Septic Systems in Gloucester County, NJ

Regulations, costs, soil data & local providers

Pop. 302,294 ~9% on septic ~10,883 septic homes Well drained soil

Septic pumping in Gloucester County, New Jersey costs $400-$850 (avg $600). A new septic system installation costs $8,200-$16,450. USDA soil data rates 0% of county soils as suitable for septic absorption fields. Approximately 10,883 homes in this county use septic systems.

Septic System Costs in Gloucester County

ServiceLowAverageHigh
Pumping / Cleaning$400$600$850
Routine Inspection$300$450$650
Real Estate Inspection$550$800$1100
Minor Repair$1,000$1,450$7,200
Conventional Installation$8,200$11,750$16,450
Aerobic System Installation$15,450$22,050$30,850
Drainfield Replacement$8,200$11,750$16,450
Perc Test$1,200$1,750$2,450

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

Soil & Septic Suitability in Gloucester County

Drainage Class
Well drained
Hydrologic Group
B
Unique Soil Types
46

Dominant Soil Types

Soil SeriesCoverageDrainageHydro Group
Freehold 1019 Well drained B
Sassafras 985 Well drained B
Aura 917 Well drained B
Westphalia 600 Well drained B
Collington 590 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 Limited1.3%
Very Limited98.7%

Overall rating: Very limited

Source: USDA NRCS Soil Survey Geographic Database (SSURGO)

Groundwater & Water Table in Gloucester County

Monitoring Wells
172
Avg Depth to Water
47.4 ft
Median Depth
16.9 ft
Shallowest Recorded
-3.5 ft Shallow Risk

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

Source: USGS National Water Information System. Based on 1155 measurements from monitoring wells.

Septic Regulations & Permits in Gloucester County

State Regulatory Body
New Jersey DEP
Inspection Required for Home Sale
Yes
Nitrogen Reduction Areas
Yes
Advanced Treatment Required
In designated areas

Pre-sale septic certification required in many municipalities.

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

Septic System FAQ for Gloucester County

How much does septic pumping cost in Gloucester County?
Septic pumping in Gloucester County, New Jersey typically costs between $400 and $850, with an average of $600. 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 Gloucester County?
A conventional septic system installation in Gloucester County typically costs $8,200-$16,450. An aerobic treatment unit (ATU) costs $15,450-$30,850. 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 Gloucester County?
Yes. Virtually all counties in New Jersey 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 Gloucester County health department for current requirements and fees.
What soil types are in Gloucester County and how do they affect septic systems?
Gloucester County has predominantly Freehold, Sassafras, Aura 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, 1.3% as "Somewhat Limited", and 98.7% as "Very Limited".
Is a septic inspection required when selling a home in Gloucester County?
Yes. New Jersey 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 $800. 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 Gloucester 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 10,883 septic systems in Gloucester County, there are many local providers offering regular pumping services.
Can I install a conventional septic system in Gloucester County?
It depends on your specific site. USDA soil data shows that 98.7% of soils in Gloucester 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 ($1200-$2450) and soil evaluation are required before the county will approve a system design.
How long does a septic system last in Gloucester County?
A well-maintained septic system in Gloucester 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 (Gloucester 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

Population302,294
Est. Septic Homes10,883
Avg Pumping Cost$600
Drainage ClassWell drained
Septic SuitabilityVery limited

Common Septic Services

Pumping: $400-$850
Inspection: $300-$650
Repair: $1,000-$7,200
Installation: $8,200-$16,450

Data last updated: 2026-04-13