Before lifting a septic tank lid, scrape all the dirt away to start with a clean lid. Insert a screwdriver into the seam of the lid to break the seal. \
When you have a small opening, use a pry bar to lift the lid the rest of the way. If you're going to remove or move the lid, get help from at least one more person because this is not a solo task. \
Some septic tank lids can be incredibly heavy and may in fact require special equipment to lift and move. Do not attempt to lift a septic tank lid, or anything else, that is too heavy for you to reasonably handle. \