Septic in Torrance County, NM

Here in Torrance County, wide-open ranchland and a patchwork of small towns shape everyday life—and the way homes handle wastewater follows that same practical pattern.

Is septic common in Torrance County? Should I expect septic if I own or buy a home?

• Yes. Much of Torrance County outside the incorporated towns relies on individual septic systems because centralized sewer service isn't available everywhere. If you own or buy a home in the unincorporated areas, plan for a septic system unless it's connected to a municipal sewer line. Homes inside Moriarty, Estancia, or other town limits may have sewer service, but many rural properties still depend on septic.
• If you're unsure about a specific property, have the wastewater system checked during a professional inspection. A functioning septic system is essential for safety, comfort, and long-term property value.

Why homes typically use septic systems in Torrance County

• Rural layout and infrastructure costs: Extending sewer lines across large, sparsely populated areas is expensive. Septic systems offer a practical, on-site solution.
• Local geography and soil: Properly designed septic systems work with the county's soils and arid climate when installed by a licensed professional and followed by routine maintenance.
• Independence and control: A well-maintained septic system gives homeowners predictable wastewater management without reliance on distant municipal services.
• Regulation and safety: Local health and building codes require correct installation, placement, and ongoing maintenance to protect groundwater and drinking water sources.

County growth history and how that has impacted septic coverage

• Early days: Torrance County developed around ranching and farming, with small towns serving as service hubs. Wastewater needs were met locally, often with on-site solutions.
• Mid to late 20th century: Growth along highways and in surrounding communities brought more homes and subdivisions, but centralized sewer did not always keep pace in rural areas.
• Recent decades: As some neighborhoods expanded toward Moriarty and Estancia, septic systems remained common where sewer extensions were not feasible. Today, septic coverage tends to follow the edge of town boundaries and rural lots, making хорош maintenance and proper design more important than ever.
• Practical consequence: With more properties relying on septic, homeowners benefit from solid scheduling for inspections, pump-outs, and system health checks to prevent issues before they start.

Why septic exists here (high-level)

In Torrance County, large swaths of land without ready access to city sewer, combined with the cost of building and maintaining extensive sewer networks, make septic systems a sensible, long-standing solution for responsible wastewater management.

That context helps set the foundation for the practical guidance you'll find as you read on.

How Septic Is Regulated in Torrance County

State oversight

• In New Mexico, onsite wastewater systems (septic systems) are regulated primarily at the state level by the New Mexico Environment Department (NMED). The state sets minimum standards for siting, design, installation, operation, and maintenance to protect groundwater and public health.
• NMED maintains rules and guidance on soil testing, system design, setbacks, and inspections. Local jurisdictions use those standards to administer permits and inspections in their area.
• Official resources:
  • New Mexico Environment Department (NMED):

  Permitting process (step-by-step)

  1. Determine permit necessity
  2. Most new septic systems, as well as substantial repairs or replacements, require a permit before work begins.
  3. Complete a site evaluation
  4. A soil evaluation and site assessment are typically required to determine suitable locations and appropriate system type (standard trench, mound, etc.).
  5. design and professional involvement
  6. System designs are usually prepared by a qualified professional and must meet state and county standards. The design will specify tank size, leach field layout, and setback distances.
  7. Submit permit package
  8. Submit the completed application, site evaluation results, and system design to the appropriate Torrance County office (or state agency as required). Include any contractor licenses as instructed.
  9. Inspections during installation
  10. The county or state will schedule inspections at key milestones: after trenching and pipe placement, after tank installation, and upon final rehabilitation/connection to the drainfield.
  11. Final approval and records
  12. After a successful final inspection, the system receives final approval and your records are filed. Keep copies of permits, inspection reports, and maintenance schedules for reference.

  What counts as a regulated project?

  • New septic system installations on a property.
  • Replacements or major repairs to the septic system.
  • Expansions or modifications that change system capacity or layout.
  • Alterations in property use that trigger different wastewater treatment requirements.
  • Any changes in drainage or drainage patterns that affect the drainfield.

