Septic Systems in Swisher County, TX

Regulations, costs, soil data & local providers

Pop. 6,971 ~22.4% on septic ~625 septic homes Well drained soil

Septic pumping in Swisher County, Texas costs $250-$500 (avg $350). A new septic system installation costs $5,050-$10,100. USDA soil data rates 0% of county soils as suitable for septic absorption fields. Approximately 625 homes in this county use septic systems.

Septic System Costs in Swisher County

ServiceLowAverageHigh
Pumping / Cleaning$250$350$500
Routine Inspection$200$250$350
Real Estate Inspection$350$500$700
Minor Repair$650$900$4,400
Conventional Installation$5,050$7,200$10,100
Aerobic System Installation$9,450$13,500$18,900
Drainfield Replacement$5,050$7,200$10,100
Perc Test$750$1,100$1,550

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

Soil & Septic Suitability in Swisher County

Drainage Class
Well drained
Hydrologic Group
B
Unique Soil Types
26

Dominant Soil Types

Soil SeriesCoverageDrainageHydro Group
Tulia 345 Well drained B
Estacado 278 Well drained B
Mansker 205 Well drained B
Drake 200 Well drained B
Bippus 195 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 Limited56.6%
Very Limited43.4%

Overall rating: Somewhat limited

Source: USDA NRCS Soil Survey Geographic Database (SSURGO)

Groundwater & Water Table in Swisher County

Monitoring Wells
8
Avg Depth to Water
204.4 ft
Median Depth
189 ft
Shallowest Recorded
157.3 ft

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

Source: USGS National Water Information System. Based on 29 measurements from monitoring wells.

Septic Regulations & Permits in Swisher 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 Swisher County health department for current permit requirements, fees, and approved system types.

Septic System FAQ for Swisher County

How much does septic pumping cost in Swisher County?
Septic pumping in Swisher County, Texas typically costs between $250 and $500, with an average of $350. 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 Swisher County?
A conventional septic system installation in Swisher County typically costs $5,050-$10,100. An aerobic treatment unit (ATU) costs $9,450-$18,900. 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 Swisher 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 Swisher County health department for current requirements and fees.
What soil types are in Swisher County and how do they affect septic systems?
Swisher County has predominantly Tulia, Estacado, Mansker 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, 56.6% as "Somewhat Limited", and 43.4% as "Very Limited".
How often should I pump my septic tank in Swisher 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 Texas have mandatory pumping schedules — check with your local health department.
Can I install a conventional septic system in Swisher County?
It depends on your specific site. USDA soil data shows that 43.4% of soils in Swisher 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 ($750-$1550) and soil evaluation are required before the county will approve a system design.
How long does a septic system last in Swisher County?
A well-maintained septic system in Swisher 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 (Swisher 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.

Free Quote for Swisher County

Get matched with licensed septic pros in your area. Free, no obligation.

Quick Facts

Population6,971
Est. Septic Homes625
Avg Pumping Cost$350
Drainage ClassWell drained
Septic SuitabilitySomewhat limited

Common Septic Services

Pumping: $250-$500
Inspection: $200-$350
Repair: $650-$4,400
Installation: $5,050-$10,100

Data last updated: 2026-04-13