Septic Systems in Richland Parish, LA

Regulations, costs, soil data & local providers

Pop. 20,043 ~28.8% on septic ~2,309 septic homes Somewhat poorly drained soil

Septic pumping in Richland 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 2,309 homes in this county use septic systems.

Septic System Costs in Richland 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 Richland Parish, Louisiana. Actual costs depend on system type, site conditions, and provider.

Soil & Septic Suitability in Richland Parish

Drainage Class
Somewhat poorly drained
Hydrologic Group
D
Unique Soil Types
31

Dominant Soil Types

Soil SeriesCoverageDrainageHydro Group
Perry 360 Poorly drained D
Hebert 352 Somewhat poorly drained C
Dexter 282 Well drained B
Rilla 281 Well drained B
Grenada 252 Moderately well 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 Limited14.4%
Very Limited85.6%

Overall rating: Very limited

Source: USDA NRCS Soil Survey Geographic Database (SSURGO)

Groundwater & Water Table in Richland Parish

Monitoring Wells
118
Avg Depth to Water
19.6 ft
Median Depth
19.2 ft
Shallowest Recorded
5 ft

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

Source: USGS National Water Information System. Based on 589 measurements from monitoring wells.

Septic Regulations & Permits in Richland 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 Richland Parish health department for current permit requirements, fees, and approved system types.

Septic System FAQ for Richland Parish

How much does septic pumping cost in Richland Parish?
Septic pumping in Richland 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 Richland Parish?
A conventional septic system installation in Richland Parish typically costs $5,050-$10,100. An aerobic treatment unit (ATU) costs $9,450-$18,900. Given the predominantly somewhat 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 Richland 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 Richland Parish health department for current requirements and fees.
What soil types are in Richland Parish and how do they affect septic systems?
Richland Parish has predominantly Perry, Hebert, Dexter soils. The dominant drainage class is Somewhat poorly drained with hydrologic group D. The USDA rates 0% of surveyed soils as "Not Limited" for septic absorption fields, 14.4% as "Somewhat Limited", and 85.6% as "Very Limited".
How often should I pump my septic tank in Richland 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 Richland Parish?
It depends on your specific site. USDA soil data shows that 85.6% of soils in Richland 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 Richland Parish?
A well-maintained septic system in Richland 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 (Richland Parish has predominantly somewhat 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

Population20,043
Est. Septic Homes2,309
Avg Pumping Cost$350
Drainage ClassSomewhat poorly 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