Septic Systems in Perquimans County, NC

Regulations, costs, soil data & local providers

Pop. 13,005 ~67.2% on septic ~3,496 septic homes Moderately well drained soil

Septic pumping in Perquimans County, North Carolina costs $300-$550 (avg $400). A new septic system installation costs $5,600-$11,200. USDA soil data rates 0% of county soils as suitable for septic absorption fields. Approximately 3,496 homes in this county use septic systems.

Septic System Costs in Perquimans County

ServiceLowAverageHigh
Pumping / Cleaning$300$400$550
Routine Inspection$200$300$400
Real Estate Inspection$400$550$750
Minor Repair$700$1,000$4,900
Conventional Installation$5,600$8,000$11,200
Aerobic System Installation$10,500$15,000$21,000
Drainfield Replacement$5,600$8,000$11,200
Perc Test$850$1,200$1,700

Cost estimates based on regional market data for Perquimans County, North Carolina. Actual costs depend on system type, site conditions, and provider.

Soil & Septic Suitability in Perquimans County

Drainage Class
Moderately well drained
Hydrologic Group
A
Unique Soil Types
41

Dominant Soil Types

Soil SeriesCoverageDrainageHydro Group
State 220 Well drained B
Yeopim 172 Moderately well drained C
Dogue 170 Moderately well drained C
Augusta 136 Somewhat poorly drained B/D
Roanoke 105 Poorly drained C/D

Septic Tank Absorption Field Suitability

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

Not Limited (Good)0%
Somewhat Limited3.2%
Very Limited96.8%

Overall rating: Very limited

Source: USDA NRCS Soil Survey Geographic Database (SSURGO)

Groundwater & Water Table in Perquimans County

Monitoring Wells
1
Avg Depth to Water
4.8 ft
Median Depth
4.5 ft
Shallowest Recorded
2.6 ft Shallow Risk

Moderate water table depth. Some sites may require modified systems or mound systems.

Source: USGS National Water Information System. Based on 6 measurements from monitoring wells.

Septic Regulations & Permits in Perquimans County

State Regulatory Body
NC Department of Health and Human Services
Inspection Required for Home Sale
No / Varies
Nitrogen Reduction Areas
Yes
Advanced Treatment Required
In designated areas

Soil evaluation (not perc test) used since 1999. County health departments issue permits.

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

Septic System FAQ for Perquimans County

How much does septic pumping cost in Perquimans County?
Septic pumping in Perquimans County, North Carolina 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 Perquimans County?
A conventional septic system installation in Perquimans County typically costs $5,600-$11,200. An aerobic treatment unit (ATU) costs $10,500-$21,000. Given the predominantly moderately 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 Perquimans County?
Yes. Virtually all counties in North Carolina 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 Perquimans County health department for current requirements and fees.
What soil types are in Perquimans County and how do they affect septic systems?
Perquimans County has predominantly State, Yeopim, Dogue soils. The dominant drainage class is Moderately well drained with hydrologic group A. The USDA rates 0% of surveyed soils as "Not Limited" for septic absorption fields, 3.2% as "Somewhat Limited", and 96.8% as "Very Limited".
How often should I pump my septic tank in Perquimans 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 North Carolina have mandatory pumping schedules — check with your local health department.
Does the water table in Perquimans County affect septic systems?
Yes. The average groundwater depth in Perquimans County is approximately 4.8 feet, based on USGS monitoring data from 1 wells. While this is sufficient for many conventional systems, sites with lower elevations or seasonal water table fluctuations may require alternative system designs. A site-specific evaluation is always recommended.
Can I install a conventional septic system in Perquimans County?
It depends on your specific site. USDA soil data shows that 96.8% of soils in Perquimans 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 ($850-$1700) and soil evaluation are required before the county will approve a system design.
How long does a septic system last in Perquimans County?
A well-maintained septic system in Perquimans 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 (Perquimans County has predominantly moderately 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

Population13,005
Est. Septic Homes3,496
Avg Pumping Cost$400
Drainage ClassModerately well drained
Septic SuitabilityVery limited

Common Septic Services

Pumping: $300-$550
Inspection: $200-$400
Repair: $700-$4,900
Installation: $5,600-$11,200

Data last updated: 2026-04-13