Septic system and gardening - Ask Extension
Can you have a vegetable garden over a leach field? If not, how far from the leach field should it be placed? If so, what vegetables would be okay to ...
Knowledgebase
Septic system and gardening #924592
Asked February 14, 2026, 4:37 PM EST
Can you have a vegetable garden over a leach field? If not, how far from the leach field should it be placed? If so, what vegetables would be okay to grow?
Deschutes County Oregon
Expert Response
Hi Cameron:
The EPA does not recommend planting a vegetable garden over your leach field. The following bulletin will provide you with additional information.
Septic Smart
10 feet is the absolute minimum distance from the edge of the leach field, but 20 feet is recommended for safety.
Thank you for your question,
The EPA does not recommend planting a vegetable garden over your leach field. The following bulletin will provide you with additional information.
Septic Smart
10 feet is the absolute minimum distance from the edge of the leach field, but 20 feet is recommended for safety.
Thank you for your question,
