Septic in Deadwood, SD

In Deadwood, where pine shadows drift across steep streets and historic homes, your plumbing often works its way out of sight into a private septic system rather than a city sewer. The Black Hills terrain and the way parcels were laid out long before modern sewer lines mean that many homes rely on on-site wastewater treatment. It's a familiar part of keeping a Deadwood home comfortable and safe, no matter the season.

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

Yes. If your property isn't connected to a municipal sewer, you'll likely have a septic system. Extending sewer mains through the hills, rocky soils, and dense woods here can be costly and disruptive, so private septic setups remain the norm for many single-family homes around Deadwood. If you're buying a home, ask for the septic permit and maintenance history, and plan a professional inspection to understand its size, condition, and future maintenance needs.

Why homes typically use septic systems in Deadwood

• Remote or hillside locations and smaller lot patterns mean sewer hookups aren't always feasible.
• Local soils and groundwater considerations favor on-site treatment when designed and maintained correctly.
• Cost and practicality: Building and extending municipal sewer in the Black Hills is expensive and often impractical for older or less-dense properties.
• Regulation and maintenance: Proper septic design, installation, and regular pumping help protect wells and groundwater, which are important in this area.

High-level explanation: why septic exists here

• Deadwood grew up with parcels that didn't have immediate sewer access, so private septic was a practical, long-standing solution for wastewater.
• The combination of rocky bedrock, variable soil depths, and seasonal changes makes site-specific septic design essential to avoid groundwater or well contamination.
• When septic systems are sized correctly and kept up with routine maintenance, they serve as a reliable, cost-effective way to manage wastewater in this landscape.

This neighborly overview is meant to feel like guidance from a local pro you can trust as you navigate owning or buying a home in Deadwood.

Where Septic Systems Are Common in Deadwood

Areas outside the sewer service boundary

• In Deadwood and the surrounding region, septic systems are the norm on properties that aren't connected to municipal sewer. You'll commonly find septic on rural parcels, hillside neighborhoods, and vacation cabins where extending the sewer main isn't practical or cost-effective.
• Older lots or developments that predate current sewer expansion also rely on on-site systems. If you're shopping a property, confirm whether public sewer is available or not for that specific parcel.

Terrain, soil, and site constraints

• The Black Hills' terrain adds complexity to both sewer expansion and septic design. Key constraints include:
  • Bedrock and shallow soils can limit drainfield depth and efficiency.
  • Steep slopes challenge gravity drainage and require specific drainfield configurations.
  • Soils vary; some areas drain slowly, others percolate quickly, which affects system sizing and type.
  • Groundwater patterns (seasonal or high water tables) can constrain drainfield size and placement.
• These factors mean every septic system in Deadwood typically needs a site-specific design by a licensed professional.

Common development patterns that favor septic

• Rural, hillside lots with longer driveways and more substantial setbacks from streams or wells.
• Seasonal or part-time residences that aren't on year-round municipal sewer service.
• Subdivisions or parcels that sit outside the public sewer service area or that were developed before sewer access was extended.

Well water and public-water considerations

• Private wells are common in the Deadwood area. Septic systems must be planned with adequate setbacks from wells and water sources to protect drinking water quality.
• In practice, this means careful site evaluation and adherence to state guidelines to minimize the risk of septic effluent reaching wells or surface water.

How to determine if your Deadwood property should use septic

1. Confirm sewer service status
2. Contact the City of Deadwood or county offices to verify whether your parcel is within the sewer service boundary or outside it.
3. If you're outside the sewer service area, septic is typically the standard option.
4. Get a professional site assessment
5. Hire a licensed onsite wastewater designer or septic contractor familiar with Black Hills conditions.
6. A soil evaluation helps determine drainfield size, configuration, and whether a mound or other system type is needed on challenging lots.
7. Review code and permit requirements
8. South Dakota's Onsite Wastewater Treatment Systems (OWTS) program governs system design, installation, operation, and maintenance.
9. Check DENR's OWTS guidance for setbacks, design standards, inspections, and ongoing maintenance requirements.
10. Plan for maintenance implications
11. Regular pumping, inspection, and keeping the drainfield clear of roots and heavy traffic extend system life and protect nearby wells and water sources.

