Septic Systems in Edmunds County, SD

Regulations, costs, soil data & local providers

Pop. 3,986 ~28.8% on septic ~459 septic homes Well drained soil

Septic pumping in Edmunds County, South Dakota costs $200-$400 (avg $300). A new septic system installation costs $4,550-$9,100. USDA soil data rates 0.1% of county soils as suitable for septic absorption fields. Approximately 459 homes in this county use septic systems.

Septic System Costs in Edmunds County

ServiceLowAverageHigh
Pumping / Cleaning$200$300$400
Routine Inspection$200$250$350
Real Estate Inspection$300$450$650
Minor Repair$550$800$4,000
Conventional Installation$4,550$6,500$9,100
Aerobic System Installation$8,500$12,150$17,000
Drainfield Replacement$4,550$6,500$9,100
Perc Test$650$950$1,350

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

Soil & Septic Suitability in Edmunds County

Drainage Class
Well drained
Hydrologic Group
B
Unique Soil Types
86
Avg Bedrock Depth
2.4 ft

Dominant Soil Types

Soil SeriesCoverageDrainageHydro Group
Williams 812 Well drained C
Wabek 522 Excessively drained A
Zahl 480 Well drained B
Bryant 465 Well drained B
Bowbells 453 Moderately well drained B

Septic Tank Absorption Field Suitability

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

Not Limited (Good)0.1%
Somewhat Limited30.1%
Very Limited69.8%

Overall rating: Very limited

Source: USDA NRCS Soil Survey Geographic Database (SSURGO)

Septic Regulations & Permits in Edmunds County

State Regulatory Body
South 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 Edmunds County health department for current permit requirements, fees, and approved system types.

Septic System FAQ for Edmunds County

How much does septic pumping cost in Edmunds County?
Septic pumping in Edmunds County, South Dakota typically costs between $200 and $400, with an average of $300. 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 Edmunds County?
A conventional septic system installation in Edmunds County typically costs $4,550-$9,100. An aerobic treatment unit (ATU) costs $8,500-$17,000. 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 Edmunds County?
Yes. Virtually all counties in South 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 Edmunds County health department for current requirements and fees.
What soil types are in Edmunds County and how do they affect septic systems?
Edmunds County has predominantly Williams, Wabek, Zahl soils. The dominant drainage class is Well drained with hydrologic group B. The USDA rates 0.1% of surveyed soils as "Not Limited" for septic absorption fields, 30.1% as "Somewhat Limited", and 69.8% as "Very Limited".
How often should I pump my septic tank in Edmunds 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 South Dakota have mandatory pumping schedules — check with your local health department.
Can I install a conventional septic system in Edmunds County?
It depends on your specific site. USDA soil data shows that 69.8% of soils in Edmunds County are rated "Very Limited" for septic absorption fields, while only 0.1% 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 ($650-$1350) and soil evaluation are required before the county will approve a system design.
How long does a septic system last in Edmunds County?
A well-maintained septic system in Edmunds 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 (Edmunds 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

Population3,986
Est. Septic Homes459
Avg Pumping Cost$300
Drainage ClassWell drained
Septic SuitabilityVery limited

Common Septic Services

Pumping: $200-$400
Inspection: $200-$350
Repair: $550-$4,000
Installation: $4,550-$9,100

Data last updated: 2026-04-13