Septic Systems in Coffee County, TN

Regulations, costs, soil data & local providers

Pop. 57,889 ~30% on septic ~6,947 septic homes Well drained soil

Septic pumping in Coffee County, Tennessee costs $300-$550 (avg $400). A new septic system installation costs $5,300-$10,650. USDA soil data rates 0% of county soils as suitable for septic absorption fields. Approximately 6,947 homes in this county use septic systems.

Septic System Costs in Coffee County

ServiceLowAverageHigh
Pumping / Cleaning$300$400$550
Routine Inspection$200$300$400
Real Estate Inspection$350$500$700
Minor Repair$650$950$4,600
Conventional Installation$5,300$7,600$10,650
Aerobic System Installation$10,000$14,250$19,950
Drainfield Replacement$5,300$7,600$10,650
Perc Test$800$1,150$1,600

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

Soil & Septic Suitability in Coffee County

Drainage Class
Well drained
Hydrologic Group
B
Unique Soil Types
62
Avg Bedrock Depth
4 ft

Dominant Soil Types

Soil SeriesCoverageDrainageHydro Group
Mountview 1192 Well drained B
Mimosa 848 Well drained C
Waynesboro 808 Well drained B
Etowah 800 Well drained B
Dewey 800 Well drained B

Septic Tank Absorption Field Suitability

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

Not Limited (Good)0%
Somewhat Limited37.3%
Very Limited62.7%

Overall rating: Very limited

Source: USDA NRCS Soil Survey Geographic Database (SSURGO)

Groundwater & Water Table in Coffee County

Monitoring Wells
67
Avg Depth to Water
23.9 ft
Median Depth
21.9 ft
Shallowest Recorded
1.2 ft Shallow Risk

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

Source: USGS National Water Information System. Based on 923 measurements from monitoring wells.

Septic Regulations & Permits in Coffee County

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

Septic System FAQ for Coffee County

How much does septic pumping cost in Coffee County?
Septic pumping in Coffee County, Tennessee 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 Coffee County?
A conventional septic system installation in Coffee County typically costs $5,300-$10,650. An aerobic treatment unit (ATU) costs $10,000-$19,950. 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 Coffee County?
Yes. Virtually all counties in Tennessee 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 Coffee County health department for current requirements and fees.
What soil types are in Coffee County and how do they affect septic systems?
Coffee County has predominantly Mountview, Mimosa, Waynesboro soils. The dominant drainage class is Well drained with hydrologic group B. The USDA rates 0% of surveyed soils as "Not Limited" for septic absorption fields, 37.3% as "Somewhat Limited", and 62.7% as "Very Limited".
How often should I pump my septic tank in Coffee 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 6,947 septic systems in Coffee County, there are many local providers offering regular pumping services.
Can I install a conventional septic system in Coffee County?
It depends on your specific site. USDA soil data shows that 62.7% of soils in Coffee 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 ($800-$1600) and soil evaluation are required before the county will approve a system design.
How long does a septic system last in Coffee County?
A well-maintained septic system in Coffee 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 (Coffee 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

Population57,889
Est. Septic Homes6,947
Avg Pumping Cost$400
Drainage ClassWell drained
Septic SuitabilityVery limited

Common Septic Services

Pumping: $300-$550
Inspection: $200-$400
Repair: $650-$4,600
Installation: $5,300-$10,650

Data last updated: 2026-04-13