  Maintenance and compliance reminders

  • Pumping and maintenance
    • Have the septic tank pumped on a schedule that fits household size and system type, typically every 3–5 years; more frequent pumping may be needed for higher usage or special systems.
  • Drainfield protection
    • Avoid parking or heavy equipment on the drainfield area; protect the area from irrigation overflows, cave-ins, and root intrusion.
  • Household practices
    • Use water efficiently; avoid flushing non-discharged chemicals, oils, solvents, or wipes that can clog or damage the system.
  • Recognize trouble early
    • Signs include slow drains, gurgling in pipes, sewage odors, soggy or unusually lush patches above the drainfield, or sewage backups. If you notice issues, contact the appropriate county or state regulator before continuing work.

  Helpful resources

  • New Mexico Environment Department (NMED) On-site Wastewater information for residents and professionals: https://www.env.nm.gov/oes/onsite-wastewater/
  • Torrance County official site for local permit guidance and contact information: https://www.torrancecounty.org
  • U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) guidance on septic systems (general best practices): https://www.epa.gov/septic
  • New Mexico Department of Health (if applicable to local health/regulatory inquiries): https://www.nmhealth.org

Soil, Groundwater & Environmental Factors in Torrance County

Soil characteristics in Torrance County

• Soils here are diverse due to elevation and geology. Expect a mix of shallow, caliche-rich layers, sandy to loamy textures, and occasional stony horizons.
• Drainage can vary a lot. Some areas drain quickly (better for infiltration), while others have slower drainage or perched layers that impede effluent absorption.
• Bedrock depth and shallow groundwater can influence system performance. In places with shallow bedrock or shallow water tables, you may need alternative designs (like mound systems) or additional soil treatment steps.
• Surface slope matters. Steeper sites or rocky soils limit the area available for a leach field and can increase erosion risk during rain events.
• Practical takeaway: before installing or upgrading a system, get a professional site soil evaluation and consult the local permit requirements to understand what soil conditions mean for your design.

Groundwater depth and vulnerability

• Groundwater depth in Torrance County varies by location and season. Some areas may show shallow groundwater after heavy rains, while others have deeper water tables.
• The proximity of a septic system to drinking water wells is a key concern. Improperly designed or located systems can pose a risk to groundwater quality.
• If you rely on a private well, consider testing your well water if you're near a septic system or after soil work is completed. Regular testing helps catch any changes early.
• Practical takeaway: always confirm setbacks and protective distances with local regulations and have a qualified designer account for groundwater conditions in the site plan.

Climate, rainfall, and seasonal considerations

• The arid to semi-arid climate means high evaporation and variable moisture. Hot summers and cool winters affect how quickly effluent moves through the soil.
• Monsoon events can bring heavy but brief rainfall, potentially impacting surface runoff and soil saturation. After heavy rains, soil infiltration may slow temporarily.
• Freeze-thaw cycles can impact soil structure and the longevity of a drain field. Proper design helps prevent frost heave and early clogging.
• Practical takeaway: plan for seasonal moisture variability and ensure proper grading, drainage, and snow/ice considerations are part of the site design.

Site planning and design: practical steps

1. Get a professional soil and site evaluation (soil borings and percolation tests) to determine absorption capacity and suitable design options.
2. Map setback distances from wells, streams, and property lines per local codes. If you don't have exact distances, contact the Torrance County building or health department for guidance.
3. Choose a system design that matches soil and groundwater conditions (for poor drainage or shallow soils, alternatives like mound systems or raised beds may be needed).
4. Plan for erosion control and runoff management on sloped sites to protect the drain field from silt and surface water!

Official resources and references

• EPA Septic Systems: practical guidance for homeowners and professionals alike. https://www.epa.gov/septic
• Web Soil Survey (USDA NRCS): explore soil types and properties for Torrance County. https://websoilsurvey.nrcs.usda.gov/
• New Mexico State University Extension: local, research-based guidance for septic systems and home maintenance. https://extension.nmsu.edu/
• USGS and other federal/academic resources provide broader context on groundwater and soil science. https://www.usgs.gov/
• State and local guidance: check with New Mexico Environment Department and Torrance County health/building departments for current setback rules and permit requirements. https://www.env.nm.gov/

Typical Septic System Types in Torrance County

Conventional septic systems

• A traditional setup: a septic tank paired with a soil absorption field (drainfield). Wastewater flows from the house into the tank, where solids settle and scum floats, then clarified effluent moves to the drainfield for natural soil treatment.
• Key components: septic tank, distribution/dosing box, and drainfield trenches or beds buried in native soil.
• How it works: anaerobic digestion occurs in the tank; liquid effluent percolates into the soil where it's filtered and treated by microorganisms.
• What homeowners should know:
  • Pumping every 3–5 years is common, depending on usage and tank size.
  • Safe maintenance includes regular water-use management, proper disposal of fats/oils, and avoiding flushing wipes or chemicals that can disrupt the system.
  • Performance depends on soil, groundwater, and drainage; not all sites are suited without adjustments.

