Septic pumping in Pembina County, North Dakota costs $250-$500 (avg $350). A new septic system installation costs $4,750-$9,500. USDA soil data rates 0% of county soils as suitable for septic absorption fields. Approximately 575 homes in this county use septic systems.
Septic System Costs in Pembina County
| Service | Low | Average | High |
|---|---|---|---|
| Pumping / Cleaning | $250 | $350 | $500 |
| Routine Inspection | $200 | $250 | $350 |
| Real Estate Inspection | $300 | $450 | $650 |
| Minor Repair | $600 | $850 | $4,200 |
| Conventional Installation | $4,750 | $6,800 | $9,500 |
| Aerobic System Installation | $8,900 | $12,750 | $17,850 |
| Drainfield Replacement | $4,750 | $6,800 | $9,500 |
| Perc Test | $700 | $1,000 | $1,400 |
Cost estimates based on regional market data for Pembina County, North Dakota. Actual costs depend on system type, site conditions, and provider.
Soil & Septic Suitability in Pembina County
Drainage Class
Moderately well drained
Hydrologic Group
C
Unique Soil Types
123
Avg Bedrock Depth
3.9 ft
Dominant Soil Types
| Soil Series | Coverage | Drainage | Hydro Group |
|---|---|---|---|
| Maddock | 439 | Well drained | A |
| Brantford | 434 | Well drained | B |
| Bearden | 408 | Somewhat poorly drained | C |
| La Prairie | 406 | Moderately well drained | B |
| Walsh | 395 | Well drained | B |
Septic Tank Absorption Field Suitability
USDA NRCS rates soil suitability for septic absorption fields across this county:
Overall rating: Very limited
Groundwater & Water Table in Pembina County
Monitoring Wells
1
Avg Depth to Water
3.7 ft
Median Depth
3.7 ft
Shallowest Recorded
3.7 ft Shallow Risk
Shallow water table detected. Mound systems or aerobic treatment units may be required.
Source: USGS National Water Information System. Based on 1 measurements from monitoring wells.
Septic Regulations & Permits in Pembina County
State Regulatory Body
North Dakota 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 Pembina County health department for current permit requirements, fees, and approved system types.
Septic System FAQ for Pembina County
How much does septic pumping cost in Pembina County?
Septic pumping in Pembina County, North Dakota 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 Pembina County?
A conventional septic system installation in Pembina County typically costs $4,750-$9,500. An aerobic treatment unit (ATU) costs $8,900-$17,850. 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 Pembina County?
Yes. Virtually all counties in North Dakota 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 Pembina County health department for current requirements and fees.
What soil types are in Pembina County and how do they affect septic systems?
Pembina County has predominantly Maddock, Brantford, Bearden soils. The dominant drainage class is Moderately well drained with hydrologic group C. The USDA rates 0% of surveyed soils as "Not Limited" for septic absorption fields, 8.5% as "Somewhat Limited", and 91.5% as "Very Limited".
How often should I pump my septic tank in Pembina 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 Dakota have mandatory pumping schedules — check with your local health department.
Does the water table in Pembina County affect septic systems?
Yes. The average groundwater depth in Pembina County is approximately 3.7 feet, based on USGS monitoring data from 1 wells. This shallow water table means conventional gravity-fed septic systems may not be suitable for many sites. Mound systems or aerobic treatment units are commonly required to maintain adequate separation between the drainfield and groundwater.
Can I install a conventional septic system in Pembina County?
It depends on your specific site. USDA soil data shows that 91.5% of soils in Pembina 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 ($700-$1400) and soil evaluation are required before the county will approve a system design.
How long does a septic system last in Pembina County?
A well-maintained septic system in Pembina 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 (Pembina 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.
Data last updated: 2026-04-13