Practical indicators you may be in a septic-served area

• There is no confirmed municipal sewer line access for the property.
• The parcel has a known septic tank and drainfield location, often with covered lids or access ports.
• Lot size and soil conditions align with a professionally designed OWTS based on local site constraints.

Official resources to consult

• South Dakota Department of Environment and Natural Resources (DENR) – Onsite Wastewater Systems program: (search for Onsite Wastewater)
• U.S. Environmental Protection Agency – septic systems overview: https://www.epa.gov/septic
• City of Deadwood official site (utilities/sewer status): https://www.deadwood.com/

Septic vs Sewer: What Homeowners in Deadwood Should Know

Is there sewer in Deadwood?

• Deadwood's wastewater reality is mixed. Some homes in developed or municipal areas are connected to a public sewer, while older or hillside neighborhoods may rely on on-site septic systems. The only reliable way to know your status is to check with the local utility or the city's official resources.
• Quick checks you can do yourself: review your latest utility bill, property deed, or tax records for sewer service notes; ask your real estate agent or property manager if you're purchasing dew. If you're unsure, contact the local utility department to confirm service availability and connection requirements.

How septic and sewer systems work (quick overview)

• Public sewer: Wastewater from your home is conveyed through a network of pipes to a central treatment facility. You generally pay a monthly sewer charge, and the system is maintained by the municipality.
• Septic system: Wastewater goes to an on-site septic tank, where solids settle, liquids move to a drain field, and beneficial bacteria treat waste. Homeowners are responsible for maintenance, pumping, and keeping the system safe from damage.

Pros and cons at a glance

• Public sewer pros:
  • Lower responsibility for maintenance (city handles treatment and most repairs).
  • No driveway or yard space needed for a drain field.
  • Potentially simpler future sales if sewer service is available.
• Public sewer cons:
  • Monthly bills regardless of usage.
  • Connection costs if you're not already connected; potential capacity or hookup fees.
• Septic pros:
  • Often lower ongoing monthly costs if properly managed.
  • Independence from municipal service; useful in remote or steep terrain.
• Septic cons:
  • Maintenance responsibilities fall on the homeowner.
  • Proper drain-field placement and soil conditions are critical; improper use or flooding can cause failure.

Maintenance essentials for septic systems

1. Pump every 3–5 years (or as recommended by a local septic professional) to remove sludge and prevent backups.
2. Conserve water to reduce load on the septic tank (spread out laundry, use high-efficiency fixtures).
3. Avoid flushing non-biodegradable items, harsh chemicals, solvents, pesticides, or motor oils down any drain.
4. Use bacteria-boosting products only as advised; in general, avoid adding chemicals that kill beneficial bacteria in the tank.
5. Protect the drain field: keep heavy equipment off it, plant only shallow-rooted vegetation nearby, and ensure proper drainage away from the area.

Regulations, permits, and inspections you should know

• New installations, repairs, or replacements typically require permits and inspections from the appropriate local or state authority.
• Setback and separation distances matter: septic systems must be located away from wells, streams, and foundations to prevent contamination.
• If you're buying or selling, a septic inspection (sometimes called an "onsite wastewater" evaluation) is a smart step to avoid unexpected costs post-purchase.
• For state guidance on design, installation, and maintenance, see official resources on onsite wastewater management.

Resources and where to learn more

• EPA Septic Systems: (search for "onsite wastewater" or "onsite wastewater program" for the latest rules and guidance)
• Local guidance you may want to verify with your utility or county:
  • City or county wastewater service policies and connection rules
  • Local septic service professionals familiar with Deadwood's climate and soil
• If you're seeking general best practices, these sources offer helpful, official guidance on design, operation, and maintenance to keep systems functioning well in cold, rocky environments.

