Florida Septic Tank Contractor Practice
Exam Questions And Correct Answers
(Verified Answers) Plus Rationales
2025|2026 Q&A | Instant Download Pdf
1.
Q: What is the maximum allowable effluent disposal rate for a standard
absorption trench system in Florida sandy soil?
A: 1.2 gallons per square foot per day
Rationale: Florida code sets disposal loading rates based on soil texture.
For sandy soil, 1.2 gpd/ft² is the maximum to prevent hydraulic overload.
2.
Q: What is the minimum septic tank size for a three-bedroom residence in
Florida?
A: 900 gallons
,Rationale: Florida Administrative Code 64E-6 requires a minimum 900-
gallon tank for up to three bedrooms to ensure sufficient detention time.
3.
Q: How often must a septic tank contractor renew their state license in
Florida?
A: Every two years
Rationale: Licenses expire biennially; continuing education and renewal
fees are required for active status.
4.
Q: What is the minimum separation distance between a septic tank and a
private potable water well in Florida?
A: 75 feet
Rationale: To protect groundwater, code requires at least 75 feet between
septic tanks and private wells.
5.
Q: What type of pipe is most commonly required for gravity-fed drainfield
distribution lines in Florida?
A: 4-inch perforated PVC SDR-35
Rationale: PVC SDR-35 with perforations is standard for drainfield
distribution due to durability and flow capacity.
6.
,Q: What is the minimum cover required over drainfield pipes?
A: 12 inches
Rationale: At least 12 inches of soil cover protects pipes and allows proper
filtration.
7.
Q: What does the term “percolation rate” measure?
A: The time it takes water to drop one inch in soil
Rationale: Percolation rate quantifies soil absorption capacity and is used
in sizing drainfields.
8.
Q: In Florida, what soil condition requires the use of an alternative drainfield
system?
A: High water table within 24 inches of trench bottom
Rationale: A shallow water table increases contamination risk; alternative
systems like mounds are mandated.
9.
Q: What is the primary purpose of a septic tank baffle?
A: To prevent solids from leaving the tank and entering the drainfield
Rationale: Baffles slow flow and retain solids, protecting the drainfield
from clogging.
10.
, Q: What is the minimum setback from a septic tank to a surface water body
in Florida?
A: 75 feet
Rationale: Same as well setback, designed to prevent direct pollution of
surface water.
11.
Q: What is the minimum depth of cover required over septic tanks in
Florida?
A: 6 inches
Rationale: Florida code requires a minimum of 6 inches to protect tanks
and allow access.
12.
Q: What is the typical detention time for sewage in a properly sized septic
tank?
A: 24 to 48 hours
Rationale: This duration allows solids to settle and scum to float, preparing
effluent for drainfield discharge.
13.
Q: Which Florida agency regulates onsite sewage treatment and disposal
systems?
A: Florida Department of Health
Exam Questions And Correct Answers
(Verified Answers) Plus Rationales
2025|2026 Q&A | Instant Download Pdf
1.
Q: What is the maximum allowable effluent disposal rate for a standard
absorption trench system in Florida sandy soil?
A: 1.2 gallons per square foot per day
Rationale: Florida code sets disposal loading rates based on soil texture.
For sandy soil, 1.2 gpd/ft² is the maximum to prevent hydraulic overload.
2.
Q: What is the minimum septic tank size for a three-bedroom residence in
Florida?
A: 900 gallons
,Rationale: Florida Administrative Code 64E-6 requires a minimum 900-
gallon tank for up to three bedrooms to ensure sufficient detention time.
3.
Q: How often must a septic tank contractor renew their state license in
Florida?
A: Every two years
Rationale: Licenses expire biennially; continuing education and renewal
fees are required for active status.
4.
Q: What is the minimum separation distance between a septic tank and a
private potable water well in Florida?
A: 75 feet
Rationale: To protect groundwater, code requires at least 75 feet between
septic tanks and private wells.
5.
Q: What type of pipe is most commonly required for gravity-fed drainfield
distribution lines in Florida?
A: 4-inch perforated PVC SDR-35
Rationale: PVC SDR-35 with perforations is standard for drainfield
distribution due to durability and flow capacity.
6.
,Q: What is the minimum cover required over drainfield pipes?
A: 12 inches
Rationale: At least 12 inches of soil cover protects pipes and allows proper
filtration.
7.
Q: What does the term “percolation rate” measure?
A: The time it takes water to drop one inch in soil
Rationale: Percolation rate quantifies soil absorption capacity and is used
in sizing drainfields.
8.
Q: In Florida, what soil condition requires the use of an alternative drainfield
system?
A: High water table within 24 inches of trench bottom
Rationale: A shallow water table increases contamination risk; alternative
systems like mounds are mandated.
9.
Q: What is the primary purpose of a septic tank baffle?
A: To prevent solids from leaving the tank and entering the drainfield
Rationale: Baffles slow flow and retain solids, protecting the drainfield
from clogging.
10.
, Q: What is the minimum setback from a septic tank to a surface water body
in Florida?
A: 75 feet
Rationale: Same as well setback, designed to prevent direct pollution of
surface water.
11.
Q: What is the minimum depth of cover required over septic tanks in
Florida?
A: 6 inches
Rationale: Florida code requires a minimum of 6 inches to protect tanks
and allow access.
12.
Q: What is the typical detention time for sewage in a properly sized septic
tank?
A: 24 to 48 hours
Rationale: This duration allows solids to settle and scum to float, preparing
effluent for drainfield discharge.
13.
Q: Which Florida agency regulates onsite sewage treatment and disposal
systems?
A: Florida Department of Health
