Septic Systems in Duchesne County, UT

Regulations, costs, soil data & local providers

Pop. 19,596 ~12% on septic ~941 septic homes Well drained soil

Septic pumping in Duchesne County, Utah costs $300-$650 (avg $450). A new septic system installation costs $6,100-$12,200. USDA soil data rates 4.4% of county soils as suitable for septic absorption fields. Approximately 941 homes in this county use septic systems.

Septic System Costs in Duchesne County

ServiceLowAverageHigh
Pumping / Cleaning$300$450$650
Routine Inspection$250$350$500
Real Estate Inspection$400$600$850
Minor Repair$750$1,100$5,300
Conventional Installation$6,100$8,700$12,200
Aerobic System Installation$11,450$16,350$22,900
Drainfield Replacement$6,100$8,700$12,200
Perc Test$900$1,300$1,800

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

Soil & Septic Suitability in Duchesne County

Drainage Class
Well drained
Hydrologic Group
C
Unique Soil Types
489
Avg Bedrock Depth
2.4 ft

Dominant Soil Types

Soil SeriesCoverageDrainageHydro Group
Walknolls 462 Well drained D
Tridell 400 Well drained B
Turzo 355 Well drained C
Gerst 333 Well drained D
Uffens 320 Well drained C

Septic Tank Absorption Field Suitability

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

Not Limited (Good)4.4%
Somewhat Limited11.8%
Very Limited83.9%

Overall rating: Very limited

Source: USDA NRCS Soil Survey Geographic Database (SSURGO)

Groundwater & Water Table in Duchesne County

Monitoring Wells
3
Avg Depth to Water
25.4 ft
Median Depth
8.4 ft
Shallowest Recorded
4.1 ft

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

Source: USGS National Water Information System. Based on 31 measurements from monitoring wells.

Septic Regulations & Permits in Duchesne County

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

Septic System FAQ for Duchesne County

How much does septic pumping cost in Duchesne County?
Septic pumping in Duchesne County, Utah typically costs between $300 and $650, with an average of $450. 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 Duchesne County?
A conventional septic system installation in Duchesne County typically costs $6,100-$12,200. An aerobic treatment unit (ATU) costs $11,450-$22,900. 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 Duchesne County?
Yes. Virtually all counties in Utah 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 Duchesne County health department for current requirements and fees.
What soil types are in Duchesne County and how do they affect septic systems?
Duchesne County has predominantly Walknolls, Tridell, Turzo soils. The dominant drainage class is Well drained with hydrologic group C. The USDA rates 4.4% of surveyed soils as "Not Limited" for septic absorption fields, 11.8% as "Somewhat Limited", and 83.9% as "Very Limited".
How often should I pump my septic tank in Duchesne 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 Utah have mandatory pumping schedules — check with your local health department.
Can I install a conventional septic system in Duchesne County?
It depends on your specific site. USDA soil data shows that 83.9% of soils in Duchesne County are rated "Very Limited" for septic absorption fields, while only 4.4% 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 ($900-$1800) and soil evaluation are required before the county will approve a system design.
How long does a septic system last in Duchesne County?
A well-maintained septic system in Duchesne 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 (Duchesne 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

Population19,596
Est. Septic Homes941
Avg Pumping Cost$450
Drainage ClassWell drained
Septic SuitabilityVery limited

Common Septic Services

Pumping: $300-$650
Inspection: $250-$500
Repair: $750-$5,300
Installation: $6,100-$12,200

Data last updated: 2026-04-13