How much does a septic permit cost in DeKalb County, GA?

Septic permit fees in DeKalb County vary by permit type. New installation permits typically cost $200–$500, while repair permits are usually $100–$300. Contact DeKalb County Board of Health (District 3-5) at (404) 508-7900 for current fee schedules.

How long does it take to get a septic permit in DeKalb County?

The septic permit process in DeKalb County generally takes 2–6 weeks, depending on soil evaluation scheduling and application completeness. Soil evaluations must be performed by a licensed soil scientist before applying.

Do I need a soil evaluation for a septic permit in DeKalb County?

Yes. DeKalb County requires a professional soil evaluation before issuing any septic permit. A licensed soil scientist evaluates soil type, depth, drainage, and water table levels to determine the appropriate septic system design.

Who handles septic inspections in DeKalb County, GA?

DeKalb County Board of Health (District 3-5) oversees all septic system inspections in DeKalb County. Contact them at (404) 508-7900 to schedule an inspection or ask about requirements.

Can I install my own septic system in DeKalb County?

DeKalb County requires septic system installation by licensed contractors. All installations must be permitted through DeKalb County Board of Health (District 3-5) and pass inspection before the system can be used.

Septic & well regulations in DeKalb County, GA

DeKalb County is located in the Piedmont region of Georgia. DeKalb County has Piedmont red clay soils (Cecil series) over granite-gneiss bedrock. The famous Stone Mountain granite exposure illustrates the shallow bedrock conditions found throughout much of the county. Understanding local permit requirements and soil conditions is essential before installing, repairing, or inspecting a septic system.

Permits & Requirements

New Installation

Site evaluation and septic permit required from DeKalb County Board of Health (District 3-5) before installation. A DPH-certified installer must submit a site plan and system design. Two-compartment tanks are mandatory for all new installations. Permit fee is $100 with 12-month validity.

Repair

Repair permit required from DeKalb County Board of Health (District 3-5). A certified septic contractor must submit a repair plan and obtain written approval before work begins. Existing system modifications must meet current DPH Chapter 511-3-1 standards.

Inspection

Performance Evaluation Reports ($400–$600) available through DPH-certified inspectors. Required for real estate transactions involving septic systems. Reports document system condition, tank integrity, and drain field performance.

DeKalb County Environmental Health

DeKalb County Board of Health (District 3-5)

(404) 508-7900

Contact the county environmental health department for permit applications, soil evaluation scheduling, and regulatory questions.

Soil & Terrain Characteristics

DeKalb County has Piedmont red clay soils (Cecil series) over granite-gneiss bedrock. The famous Stone Mountain granite exposure illustrates the shallow bedrock conditions found throughout much of the county. Heavily urbanized areas have extensively modified soil profiles.

The Piedmont region is characterized by clay-rich soils that can slow water percolation through drain fields. Professional soil evaluation is essential to determine drain field sizing, as clay content varies significantly even within a single property. Many Piedmont sites require larger drain field areas or modified designs to accommodate slower percolation rates.

County-Specific Considerations

DeKalb is almost entirely served by DeKalb County Watershed Management sewer infrastructure. Very few properties remain on septic systems, primarily in the far eastern and southeastern portions. Properties still on septic should evaluate feasibility of connecting to the county sewer system.

Find Services in DeKalb County

Septic Pumping

DeKalb County

Septic Inspection

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Septic Installation

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Well Water Testing

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Well Pump Repair

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Well Drilling

DeKalb County

Emergency Services

DeKalb County

Water Treatment

DeKalb County

Drain Field Repair

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Septic to Sewer Conversion

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Aerobic Septic System

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Well Water Filtration

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PFAS Water Testing

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Related Resources

DeKalb County Overview Inspection Checklist How to Choose a Septic Company

Septic Permits & Regulations in DeKalb County — FAQ

How much does a septic permit cost in DeKalb County, GA?: Septic permit fees in DeKalb County vary by permit type. New installation permits typically cost $200–$500, while repair permits are usually $100–$300. Contact DeKalb County Board of Health (District 3-5) at (404) 508-7900 for current fee schedules.
How long does it take to get a septic permit in DeKalb County?: The septic permit process in DeKalb County generally takes 2–6 weeks, depending on soil evaluation scheduling and application completeness. Soil evaluations must be performed by a licensed soil scientist before applying.
Do I need a soil evaluation for a septic permit in DeKalb County?: Yes. DeKalb County requires a professional soil evaluation before issuing any septic permit. A licensed soil scientist evaluates soil type, depth, drainage, and water table levels to determine the appropriate septic system design.
Who handles septic inspections in DeKalb County, GA?: DeKalb County Board of Health (District 3-5) oversees all septic system inspections in DeKalb County. Contact them at (404) 508-7900 to schedule an inspection or ask about requirements.
Can I install my own septic system in DeKalb County?: DeKalb County requires septic system installation by licensed contractors. All installations must be permitted through DeKalb County Board of Health (District 3-5) and pass inspection before the system can be used.