Mound systems

• When native soil isn't suitable (shallow bedrock, high water table, limiting soils), a raised "mound" can place the drainfield above problematic layers.
• How it's built: a shallow septic tank connects to a dosing system that distributes effluent into a sand-filled mound with a soil surface cover.
• Maintenance and use:
  • More parts mean more potential failure points; typical maintenance includes inspections and routine pumping.
  • Mounds require adequate space and proper design by a licensed professional to meet local codes.

Aerobic treatment units (ATU)

• ATUs provide enhanced treatment by delivering aeration and mechanical mixing to improve effluent quality before it reaches the drainage system.
• How it works: a small forced-aeration chamber treats wastewater to a higher standard, then effluent is discharged to a drainfield or sprayed into a dispersion system.
• What to expect:
  • Requires electricity and regular service by a qualified technician.
  • Many installations include disinfection (chlorination or UV) before final disposal.
  • Better performance in challenging soils, but higher ongoing maintenance and monitoring.

Sand filter systems

• An alternative where soils are less permeable or where a conventional drainfield isn't practical.
• How it works: after primary treatment in the septic tank, effluent is sent to a sand filtration bed, where physical, biological, and chemical processes further clean the water before it returns to the soil.
• Maintenance considerations:
  • Periodic inspection of the bed, surface cover, and dosing system.
  • Possible replacement or replenishment of sand over time, depending on use and conditions.

Evapotranspiration (ET) systems

• These systems rely on evaporation and plant transpiration to remove wastewater, and are most common in arid climates with suitable soil and vegetation.
• Suitability in Torrance County depends on climate, soil, and site conditions; not all properties qualify.
• What to know:
  • ET beds must be designed for local rainfall patterns and evapotranspiration rates.
  • Regular maintenance includes checking plant health, covering integrity, and system alarms if present.

Site, soil, and permitting notes

• Soil type, depth to groundwater, and slope influence which system works best for your lot.
• Permitting: all septic installations and major repairs require local and state approvals; work should align with New Mexico requirements administered by the New Mexico Environment Department On-Site Wastewater Treatment Systems program. See for official guidance.
• For general information about septic standards and best practices, consult the EPA's guidance at https://www.epa.gov/septic and your county's pages, such as Torrance County's site: https://www.torrancecountynm.org/.'>https://www.torrancecountynm.org/.

Resources

• Official NM OWTS guidance: https://www.env.nm.gov/owts/
• EPA septic systems overview: https://www.epa.gov/septic
• Torrance County government: https://www.torrancecountynm.org/

Typical Septic Issues Across Torrance County

Common causes in Torrance County

• System age and design: Older systems may not meet current load or soil conditions, causing faster filling or poor drainage.
• Soil and site constraints: Torrance County soils often include clayey or compacted layers that limit absorption, leading to standing water or slow flushing.
• Tree roots and landscaping: Roots can invade drain fields or trenches, reducing permeability and triggering backups.
• Overloading from water use: Large irrigation, high-flow appliances, or many household users can overwhelm a septic system.
• FOG and non-biodegradable waste: Fats, oils, grease, diapers, wipes, and chemicals contaminate bacteria, clog pipes, or accumulate in the tank.
• Garbage disposals: Frequent use adds solids to the tank, increasing pumping frequency and risking premature failures.
• Inadequate pumping and maintenance: Skipping routine inspections or pumping can allow solids to reach the drain field.
• Groundwater and seasonal effects: Heavy rainfall or fluctuating groundwater can saturate the drain field, reducing treatment efficiency.

Symptoms homeowners may notice

• Slow drains or frequent clogs in sinks, toilets, and showers.
• Bad odors near the septic tank, manhole, or yard drain field.
• Wet, spongy, or unusually green patches over the drain field.
• Puddling or soggy areas after rain, or water backing up in fixtures.
• Gurgling sounds in plumbing or unusually frequent backups.

