Septic Systems in Winston County, MS

Regulations, costs, soil data & local providers

Pop. 17,714 ~42% on septic ~2,976 septic homes Well drained soil

Septic pumping in Winston County, Mississippi costs $200-$400 (avg $300). A new septic system installation costs $4,550-$9,100. USDA soil data rates 2.3% of county soils as suitable for septic absorption fields. Approximately 2,976 homes in this county use septic systems.

Septic System Costs in Winston County

ServiceLowAverageHigh
Pumping / Cleaning$200$300$400
Routine Inspection$200$250$350
Real Estate Inspection$300$450$650
Minor Repair$550$800$4,000
Conventional Installation$4,550$6,500$9,100
Aerobic System Installation$8,500$12,150$17,000
Drainfield Replacement$4,550$6,500$9,100
Perc Test$650$950$1,350

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

Soil & Septic Suitability in Winston County

Drainage Class
Well drained
Hydrologic Group
C
Unique Soil Types
42
Avg Bedrock Depth
3.3 ft

Dominant Soil Types

Soil SeriesCoverageDrainageHydro Group
Sweatman 579 Well drained C
Wilcox 455 Somewhat poorly drained D
Ora 374 Moderately well drained C/D
Ruston 289 Well drained B
Savannah 280 Moderately well drained C

Septic Tank Absorption Field Suitability

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

Not Limited (Good)2.3%
Somewhat Limited7.1%
Very Limited90.7%

Overall rating: Very limited

Source: USDA NRCS Soil Survey Geographic Database (SSURGO)

Septic Regulations & Permits in Winston County

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

Septic System FAQ for Winston County

How much does septic pumping cost in Winston County?
Septic pumping in Winston County, Mississippi typically costs between $200 and $400, with an average of $300. 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 Winston County?
A conventional septic system installation in Winston County typically costs $4,550-$9,100. An aerobic treatment unit (ATU) costs $8,500-$17,000. 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 Winston County?
Yes. Virtually all counties in Mississippi 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 Winston County health department for current requirements and fees.
What soil types are in Winston County and how do they affect septic systems?
Winston County has predominantly Sweatman, Wilcox, Ora soils. The dominant drainage class is Well drained with hydrologic group C. The USDA rates 2.3% of surveyed soils as "Not Limited" for septic absorption fields, 7.1% as "Somewhat Limited", and 90.7% as "Very Limited".
How often should I pump my septic tank in Winston 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 Mississippi have mandatory pumping schedules — check with your local health department.
Can I install a conventional septic system in Winston County?
It depends on your specific site. USDA soil data shows that 90.7% of soils in Winston County are rated "Very Limited" for septic absorption fields, while only 2.3% 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 ($650-$1350) and soil evaluation are required before the county will approve a system design.
How long does a septic system last in Winston County?
A well-maintained septic system in Winston 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 (Winston 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

Population17,714
Est. Septic Homes2,976
Avg Pumping Cost$300
Drainage ClassWell drained
Septic SuitabilityVery limited

Common Septic Services

Pumping: $200-$400
Inspection: $200-$350
Repair: $550-$4,000
Installation: $4,550-$9,100

Data last updated: 2026-04-13