Septic Systems in Chemung County, NY

Regulations, costs, soil data & local providers

Pop. 84,148 ~22% on septic ~7,405 septic homes Well drained soil

Septic pumping in Chemung County, New York costs $400-$750 (avg $550). A new septic system installation costs $7,550-$15,100. USDA soil data rates 0% of county soils as suitable for septic absorption fields. Approximately 7,405 homes in this county use septic systems.

Septic System Costs in Chemung County

ServiceLowAverageHigh
Pumping / Cleaning$400$550$750
Routine Inspection$300$400$550
Real Estate Inspection$500$750$1050
Minor Repair$950$1,350$6,600
Conventional Installation$7,550$10,800$15,100
Aerobic System Installation$14,200$20,250$28,350
Drainfield Replacement$7,550$10,800$15,100
Perc Test$1,100$1,600$2,250

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

Soil & Septic Suitability in Chemung County

Drainage Class
Well drained
Hydrologic Group
D
Unique Soil Types
41
Avg Bedrock Depth
2 ft

Dominant Soil Types

Soil SeriesCoverageDrainageHydro Group
Howard 446 Well drained A
Lordstown 392 Well drained C
Mardin 336 Moderately well drained D
Volusia 330 Somewhat poorly drained D
Valois 330 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 Limited4%
Very Limited96%

Overall rating: Very limited

Source: USDA NRCS Soil Survey Geographic Database (SSURGO)

Groundwater & Water Table in Chemung County

Monitoring Wells
2
Avg Depth to Water
23.9 ft
Median Depth
23.6 ft
Shallowest Recorded
20.7 ft

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

Source: USGS National Water Information System. Based on 85 measurements from monitoring wells.

Septic Regulations & Permits in Chemung County

State Regulatory Body
New York State DEC
Inspection Required for Home Sale
No / Varies
Nitrogen Reduction Areas
Yes
Advanced Treatment Required
In designated areas

Suffolk County and Long Island have strict nitrogen rules. County health departments issue permits.

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

Septic System FAQ for Chemung County

How much does septic pumping cost in Chemung County?
Septic pumping in Chemung County, New York typically costs between $400 and $750, with an average of $550. 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 Chemung County?
A conventional septic system installation in Chemung County typically costs $7,550-$15,100. An aerobic treatment unit (ATU) costs $14,200-$28,350. 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 Chemung County?
Yes. Virtually all counties in New York 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 Chemung County health department for current requirements and fees.
What soil types are in Chemung County and how do they affect septic systems?
Chemung County has predominantly Howard, Lordstown, Mardin soils. The dominant drainage class is Well drained with hydrologic group D. The USDA rates 0% of surveyed soils as "Not Limited" for septic absorption fields, 4% as "Somewhat Limited", and 96% as "Very Limited".
How often should I pump my septic tank in Chemung 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 7,405 septic systems in Chemung County, there are many local providers offering regular pumping services.
Can I install a conventional septic system in Chemung County?
It depends on your specific site. USDA soil data shows that 96% of soils in Chemung 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 ($1100-$2250) and soil evaluation are required before the county will approve a system design.
How long does a septic system last in Chemung County?
A well-maintained septic system in Chemung 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 (Chemung 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

Population84,148
Est. Septic Homes7,405
Avg Pumping Cost$550
Drainage ClassWell drained
Septic SuitabilityVery limited

More in New York

Schuyler County Tompkins County Tioga County Yates County Seneca County Steuben County

Common Septic Services

Pumping: $400-$750
Inspection: $300-$550
Repair: $950-$6,600
Installation: $7,550-$15,100

Data last updated: 2026-04-13