Septic Systems in Barry County, MO

Regulations, costs, soil data & local providers

Pop. 34,534 ~30% on septic ~4,144 septic homes Well drained soil

Septic pumping in Barry County, Missouri costs $250-$500 (avg $350). A new septic system installation costs $4,750-$9,500. USDA soil data rates 0% of county soils as suitable for septic absorption fields. Approximately 4,144 homes in this county use septic systems.

Septic System Costs in Barry County

ServiceLowAverageHigh
Pumping / Cleaning$250$350$500
Routine Inspection$200$250$350
Real Estate Inspection$300$450$650
Minor Repair$600$850$4,200
Conventional Installation$4,750$6,800$9,500
Aerobic System Installation$8,900$12,750$17,850
Drainfield Replacement$4,750$6,800$9,500
Perc Test$700$1,000$1,400

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

Soil & Septic Suitability in Barry County

Drainage Class
Well drained
Hydrologic Group
B
Unique Soil Types
92
Avg Bedrock Depth
2.5 ft

Dominant Soil Types

Soil SeriesCoverageDrainageHydro Group
Moko 360 Somewhat excessively drained D
Hailey 347 Excessively drained A
Secesh 320 Well drained B
Clarksville 320 Somewhat excessively drained B
Rueter 291 Somewhat excessively drained B

Septic Tank Absorption Field Suitability

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

Not Limited (Good)0%
Somewhat Limited17.6%
Very Limited82.4%

Overall rating: Very limited

Source: USDA NRCS Soil Survey Geographic Database (SSURGO)

Groundwater & Water Table in Barry County

Monitoring Wells
6
Avg Depth to Water
207.7 ft
Median Depth
221.2 ft
Shallowest Recorded
39.3 ft

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

Source: USGS National Water Information System. Based on 121 measurements from monitoring wells.

Septic Regulations & Permits in Barry County

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

Septic System FAQ for Barry County

How much does septic pumping cost in Barry County?
Septic pumping in Barry County, Missouri 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 Barry County?
A conventional septic system installation in Barry County typically costs $4,750-$9,500. An aerobic treatment unit (ATU) costs $8,900-$17,850. 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 Barry County?
Yes. Virtually all counties in Missouri 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 Barry County health department for current requirements and fees.
What soil types are in Barry County and how do they affect septic systems?
Barry County has predominantly Moko, Hailey, Secesh soils. The dominant drainage class is Well drained with hydrologic group B. The USDA rates 0% of surveyed soils as "Not Limited" for septic absorption fields, 17.6% as "Somewhat Limited", and 82.4% as "Very Limited".
How often should I pump my septic tank in Barry 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 Missouri have mandatory pumping schedules — check with your local health department.
Can I install a conventional septic system in Barry County?
It depends on your specific site. USDA soil data shows that 82.4% of soils in Barry 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 ($700-$1400) and soil evaluation are required before the county will approve a system design.
How long does a septic system last in Barry County?
A well-maintained septic system in Barry 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 (Barry 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

Population34,534
Est. Septic Homes4,144
Avg Pumping Cost$350
Drainage ClassWell drained
Septic SuitabilityVery limited

Common Septic Services

Pumping: $250-$500
Inspection: $200-$350
Repair: $600-$4,200
Installation: $4,750-$9,500

Data last updated: 2026-04-13