Septic Systems in Cross County, AR

Regulations, costs, soil data & local providers

Pop. 16,833 ~33.6% on septic ~2,262 septic homes Poorly drained soil

Septic pumping in Cross County, Arkansas costs $200-$400 (avg $300). A new septic system installation costs $4,550-$9,100. USDA soil data rates 0% of county soils as suitable for septic absorption fields. Approximately 2,262 homes in this county use septic systems.

Septic System Costs in Cross County

ServiceLowAverageHigh
Pumping / Cleaning$200$300$400
Routine Inspection$200$250$350
Real Estate Inspection$300$450$650
Minor Repair$550$800$4,000
Conventional Installation$4,550$6,500$9,100
Aerobic System Installation$8,500$12,150$17,000
Drainfield Replacement$4,550$6,500$9,100
Perc Test$650$950$1,350

Cost estimates based on regional market data for Cross County, Arkansas. Actual costs depend on system type, site conditions, and provider.

Soil & Septic Suitability in Cross County

Drainage Class
Poorly drained
Hydrologic Group
C/D
Unique Soil Types
32

Dominant Soil Types

Soil SeriesCoverageDrainageHydro Group
Loring 671 Moderately well drained C/D
Alligator 460 Poorly drained D
Iuka 385 Well drained B
Earle 380 Poorly drained D
Dundee 355 Somewhat poorly drained C

Septic Tank Absorption Field Suitability

USDA NRCS rates soil suitability for septic absorption fields across this county:

Not Limited (Good)0%
Somewhat Limited4.4%
Very Limited95.6%

Overall rating: Very limited

Source: USDA NRCS Soil Survey Geographic Database (SSURGO)

Groundwater & Water Table in Cross County

Monitoring Wells
54
Avg Depth to Water
79.1 ft
Median Depth
87.4 ft
Shallowest Recorded
16.5 ft

Water table depths in this county are generally favorable for conventional septic systems.

Source: USGS National Water Information System. Based on 437 measurements from monitoring wells.

Septic Regulations & Permits in Cross County

State Regulatory Body
Arkansas Department of Health/Environment
Inspection Required for Home Sale
No / Varies
Nitrogen Reduction Areas
No
Advanced Treatment Required
No

Contact county health department for specific requirements.

Contact the Cross County health department for current permit requirements, fees, and approved system types.

Septic System FAQ for Cross County

How much does septic pumping cost in Cross County?
Septic pumping in Cross County, Arkansas typically costs between $200 and $400, with an average of $300. Costs vary by tank size (1,000-1,500 gallons is typical), ease of access, distance from the pumping company, and how full the tank is. Most homeowners should pump their tank every 3-5 years.
How much does a new septic system cost in Cross County?
A conventional septic system installation in Cross County typically costs $4,550-$9,100. An aerobic treatment unit (ATU) costs $8,500-$17,000. Given the predominantly poorly drained soils in this area, some sites may require alternative system types. Costs include the tank, drainfield, permits, and labor.
Do I need a permit for a septic system in Cross County?
Yes. Virtually all counties in Arkansas require a permit before installing, repairing, or replacing a septic system. The permit process typically involves a soil evaluation or percolation test, system design by a licensed professional, application to the county health department, and one or more inspections during installation. Contact the Cross County health department for current requirements and fees.
What soil types are in Cross County and how do they affect septic systems?
Cross County has predominantly Loring, Alligator, Iuka soils. The dominant drainage class is Poorly drained with hydrologic group C/D. The USDA rates 0% of surveyed soils as "Not Limited" for septic absorption fields, 4.4% as "Somewhat Limited", and 95.6% as "Very Limited".
How often should I pump my septic tank in Cross County?
The EPA recommends pumping your septic tank every 3-5 years for a typical household. The exact frequency depends on tank size, household size, and water usage. A 1,000-gallon tank serving a family of 4 should generally be pumped every 3 years. Some counties in Arkansas have mandatory pumping schedules — check with your local health department.
Can I install a conventional septic system in Cross County?
It depends on your specific site. USDA soil data shows that 95.6% of soils in Cross County are rated "Very Limited" for septic absorption fields, while only 0% are "Not Limited." This means many properties will require alternative systems such as mound systems, pressure distribution systems, or aerobic treatment units. A percolation test ($650-$1350) and soil evaluation are required before the county will approve a system design.
How long does a septic system last in Cross County?
A well-maintained septic system in Cross County typically lasts 25-30 years, though some components may need attention sooner. The concrete septic tank itself can last 40+ years, while the drainfield — the most critical and expensive component — usually lasts 15-25 years depending on soil conditions (Cross County has predominantly poorly drained soils). Regular pumping every 3-5 years and avoiding excess water usage are the two most effective ways to extend system life.

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Quick Facts

Population16,833
Est. Septic Homes2,262
Avg Pumping Cost$300
Drainage ClassPoorly drained
Septic SuitabilityVery limited

Common Septic Services

Pumping: $200-$400
Inspection: $200-$350
Repair: $550-$4,000
Installation: $4,550-$9,100

Data last updated: 2026-04-13