Septic Installation in New Orleans, LA

Septic Installation in New Orleans: local context

Much of New Orleans sits at or below sea level on soft, subsiding soils with a very high water table; many homes are raised on piers and basements are essentially nonexistent.

Most homes inside New Orleans are on public sewer, so new septic installations in the New Orleans–Metairie area happen mainly on the metro's outer edges and in rural parts of surrounding counties: new homes, additions that add bedrooms, and replacements of failed systems.

Soils in parts of the region include slow-draining clay that may require an engineered or alternative system and high water tables or limestone that limit conventional drain fields. Septic installations need a permit, usually from the county or state health or environmental agency, and typically a soil evaluation or perc test before design. Ask installers who handles design, permits and inspections, and get the system type in writing.

Licensing and permit rules differ by state and city. Check with Louisiana licensing authorities and the local building or permitting office for what applies to your project.