Are Doggy Septic Systems Legal?

Doggy septic systems, or in-ground waste digesters, help dog owners keep their lawns clean. Because it's illegal to use such a simple system for human waste, questions arise as to the legality of installing these to handle pet waste.

  1. Function

    • Doggy septic systems consist of a metal or plastic bucket buried beneath the ground. The container features a series of small drainage holes, and an above-ground lid. Pet owners dump dog waste into the bucket, along with water and a bacterial enzyme culture, which digests waste in a manner similar to a septic tank.

    Legality

    • Doggie Dooley, one of the main manufacturers of dog septic systems, states that this method of waste treatment is harmless to pets, lawns and shrubs and is environmentally safe.

      The Surface Water Management Division of Snohomish County, Washington, frowns upon the use of pet waste digesters, stating that they function like broken septic systems and are no better than burying waste. They recommend bagging and throwing away dog waste instead.

    Warning

    • Pet waste digesting systems will not work well in hard, non-draining clay soils or in cold weather. Though legal, improperly functioning systems can contribute to ground water contamination.