Septic Systems in Yamhill County, OR

Regulations, costs, soil data & local providers

Pop. 107,722 ~15% on septic ~6,463 septic homes Well drained soil

Septic pumping in Yamhill County, Oregon costs $350-$700 (avg $500). A new septic system installation costs $7,000-$14,000. USDA soil data rates 0.4% of county soils as suitable for septic absorption fields. Approximately 6,463 homes in this county use septic systems.

Septic System Costs in Yamhill County

ServiceLowAverageHigh
Pumping / Cleaning$350$500$700
Routine Inspection$300$400$550
Real Estate Inspection$500$700$1000
Minor Repair$900$1,250$6,150
Conventional Installation$7,000$10,000$14,000
Aerobic System Installation$13,100$18,750$26,250
Drainfield Replacement$7,000$10,000$14,000
Perc Test$1,050$1,500$2,100

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

Soil & Septic Suitability in Yamhill County

Drainage Class
Well drained
Hydrologic Group
C
Unique Soil Types
114
Avg Bedrock Depth
3.8 ft

Dominant Soil Types

Soil SeriesCoverageDrainageHydro Group
Jory 1815 Well drained C
Goodin 1050 Well drained C
Saum 1049 Well drained C
Melbourne 922 Well drained C
Steiwer 894 Well drained C

Septic Tank Absorption Field Suitability

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

Not Limited (Good)0.4%
Somewhat Limited3.2%
Very Limited96.3%

Overall rating: Very limited

Source: USDA NRCS Soil Survey Geographic Database (SSURGO)

Septic Regulations & Permits in Yamhill County

State Regulatory Body
Oregon DEQ
Inspection Required for Home Sale
No / Varies
Nitrogen Reduction Areas
No
Advanced Treatment Required
In designated areas

Some counties require time-of-transfer inspection. Authorization required for installers.

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

Septic System FAQ for Yamhill County

How much does septic pumping cost in Yamhill County?
Septic pumping in Yamhill County, Oregon typically costs between $350 and $700, with an average of $500. 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 Yamhill County?
A conventional septic system installation in Yamhill County typically costs $7,000-$14,000. An aerobic treatment unit (ATU) costs $13,100-$26,250. 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 Yamhill County?
Yes. Virtually all counties in Oregon 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 Yamhill County health department for current requirements and fees.
What soil types are in Yamhill County and how do they affect septic systems?
Yamhill County has predominantly Jory, Goodin, Saum soils. The dominant drainage class is Well drained with hydrologic group C. The USDA rates 0.4% of surveyed soils as "Not Limited" for septic absorption fields, 3.2% as "Somewhat Limited", and 96.3% as "Very Limited".
How often should I pump my septic tank in Yamhill 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 6,463 septic systems in Yamhill County, there are many local providers offering regular pumping services.
Can I install a conventional septic system in Yamhill County?
It depends on your specific site. USDA soil data shows that 96.3% of soils in Yamhill County are rated "Very Limited" for septic absorption fields, while only 0.4% 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 ($1050-$2100) and soil evaluation are required before the county will approve a system design.
How long does a septic system last in Yamhill County?
A well-maintained septic system in Yamhill 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 (Yamhill 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

Population107,722
Est. Septic Homes6,463
Avg Pumping Cost$500
Drainage ClassWell drained
Septic SuitabilityVery limited

Common Septic Services

Pumping: $350-$700
Inspection: $300-$550
Repair: $900-$6,150
Installation: $7,000-$14,000

Data last updated: 2026-04-13