Sourced from DeKalb Public Health Environmental Health fee schedule (effective January 1, 2024) and published septic program documentation — last checked July 2026.
Who Issues DeKalb Septic Permits
DeKalb Public Health, Environmental Health: 445 Winn Way, Suite 320, Decatur, GA 30030
Phone: 404-294-3700 (main) / 404-508-7900 (Environmental Health)
Email: dekalb.eh@dph.ga.gov — use “Sewage system permit application” in the subject line
The Contractor Submits, Not You
DeKalb’s process runs through your installer. The contractor completes the Construction Permit and Site Approval application along with the OSSMS Engineered Site Plan Checklist and submits both. A permit is required before any installation, new drain line, or repair.
Practically, this means your first call is to a DPH-certified installer, not to the health department. If a contractor tells you to pull the permit yourself, that’s a signal to find a different contractor.
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DeKalb Septic Fees
| Service | Fee |
|---|---|
| Subdivision lot evaluation, per lot | $120 |
| Residential lot plan review / site approval | $200 |
| Residential installation permit | $250 |
| Repair | $150 |
| Land use evaluation with site visit | $150 |
| Land use evaluation without site visit | $100 |
| Septic tank pump-out permit | $100 |
| Pump-out truck inspection | $100 |
| Commercial lot review | $400 |
| Commercial installation (under / over 2,000 GPD) | $400 / $600 |
Fee schedule effective January 1, 2024, as published by DeKalb Public Health.
DeKalb’s Pumping Frequency Guidance
DeKalb publishes something most counties don’t: a straightforward pumping schedule by household size. For a 1,000-gallon tank — Georgia’s residential minimum — their guidance runs roughly:
| Household Size | Pump Every |
|---|---|
| 1 occupant | ~12 years |
| 3 occupants | ~3.5 years |
| 5 occupants | ~2 years |
DeKalb also uses a design maximum of 150 gallons per person per day. The pattern is worth internalizing: household size drives pumping frequency far more than tank size does.
Georgia Septic Guide — Free Tool
Not Sure How Often You Need Pumping?
The EPA’s general guidance is every 3–5 years for a typical household. This tool personalizes that baseline for your household. A planning estimate, not a substitute for a real inspection.
Estimate uses ~100 gallons/person/year accumulation rate (EPA-aligned), increased ~30% for garbage disposal households. Georgia requires a minimum 1,000-gallon tank for all residential systems. Actual accumulation varies by system, soil, and water use.
Certification Letters for Loans and Refinancing
DeKalb issues a certification letter confirming a septic system appeared to be functioning at the time of evaluation. It’s commonly requested for mortgage loans, refinancing, and foster or adoptive parent approvals.
The land use evaluation with site visit ($150) is the fee that typically applies. If you’re refinancing or selling in DeKalb, this is usually the document your lender wants — confirm with them before booking, since some require the fuller Performance Evaluation Report instead.
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Frequently Asked Questions
How much is a septic permit in DeKalb County?
A residential installation permit is $250, plus $200 for lot plan review and site approval. Repairs are $150. Fee schedule effective January 1, 2024.
Can I apply for a DeKalb septic permit myself?
No. DeKalb requires the contractor to complete and submit the Construction Permit and Site Approval application along with the OSSMS Engineered Site Plan Checklist.
How often should I pump my septic tank in DeKalb County?
DeKalb guidance for a 1,000-gallon tank is roughly every 12 years for one occupant, every 3.5 years for three, and every 2 years for five. Household size matters more than tank size.
How do I get a septic certification letter in DeKalb County?
DeKalb Public Health issues certification letters for loans, refinancing, and foster or adoptive approvals. The land use evaluation with site visit ($150) is typically the applicable fee.
Who do I contact for DeKalb County septic permits?
DeKalb Public Health Environmental Health, 445 Winn Way, Suite 320, Decatur, 404-508-7900, or email dekalb.eh@dph.ga.gov.