground can indicate the end of the drain field.

Method 3: Check Public Records

Just like finding a septic tank, public records can confirm your wastewater system type. Your local county or city government keeps detailed records on every property.

• Property Permit Search: Search your address in your county's online permit database. Look for a septic system installation permit or an "as-built" diagram.
• Sewer Connection Permit: Alternatively, you might find a permit for connection to the public sewer line.
• Use a Service: An online service like TankFindr can instantly tell you if a septic permit exists for your address, classifying your property as "Septic," "Sewer," or "Unknown."

Method 4: Look at Your Neighbors' Properties

In most neighborhoods, especially those built around the same time, properties will have the same type of wastewater system.

• Urban/Suburban Areas: If you live in a densely populated city or suburb, you are most likely on a sewer system.
• Rural/Older Areas: If you live in a rural area or an older neighborhood that was developed before sewer lines were extended, you are likely on a septic system.
• Ask Around: Simply asking a long-time neighbor is a quick way to get a reliable answer.

Method 5: Trace the Main Drain Pipe

Follow the main sewer line from your house. The destination tells the story.

1. Find the Pipe: Locate the 4-inch main drain pipe in your basement or crawlspace.
2. Check for a Water Meter: If the pipe exits your house and goes towards the street, look for a water meter pit near the curb. If you have a water meter for your sewer line, you're on a public system.
3. Direction of the Pipe: If the pipe heads towards an open area of your yard (not towards the street), it's heading to a septic tank.