How to Get a Septic System Permit in Summit County, Utah

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Brandon Anderson
Principal
Experienced civil engineer and licensed general contractor specialized septic system designer specializing in Summit County, providing customized solutions and ensuring regulatory compliance.
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Key Takeaways

Understanding Summit County’s septic system requirements is crucial for project success. This resource provides clear guidance on navigating local regulations, site evaluations, and system design to ensure compliance and efficiency. Anderson Engineering offers expertise to streamline the process when you’re ready to proceed.

Learn How to Meet Local Requirements: Understand Summit County’s zoning, setback rules, and permitting process to avoid costly mistakes.

Navigate Complex Site Conditions: Gain insights into selecting the right system design for challenging terrain, seasonal changes, and environmental regulations.

Expert Guidance When You Need It: Anderson Engineering simplifies the permitting and design process, ensuring your project aligns with local standards and moves forward seamlessly.

Common Questions. Expert Answers.

Quick Answers

What are the setback requirements for septic systems in Summit County?
Summit County enforces strict setback requirements to protect public health and the environment. Septic systems must be at least 5 feet from property lines and buildings, 100 feet from drinking water wells, and 100 feet from streams or other natural water bodies. These regulations ensure proper distancing from critical structures and natural resources, reducing the risk of contamination and environmental impact.
Who is authorized to conduct percolation tests in Summit County?
Anderson Engineering conducts percolation tests in Summit County, ensuring accuracy and compliance with all local requirements. These tests must also involve certified professionals approved by the state of Utah. A representative from the Summit County Health Department is required to be present during the testing process to ensure that all procedures are accurately followed and compliant with local regulations. This collaborative oversight guarantees the validity of the results, which are essential for designing a septic system.
What types of septic systems are permitted in Summit County?
Summit County allows several types of septic systems depending on site-specific conditions. Common options include shallow trench systems (trenches up to 1 foot deep), standard trench systems (trenches up to 4 feet deep), and deep trench systems (trenches up to 7 feet deep). At-grade systems with capping fill are also permitted, where the absorption field is at the ground’s surface level. Additionally, alternative systems like mound systems or aerobic treatment units may be approved for sites with challenging conditions such as shallow bedrock or poor soil absorption. Selecting the appropriate system depends on a comprehensive evaluation of the property.

Go Deeper

How to Get a Septic System Permit in Summit County, Utah

Table of Contents

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

a cabin in summit county, utah with an approved septic system permit. This cabin uses an alternative septic system.

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 ComponentRangeDetails
Soil Percolation Test$1,500-$3,000Confirms site suitability for wastewater absorption.
Site Evaluation$500–$1,500Includes topographic and environmental assessments.
Septic System Design$3,000–$7,500Costs vary based on property complexity and system type.
Permit Application Fee$200–$500Paid to the Summit County Health Department.
System Installation (Conventional)$4,000–$15,000For properties with good soil and gentle slopes.
System Installation (Alternative)$10,000–$50,000Includes mound systems, ATUs, or sand filters for challenging conditions.
Inspection and Final Approval$200–$500Covers county inspections during and after installation.
Maintenance Plan (Annual)$300–$600Regular 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.

  1. Schedule a Consultation: Discuss your project with our team for customized solutions.
  2. Streamline Permitting: Let us handle the paperwork and compliance requirements.
  3. Build with Confidence: Work with Anderson Engineering to design an efficient, reliable, and compliant system.

Contact us today to ensure the success of your Summit County septic system project, from permitting to installation and beyond!

Go Even Deeper

Summit County Health Department - Septic Program
Comprehensive information on septic system permitting, design, installation, and maintenance in Summit County.
Utah Department of Environmental Quality - Onsite Wastewater Program
Statewide guidelines and certification information for onsite wastewater systems, including regulations applicable in Summit County.
Summit County Building Department
Details on building permit requirements and processes in Summit County, including integration with septic system approvals.
Summit County Health Department - Environmental Health Division
Information on environmental health services, including septic system regulations and inspections in Summit County.
Summit County Wastewater Policy Document
Official policy document outlining wastewater management and septic system regulations in Summit County.

Frequently Asked Questions

What types of septic systems are permitted in Summit County?
Summit County permits a variety of septic systems to accommodate different site conditions. These include shallow trench systems for trenches dug one foot or less into the soil, standard trench systems for depths of up to four feet, and deep trench systems for depths of up to seven feet. At-grade systems with capping fill are also allowed, as well as alternative systems like mound systems or aerobic treatment units for challenging sites with poor soil or shallow bedrock. The appropriate system type depends on a thorough evaluation of the property’s characteristics.
How do I apply for a septic system permit in Summit County?
To apply for a septic system permit in Summit County, you must first conduct a soil percolation test through a certified professional and have a representative from the Summit County Health Department present. Next, submit a permit application that includes detailed site plans, the results of the soil test, and the proposed septic system design. The Summit County Health Department will review your application and may request revisions or additional information before granting approval.
What is the typical cost of installing a septic system in Summit County?
The cost of installing a septic system in Summit County varies based on the system type and site conditions. Conventional systems typically range from $10,000 to $10,000, while alternative systems, such as mound systems or aerobic treatment units, can cost between $15,000 and $50,000+. Additional expenses include soil percolation tests ($1,000–$5,000), design fees ($3,000–$10,000), and permit application fees ($200–$500). It’s essential to budget for these costs upfront to avoid delays in your project.

Disclaimer
This content, partially generated by LLM technology, is provided by Anderson Engineering for general guidance only and may contain errors or omissions. Each project is unique, and this material is not intended for design or construction purposes. For accurate, project-specific guidance, contact Anderson Engineering directly.