Septic Systems in Daviess County, MO

Regulations, costs, soil data & local providers

Pop. 8,430 ~35% on septic ~1,180 septic homes Somewhat poorly drained soil

Septic pumping in Daviess County, Missouri costs $200-$400 (avg $300). A new septic system installation costs $4,550-$9,100. USDA soil data rates 0% of county soils as suitable for septic absorption fields. Approximately 1,180 homes in this county use septic systems.

Septic System Costs in Daviess 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 Daviess County, Missouri. Actual costs depend on system type, site conditions, and provider.

Soil & Septic Suitability in Daviess County

Drainage Class
Somewhat poorly drained
Hydrologic Group
C/D
Unique Soil Types
54
Avg Bedrock Depth
2.6 ft

Dominant Soil Types

Soil SeriesCoverageDrainageHydro Group
Greenton 572 Somewhat poorly drained C/D
Zook 399 Poorly drained C/D
Lamoni 385 Somewhat poorly drained D
Snead 300 Moderately well drained D
Vanmeter 272 Moderately well drained D

Septic Tank Absorption Field Suitability

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

Not Limited (Good)0%
Somewhat Limited0%
Very Limited100%

Overall rating: Very limited

Source: USDA NRCS Soil Survey Geographic Database (SSURGO)

Groundwater & Water Table in Daviess County

Monitoring Wells
2
Avg Depth to Water
104.9 ft
Median Depth
104.2 ft
Shallowest Recorded
77.2 ft

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

Source: USGS National Water Information System. Based on 40 measurements from monitoring wells.

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

Septic System FAQ for Daviess County

How much does septic pumping cost in Daviess County?
Septic pumping in Daviess County, Missouri 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 Daviess County?
A conventional septic system installation in Daviess County typically costs $4,550-$9,100. An aerobic treatment unit (ATU) costs $8,500-$17,000. 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 Daviess 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 Daviess County health department for current requirements and fees.
What soil types are in Daviess County and how do they affect septic systems?
Daviess County has predominantly Greenton, Zook, Lamoni soils. The dominant drainage class is Somewhat poorly drained with hydrologic group C/D. The USDA rates 0% of surveyed soils as "Not Limited" for septic absorption fields, 0% as "Somewhat Limited", and 100% as "Very Limited".
How often should I pump my septic tank in Daviess 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 Daviess County?
It depends on your specific site. USDA soil data shows that 100% of soils in Daviess 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 ($650-$1350) and soil evaluation are required before the county will approve a system design.
How long does a septic system last in Daviess County?
A well-maintained septic system in Daviess 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 (Daviess County 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

Population8,430
Est. Septic Homes1,180
Avg Pumping Cost$300
Drainage ClassSomewhat poorly 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