West Shore Engineers, PLLC · Peru, NY
Septic System Design in Northern New York
Building a home, replacing a failing septic system, or wondering whether a lot can support one? West Shore Engineers evaluates your property and prepares septic system plans based on its soils, layout, and project needs.
The New York State Department of Health uses the term onsite wastewater treatment system (OWTS) for systems commonly called septic systems. See NYSDOH Appendix 75-A for residential onsite wastewater treatment standards.
Based in Peru, NY. Serving Clinton, Essex, and Franklin counties, and communities throughout New York State.
Discuss Your Septic ProjectHow We Can Help
New & Replacement Systems
Design for new homes, additions, and replacement of aging or failed septic systems.
Perc Tests & Deep-Hole Test Pits
Evaluate soil and site conditions to understand where a system may fit and what design options are practical.
Lakefront & Challenging Lots
Evaluate options for small lots, shallow soils, slopes, and limited space, including enhanced treatment where appropriate.
Permits & Grant Assistance
Prepare engineering plans for review, assist with permit submissions, and help owners explore applicable septic replacement grant programs.
What to Expect
- Tell us about the property. Share the location, whether this is new construction or a replacement, and any plans or records you have.
- Evaluate the site. We consider layout, soils, available space, wells, and other site constraints. Testing needs depend on the project.
- Prepare the design. We develop plans for the selected system and assist with submission to the applicable reviewing authority.
Design for Difficult Sites
A lakefront property can have limited room for a drain field. We evaluate options such as enhanced treatment units and alternative layouts when site conditions warrant them. See our septic and enhanced treatment project examples.
Ryan Davies, P.E., has been involved in more than 1,500 septic system reviews and designs across his engineering and regulatory career.
Common Septic Design Questions
What is the difference between a perc test and a deep-hole test pit?
A perc test measures how quickly water moves into the soil under test conditions. A deep-hole test pit lets us examine soil layers and look for limiting conditions such as shallow bedrock or signs of seasonal groundwater. Together, they help inform the design.
Can you help if my septic system is failing?
Yes. We can evaluate the site and existing information, identify practical replacement options, and prepare the engineering plans needed for the proposed work.
Can a small or lakefront lot support a septic system?
It depends on the site. Soils, available area, setbacks, slopes, and access all affect the options. A site evaluation is the best starting point.
Tell Us About Your Property
Send the project location, a short description, and any survey, prior septic plan, or test results you already have. We’ll help you identify the next step.
Request a Septic Design Consultation