Navigating the septic system permitting process for homeowners in Utah County, Utah, requires understanding local regulations, conducting detailed site evaluations, and ensuring proper wastewater and drain field system design. Septic systems are necessary when a municipal wastewater treatment system is unavailable. This guide provides step-by-step instructions, answers common questions, and highlights how Anderson Engineering can assist general contractors in streamlining the process.
How to Get a Septic Permit and Onsite Wastewater Systems Approved in Utah County
Securing a septic system permit in Utah County is a multi-step process. Anderson Engineering will design and manage the details, allowing you to focus on the rest of your project.
Step 1: Research Local Requirements for Onsite Septic Systems
Understanding local requirements is the first step in ensuring compliance. Utah County enforces strict setback regulations, including:
- Property Lines: 5 feet
- Buildings: 5 feet
- Drinking Water Wells: 100 feet
- Streams or Water Bodies: 100 feet
Anderson’s Role:
We use Utah County GIS tools to verify zoning classifications, identify overlays like environmental protection zones, and confirm setback compliance.
Your Role:
Provide Anderson with property details, including site plans and specifications, so that we can begin the research.
Additional Guidance:
- Estimated Timeline: Typically, confirming local setback requirements and collecting property details can take 1–2 days.
Step 2: Conduct Site and Soil Evaluations
Site and soil evaluations determine the property’s suitability for a septic system. This includes soil percolation tests and assessments of slopes and drainage patterns to ensure the underground wastewater disposal systems function correctly and protect groundwater.
Anderson’s Role:
We schedule and oversee the percolation test with licensed professionals and a Utah-certified inspector. We also analyze the site to identify the best locations for the septic tank and drain field.
Your Role:
Grant site access to Anderson’s evaluation team and review the initial onsite systems design with the homeowner.
Additional Guidance:
- Estimated Timeline: Depending on equipment availability, conducting the site evaluation, percolation test, and soil evaluation can typically take 1-2 weeks.
Step 3: Develop a System Design
The certificate of compliance is necessary before the installation of the septic system. septic system design must be tailored to the site’s unique conditions and usage needs while meeting Utah County’s regulatory standards.
Anderson’s Role:
We design septic systems, ranging from conventional setups to advanced options like mound systems or aerobic treatment units (ATUs). Every design complies with Utah Administrative Code R317-4 and Utah County regulations.
Your Role:
Review and approve the proposed system design, providing feedback for needed adjustments.
Additional Guidance:
- Estimated Timeline: Designing the system typically takes 1–3 weeks, depending on complexity.
Step 4: Submit the Permit Application
A complete and accurate permit application is essential to securing approval without delays.
Anderson’s Role:
We prepare and submit the permit application to the Utah County Health Department, including detailed site plans, soil test results, and finalized system designs.
Your Role:
Sign the application documents as the contractor or property owner, if required.
Additional Guidance:
- Time Frame for Review: The county will review your submission in 2–4 weeks, which can vary depending on workload and complexity.
Step 5: Address Review Comments
The Utah County Health Department may request clarifications or revisions during the review process.
Anderson’s Role:
We respond to feedback, update the design or documentation as needed, and ensure the revised application is resubmitted promptly.
Your Role:
Stay informed of updates and provide authorization for any changes.
Step 6: Secure Approval, Attach to Building Permit, and Begin Construction
Once the septic system permit is approved, it must be attached to your building permit before construction begins. Before completing the system, an inspector must verify the lawful installation according to the permitted plan.
Anderson’s Role:
We deliver the approved septic permit and, if requested, provide civil site design services to prepare the property for construction, including grading, drainage, and utility planning.
Your Role:
Attach the septic permit to your building permit and proceed with construction.
Additional Guidance:
- Integration With Building Permits: Before significant building activities start, ensure the septic permit is on file at the county or city. Failure to do so can delay the issuance of the primary building permit.
- Coordination With Other Trades: Confirm the final septic system placement with driveway installers, landscapers, and utility providers to ensure no conflicts occur during or after construction.
Why Choose Anderson Engineering?
- Simplified Process: From evaluations to approvals, we handle every detail.
- Custom Solutions: Tailored designs that meet Utah County regulations.
- Comprehensive Services: Beyond septic systems, we offer civil site design for seamless project execution.
Septic System Costs in Utah County
Understanding costs upfront helps avoid surprises. Here’s a breakdown of typical expenses for septic systems in Utah County:
| Cost Component | Range | Details |
| Soil Percolation Test | $1500–$4,000 | Confirms site suitability for wastewater absorption. |
| Site Evaluation | $500–$1,500 | Includes topographic and environmental assessments. |
| Septic System Design | $1,000–$5,000 | Costs vary based on property complexity and system type. |
| Permit Application Fee | $200–$500 | Paid to the Utah County Health Department. |
| System Installation (Conventional) | $4,000–$10,000 | This is for properties with good soil and gentle slopes. |
| System Installation (Alternative) | $10,000–$45,000 | 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 Utah County
Utah County’s diverse geography and seasonal weather patterns pose unique challenges for septic system placement:
- Mountainous Terrain: Areas near the Wasatch Range or Provo Canyon often require advanced designs to prevent effluent surfacing or erosion.
- Soil Drainage Variability: Properties near Utah Lake or the Provo River may face drainage challenges, requiring site-specific evaluations.
- Rocky Soil can significantly impact the water quality of the area if not properly managed. Shallow bedrock in areas like Alpine and American Fork Canyon necessitates alternative systems, such as mound systems or ATUs.
- Growing Subdivisions: High-demand properties in fast-developing areas like Lehi and Saratoga Springs often require larger or clustered systems to handle increased wastewater needs.
Understanding and addressing these factors early ensures a smooth installation process, long-term reliability, and compliance with repair or replacement regulations.
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 are the most cost-effective options for suitable sites. They are ideal for sandy soils with good drainage.
- 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 like the Provo River or Utah Lake.
Work with an engineer to select a system that balances performance, cost, and compliance.
