Septic tanks should be avoided in areas such as:

Septic tanks should be avoided in areas where surface water accumulates because the presence of excessive water can lead to several problems. When surface water gathers, it can saturate the soil surrounding the septic system, which interferes with the absorption of effluent into the ground. This saturation can overwhelm the system, leading to backups and overflows, which not only cause potential environmental contamination but can also pose health risks to nearby residents and the general community.

In such areas, the ability of the soil to filter and treat wastewater effectively is compromised. Proper functioning of a septic system relies on the soil's capacity to drain and filter out harmful pollutants, which is diminished when the ground is inundated with water. Selecting a location that experiences a high accumulation of surface water would be detrimental to the performance of the septic system, making it crucial to avoid such sites for installation.