What is the minimum distance a septic tank should be constructed from a water supply source to avoid contamination?

The concept of maintaining a safe distance between a septic tank and a water supply source is crucial for preventing the contamination of drinking water. The correct answer, which specifies a distance of 15.2 meters, aligns with standard health and safety guidelines aimed at minimizing the risk of pathogens and pollutants from the septic system infiltrating the water supply.

This distance is based on multiple factors, including the nature of soil filtration, the potential for groundwater movement, and the type of contaminants associated with wastewater. Adequate separation ensures that any contaminants have sufficient distance and time to attenuate through the soil before reaching the water supply, significantly reducing the risk of contamination.

The other distances provided may not meet the recommended safety standards set by public health guidelines or regulatory bodies, potentially leaving water sources vulnerable to pollution from septic systems. Maintaining a distance of more than 15.2 meters in some cases would enhance safety, but this distance is considered a minimum threshold in many regulations, thereby underscoring its importance in the context of public health and environmental safety.