Septic Systems in Reno County, KS

Regulations, costs, soil data & local providers

Pop. 61,898 ~15% on septic ~3,714 septic homes Well drained soil

Septic pumping in Reno County, Kansas costs $250-$500 (avg $350). A new septic system installation costs $5,050-$10,100. USDA soil data rates 0% of county soils as suitable for septic absorption fields. Approximately 3,714 homes in this county use septic systems.

Septic System Costs in Reno County

ServiceLowAverageHigh
Pumping / Cleaning$250$350$500
Routine Inspection$200$250$350
Real Estate Inspection$350$500$700
Minor Repair$650$900$4,400
Conventional Installation$5,050$7,200$10,100
Aerobic System Installation$9,450$13,500$18,900
Drainfield Replacement$5,050$7,200$10,100
Perc Test$750$1,100$1,550

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

Soil & Septic Suitability in Reno County

Drainage Class
Well drained
Hydrologic Group
C
Unique Soil Types
71
Avg Bedrock Depth
2 ft

Dominant Soil Types

Soil SeriesCoverageDrainageHydro Group
Shellabarger 449 Well drained B
Naron 283 Well drained B
Avans 279 Well drained B
Nickerson 266 Moderately well drained C
Jamash 255 Well drained D

Septic Tank Absorption Field Suitability

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

Not Limited (Good)0%
Somewhat Limited5.3%
Very Limited94.7%

Overall rating: Very limited

Source: USDA NRCS Soil Survey Geographic Database (SSURGO)

Groundwater & Water Table in Reno County

Monitoring Wells
203
Avg Depth to Water
18.7 ft
Median Depth
14.8 ft
Shallowest Recorded
2.6 ft Shallow Risk

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

Source: USGS National Water Information System. Based on 625 measurements from monitoring wells.

Septic Regulations & Permits in Reno County

State Regulatory Body
Kansas 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 Reno County health department for current permit requirements, fees, and approved system types.

Septic System FAQ for Reno County

How much does septic pumping cost in Reno County?
Septic pumping in Reno County, Kansas typically costs between $250 and $500, with an average of $350. 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 Reno County?
A conventional septic system installation in Reno County typically costs $5,050-$10,100. An aerobic treatment unit (ATU) costs $9,450-$18,900. 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 Reno County?
Yes. Virtually all counties in Kansas 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 Reno County health department for current requirements and fees.
What soil types are in Reno County and how do they affect septic systems?
Reno County has predominantly Shellabarger, Naron, Avans soils. The dominant drainage class is Well drained with hydrologic group C. The USDA rates 0% of surveyed soils as "Not Limited" for septic absorption fields, 5.3% as "Somewhat Limited", and 94.7% as "Very Limited".
How often should I pump my septic tank in Reno 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 Kansas have mandatory pumping schedules — check with your local health department.
Can I install a conventional septic system in Reno County?
It depends on your specific site. USDA soil data shows that 94.7% of soils in Reno 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 ($750-$1550) and soil evaluation are required before the county will approve a system design.
How long does a septic system last in Reno County?
A well-maintained septic system in Reno 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 (Reno 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.

Free Quote for Reno County

Get matched with licensed septic pros in your area. Free, no obligation.

Quick Facts

Population61,898
Est. Septic Homes3,714
Avg Pumping Cost$350
Drainage ClassWell drained
Septic SuitabilityVery limited

Common Septic Services

Pumping: $250-$500
Inspection: $200-$350
Repair: $650-$4,400
Installation: $5,050-$10,100

Data last updated: 2026-04-13