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There are a few reasons a septic tank needs to come out of the ground. Maybe you're connecting to a municipal sewer line, the system has failed, or the tank is sitting right where new construction needs to go. Whatever the situation, septic removal isn't a DIY job, and it's not something you want to cut corners on. Advanced Septic offers septic removal in Citrus County for homeowners and builders who need it done safely, legally, and without leaving behind a mess. Permits, environmental regulations, and proper disposal all factor into the process, and skipping any of those steps can land you in trouble. This guide lays out what's involved so you know what to expect before the crew shows up.
Connecting to the city sewer is one of the most common reasons. When a municipality extends sewer lines into a previously rural area, property owners get the option to hook up. At that point, the old septic system becomes obsolete. Some counties require full removal within a certain timeframe after connection. Others allow abandonment in place, but removal eliminates future liability.
System failure is another trigger. If your tank has cracked walls, a collapsed lid, or contamination that can't be fixed, removal may be the only real option. Repairing a severely damaged tank costs nearly as much as installing a new one, and you're left with a patched-up system that could fail again. Removal clears the slate for a fresh install.
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New construction or property changes also drive removal. If you're adding a garage, a pool, or an addition that sits over your current drainfield or tank, you'll need to relocate or eliminate the system. Developers working on subdivisions or commercial projects pull old tanks all the time to make room for new infrastructure. Leaving a decommissioned tank underground creates sinkholes and liability, so removal is the cleaner solution.
You can't just dig up a tank and haul it off. The Florida Department of Health oversees the process. You'll submit an application that includes your property survey, proof of sewer connection or a plan for replacement, and documentation that the tank will be disposed of legally. The health department reviews the application and issues a permit before excavation starts.
Environmental regulations dictate how waste gets handled. Any remaining sludge or effluent must be pumped and transported by a licensed hauler to an approved treatment facility. You can't drain wastewater onto the ground or into storm drains. The tank has to be crushed, recycled, or taken to a landfill that accepts septic materials. Concrete tanks get crushed on-site or hauled whole. Fiberglass and plastic tanks are cut apart and recycled when possible.
Septic inspections happen after removal. The health department sends an inspector to verify that the tank was removed correctly, the hole was filled with clean material, and no contamination remains. You'll get a closure certificate once everything checks out. Without that certificate, you could run into problems when you sell the property or apply for future permits.
The first step is to pump the tank completely. A septic company sends a vacuum truck to remove all liquid and solids. This prevents spillage during excavation and makes the tank lighter to lift. The crew also checks for structural damage at this stage. If the tank has collapsed or shifted, removal becomes more complicated.
Excavation comes next. Heavy equipment digs around the tank to expose the walls as well as the inlet and outlet pipes. The crew cuts the pipes and seals them to prevent soil or groundwater from entering. Depending on the tank's size and condition, they'll either lift it out whole with a crane or break it apart in the hole. Concrete tanks that are too large or too damaged to lift get demolished on-site with a hydraulic hammer.
Once the tank is out, the hole is inspected for contamination. If the tank leaked or the drainfield failed, the surrounding soil may be saturated with effluent. Contaminated soil gets excavated and disposed of separately. The crew then backfills the hole with clean fill dirt or gravel, compacting it in layers to prevent settling. The surface is graded to match the surrounding terrain, and sod or seed can be added if needed.
Septic waste contains bacteria, viruses, and chemicals that pose health risks. Crew members wear gloves, boots, and protective clothing during removal. Anyone working near the tank avoids direct contact with sludge or contaminated soil. The site is marked off to keep pets and bystanders away until the work is complete.
Groundwater protection is a priority. If the tank sat near a well, pond, or wetland, extra care goes into preventing contamination during excavation. The crew monitors for leaks or spills and contains any waste immediately. Contaminated soil doesn't mix with clean fill, and all materials get hauled to the correct disposal facility.
Tank collapse is a serious danger. Old concrete tanks can cave in under their own weight once they're exposed. Workers stay clear of the excavation while heavy equipment does the lifting. If a tank breaks apart unexpectedly, the crew adjusts the plan to remove it in pieces rather than forcing a dangerous lift.
The backfilled area will eventually start to settle. Even with proper compaction, soil shifts as it adjusts to moisture and gravity. You might notice a slight dip in the first few months. Adding a layer of topsoil and compacting it again usually solves the problem. If you're planning to build over the old tank location, wait a season to let the ground stabilize.
Future buyers will want to know the tank was removed correctly. Keep your permit, closure certificate, and any inspection reports in your property file. These documents prove the work was done legally and reduce questions during a sale. They also protect you from liability if a sinkhole or contamination issue comes up later.
Are you looking for a qualified local septic company? Septic tank removal in Citrus County requires permits, proper disposal, and attention to safety and environmental rules. Cutting corners leads to fines, contamination, and property damage. Advanced Septic takes care of every step, from permit applications to final grading, so you don't have to worry about whether the job meets code. Call us to schedule an assessment and get a clear timeline and cost estimate for your project.
I have used advanced septic in 2 counties. Twice in citrus. Both occasions they came with a truck that was pristine and clean. The two men were in uniforms that were well cared for, they had manners and Greg was exceptional. Thank you advance septic again for excellent customer service.
This is the 2nd time we have used this company to pump our septic tank and both times the entire experience has been great. From the office personnel to the men in the truck you know you are dealing with a company who cares and wants to help. Fast, friendly, reliable, and affordable septic service!
Amazing company and the best customer service, Kim in the office is fantastic, such as pleasure to speak with. I have never had any septic tank issues, Advanced Septic cleans out my tank every 3 years and they are always on time, super fast appointment times, they email you photos of the work they did as well as your receipt. I love supporting local, family owned businesses in Citrus County. Thank you to the entire team at Advanced Septic.
Advanced Septic provided our organization with portable potties for our Dragon Boat event last weekend. They arrived on time and were picked up on time. During the event we needed service and the person on call was friendly, helpful and quick to respond! The employees who came out to handle things were ALL polite, efficient, and professional! Advanced has outstanding customer service and amazing follow through. Also, they were competitively priced. We highly recommend this company!
I am very satisfied I chose Advanced to replace our 30 year old drain field. Outside of having to have the tank pumped 3 times waiting on the county to issue a permit, the process took a reasonable amount of time. The cost was in line with other septic companies but I ultimately chose Advanced because they are a local company run by good people.
I had an issue where the toilet was gurgling and backing up into the shower. I called Advanced and they sent a crew the same day. Matthew and Jay were very polite and thoroughly explained the problem. They fixed the issue and cleaned everything up I’m very pleased with my experience with Advanced Septic and highly recommend them!
Absolutely fantastic job! Pat and Mike rocked this! Just recently had another septic pumped in Central Florida area and they destroyed the front yard....this is as Pat says “ should not look like anyone has been here”. KUDOS for keeping it nice!!
Yesterday, Advance Septic technicians, Kobe and Preston came out to install a riser and lid on my septic tank. They were friendly, fast, and efficient. They even cleaned up the site too! I’ve been wanting to get this done for a long time. So I am very happy and satisfied.
Your local health department may have the original permit on file with a site diagram. A technician can also probe the ground or use other methods to locate the tank if no records are available.