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New Septic Installation in Fort Smith, AR

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.

Building a home outside sewer service, or replacing a system that can't be saved? We'll connect you with a local provider who can walk you through design, permits and installation in the Fort Smith area.

How a new septic system gets approved in Arkansas

1. Soil evaluation. Arkansas rules say the first step in designing any onsite system is deciding whether the soil is suitable. At least two soil pits are dug, one in the proposed primary absorption area and one in the secondary area. The Arkansas Department of Health prefers soil pits to percolation tests, because they show depth to rock, tight soil layers, and how high groundwater gets in wet seasons.
2. Design by a Designated Representative. Soil tests and system designs are done by ADH-licensed Designated Representatives. Your county's ADH health unit can give you a list of the ones working in your area.
3. Permit for construction. The owner needs a permit from ADH or its authorized agent before construction starts.
4. Installation by a licensed installer, who notifies the authorized agent at least 24 hours before starting.
5. Inspection and permit for operation. The system can't be used until it's inspected and approved and the owner has a permit for operation.

Lot size and setbacks

ADH says there's no minimum lot size for a septic system. The space needed depends on the soil, the number of bedrooms, and the 100-foot setback from water wells.

The 10-acre exemption

According to ADH, a single residence on ten or more acres, with every part of the sewage system more than 200 feet from any property line (including roads), is exempt from getting a permit. The system still has to be installed and run in a way that meets state requirements and doesn't cause a nuisance. Your local health unit can issue a letter confirming the exemption.

Systems handling 1,500 gallons per day or more are reviewed by the Arkansas Division of Environmental Quality instead of ADH.

Check your provider's license

Arkansas licenses septic work through the Arkansas Department of Health (ADH). Companies that pump or clean septic tanks need a Septic Tank Cleaner license; septic installers need an installer license; and soil tests and system designs are done by licensed Designated Representatives. ADH has a searchable database of onsite wastewater licensees, linked from its Onsite Wastewater FAQ page.

Sources: 14 CAR § 21-601, Code of Arkansas Rules (soil suitability); 14 CAR § 21-301, Code of Arkansas Rules (permits); Arkansas Department of Health, Onsite Wastewater FAQs; Arkansas Department of Health, Onsite Wastewater program.