Septic Systems in Roosevelt County, NM

Regulations, costs, soil data & local providers

Pop. 19,191 ~21.6% on septic ~1,658 septic homes Well drained soil

Septic pumping in Roosevelt County, New Mexico costs $300-$550 (avg $400). A new septic system installation costs $5,800-$11,600. USDA soil data rates 6.4% of county soils as suitable for septic absorption fields. Approximately 1,658 homes in this county use septic systems.

Septic System Costs in Roosevelt County

ServiceLowAverageHigh
Pumping / Cleaning$300$400$550
Routine Inspection$200$300$400
Real Estate Inspection$400$550$750
Minor Repair$750$1,050$5,100
Conventional Installation$5,800$8,300$11,600
Aerobic System Installation$10,900$15,600$21,850
Drainfield Replacement$5,800$8,300$11,600
Perc Test$900$1,250$1,750

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

Soil & Septic Suitability in Roosevelt County

Drainage Class
Well drained
Hydrologic Group
B
Unique Soil Types
81
Avg Bedrock Depth
0.9 ft

Dominant Soil Types

Soil SeriesCoverageDrainageHydro Group
Amarose 478 Well drained B
Amarillo 444 Well drained B
Redona 357 Well drained B
Zita 340 Well drained B
Evanola 312 Well drained B

Septic Tank Absorption Field Suitability

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

Not Limited (Good)6.4%
Somewhat Limited49.4%
Very Limited44.1%

Overall rating: Somewhat limited

Source: USDA NRCS Soil Survey Geographic Database (SSURGO)

Groundwater & Water Table in Roosevelt County

Monitoring Wells
112
Avg Depth to Water
103 ft
Median Depth
95.4 ft
Shallowest Recorded
13.1 ft

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

Source: USGS National Water Information System. Based on 436 measurements from monitoring wells.

Septic Regulations & Permits in Roosevelt County

State Regulatory Body
New Mexico 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 Roosevelt County health department for current permit requirements, fees, and approved system types.

Septic System FAQ for Roosevelt County

How much does septic pumping cost in Roosevelt County?
Septic pumping in Roosevelt County, New Mexico typically costs between $300 and $550, with an average of $400. 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 Roosevelt County?
A conventional septic system installation in Roosevelt County typically costs $5,800-$11,600. An aerobic treatment unit (ATU) costs $10,900-$21,850. 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 Roosevelt County?
Yes. Virtually all counties in New Mexico 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 Roosevelt County health department for current requirements and fees.
What soil types are in Roosevelt County and how do they affect septic systems?
Roosevelt County has predominantly Amarose, Amarillo, Redona soils. The dominant drainage class is Well drained with hydrologic group B. The USDA rates 6.4% of surveyed soils as "Not Limited" for septic absorption fields, 49.4% as "Somewhat Limited", and 44.1% as "Very Limited".
How often should I pump my septic tank in Roosevelt 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 New Mexico have mandatory pumping schedules — check with your local health department.
Can I install a conventional septic system in Roosevelt County?
It depends on your specific site. USDA soil data shows that 44.1% of soils in Roosevelt County are rated "Very Limited" for septic absorption fields, while only 6.4% 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 ($900-$1750) and soil evaluation are required before the county will approve a system design.
How long does a septic system last in Roosevelt County?
A well-maintained septic system in Roosevelt 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 (Roosevelt 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

Population19,191
Est. Septic Homes1,658
Avg Pumping Cost$400
Drainage ClassWell drained
Septic SuitabilitySomewhat limited

Common Septic Services

Pumping: $300-$550
Inspection: $200-$400
Repair: $750-$5,100
Installation: $5,800-$11,600

Data last updated: 2026-04-13