Arizona Plumbing Practice Exam

What is the minimum distance a sewage seepage pit can be from a water main?

1. 5 feet

2. 10 feet

3. 15 feet

4. 20 feet

The correct answer is: 10 feet

The correct answer is that a sewage seepage pit must be at least 10 feet away from a water main. This distance is critical for ensuring the safety and sanitary conditions of the water supply. A minimum distance helps to prevent contamination of the potable water system due to potential leakage or seepage from the sewage pit. The 10-foot guideline is established to provide a buffer that minimizes risks associated with accidental releases of untreated or partially treated waste into the surrounding soil, where it could travel and reach the water main. It also adheres to health and safety regulations that aim to protect public health by maintaining the integrity of the drinking water supply. While other distance options may seem ample, they exceed the minimum standard without providing additional necessary protection, as the 10-foot distance is designed based on hydrological studies of contaminant dispersal and local geology.