Soil Services in Georgia
A key factor in determining the viability of land is getting the soil evaluated for suitability for onsite wastewater disposal systems. If you’re going to build a new structure — or add on to an existing one — and intend on having a septic system, it’s paramount that you get the soil composition evaluated & approved by a soil scientist as early as possible to ensure your dream can become a reality. The local health departments in Georgia require a Level III soil evaluation from a certified professional in order to issue a septic permit.
Our soil scientist, Tom Schmitt, uses his extensive knowledge of soil, land, groundwater, and government regulations to help local developers, corporations, governments, realtors, and landowners gain awareness on the capability of land and soil in relation to their development plans. The soil’s composition is a factor that will determine the scope of what can be done on any given plot of land.
To evaluate the soil, he will come out to the property and record as many soil observations as necessary to determine the suitability of your soil for onsite septic systems. Upon completion of this evaluation he will provide you with a Level III soil evaluation, allowing you to obtain the proper permitting for a septic system.
The Soil & Septic FAQ
What do you know about the soil & septic system?
It’s important to have an official soil report for the land, and to know whether there is an existing septic system, how much wastewater it can absorb, whether or not it can be expanded, and if it has been permitted.
Is the soil deep enough/is there enough soil?
Sometimes the soil isn’t deep enough for conventional septic systems due to shallow impermeable layers or a shallow water table. This will determine what kind of system you are able to install, how many bedrooms can be accommodated, whether a house can be expanded, etc.
Should you evaluate your soil before selling?
A soil evaluation, available to the buyer, assures them of the value of the property. A Level III evaluation, commissioned by the seller, can be an attractive option that helps to sell the property.
Has the land been altered in any way?
Fill material and cut soil are sometimes hard to discern, but may render land unusable for septic absorption systems. Road beds, embankments, drainage ditches, barrow pits, buried waste and archeological remains can limit the use of some land.