Septic Systems in Delaware County, OH

Regulations, costs, soil data & local providers

Pop. 214,124 ~15% on septic ~12,847 septic homes Well drained soil

Septic pumping in Delaware County, Ohio 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 12,847 homes in this county use septic systems.

Septic System Costs in Delaware 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 Delaware County, Ohio. Actual costs depend on system type, site conditions, and provider.

Soil & Septic Suitability in Delaware County

Drainage Class
Well drained
Hydrologic Group
D
Unique Soil Types
42
Avg Bedrock Depth
3 ft

Dominant Soil Types

Soil SeriesCoverageDrainageHydro Group
Glynwood 499 Moderately well drained D
Gallman 403 Well drained B
Blount 396 Somewhat poorly drained D
Scioto 384 Well drained B
Sloan 356 Very poorly drained B/D

Septic Tank Absorption Field Suitability

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

Not Limited (Good)0%
Somewhat Limited1.7%
Very Limited98.3%

Overall rating: Very limited

Source: USDA NRCS Soil Survey Geographic Database (SSURGO)

Groundwater & Water Table in Delaware County

Monitoring Wells
1
Avg Depth to Water
33.7 ft
Median Depth
33.7 ft
Shallowest Recorded
31.8 ft

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

Source: USGS National Water Information System. Based on 24 measurements from monitoring wells.

Septic Regulations & Permits in Delaware County

State Regulatory Body
Ohio Department of Health
Inspection Required for Home Sale
No / Varies
Nitrogen Reduction Areas
No
Advanced Treatment Required
In designated areas

Local health districts issue permits. Sewage Treatment System (STS) rules updated 2015.

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

Septic System FAQ for Delaware County

How much does septic pumping cost in Delaware County?
Septic pumping in Delaware County, Ohio 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 Delaware County?
A conventional septic system installation in Delaware County typically costs $5,600-$11,200. An aerobic treatment unit (ATU) costs $10,500-$21,000. 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 Delaware County?
Yes. Virtually all counties in Ohio 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 Delaware County health department for current requirements and fees.
What soil types are in Delaware County and how do they affect septic systems?
Delaware County has predominantly Glynwood, Gallman, Blount 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, 1.7% as "Somewhat Limited", and 98.3% as "Very Limited".
How often should I pump my septic tank in Delaware 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 12,847 septic systems in Delaware County, there are many local providers offering regular pumping services.
Can I install a conventional septic system in Delaware County?
It depends on your specific site. USDA soil data shows that 98.3% of soils in Delaware 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 Delaware County?
A well-maintained septic system in Delaware 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 (Delaware 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

Population214,124
Est. Septic Homes12,847
Avg Pumping Cost$400
Drainage ClassWell 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