: : Our ancient 4" sewer piping recently failed, which empties into what used to be the cistern. When cutting into this pipe it seems to be made out of a tarry substance. No one at our local hardware store knows what it is or how old it might be. We replaced it with PVC. My question is this: How can we find out whether or not we even HAVE a drain field? It is doubtful that the owners at the time acquired a permit to use the cistern rather than having a septic system installed.

: you will need to pump this cistern down and pull the lid off to see if there is an exit line. I would think there would be if it has been in use for many years. you may be able to use a camera to see if there is an exit line.