Forum Discussion

moshell's avatar
moshell
Explorer
Sep 01, 2014

Black water disposal for permanently parked RV

First off, I know very little about RVs. Background...I live in the country with a septic field and no access to sewer lines. I am considering having my Mother-in-law live in an RV on our property for a year or two. As far as black water disposal is concerned, our septic system is maxed-out with the number of people already living in the house, so disposing of the black water in our septic tank is not an option. I know one option would be to drive the RV weekly (?) somewhere to dispose of it. I have never owned an RV and would like to know if once a week is realistic for one person living in it. Also, do I have any other options as far as black water disposal?

Thank you,

Mike
  • Another thing you might consider. All black water MUST be held until the tank is full, then dump at one time. While it is customary for RVers to leave the gray water valve open all the time, you could also close this one and dump all at one time.
    Then, set a time of night when your house usage is minimal and dump both tanks.
    Thru my experience of living with septic systems in the past, I believe this may be a viable solution.
  • RoyB's avatar
    RoyB
    Explorer II
    I would check-in with the local county folks and get the current info on how this should be handled.. I'm sure your county will have rules for this...

    Some counties in VA will allow you to park your RV on your land but not live in it.

    Would hate to spend a bunch on monies to get all setup only to be shut down...

    Roy Ken
  • I don't know much about septic systems but I assume they collect ALL wastewater including showers.
    Maybe it would be possible to train the house inhabitants to take RV showers for the next year and pipe the trailer into the existing septic system.
  • black water for one person would probably be 2-3 weeks...it just depends.

    it is your gray water that would be an issue if she takes showers in the trailer.

    septic tank would probably be your best bet.
  • call a portalet company see if they have a temporary bladder tank and scedule for them to pump it out