Septic Systems in Franklin Parish, LA

Regulations, costs, soil data & local providers

Pop. 19,774 ~28.8% on septic ~2,278 septic homes Poorly drained soil

Septic pumping in Franklin Parish, Louisiana 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 2,278 homes in this county use septic systems.

Septic System Costs in Franklin Parish

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 Franklin Parish, Louisiana. Actual costs depend on system type, site conditions, and provider.

Soil & Septic Suitability in Franklin Parish

Drainage Class
Poorly drained
Hydrologic Group
D
Unique Soil Types
25

Dominant Soil Types

Soil SeriesCoverageDrainageHydro Group
Gilbert 288 Poorly drained D
Sharkey 279 Poorly drained D
Dundee 255 Somewhat poorly drained B
Calhoun 195 Poorly drained C/D
Memphis 182 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 Limited10.6%
Very Limited89.4%

Overall rating: Very limited

Source: USDA NRCS Soil Survey Geographic Database (SSURGO)

Groundwater & Water Table in Franklin Parish

Monitoring Wells
61
Avg Depth to Water
23.5 ft
Median Depth
24.3 ft
Shallowest Recorded
7.6 ft

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

Source: USGS National Water Information System. Based on 574 measurements from monitoring wells.

Septic Regulations & Permits in Franklin Parish

State Regulatory Body
Louisiana 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 Franklin Parish health department for current permit requirements, fees, and approved system types.

Septic System FAQ for Franklin Parish

How much does septic pumping cost in Franklin Parish?
Septic pumping in Franklin Parish, Louisiana 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 Franklin Parish?
A conventional septic system installation in Franklin Parish typically costs $5,050-$10,100. An aerobic treatment unit (ATU) costs $9,450-$18,900. 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 Franklin Parish?
Yes. Virtually all counties in Louisiana 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 Franklin Parish health department for current requirements and fees.
What soil types are in Franklin Parish and how do they affect septic systems?
Franklin Parish has predominantly Gilbert, Sharkey, Dundee soils. The dominant drainage class is Poorly drained with hydrologic group D. The USDA rates 0% of surveyed soils as "Not Limited" for septic absorption fields, 10.6% as "Somewhat Limited", and 89.4% as "Very Limited".
How often should I pump my septic tank in Franklin Parish?
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 Louisiana have mandatory pumping schedules — check with your local health department.
Can I install a conventional septic system in Franklin Parish?
It depends on your specific site. USDA soil data shows that 89.4% of soils in Franklin Parish 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 Franklin Parish?
A well-maintained septic system in Franklin Parish 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 (Franklin Parish 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

Population19,774
Est. Septic Homes2,278
Avg Pumping Cost$350
Drainage ClassPoorly 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