Septic Systems in Renville County, MN

Regulations, costs, soil data & local providers

Pop. 14,723 ~28% on septic ~1,649 septic homes Poorly drained soil

Septic pumping in Renville County, Minnesota costs $300-$550 (avg $400). A new septic system installation costs $5,600-$11,200. USDA soil data rates 0% of county soils as suitable for septic absorption fields. Approximately 1,649 homes in this county use septic systems.

Septic System Costs in Renville County

ServiceLowAverageHigh
Pumping / Cleaning$300$400$550
Routine Inspection$200$300$400
Real Estate Inspection$400$550$750
Minor Repair$700$1,000$4,900
Conventional Installation$5,600$8,000$11,200
Aerobic System Installation$10,500$15,000$21,000
Drainfield Replacement$5,600$8,000$11,200
Perc Test$850$1,200$1,700

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

Soil & Septic Suitability in Renville County

Drainage Class
Poorly drained
Hydrologic Group
C/D
Unique Soil Types
71
Avg Bedrock Depth
1.7 ft

Dominant Soil Types

Soil SeriesCoverageDrainageHydro Group
Okoboji 536 Very poorly drained C/D
Klossner 358 Very poorly drained C/D
Canisteo 316 Poorly drained C/D
Clarion 307 Moderately well drained C
Terril 296 Moderately 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 Limited7.4%
Very Limited92.6%

Overall rating: Very limited

Source: USDA NRCS Soil Survey Geographic Database (SSURGO)

Groundwater & Water Table in Renville County

Monitoring Wells
11
Avg Depth to Water
40.9 ft
Median Depth
18.6 ft
Shallowest Recorded
0.2 ft Shallow Risk

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

Source: USGS National Water Information System. Based on 205 measurements from monitoring wells.

Septic Regulations & Permits in Renville County

State Regulatory Body
Minnesota Pollution Control Agency
Inspection Required for Home Sale
Yes
Nitrogen Reduction Areas
No
Advanced Treatment Required
In designated areas

ISTS (Individual Sewage Treatment System) standards. County-level compliance inspections.

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

Septic System FAQ for Renville County

How much does septic pumping cost in Renville County?
Septic pumping in Renville County, Minnesota typically costs between $300 and $550, with an average of $400. 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 Renville County?
A conventional septic system installation in Renville County typically costs $5,600-$11,200. An aerobic treatment unit (ATU) costs $10,500-$21,000. 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 Renville County?
Yes. Virtually all counties in Minnesota 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 Renville County health department for current requirements and fees.
What soil types are in Renville County and how do they affect septic systems?
Renville County has predominantly Okoboji, Klossner, Canisteo soils. The dominant drainage class is Poorly drained with hydrologic group C/D. The USDA rates 0% of surveyed soils as "Not Limited" for septic absorption fields, 7.4% as "Somewhat Limited", and 92.6% as "Very Limited".
Is a septic inspection required when selling a home in Renville County?
Yes. Minnesota requires a septic system inspection as part of the property transfer process. This typically involves a certified inspector evaluating the tank, drainfield, and all system components. The inspection cost in this area averages $550. If the system fails inspection, repairs or replacement may be required before the sale can proceed.
How often should I pump my septic tank in Renville 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 Minnesota have mandatory pumping schedules — check with your local health department.
Can I install a conventional septic system in Renville County?
It depends on your specific site. USDA soil data shows that 92.6% of soils in Renville 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 ($850-$1700) and soil evaluation are required before the county will approve a system design.
How long does a septic system last in Renville County?
A well-maintained septic system in Renville 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 (Renville County 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

Population14,723
Est. Septic Homes1,649
Avg Pumping Cost$400
Drainage ClassPoorly drained
Septic SuitabilityVery limited

Common Septic Services

Pumping: $300-$550
Inspection: $200-$400
Repair: $700-$4,900
Installation: $5,600-$11,200

Data last updated: 2026-04-13