Drain field and soil indicators

• Subsurface dampness that persists beyond a rain event.
• A lush, green patch in an otherwise dry lawn, or a region that stays wet.
• Cracks or soft spots in the yard above the drain field.
• Evidence of effluent on the soil surface or near the system components.

Quick checks you can safely perform

• Step 1: Note usage patterns. Compare current water use with system capacity and tank size.
• Step 2: Inspect for obvious blockages. Check for persistent odors, wet spots, or backups in fixtures.
• Step 3: Look for landscape changes. Identify new damp areas or unusually vibrant vegetation above the drain field.
• Step 4: Review pumping records. If you don't have them, plan a professional inspection to establish a baseline.

Step-by-step actions if you suspect a problem

1. Limit water use immediately. Spread out laundry and dishwasher loads, and avoid large irrigation cycles.
2. Avoid driving or placing weight on the drain field area to prevent soil compaction.
3. Schedule a licensed septic contractor or inspector for a diagnostic—this may include a camera/soil test and tank inspection.
4. If backups occur, stop using the system until a professional confirms safe operation.

Maintenance tips to prevent issues (practical, local-ready)

• Pump the tank on a regular schedule (typical range: every 3–5 years for many households; a professional can tailor this to tank size and family size).
• Use water-efficient fixtures and fix leaks promptly to reduce daily load.
• Only flush wastewater and toilet paper; dispose of chemicals, solvents, pesticides, and non-flushable items properly.
• Protect the drain field: keep vehicles and heavy equipment off the area, plant only shallow-rooted vegetation, and avoid constructing new structures directly over the drain field.
• Keep good records: maintain pumping and inspection reports; note any changes in performance or odors.
• Consider soil and site evaluation if you're buying land or upgrading; local professionals can advise on drain-field suitability.

Where to find official guidance

• EPA on Septic Systems: [
• New Mexico Environment Department – Ground Water Quality Bureau (OWTS guidance and regulations): [
• Torrance County government (local regulations and contacts): [

Septic Inspection, Permits & Local Oversight

Local oversight in Torrance County

• In Torrance County, septic systems are overseen to protect groundwater, wells, and public health. Oversight is a shared effort between the New Mexico Environment Department (NMED) Onsite Wastewater Program and the Torrance County Environmental Health Office. Expect involvement from both state and local staff for permits, plan reviews, and inspections.
• The exact process can vary by project type (new system, modification, transfer, or repair). Always confirm the current requirements with the local office before starting work.

Permits you may need

• New system installation: typically requires a design and installation permit from the state program, coordinated with Torrance County for local oversight and inspections.
• System replacement or major modification: usually requires a new permit and an updated site plan.
• Repairs and routine maintenance: some minor repairs may not require a full permit, but significant repairs or changes often do.
• Real estate transfers: inspections or disclosures may be requested by buyers or lenders; verify if your county requires a recent permit status or inspection report.

How to apply (step-by-step)

1. Confirm jurisdiction and requirements
   • Contact the Torrance County Environmental Health Office or the NMED Onsite Wastewater Program to determine which permits apply to your project.
2. Gather site and system information
   • Property address, parcel number, septic tank size and age, leach field details, nearby wells, and known soil conditions.
3. Hire licensed professionals
   • Use NM-licensed designers/contractors who prepare plans that meet state and local standards.
4. Submit the application
   • Complete the permit package with drawings, site plan, and any required fees. Submissions may go through the county, the state, or both depending on the project.
5. Plan review and approval
   • The reviewing agency evaluates setbacks, soil suitability, system design, and safety considerations. Be prepared for questions or required revisions.
6. Schedule inspections during and after installation
   • Inspections typically occur at key milestones (pre-backfill, post-installation, and final) to verify compliance before use.

Inspections: what to expect

• Pre-installation site visit and setback verification (distance from wells, stormwater features, property lines, and buildings).
• Soil and design adequacy checks (perc tests or soil report if required; design must align with site conditions).
• Tank and leach-field installation: orientation, proper bedding, risers, baffles, cleanouts, and access.
• Piping, distribution system, and leak prevention: correct slope, joints, and sealing.
• Electrical components and pumps (if present): proper grounding, wiring, and safety devices.
• Final inspection and certification: the system must pass to receive final authorization for use.

