Septic Systems in Lubbock County, TX

Regulations, costs, soil data & local providers

Pop. 310,639 ~8% on septic ~9,940 septic homes Well drained soil

Septic pumping in Lubbock County, Texas costs $300-$550 (avg $400). A new septic system installation costs $5,900-$11,750. USDA soil data rates 9% of county soils as suitable for septic absorption fields. Approximately 9,940 homes in this county use septic systems.

Septic System Costs in Lubbock County

ServiceLowAverageHigh
Pumping / Cleaning$300$400$550
Routine Inspection$200$300$400
Real Estate Inspection$400$600$850
Minor Repair$750$1,050$5,200
Conventional Installation$5,900$8,400$11,750
Aerobic System Installation$11,000$15,750$22,050
Drainfield Replacement$5,900$8,400$11,750
Perc Test$900$1,250$1,750

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

Soil & Septic Suitability in Lubbock County

Drainage Class
Well drained
Hydrologic Group
B
Unique Soil Types
44

Dominant Soil Types

Soil SeriesCoverageDrainageHydro Group
Posey 360 Well drained B
Amarillo 354 Well drained B
Mobeetie 281 Well drained A
Berda 275 Well drained B
Bippus 263 Well drained B

Septic Tank Absorption Field Suitability

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

Not Limited (Good)9%
Somewhat Limited53.3%
Very Limited37.7%

Overall rating: Somewhat limited

Source: USDA NRCS Soil Survey Geographic Database (SSURGO)

Groundwater & Water Table in Lubbock County

Monitoring Wells
18
Avg Depth to Water
171.2 ft
Median Depth
173.7 ft
Shallowest Recorded
68.5 ft

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

Source: USGS National Water Information System. Based on 18 measurements from monitoring wells.

Septic Regulations & Permits in Lubbock County

State Regulatory Body
Texas Commission on Environmental Quality (TCEQ)
Inspection Required for Home Sale
No / Varies
Nitrogen Reduction Areas
No
Advanced Treatment Required
In designated areas

On-Site Sewage Facility (OSSF) permits required. Authorized agents at county level.

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

Septic System FAQ for Lubbock County

How much does septic pumping cost in Lubbock County?
Septic pumping in Lubbock County, Texas 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 Lubbock County?
A conventional septic system installation in Lubbock County typically costs $5,900-$11,750. An aerobic treatment unit (ATU) costs $11,000-$22,050. 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 Lubbock County?
Yes. Virtually all counties in Texas 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 Lubbock County health department for current requirements and fees.
What soil types are in Lubbock County and how do they affect septic systems?
Lubbock County has predominantly Posey, Amarillo, Mobeetie soils. The dominant drainage class is Well drained with hydrologic group B. The USDA rates 9% of surveyed soils as "Not Limited" for septic absorption fields, 53.3% as "Somewhat Limited", and 37.7% as "Very Limited".
How often should I pump my septic tank in Lubbock 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 9,940 septic systems in Lubbock County, there are many local providers offering regular pumping services.
Can I install a conventional septic system in Lubbock County?
It depends on your specific site. USDA soil data shows that 37.7% of soils in Lubbock County are rated "Very Limited" for septic absorption fields, while only 9% 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 ($900-$1750) and soil evaluation are required before the county will approve a system design.
How long does a septic system last in Lubbock County?
A well-maintained septic system in Lubbock 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 (Lubbock 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

Population310,639
Est. Septic Homes9,940
Avg Pumping Cost$400
Drainage ClassWell drained
Septic SuitabilitySomewhat limited

Common Septic Services

Pumping: $300-$550
Inspection: $200-$400
Repair: $750-$5,200
Installation: $5,900-$11,750

Data last updated: 2026-04-13