Home › FAQ
Septic FAQ
Free referral service. Fort Smith Septic Help is not a septic company. We connect homeowners in the Fort Smith area with local septic providers, who do the work and quote you directly.
Are you a septic company?
No. Fort Smith Septic Help is a free referral service. We pass your request to an independent local septic provider, who contacts you, quotes the job and does the work.
Does it cost anything to use this site?
No. Requesting a quote is free for homeowners, and you're never obligated to hire anyone.
How often should I pump my septic tank?
The EPA's general guidance is every 3 to 5 years, with an inspection every 1 to 3 years. It depends on tank size, household size, water use, whether you use a garbage disposal, and how much solid material has built up.
What are the signs my septic system is failing?
The EPA lists sewage backing up into the home, very slow drains, gurgling plumbing, standing water or damp spots over the tank or drain field, sewage odors, and bright green, spongy grass over the system even in dry weather.
Do I need a permit to repair my septic system in Arkansas?
Yes. Arkansas rules require a permit from the Arkansas Department of Health or its authorized agent before a septic system is built, altered, repaired or extended. Emergency repairs can start right away if a permit is obtained within 10 working days.
How do I find my septic permit or where my tank is?
Call the ADH health unit in your county and ask for the Onsite Environmental Specialist. For Sebastian County (Fort Smith, Barling, Greenwood, Lavaca, Hackett) that's 479-452-8600. For Crawford County (Van Buren, Alma, Mulberry, Cedarville) it's 479-474-6391.
Do septic pumping companies need a license in Arkansas?
Yes. Anyone who cleans or pumps septic tanks or hauls septage for pay needs an Arkansas Department of Health Septic Tank Cleaner license. The license number goes on your receipt.
Is there a minimum lot size for a septic system in Arkansas?
According to the Arkansas Department of Health, no. The space needed depends on the soil, the number of bedrooms and the 100-foot setback from water wells.
Do I need a septic inspection to sell my house?
It depends on your contract and your buyer's lender. Many buyers ask for one. Check with your agent or lender, and allow time before closing in case repairs need a permit.
What happens after I submit the form?
We pass your request to a local septic provider who serves your ZIP code, and they contact you directly by the email or phone you gave us.
Sources: U.S. EPA, Resolving Septic System Malfunctions; 14 CAR § 21-301, Code of Arkansas Rules (permits); Arkansas Department of Health, Onsite Wastewater FAQs; ADH Rules Pertaining to Septic Tank Cleaners.
Get a free septic quote
Tell us what you need. We pass your request to a licensed local septic provider who serves your area, and they contact you. It's free, and you're never obligated to hire anyone.