Real estate transactions and ongoing maintenance

• If you're buying or selling, have the current permit status and inspection history ready for review. Some counties require disclosure of permit status or recent inspections; your real estate agent can help coordinate this.
• Maintain a file of all permits, inspection reports, pump dates, and service records. A well-documented maintenance history can simplify future inspections or sales.

Resources and contacts

• New Mexico Environment Department – Onsite Wastewater Program: official state guidance, permit forms, and inspection standards.
• Torrance County government (Environmental Health/Local oversight): general contact and department pages for local guidance.
• NMED main site for additional onsite wastewater information: https://www.env.nm.gov/

Quick tips

• Start early: permit and review timelines can affect project schedules.
• Be honest and thorough: incomplete submissions cause delays.
• Keep copies: store all permits, plans, inspection reports, and pumping schedules in one accessible place.

Cost Expectations for Septic Services in Torrance County

Septic Tank Pumping

• What it includes: removing sludge and scum from the main tank, inspecting lids and access points, and noting any signs of damage or heavy solids. In Torrance County, you may encounter older, multi-compartment tanks that require extra attention.
• Torrance County specifics: longer travel times and rural access can raise service calls; larger or older tanks may need more time and equipment.
• Typical cost in Torrance County: typically $250–$600, with most homes landing around $350–$450.
• Steps to prepare (1–3):
  1. Schedule in advance and confirm access to the tank lid.
  2. Clear the area of vehicles, pets, and heavy snow or debris if you're in seasonal weather.
  3. Have the tank records handy for any multi-compartment or previous repairs.
• Official resource:

Septic System Inspection

• What it includes: visual inspection of tank condition, baffles, screens, and lids; sometimes a dye test to confirm flow paths; optional CCTV camera inspection for deeper evaluation.
• Torrance County specifics: inspections needed for property transfers are common; remote sites may require additional travel time and safety checks in rugged terrain.
• Typical cost in Torrance County: $150–$400 for a basic inspection; $350–$800 for an inspection with camera or more thorough diagnostics.
• Steps to follow:
  1. Decide if you need a pre-sale or annual check.
  2. Schedule with a qualified OWTS inspector familiar with local soils.
  3. Review the report and address any recommended maintenance or repairs.
• Official resource: https://www.env.nm.gov/ww/owts/

Drain Field Repair / Leach Field Repair

• What it includes: diagnosing effluent breakdown, repairing or replacing damaged pipes or distribution lines, addressing soil issues, and sometimes extending or reorganizing the field.
• Torrance County specifics: soil types and caliche layers near Torrance County properties can complicate repair work and may require longer-lasting solutions like enhanced leach fields or alternate designs.
• Typical cost in Torrance County: $2,000–$8,000 for common repairs; $8,000–$20,000+ for substantial field replacement or redesign.
• Steps to follow:
  1. Get a professional evaluation to identify root causes (soil test and percolation assessment may be needed).
  2. Obtain design options and permitting guidance.
  3. Plan for contingencies if weather or ground conditions delay work.
• Official resource: https://www.epa.gov/septic

New Septic System Installation

• What it includes: site evaluation, design, permitting, tank installation, distribution/contribution box, drain field or alternative OWTS, final inspections.
• Torrance County specifics: arid, rocky soils and elevation can influence system type (standard trench, mound, or ET/evapotranspiration systems); permitting steps may be required by state and local authorities.
• Typical cost in Torrance County: $10,000–$25,000+ (often $12,000–$22,000 for standard systems; higher for challenging sites or mound systems).
• Steps to follow:
  1. Hire a designer familiar with NM OWTS rules and Torrance County conditions.
  2. Complete percolation and soil tests, then submit permit applications.
  3. Schedule installation and plan for final inspections.
• Official resource: https://www.env.nm.gov/ww/owts/

Drain Field Maintenance / Jetting and Cleaning

• What it includes: flushing and jetting portions of the leach lines, removing minor clogs, and inspecting for standing water or unusual odors.
• Torrance County specifics: access can be remote; jetting is more effective when soil conditions are favorable and line layout is known.
• Typical cost in Torrance County: $300–$900 depending on field size and access; higher for deeper or longer runs.
• Steps to follow:
  1. Schedule a service window when ground is not frozen.
  2. Confirm whether dye testing or camera work is needed to assess condition.
  3. Review maintenance plan to prevent recurrence.
• Official resource: https://www.env.nm.gov/ww/owts/