Typical Septic System Types in Deadwood

Conventional gravity septic systems

• How they work: A septic tank separates solids, then effluent naturally flows by gravity to a soil absorption field. No mechanical pumping is required for basic operation.
• Pros: Simple design, usually the least upfront cost, reliable when soils are suitable.
• Cons: Needs adequate vertical separation and soil percolation; poor soils or shallow bedrock can limit feasibility.
• Local note: If your lot has good drainable soil, a gravity system remains a common choice in Deadwood-area properties.

Pressure distribution and trench systems

• How they work: A pump or siphon sends evenly pressurized effluent into multiple laterals spread across a series of perforated pipes in trenches.
• Pros: More uniform distribution helps prevent failures in marginal soils; can work in moderately permeable soils.
• Cons: Requires a small pump or dosing mechanism and more precise design; higher ongoing maintenance than gravity systems.
• Local note: In hilly or uneven lots common around Deadwood, pressure distribution can improve performance where groundwater or lateral spacing challenges exist.

Elevated (mound) systems

• How they work: Built above natural soil with a sand fill and a controlled drainage bed when native soil is too shallow, leached, or high in groundwater.
• Pros: Makes use of poor or shallow soils by creating an engineered absorption area; can handle seasonal high water or bedrock constraints.
• Cons: More complex and costly to install and maintain; requires careful soil testing and professional design.
• Local note: In Deadwood's terrain, mound systems are a viable option on lots with shallow soils or limited depth to groundwater.

Sand filters and aerobic treatment units (ATUs)

• How they work: ATUs provide enhanced treatment by aerating wastewater before it reaches the final dispersal field; sand filters provide an additional polishing step.
• Pros: Higher treatment levels make them suitable for challenging soils or smaller lots; can accommodate higher loading or seasonal use.
• Cons: Higher initial cost and ongoing energy use; requires routine maintenance and service by a licensed provider.
• Local note: ATUs and sand filters are increasingly used where soils aren't ideal for conventional absorption, especially in compact or heavily used sites around Deadwood.

Holding tanks and pump stations

• How they work: Wastewater is stored in a tank and pumped out regularly for offsite treatment or disposal.
• Pros: Useful for seasonal properties, properties without a suitable absorption area, or where a disposal upgrade is planned.
• Cons: No on-site treatment; requires frequent maintenance and hauling; not a long-term disposal solution for year-round use.
• Local note: Often a temporary or transitional option in parcels awaiting a proper absorption system.

Alternative and cluster systems

• How they work: Shared or community systems treat and distribute effluent from multiple homes or lots, with a central absorption area or engineered disposal field.
• Pros: Can be cost-effective for areas with poor individual soils or limited space; optimized design can improve longevity.
• Cons: Requires formal agreements, shared maintenance plans, and local approvals.
• Local note: Deadwood and surrounding Lawrence County developments sometimes explore cluster arrangements where single lots can't support a standalone system.

What to consider for Deadwood homes

• Soils and bedrock: Soil tests (percolation and depth to groundwater) guide system type.
• Slope and drainage: Steep or compacted sites may benefit from pressure distribution or mound approaches.
• Climate and freeze-thaw: Frozen conditions and seasonal use influence design and access.
• Local regulations: State and county oversight dictate permits, design standards, and inspector requirements.

Steps to plan your system (quick guide)

1. Get a professional soil evaluation and site assessment from a licensed designer or installer.
2. Check with the local health department or county planning office for Deadwood-area requirements and approvals.
3. Choose a system type aligned with your soils, lot shape, and usage, then obtain a formal design.
4. Hire a licensed septic contractor for installation and arrange regular maintenance once installed.

