Duane K. Stewart & Associates has compiled a list of our most frequently asked questions and answers. If your question is not answered below, please contact us.

Does North Carolina use the stormwater multi-sector permit?

In short, North Carolina does not use the multi-sector permit. In states where the EPA administers the NPDES stormwater program, the multi-sector permit is used. The EPA has delegated authority to administer the stormwater program to some states—North Carolina is one of those states. NC chose to set up a program using a series of general permits based on categories of users. The general permits are listed on the NC Department of Environment and Natural Resources web site. (NCDENR)

What can I do about stormwater that now flows into my yard from a new development?

New development sometimes causes stormwater to flow rather than be absorbed into the ground. This occurs when trees and plants are removed, and/or impervious surfaces are created, by paving. The NC Department of Environment and Natural Resources, Division of Water Quality has regulations that address this concern in specific areas of the state. If you live in one of these specific areas or your county or municipality has local stormwater ordinances, you may have some recourse for protecting your property. However, if you do not fall within either of these categories, your only other option may be to take private legal action. Contact your local government for more information. (NCDENR)

When is a survey needed?

A survey is strongly recommended before buying, subdividing, improving or building on land. Surveying the parcel before these activities ensures that the expense and frustration of defending a lawsuit, moving a building, or resolving a boundary dispute can be avoided.

What qualities should I look for in a surveying company?

It is very important to choose a surveyor who is familiar with your locality. In many cases, a local surveyor may have performed work in the area which will provide information that is not available through other sources. The surveyor should be able to provide you with a list of clients for whom similar work has been performed.

How do I locate a Professional Land Surveyor in my area?

A directory of licensed surveyors in North Carolina can be found by visiting the NC Board of Examiners for Engineers and Surveyors web site, or by calling (919) 841-4000. Surveyors are also listed in the yellow pages. Referrals may also be obtained from town officials, your attorney, or your lender.

Do I need an onsite wastewater treatment system?

You need to consider an onsite wastewater treatment or disposal system if you live outside the reach of a centralized wastewater system.

How do I choose an appropriate onsite wastewater system?

Environmental appropriateness is the most critical factor when determining the suitability of a particular onsite disposal system for a specific land type. Another factor is cost effectiveness of the system; both initial capital costs and long-term operation and maintenance costs should be taken into consideration. We provide a step-by-step plan for choosing your system. You can also contact the Environmental Protection Agency, the National Small Flows Clearinghouse, or the NC Department of Environment and Natural Resources for more information on different wastewater collection, treatment and disposal technologies.

Who will manage my onsite wastewater system?

For very basic/conventional onsite systems, the property owner is typically responsible for seeing that any necessary repairs are made and problems are corrected, as revealed through inspections or observed by the property owner. For more sophisticated types of onsite systems, a maintenance contract may be required under the permit to operate the system. In some cases, a local designated management entity might assume responsibility for the on-going care of onsite systems within its jurisdiction. A monthly user fee might be charged for this service.

How often do I need to clean out my septic tank?

Decades of data on septic systems shows that septic tanks should be pumped once every two to five years. This prevents solids, oils and grease from building up to a level in the tank where they will begin to be washed out to the drainfield and clog the field lines. Periodic pumping of the septic tank can prevent high repair and/or replacement costs for the drainfield.

What should I do if my septic system leaks?

Leaking septic tanks should be replaced to prevent adverse impacts to public or environmental health. A good reason to have periodic re-inspections of all onsite systems is to identify leaking septic tanks. The effluent from a septic tank flows either to a subsurface drainfield for final treatment and disposal in the soil system, or is treated further to a level needed for the particular site conditions, prior to either subsurface or surface disposal.

Is state funding available to repair or replace septic systems?

Grants and/or loans may be available to individuals and agencies for assistance in repairing or replacing inadequate wastewater treatment systems (both septic and straight-pipe systems). See the NC Department of Environment and Natural Resources, Onsite Wastewater Section web site for the most up-to-date information.

What is zoning and where does it apply?

Zoning districts are established to promote compatible patterns of land use within the city limits. Zoning districts also establish site development regulations and performance standards appropriate to the purposes and the uses allowed in each district. Distinct zoning districts exist for residential, office, retail and industrial uses. Furthermore, specific use restrictions, site development regulations or performance standards may apply to zoning districts combined with special overlay or combining districts.

As part of the zoning process, appropriate land uses for an area are identified based on such factors as the intensity, density, height of a proposed project, surrounding land uses, traffic impacts and access to a site, environmental concerns and overall compatibility. Zoning changes may be required for a change of land use or alteration of a building or site within the city limits. To determine whether a zoning change is required contact your local authorities.

What is PDF format and why won't my web browser display it?

PDF format is a special format that can be viewed using a free Reader from Adobe Acrobat. Just go to the Adobe Acrobat web page to download a copy of the software for free.

What if I have a question that is not included in this FAQ list?

Great! Please send your question to info@dksa-tsi.com and we will post it if it appears to be of broad interest to our readers.