System Type

Definition

Common Features

Best For / Considerations

Septic – Aerobic

Uses oxygen and an air pump to promote aerobic bacterial digestion of waste; must be recorded with deed

• Requires electricity
• High-quality effluent
• Often includes disinfection

Sites with poor soil or small lots; requires regular maintenance

Septic – Conventional

Basic system with a septic tank and gravity-fed drainfield

• Simple design
• Low cost
• Passive operation

Areas with good soil and ample space

Septic – Engineered

Custom-designed system for difficult sites. 

• Includes pumps or filters
• Site-specific
• May use pressure distribution

Poor soil, steep slopes, shallow bedrock, or high water table

Septic – Mound

Elevated drainfield constructed in a sand mound

•  Above-ground leach area
• Includes dosing tank
• Higher maintenance

Sites with shallow soil, high water table, or poor drainage

Septic – Shared

One septic system serving multiple properties

• Cost-sharing
• Requires legal agreement
• Coordinated maintenance

Small communities, duplexes, or adjacent homes

Sewer – Community

Centralized system for a development or group of homes

• Managed professionally
• Larger scale
• Advanced treatment possible

Rural developments; areas without access to public sewer

Sewer – Public

Municipal wastewater collection and treatment

• Centralized treatment
• Monthly utility fees
•  Strictly regulated

Urban/suburban areas; highly reliable with minimal homeowner involvement