Routine Maintenance Plans

• What it includes: scheduled pumping, annual inspections, system performance checks, and priority response during problems.
• Torrance County specifics: rural service areas may require longer intervals between visits or bundled travel charges; a maintained plan helps avoid costly emergencies.
• Typical cost in Torrance County: $100–$300 per year, depending on visit frequency and service level.
• Steps to follow:
  1. Choose a plan based on tank size and household usage.
  2. Schedule annual checks and pumpings.
  3. Keep records to show compliance during inspections or sales.
• Official resource: https://www.env.nm.gov/ww/owts/

Emergency / After-Hours Service

• What it includes: rapid response to backups, overflows, or failed systems outside normal business hours; prioritization for health and safety.
• Torrance County specifics: weather, road conditions, and travel distance can affect response time and pricing.
• Typical cost in Torrance County: base service call plus after-hours surcharge; expect 1.5x–2x normal rates in many cases.
• Steps to follow:
  1. Contact the service with a clear description of symptoms.
  2. Ask about estimated time of arrival and any overnight accommodations needed.
  3. Confirm potential diagnostic and repair costs upfront.
• Official resource: https://www.epa.gov/septic

Notes:

• Costs shown are typical ranges for Torrance County, NM and can vary with tank size, soil conditions, accessibility, and permit requirements. Travel charges and emergency surcharges are common for rural counties.
• Permitting and design fees are usually handled through state and local authorities; see NM's OWTS guidance for specifics: https://www.env.nm.gov/ww/owts/

Septic vs Sewer Across Torrance County

How service is organized in Torrance County

• Rural homes are most often on private septic systems.
• Communities and subdivisions may be served by municipal or district sewer systems.
• Availability varies by exact address, so always verify with local authorities before planning any system work.

Septic: advantages and limitations

• Pros:
  • Lower monthly costs once installed.
  • Independence from public sewer outages or district rate changes.
  • Flexible siting for properties away from sewer mains.
• Cons:
  • Requires regular maintenance (pump inspections, tank pumping, tank lid access).
  • Failures can be expensive and disruptive; improper disposal puts the system at risk.
  • System life and performance depend on soil, groundwater, and household water use.
• What to expect:
  • Typical maintenance tasks include tank pumping every 3–5 years (vary by usage and tank size) and annual inspections by a licensed septic professional.
  • Proper waste disposal matters: no flushable wipes, grease, solvents, or harsh chemicals.

Sewer: when it makes sense to connect

• Pros:
  • No septic tank pumping or drainfield maintenance for homeowners.
  • Predictable monthly sewer bills and fixed service standards.
  • Public utilities often cover some aspects of system protection and compliance.
• Cons:
  • Connection or hookup fees can be substantial.
  • Monthly bills may be higher than septic over time, depending on usage and local rates.
  • If the sewer is down or under repair, you may be temporarily without service.
• What to expect:
  • To connect, you'll typically need a formal hookup agreement with the local sewer provider or district and possibly a property survey to lay out the sewer lateral.
  • Inspectors may require backflow prevention devices or other safeguards for high water-use homes.

Cost considerations: quick comparisons

• Septic costs:
  • Installation: wide range depending on soil, depth to groundwater, and permit requirements.
  • Ongoing: pumping every few years, annual inspections, and occasional repairs.
• Sewer costs:
  • Connection fee may be a one-time amount.
  • Ongoing: monthly or quarterly service charges plus usage-based blocks in some districts.
• How to compare:
  • Get a formal estimate for a septic system upgrade or replacement.
  • Request a sewer district quote for connection and ongoing service.
  • Factor in long-term maintenance, potential repairs, and the likelihood of future sewer rate changes.

Step-by-step decision checklist

1. Confirm service in your exact Torrance County address with the county or a local sewer district.
2. If you're on septic, schedule a professional septic evaluation to establish tank size, leachfield condition, and pump history.
3. If sewer is available, obtain a connection quote and any required upgrades (backflow preventer, cleanouts, or trenching).
4. Compare total 10-year costs: upfront connection or installation plus periodic maintenance versus ongoing sewer charges.
5. Review local code and permitting requirements with the New Mexico Environment Department (NMED OST program) and your county.
   • Official NM OST program:
   • EPA septic info:
   • New Mexico OST program (onsite wastewater): https://www.env.nm.gov/ost/
   • EPA septic systems overview: https://www.epa.gov/septic