Official resources

• South Dakota DENR Onsite Wastewater program:
• EPA Septic Systems: https://www.epa.gov/septic

Common Septic Issues in Deadwood

Freezing and frost-related issues

• Why it happens here: Deadwood's cold winters and winter freezes can affect tanks, pipes, and distribution lines, especially in older systems or those buried shallowly. Frost and snow cover can insulate but also hide problem spots until temperatures spike.
• How it presents: slow drains, gurgling pipes, water pooling above or near the drain field, or repairs needed after a sudden warm spell.
• Practical fixes:
  • Insulate exposed tanks, lids, and any above-ground pipes with appropriate, code-approved materials.
  • Keep surface drainage away from the drain field and avoid parking vehicles or placing heavy objects over lines.
  • If you must run water during extreme cold, do so in small, steady amounts to prevent rapid freezing and thawing.
  • Have a licensed septic professional assess and, if needed, install frost-protected or deeper burial solutions when renovating or replacing lines.
• Official guidance: for general on-site wastewater protection under cold conditions, see EPA's septic guidance and your state's resources (South Dakota DENR site: EPA:

Tree roots and landscaping hazards

• What to watch for: Root invasion can crack tanks and lines or constrict drainage, especially with trees planted too close to the system.
• Red flags: sudden backups, slow drains, or damp spots in the yard unrelated to rainfall.
• Prevention and care:
  • Plan landscaping with at least the recommended buffer between trees/shrubs and the septic system.
  • Have a pro inspect lines for root intrusion during routine maintenance.
  • If roots are present, consider trench restoration or rerouting lines with professional guidance.
• Resources: EPA guidance on protecting septic systems from roots (https://www.epa.gov/septic) and state guidance via DENR (https://denr.sd.gov).

Seasonal usage, pumping frequency, and solids management

• Deadwood tip: many homes are seasonal or have fluctuating occupancy, which can lead to solids buildup when pumps are delayed.
• Consequences: reduced tank capacity, early need for pumped maintenance, and stress on the drain field.
• Action steps (numbered):
  1. Schedule a professionally pumped inspection when the system has not been serviced in several years or during seasonal transitions.
  2. Track actual water use and adjust to typical year-round patterns if possible.
  3. Minimize trash and grease down drains; install a high-efficiency fixture set to reduce wastewater volume.
  4. Plan routine pumping every 3–5 years for typical residential systems, more often for smaller tanks or higher usage.
• Resources: EPA septic page and DENR guidelines for maintenance and pump intervals (https://www.epa.gov/septic, https://denr.sd.gov).

Groundwater and surface water interactions

• Local risk: higher precipitation in some seasons and the area's geology can increase the chance of effluent reaching groundwater or surface water if a system is poorly designed or failing.
• What to monitor: damp areas over the drain field, unusually lush spots in the yard, or sudden odors after rain.
• Do this:
  • Keep systems away from wells or water features; ensure proper setbacks per local code.
  • Have an annual inspection by a licensed pro, especially after weather events or yard work that alters drainage.
  • Consider passive failure indicators and address quickly to prevent contamination or backup.
• Official references: EPA septic overview (https://www.epa.gov/septic) and DENR's onsite wastewater guidelines (https://denr.sd.gov).

Septic Inspection, Permits & Local Oversight

Who Oversees septic permits in Deadwood

• South Dakota regulates on-site wastewater systems primarily at the state level, with county health departments handling permits and inspections and cities sometimes adding local requirements. For Deadwood residents, the Lawrence County Health Department is a common point of contact, along with the City of Deadwood's building/permitting office if the city has its own rules.
• Your first step is to confirm your jurisdiction: are you inside Deadwood city limits or in unincorporated Lawrence County? The answer determines which office issues permits and who conducts inspections.
• Even if you're buying a home with an existing system, ask for the permit history and any recent inspections. This helps you understand the system's current compliance status.

Permits you may need

• New or replacement systems almost always require a permit before work begins. Typical permit types include:
  • Site evaluation and design approval
  • Construction/installation permit for the septic system
  • Repair or modification permit if you're altering an existing system
  • Any accompanying plumbing permits if interior work overlaps with the septic components
• Design and installation must meet South Dakota On-Site Wastewater Rules (ARSD 74:54) and any local amendments. In many cases, the design must be prepared by a qualified professional and reviewed by the local health department before issuing a permit.
• Keep in mind: if you're connecting to a public sewer in the future, you'll still need to handle septic-related permits and inspections during transition planning.
• Costs and timelines vary by jurisdiction, but you can expect permit fees to cover review and inspection activities. Budget a little extra time for plan reviews and any required soil or site evaluations.

