How much does it cost to put in a septic tank in Georgia?

The statewide average for a conventional 3-bedroom septic system in Georgia is $6,500 to $7,500, per ProMatcher's Georgia data. In North Georgia mountain counties like Fannin and Gilmer, rocky terrain and steep slopes push that range to $8,000 to $12,000 for conventional and $12,000 to $25,000 for alternative systems.

Can a homeowner install their own septic system in Georgia?

Georgia does not allow homeowner self-installation of septic systems. Under Chapter 511-3-1, all installations must be performed by a DPH-certified septic tank contractor. The system must also be permitted through the county environmental health office and pass a final inspection. See the Georgia DPH for certification details.

What is the minimum lot size for a septic system in Fannin County Georgia?

Fannin County uses an acreage/perc-rate chart rather than a single fixed minimum. The practical floor is about 1.4 acres for most mountain soil types, according to local accounts and the Fannin County Environmental Health permit documentation. Lots near running water may require 2 acres. Lots with very fast-percolating soil might qualify at less.

What happens if my land fails the perc test in Georgia?

A failed or marginal perc test doesn't mean the lot is unbuildable. It means a conventional gravity system is off the table. An alternative system (mound, aerobic treatment unit, drip dispersal) may still be permitted at $12,000 to $25,000. In rare cases with extremely poor soil and insufficient acreage, the lot may be unsuitable for on-site sewage per EPA guidance.

How long does a septic permit take in North Georgia?

The Fannin and Gilmer County permit process typically takes 2 to 8 weeks from application to issued permit, depending on county workload and season. Spring and early summer are the busiest times. The soil evaluation itself takes 1 to 3 weeks to schedule and complete, so plan for 3 to 11 weeks total from first phone call to permit in hand.

Do I need an engineer for a mountain lot septic system in Georgia?

Not always. A conventional gravity system on a qualifying lot does not require engineering. But an alternative system typically requires an engineered design ($500 to $2,000), and lots above 50% slope require a registered professional engineer's stamp on the site plan per Gilmer County environmental health requirements. If your lot is above 30% slope, plan for some level of engineering cost.

Septic System Cost: North Georgia Mountain Lots (2026)