Can I Cover My Septic Tank Lid With Dirt? (Explained)
Ever wondered if you can hide that ugly septic tank lid with a little dirt?
Burying it might seem like a quick fix, but it can actually cause more trouble than it’s worth.
In this post, I’ll explain why you shouldn’t cover the septic tank lid with dirt and the problems it will cause. Plus, I’ll show you a few other ways to hide the lid.
Can I Cover My Septic Tank Lid With Dirt
You can cover your septic tank lid with a little bit of dirt.
About 2 – 3 inches of topsoil is usually okay. You can even add some patio stone or wood chips.
It’s enough to help the lid blend in with your lawn but not so much that it causes problems. So don’t go too crazy with the dirt.
Here’s why you wouldn’t want to add any more dirt than that:
Also Read: Septic Tank Baffle Clog
#1 Harder To Access And Find
Your septic tank needs check-ups – at least once every 1 -3 years, and there’s a good chance you’ll forget where the lid was by then.
That is the biggest problem.
If you bury that lid under a pile of dirt, you’re making it really difficult for septic guys to do their job.
They might end up spending more time digging around trying to find the lid than actually maintaining your system. Plus removing all that dirt is hard work.
And the longer it takes them to find and access your tank, the more it might cost you.
Plus, if there’s ever an emergency with your system, you don’t want to be out there with a shovel when every second counts.
#2 Safety Issues
Covering your septic tank lid with too much dirt can be dangerous too.
Over time, the lid can get damaged or worn out under all that dirt because they are not always designed to handle the weight and pressure of being buried.
If someone’s walking around your yard and doesn’t know there’s a tank there, they could be in for a nasty surprise.
Even if the lid isn’t worn, you can never know if it will support the weight.
This is especially risky for kids or pets who might be playing in the yard.
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#3 Accidental Damage
Keeping the septic tank lid visible acts like a marker for where the tank is located.
If you can’t see where the lid is, you might accidentally drive over it with your car or it could be damaged if you do things like construction or heavy landscaping.
Next thing you know, you’ve got a cracked lid and potentially a big mess on your hands.
It’s not just about the repair costs – you could end up with sewage seeping into your yard, and nobody wants that.
#4 Dirt Can Block Air Flow
Believe it or not, your septic system needs to breathe.
Some lids have small vents that let gasses escape and keep the right pressure in your tank.
If you cover these vents with dirt, you block the air flow.
This can lead to all sorts of problems – weird smells, a system that’s not working as well as it should, and in worst-case scenarios, a complete system failure.
Other Ways To Hide Septic Tank Lids
So covering your lid with a ton of dirt is out. But don’t worry, you’ve got options!
Here are some creative ways to keep your lid out of sight without causing trouble:
Potted Plants
Placing potted plants around your septic tank lid is a great way to add some greenery to your yard while hiding the lid.
However, get smaller, slower-growing varieties to avoid them getting too large and potentially blocking access or damaging the lid with aggressive root systems.
Some great choices are dwarf hostas, ornamental grasses, or colorful succulents.
Plus, you get the added benefit of enjoying these plants in your yard!
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Fake Rock Covers
If you are looking for a more low-maintenance solution, fake rock covers are the best.
They come in all sorts of styles, so you can match your yard’s vibe. Just make sure to pick one that fits your lid. They’re lightweight, easy to remove, and look just like real rocks.
Your neighbors will never know the difference!
You can easily move them when you need to access the tank.
They are practical and stylish.
Decorative Wells
Why stop at hiding your septic tank when you can turn it into a feature?
Install a decorative well or wishing well over the septic tank lid!
These ornamental features can add a charming touch to your yard while hiding the lid.
Just make sure the well is easily removable and doesn’t block access or ventilation for the tank.
Septic Tank Riser
Now, if you’re looking for a more practical solution, consider installing a septic tank riser.
A riser extends the tank’s opening to ground level or slightly above, so you can keep a low-profile lid that’s easier to blend into your landscaping.
This not only improves accessibility but also cuts down on the digging needed during maintenance visits.
