Septic Systems in Pulaski County, MO

Regulations, costs, soil data & local providers

Pop. 53,955 ~25% on septic ~5,396 septic homes Well drained soil

Septic pumping in Pulaski County, Missouri costs $250-$500 (avg $350). A new septic system installation costs $5,050-$10,100. USDA soil data rates 0.6% of county soils as suitable for septic absorption fields. Approximately 5,396 homes in this county use septic systems.

Septic System Costs in Pulaski County

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 Pulaski County, Missouri. Actual costs depend on system type, site conditions, and provider.

Soil & Septic Suitability in Pulaski County

Drainage Class
Well drained
Hydrologic Group
B
Unique Soil Types
91
Avg Bedrock Depth
3 ft

Dominant Soil Types

Soil SeriesCoverageDrainageHydro Group
Gatewood 487 Moderately well drained D
Clarksville 475 Somewhat excessively drained B
Ocie 471 Moderately well drained C
Poynor 445 Well drained B
Cedargap 409 Well drained B

Septic Tank Absorption Field Suitability

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

Not Limited (Good)0.6%
Somewhat Limited9.8%
Very Limited89.5%

Overall rating: Very limited

Source: USDA NRCS Soil Survey Geographic Database (SSURGO)

Groundwater & Water Table in Pulaski County

Monitoring Wells
1
Avg Depth to Water
374.5 ft
Median Depth
374.5 ft
Shallowest Recorded
374.5 ft

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

Source: USGS National Water Information System. Based on 1 measurements from monitoring wells.

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

Septic System FAQ for Pulaski County

How much does septic pumping cost in Pulaski County?
Septic pumping in Pulaski 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 Pulaski County?
A conventional septic system installation in Pulaski County typically costs $5,050-$10,100. An aerobic treatment unit (ATU) costs $9,450-$18,900. 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 Pulaski 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 Pulaski County health department for current requirements and fees.
What soil types are in Pulaski County and how do they affect septic systems?
Pulaski County has predominantly Gatewood, Clarksville, Ocie soils. The dominant drainage class is Well drained with hydrologic group B. The USDA rates 0.6% of surveyed soils as "Not Limited" for septic absorption fields, 9.8% as "Somewhat Limited", and 89.5% as "Very Limited".
How often should I pump my septic tank in Pulaski 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. With approximately 5,396 septic systems in Pulaski County, there are many local providers offering regular pumping services.
Can I install a conventional septic system in Pulaski County?
It depends on your specific site. USDA soil data shows that 89.5% of soils in Pulaski County are rated "Very Limited" for septic absorption fields, while only 0.6% 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 Pulaski County?
A well-maintained septic system in Pulaski 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 (Pulaski 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

Population53,955
Est. Septic Homes5,396
Avg Pumping Cost$350
Drainage ClassWell 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