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Land Requirements for Septic Systems in Arkansas

To preserve public health and safety, the state of Arkansas has passed land requirement regulations for septic systems. These regulations have been developed for the public good, and the state of Arkansas offers guidance on proper system design and installation. It would behoove anybody associated with a septic system in Arkansas to think of the regulations as a benchmark tool to use in the development or design of a septic system.

  1. Population Density

    • According to the state, for population densities of 2,500 or more people per square mile, a sewage treatment plant (public sewerage) is recommended. For less populated areas, a septic system is recommended for homeowners if no pre-existing sewage facility is available.

    Soil Testing and Mapping

    • After an area has been located to install a system, a complete soil test is required. This is usually performed by qualified Geologists or Civil Engineers working for the local county or municipality and includes testing of the soil for composition, absorption rates (commonly called a "perc test") and location of subsurface water tables. Based upon the soil report issued, the system is designed accordingly. One point to note is that if the soil test finds that the location will not support a septic system, you cannot install a system.

    Setback Restrictions

    • Some setback restrictions from bodies of water may affect the system. A system must be a minimum of 300 feet away from the high water mark of any natural body of water if a public water intake is within 1/4 mile of the proposed site; it also must be at least 300 feet away from any spring and at least 100 feet away from a drinking (potable) water supply. If ponds are present, locate it 50 feet away from a pond on the same land or 100 feet away from any pond on an adjacent property.

    System Design and Installation

    • After the soil testing is complete and the setback restrictions determined, the system is designed. This is usually performed by the county's geologist or the civil engineer who ran the testing. The design is given to a licenced installer, who digs the trenches and installs the system. After the system is installed and working properly, occupancy can occur.

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