Septic vs. Sewer: What to Expect When Building
One of the earliest infrastructure decisions in a new build is how the home will handle wastewater. Whether a property connects to municipal sewer or requires a septic system impacts cost, planning, and long-term maintenance.
Why This Decision Matters Early
Septic or sewer isn’t simply a preference—it’s determined by location, utilities, regulations, and site conditions. Understanding the difference early helps set realistic expectations for scope, timeline, and cost.
Wastewater planning is foundational. Once the home is underway, changing approaches is rarely simple or inexpensive.
Building on Sewer
Homes located within established subdivisions or city limits are often served by municipal sewer systems.
Connecting the home to an existing sewer main, coordinating permits, inspections, and utility tie-ins.
Lower maintenance responsibility, no on-site wastewater system, and predictable long-term operation.
Availability of sewer taps, connection fees, depth of the main, and any municipal impact or inspection requirements.
Building with a Septic System
Properties outside municipal service areas often require a septic system, which treats wastewater on-site.
Soil & Site Evaluation
Percolation tests and soil analysis determine what type of system is required and where it can be placed on the property.
System Design
The size and type of system depend on soil conditions, home size, and local health department requirements.
Ongoing Responsibility
Septic systems require periodic inspection and pumping to perform properly over time.
Cost & Planning Considerations
Sewer and septic systems affect budgets in different ways. Understanding where costs come from helps avoid surprises.
Sewer may involve tap fees and trenching, while septic includes testing, system installation, and permitting.
Sewer typically carries monthly utility fees, while septic requires maintenance and eventual component replacement.