service · Athens, Georgia
New Septic System Installation: Requirements and Process
Installing a new septic system in Athens-Clarke County requires a rigorous process involving soil analysis, permitting, and inspections. Property owners must navigate specific state rules and local application procedures before any physical work begins.
The Level III Soil Report Requirement
A Level III Soil Report is required for all lots and must be prepared by a state-certified soil scientist. Broad soil-survey maps are not sufficient to approve a property.
The report examines soil characteristics, seasonal high groundwater, bedrock, grading, and drainage. Conventional permits are denied when seasonal high groundwater or bedrock are less than two feet below the proposed absorption-field bottom.
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Application and Site Preparation
The application requires a scaled drawing showing the lot sketch, setbacks, wells, utilities, and proposed drainfield. A survey plat is required when the lot is not in a subdivision.
The house footprint must be staked for site evaluation. Applicants are warned not to cut, grade, or fill the lot before permit issuance.
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Permit Fees and Turnaround
The county's posted application identifies administrative fees for site evaluation, installation inspection, larger-bedroom-count applications, and re-evaluation when the house is not staked.
Those amounts are not contractor quotes or total project costs and may change. Verify current fees, hours, and timelines directly with Environmental Health before budgeting or visiting.
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Certified Installation Requirements
Georgia requires that installation work be performed by a person currently certified by DPH in that capacity or under their personal onsite supervision.
State rules generally require connection to public sewer when it is available within 200 feet of the property line. If an onsite system fails and sewer is available, immediate connection is generally required.
Frequently asked questions
What is the cost for a septic permit in Athens?
The county posts administrative fees for evaluation and inspection, separate from contractor and soil-report costs. Verify the current fee schedule directly with Environmental Health.
Can I grade my lot before getting a permit?
No. The application warns applicants not to cut, grade, or fill the lot before permit issuance. Grading can change the evaluated soil profile and requires re-evaluation.
Who must perform the installation work?
Work must be performed by a person currently certified by DPH in that capacity or under the personal onsite supervision of such a person.
Is a soil report needed for every lot?
Yes, a Level III Soil Report prepared by a state-certified soil scientist is required for all lots before a construction permit can be approved.
What happens if the house is not staked during evaluation?
The posted application warns that failing to stake the house can trigger an additional re-evaluation fee. Verify the current amount directly.