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Driving cars or machinery over your septic system will crush it.  The soil surrounding the pipes may also be compacted making it less adept at absorbing sewage flows.  Snowmobiles compress the snow cover over the field reducing its natural insulating effect and increasing the risk of the pipes freezing.


Septic tanks work better at warmer temperatures.  Insulating the top of the tank can help avoid sewage freezing under extreme conditions.  Planting trees and shrubs (especially willows and poplars) near the field is risky because their roots travel significant distances to seek water and can damage and plug pipes.  Watering of the grass over the field whether by inground systems or by hand, should be eliminated or minimized.  Watering interferes with the soil's ability to absorb liquids and break down wastes.

Discharged waste flows from home water treatment units, furnace condensate discharges and water softener backwash  are strains that your septic system doesn't need.  These should go to leaching pits.  Likewise, building slumps, as well as run-off from roofs, patios and driveways, should be directed to splash pads away from the tank and leaching bed.

The drainage field is a specialized system, doing a vital job.  Keep it dry, don't plant near it and keep heavy things off the grass!