Septic system placement is critical for property development in Summit County, where unique terrain, seasonal challenges, and strict regulations require careful planning. Whether you’re working on a vacation rental in Park City, a ranch in Kamas Valley, or a home in Coalville, understanding the local process ensures your project is efficient, compliant, and cost-effective.
This guide covers everything you need to know—from permitting to system design—while highlighting Anderson Engineering’s expertise.
Step-by-Step to Get a Septic System Permit

Step 1: Research Local Requirements for Septic System Permits
What Anderson Does:
- Use Summit County GIS tools to verify zoning classifications, identify environmental overlays, and confirm property setbacks.
- Evaluate specific requirements such as
- Property Lines: 5 feet
- Buildings: 5 feet
- Drinking Water Wells: 100 feet
- Streams or Water Bodies: 100 feet
Your Role:
- Provide Anderson with property details, including site plans and project specifications, so they can begin the research.
Step 2: Conduct Site Evaluations
What Anderson Does:
- Schedule and oversee the soil percolation test with a certified professional to confirm the site’s ability to absorb wastewater.
- Assess slopes, drainage patterns, and other environmental factors to determine the best locations for the septic tank and drain field.
Your Role:
- Allow site access for the evaluation team.
- Review Anderson’s findings and recommendations to confirm alignment with your project goals.
Step 3: Develop a Septic System Design that Meets Septic System Permit Requirements
What Anderson Does:
Design a septic system tailored to the property’s conditions and usage requirements. Options include:
- Conventional Systems: For sites with good soil and drainage.
- Mound Systems: For areas with shallow bedrock or poor soil.
- Aerobic Treatment Units (ATUs): For environmentally sensitive locations.
- Ensure the design meets Summit County and Utah state regulations.
Your Role:
- Approve the proposed design and provide any feedback on site-specific needs or future property plans.
Step 4: Submit the Permit Application to the Summit County Health Department
What Anderson Does:
- Prepare the permit application with the Summit County Health Department, including Detailed site plans, Soil test results, and Finalized system design documentation.
Your Role:
- Sign off on the application documents as the property owner or contractor (if required).
- The property owner applies to the Summit County Health Department.
Step 5: Address Review Comments
What Anderson Does:
- Respond to the county’s feedback or revision requests during the review process.
- Make necessary adjustments to the system design or documentation to ensure quick approval.
Your Role:
- Stay informed of any changes and provide additional input or authorization as needed.
Step 6: Secure Approval, Attach to Building Permit, and Begin Construction
What Anderson Does:
- Obtain final approval from the Summit County Health Department.
- Provide the approved septic permit for attachment to your building permit application.
- Offer comprehensive civil site design services, including grading, drainage, and utility planning, ensuring the entire site is ready for construction.
Your Role:
- Attach the approved septic permit to your building permit.
- You can confidently begin construction, knowing that the septic system design complies with all local requirements and integrates seamlessly with the overall site plan.
Why Work with Anderson Engineering?
Streamlined Process: Anderson Engineering handles every aspect of septic permitting, from site evaluation to final approval.
Comprehensive Expertise: Our team doesn’t just specialize in septic systems—we also offer full-service civil site design to ensure your project is ready to move forward without delays.
Tailored Solutions: Every system is customized to meet your property’s unique needs while complying with Summit County’s regulations.
Partner with Anderson Engineering to simplify the permitting process and bring your project to life. Contact us today to get started!
Septic System Costs in Summit County
Understanding costs upfront helps avoid surprises. Here’s a breakdown of typical expenses for septic systems in Summit County:
Cost Component | Range | Details |
---|---|---|
Soil Percolation Test | $1,500-$3,000 | Confirms site suitability for wastewater absorption. |
Site Evaluation | $500–$1,500 | Includes topographic and environmental assessments. |
Septic System Design | $3,000–$7,500 | Costs vary based on property complexity and system type. |
Permit Application Fee | $200–$500 | Paid to the Summit County Health Department. |
System Installation (Conventional) | $4,000–$15,000 | For properties with good soil and gentle slopes. |
System Installation (Alternative) | $10,000–$50,000 | Includes mound systems, ATUs, or sand filters for challenging conditions. |
Inspection and Final Approval | $200–$500 | Covers county inspections during and after installation. |
Maintenance Plan (Annual) | $300–$600 | Regular pumping and inspections to ensure long-term reliability. |
While conventional systems are often more affordable, properties with poor soil or steep slopes may require more expensive alternative designs.
Addressing Local Challenges in Summit County
Summit County’s diverse geography and seasonal weather patterns pose unique challenges for septic system placement:
- Mountainous Terrain: Areas like Snyderville Basin and the foothills of the Wasatch Range often require advanced designs to prevent effluent surfacing or erosion.
- Snowmelt Runoff: Spring thaw can saturate soil, reducing its absorption capacity. Systems near features like Silver Creek may need additional setbacks or protective measures.
- Rocky Soil: Shallow bedrock in regions like Coalville necessitates mound systems or ATUs for proper functionality.
- Tourism-Driven Usage: Vacation rentals in Park City demand larger tanks or clustered systems to handle fluctuating occupancy levels.
Understanding and addressing these factors early ensures a smooth installation process and long-term reliability.
Choosing the Right Septic System Design
The type of septic system you choose depends on your site’s conditions and the property’s usage:
- Conventional Systems: Ideal for sandy soils with good drainage, these are the most cost-effective options for suitable sites.
- Mound Systems: Designed for shallow bedrock, steep slopes, or poor soil absorption.
- Aerobic Treatment Units (ATUs): Provide advanced wastewater treatment, making them ideal for environmentally sensitive areas or properties near water sources.
Work with an engineer to select a system that balances performance, cost, and compliance.
Case Study: A Local Solution in Kamas Valley
The Challenge: A five-bedroom vacation home near the Provo River required a septic system that met stringent setback requirements while handling high seasonal demand.
The Solution:
- Anderson Engineering designed a 1,750-gallon mound system paired with an ATU.
- The system exceeded the 100-foot setback requirement from the river and included a secondary drain field for future expansion.
This approach ensured compliance and provided the property with a reliable solution for peak usage.
Long-Term Maintenance for Summit County Systems
Regular maintenance keeps your septic system running efficiently and compliant with local regulations:
- Pumping: Schedule every 3–5 years for residential systems or annually for high-demand properties like vacation rentals.
- Inspections: Annual inspections help identify and address potential issues before they escalate.
- Winterization: Protect exposed components during Summit County’s cold winters to prevent freezing and damage.
Proactive maintenance reduces the risk of costly repairs and extends the life of your system.
How Anderson Engineering Can Help
At Anderson Engineering, we specialize in designing and permitting septic systems tailored to Summit County’s unique challenges.
- Local Expertise: Decades of experience in areas like Park City, Coalville, and Kamas Valley.
- Custom Solutions: From conventional systems to advanced ATUs, we deliver systems that meet your property’s needs.
- Regulatory Support: We manage the entire permitting process, ensuring compliance with Summit County and Utah state regulations.
- Ongoing Guidance: We provide maintenance recommendations to keep your system in top condition after installation.
Next Steps for Your Summit County Septic System
Ready to get started? Let Anderson Engineering guide you through the process with expert advice, tailored designs, and hands-on support.
- Schedule a Consultation: Discuss your project with our team for customized solutions.
- Streamline Permitting: Let us handle the paperwork and compliance requirements.
- Build with Confidence: Work with Anderson Engineering to design an efficient, reliable, and compliant system.