The period of widespread adoption of on-site wastewater treatment systems, particularly those relying on underground tanks for solids separation and effluent dispersal, occurred mainly in the mid-20th century. This era saw a significant increase in suburban and rural development, often beyond the reach of centralized sewage infrastructure. Consequently, individual properties needed independent solutions for managing household wastewater.
The increasing demand for sanitation in areas lacking municipal sewage lines drove the prevalence of these systems. They provided a relatively cost-effective and readily implementable solution for treating wastewater on-site, reducing the risk of waterborne diseases and improving overall public health in areas where constructing extensive sewer networks was impractical or economically unfeasible. The independence offered by these systems also aligned with the desires of many homeowners seeking autonomy in managing their property’s infrastructure.