Arizona Plumbing Practice Exam

What is the minimum required distance a sewer system must be from an open waterway?

1. 50 feet

2. 100 feet

3. 150 feet

4. 200 feet

The correct answer is: 100 feet

The minimum required distance of a sewer system from an open waterway is established to safeguard public health and ensure environmental protection. Maintaining this distance helps to prevent contamination of the waterway from potential leaks or spills from the sewer system, which could introduce harmful pathogens and pollutants into the water. Setting this requirement at a distance of 100 feet is based on various factors, including soil type, topography, and the capacity of the natural environment to filter contaminants. This distance is deemed sufficient to provide a buffer zone that reduces the risk of sewage effluents adversely affecting the quality of the waterway. While in some cases, distances may vary based on local regulations or specific site conditions, the established standard of 100 feet represents a commonly accepted practice in plumbing and environmental management. This standard is usually enforced by plumbing codes and environmental regulations to ensure safety and hygiene in communities.