Septic Systems in Cobb County, GA

Regulations, costs, soil data & local providers

Pop. 766,149 ~9.9% on septic ~30,340 septic homes Well drained soil

Septic pumping in Cobb County, Georgia costs $300-$650 (avg $450). A new septic system installation costs $6,150-$12,300. USDA soil data rates 0% of county soils as suitable for septic absorption fields. Approximately 30,340 homes in this county use septic systems.

Septic System Costs in Cobb County

ServiceLowAverageHigh
Pumping / Cleaning$300$450$650
Routine Inspection$250$350$500
Real Estate Inspection$400$600$850
Minor Repair$750$1,100$5,400
Conventional Installation$6,150$8,800$12,300
Aerobic System Installation$11,550$16,500$23,100
Drainfield Replacement$6,150$8,800$12,300
Perc Test$900$1,300$1,800

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

Soil & Septic Suitability in Cobb County

Drainage Class
Well drained
Hydrologic Group
B
Unique Soil Types
24
Avg Bedrock Depth
3.6 ft

Dominant Soil Types

Soil SeriesCoverageDrainageHydro Group
Gwinnett 740 Well drained B
Madison 681 Well drained B
Appling 540 Well drained B
Pacolet 323 Well drained B
Hiwassee 300 Well drained B

Septic Tank Absorption Field Suitability

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

Not Limited (Good)0%
Somewhat Limited52.7%
Very Limited47.3%

Overall rating: Somewhat limited

Source: USDA NRCS Soil Survey Geographic Database (SSURGO)

Groundwater & Water Table in Cobb County

Monitoring Wells
2
Avg Depth to Water
14.2 ft
Median Depth
21 ft
Shallowest Recorded
4.2 ft

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

Source: USGS National Water Information System. Based on 128 measurements from monitoring wells.

Septic Regulations & Permits in Cobb County

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

County Boards of Health issue permits. Environmental Health Specialists conduct inspections.

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

Septic System FAQ for Cobb County

How much does septic pumping cost in Cobb County?
Septic pumping in Cobb County, Georgia typically costs between $300 and $650, with an average of $450. 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 Cobb County?
A conventional septic system installation in Cobb County typically costs $6,150-$12,300. An aerobic treatment unit (ATU) costs $11,550-$23,100. Given the predominantly well 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 Cobb County?
Yes. Virtually all counties in Georgia 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 Cobb County health department for current requirements and fees.
What soil types are in Cobb County and how do they affect septic systems?
Cobb County has predominantly Gwinnett, Madison, Appling soils. The dominant drainage class is Well drained with hydrologic group B. The USDA rates 0% of surveyed soils as "Not Limited" for septic absorption fields, 52.7% as "Somewhat Limited", and 47.3% as "Very Limited".
How often should I pump my septic tank in Cobb 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 30,340 septic systems in Cobb County, there are many local providers offering regular pumping services.
Can I install a conventional septic system in Cobb County?
It depends on your specific site. USDA soil data shows that 47.3% of soils in Cobb 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 ($900-$1800) and soil evaluation are required before the county will approve a system design.
How long does a septic system last in Cobb County?
A well-maintained septic system in Cobb 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 (Cobb County has predominantly well 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

Population766,149
Est. Septic Homes30,340
Avg Pumping Cost$450
Drainage ClassWell drained
Septic SuitabilitySomewhat limited

More in Georgia

Fulton County Paulding County Douglas County Cherokee County DeKalb County Bartow County

Common Septic Services

Pumping: $300-$650
Inspection: $250-$500
Repair: $750-$5,400
Installation: $6,150-$12,300

Data last updated: 2026-04-13