Percolation Test

Soil Evaluations & Percolation Test

How to Apply

Soil evaluations and percolation tests (perc) are used to determine how quickly the soil absorbs liquid waste, the number of bedrooms a septic system placed on this property will accommodate, and the type of system needed.

The perc results are documented by the Health Department Sanitarian for future use at the time of a building permit application and used to design a septic system for the property.

  • Applicants must submit a percolation letter that they will receive from the Plan Review Office after the plans/plats are reviewed and approved by that office.  The letter will indicate the fees that are needed.  Payments will not be accepted without the letter being presented.
  • Fee will be determined by septic area sizing
  • This fee can be paid in the form of cash, check or credit card (Mastercard or Visa only)  
  • It is also necessary for the applicant to choose a backhoe operator for the excavation. This work may also be done by the homeowner.
  • The backhoe operator must contact the Health Department Sanitarian to set up an appointment for testing to take place. This service is done on a first come, first serve basis and an appointment is necessary.
Percolation test
man testing the soil