Inspection process

• Inspections occur at key milestones to ensure the system is correctly designed and installed:
  1. Pre-construction/site evaluation note: records the intended location and soil conditions.
  2. During installation: inspection of trenching, septic tank placement, baffles, and distribution system installation.
  3. Backfill and final install: verification of tank integrity, gravity or pressure distribution, and setback compliance.
  4. Final inspection and as-built submission: confirmation of final locations, depths, and system type; submission of an as-built drawing.
• Be prepared for inspectors to require access to the job site, as-built drawings, contractor invoices, and project plans. Have your permit number and contact information for the contractor handy.
• If issues are found, inspectors will note required corrections and set a reasonable timeline for compliance. Re-inspection may be necessary before final approval.

Deadwood-specific local guidance

• Some Deadwood properties may have neighborhood-specific rules or overlay considerations. Always verify if the city has unique requirements beyond state and county codes.
• The health department or city permits office can explain setbacks (distance from wells, water bodies, and property lines) and any site-specific constraints. If you're unsure where to start, call or visit the county health department first and ask for the On-Site Wastewater program contact.

Documentation and records

• After approval, maintain copies of:
  • All permits and permit numbers
  • Design plans and installation specifications
  • Inspection reports and final approval letter
  • As-built drawings showing tank locations, distribution lines, and key components
• You may need these records for future system maintenance, repairs, or a system replacement in the life of the home.

Useful resources

• South Dakota Department of Environment & Natural Resources (DENR) – On-Site Wastewater Systems:
• South Dakota DENR main site:
• General guidance on on-site wastewater from the state: https://denr.sd.gov
• If you're unsure who to contact, start with the DENR On-Site Wastewater program and ask for the appropriate contact for Lawrence County and Deadwood city requirements.

Septic Maintenance for Homes in Deadwood

Climate and soil in Deadwood

Deadwood's harsh winters, frequent freeze-thaw cycles, and Black Hills soils can push septic systems to work harder. Cold ground can slow and complicate drainage, while snow cover may hide wet spots or odors. Drainfields in shallow bedrock or clay-rich soils don't drain as quickly, so small problems can become noticeable after heavy snowmelt or rapid spring thaws. Understanding your soil type, tank size, and groundwater patterns helps you tailor maintenance to Deadwood's conditions.

Seasonal maintenance calendar

• Spring
  • Schedule a formal inspection or pumping if your tank is due.
  • Check around the tank lid for cracks, settling, or fresh wet spots after snowmelt.
• Summer
  • Conserve water to keep the load on the system reasonable.
  • Avoid dumping grease, solvents, or large amounts of kitchen waste down the drain.
• Fall
  • Inspect the surface around the drainfield for new damp areas or depressions.
  • Inspect closer to freezes for softened soil or odors; address issues before winter.
• Winter
  • Minimize driving or heavy equipment over the drainfield to prevent compaction.
  • Ensure access to the septic tank is clear of snow and ice; keep lids visible and accessible.

Routine maintenance you can perform

• Use only septic-safe products; limit harsh chemicals that can disrupt helpful bacteria.
• Spread out laundry and dishwashing loads over the week; avoid long, water-intensive cycles.
• Fix leaks promptly (toilets, faucets, hoses) to prevent excess water from entering the system.
• Don't flush non-flushable items (baby wipes, paper towels, cat litter, cooking grease) even if labeled "flushable."
• Inspect for signs of trouble after heavy rains or rapid thawing events.

Pumping and professional service

1. Know your tank size and the number of occupants to estimate pumping frequency (typical residential tanks: every 3–5 years, but Deadwood conditions can shift this timeframe).
2. Schedule pumping with a licensed septic professional who can also inspect baffles, inlet/outlet tees, and filters.
3. After pumping, request a basic system check: confirm clear access, test for standing water on the drainfield, and review any obvious cracks or infiltration around the tank lids.
4. Confirm any required permits or local reporting with the local authority or county environmental office.

