Georgia Residential Contractor Practice Exam

How close can absorption lines be to streams or tributaries?

1. 15 feet

2. 10 feet

3. 25 feet

4. 50 feet

The correct answer is: 50 feet

The correct distance for absorption lines from streams or tributaries is established primarily to protect water quality and ensure the safe disposal of wastewater. In many jurisdictions, including Georgia, the requirement of maintaining a distance of 50 feet helps to reduce the risk of contamination of surface water bodies. This distance allows for adequate buffer zones which can effectively filter out pollutants and maintain the overall integrity of the water source. A distance of 50 feet is considered sufficient to prevent the potential migration of contaminants, particularly in situations where runoff might occur following heavy rainfall or other events. This regulation reflects a commitment to environmental health and public safety, as it helps to preserve the ecosystem of the streams and tributaries while also safeguarding human health in residential areas and surrounding communities. The other distances mentioned—15 feet, 10 feet, and 25 feet—are generally insufficient in providing the necessary buffer to effectively mitigate contamination risks, which is the primary rationale behind the 50 feet requirement.