Septic Systems in Duval County, FL

Regulations, costs, soil data & local providers

Pop. 995,567 ~6.6% on septic ~26,283 septic homes Very poorly drained soil

Septic pumping in Duval County, Florida costs $450-$900 (avg $650). A new septic system installation costs $8,900-$17,800. USDA soil data rates 0% of county soils as suitable for septic absorption fields. Approximately 26,283 homes in this county use septic systems.

Septic System Costs in Duval County

ServiceLowAverageHigh
Pumping / Cleaning$450$650$900
Routine Inspection$350$500$700
Real Estate Inspection$600$850$1200
Minor Repair$1,100$1,600$7,750
Conventional Installation$8,900$12,700$17,800
Aerobic System Installation$16,700$23,850$33,400
Drainfield Replacement$8,900$12,700$17,800
Perc Test$1,350$1,900$2,650

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

Soil & Septic Suitability in Duval County

Drainage Class
Very poorly drained
Hydrologic Group
A
Unique Soil Types
41

Dominant Soil Types

Soil SeriesCoverageDrainageHydro Group
Pelham 294 Poorly drained B/D
Leon 247 Very poorly drained A/D
Kershaw 217 Excessively drained A
Surrency 215 Very poorly drained B/D
Mascotte 208 Poorly drained C/D

Septic Tank Absorption Field Suitability

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

Not Limited (Good)0%
Somewhat Limited4.1%
Very Limited95.9%

Overall rating: Very limited

Source: USDA NRCS Soil Survey Geographic Database (SSURGO)

Groundwater & Water Table in Duval County

Monitoring Wells
2
Avg Depth to Water
43.9 ft
Median Depth
45.6 ft
Shallowest Recorded
33.5 ft

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

Source: USGS National Water Information System. Based on 6 measurements from monitoring wells.

Septic Regulations & Permits in Duval County

State Regulatory Body
Florida Department of Health
Inspection Required for Home Sale
No / Varies
Nitrogen Reduction Areas
Yes
Advanced Treatment Required
In designated areas

Enhanced Nutrient Reducing OSTDS required in Indian River Lagoon basin. 65% nitrogen reduction mandate by 2030.

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

Septic System FAQ for Duval County

How much does septic pumping cost in Duval County?
Septic pumping in Duval County, Florida typically costs between $450 and $900, with an average of $650. 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 Duval County?
A conventional septic system installation in Duval County typically costs $8,900-$17,800. An aerobic treatment unit (ATU) costs $16,700-$33,400. Given the predominantly very 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 Duval County?
Yes. Virtually all counties in Florida 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 Duval County health department for current requirements and fees.
What soil types are in Duval County and how do they affect septic systems?
Duval County has predominantly Pelham, Leon, Kershaw soils. The dominant drainage class is Very poorly drained with hydrologic group A. The USDA rates 0% of surveyed soils as "Not Limited" for septic absorption fields, 4.1% as "Somewhat Limited", and 95.9% as "Very Limited".
How often should I pump my septic tank in Duval 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. With approximately 26,283 septic systems in Duval County, there are many local providers offering regular pumping services.
Can I install a conventional septic system in Duval County?
It depends on your specific site. USDA soil data shows that 95.9% of soils in Duval 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 ($1350-$2650) and soil evaluation are required before the county will approve a system design.
How long does a septic system last in Duval County?
A well-maintained septic system in Duval 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 (Duval County has predominantly very 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

Population995,567
Est. Septic Homes26,283
Avg Pumping Cost$650
Drainage ClassVery poorly drained
Septic SuitabilityVery limited

More in Florida

Nassau County Clay County St. Johns County Bradford County Baker County Putnam County

Common Septic Services

Pumping: $450-$900
Inspection: $350-$700
Repair: $1,100-$7,750
Installation: $8,900-$17,800

Data last updated: 2026-04-13