Deadwood-specific issues to watch for

• Frost heave and frozen soils can mask drainfield problems; if you see pooled water or slower drainage after thaw, call a pro.
• Tree roots near the septic system are a common Deadwood challenge; roots can invade leach fields and cause clogging.
• Shallow groundwater or perched water tables in hillier terrain can reduce drainage performance during spring runoff.
• Extreme winter temperatures can slow biological activity in the tank; maintaining steady, moderate water flow helps.

Protect the drainfield in Deadwood

• Avoid compacting soils over the drainfield; don't park or drive vehicles on the area.
• Keep roof drains and sump pumps from discharging directly onto the drainfield.
• Plant only shallow-rooted vegetation over the field; avoid trees and shrubs with deep roots nearby.
• Direct any surface water away from the drainfield with proper grading and swales.
• Minimize chemical use near the system; choose environmentally friendly cleaners when possible.

Warning signs that your system needs attention

• Slow drains, gurgling sounds, or toilets backing up.
• Wet, lush grass or damp areas above the drainfield, especially after rain.
• Strong sewer odors around the house or yard.
• Standing water or effluent pooling near the tank or in the drainfield area.

Do's and don'ts quick guide

• Do: schedule regular pumping and inspections; conserve water; use septic-safe products.
• Don't: pour fats, solvents, or paints down the drain; plant trees over the drainfield; ignore signs of trouble; ignore winter restrictions on field access.

Resources

• South Dakota DENR Onsite Wastewater Program:
• U.S. Environmental Protection Agency Septic Systems: https://www.epa.gov/septic

Cost Expectations for Septic Services in Deadwood

Septic Tank Pumping and Cleaning

• What it includes: removing the liquid and solids from the tank, inspecting tank baffles and outlet, resealing access risers, and noting any signs of trouble. In Deadwood, many tanks are older concrete or metal and may sit on uneven ground, which can affect access.
• Deadwood specifics: winter conditions, steep driveways, and rocky terrain can add labor time and equipment needs. If access is tight or the tank is buried beneath snow or ice, costs may rise.
• Typical cost in Deadwood: roughly $275–$650 per tank (larger tanks or multiple tanks can push higher). Some sites charge a bit more for sludge disposal if the waste is particularly heavy.
• What affects price: tank size, accessibility, presence of a pump chamber, and whether multiple tanks must be pumped in one visit.

Septic System Inspections

• What it includes: visual check of the tank, pipes, and field; assessment of drainage and soil absorption; review of past maintenance; may include a camera inspection of lines if issues are suspected.
• Deadwood specifics: older systems common in the area may have more fragile components (baffles, risers, lids) and may require cautious handling in cold weather.
• Typical cost in Deadwood: about $120–$350 for a standard inspection; full diagnostic packages with camera work can run higher.
• When to book: before buying a home, after a backup, or as part of routine maintenance planning.

Camera Inspection of Pipes and Drain Field Diagnostics

• What it includes: high-definition video of sewer lines and the drain field trenches to pinpoint root intrusion, breaks, or clogs.
• Deadwood specifics: rocky soils and hilly properties can complicate line runs; camera work helps avoid unnecessary excavation.
• Typical cost in Deadwood: approximately $250–$600 for a targeted line, up to $1,000+ for a full field investigation on a larger property.
• Benefit: identifies problems without destructive digging, guiding effective repairs.

Drain Field Repair and Replacement

• What it includes: trenching, replacing damaged drain lines, perforated piping, stone/aggregate backfill, and sometimes soil saturation mitigation or turf restoration.
• Deadwood specifics: terrain and soil conditions in the Black Hills often require careful siting and sometimes mound or pressure-dosed systems; access challenges can increase project time and cost.
• Typical cost in Deadwood: $3,000–$15,000 for repair or replacement on a conventional field; more complex setups (mounds, alternate absorption areas) can exceed $20,000.
• Factors that raise cost: field size, soil percolation, required permit work, and disposal requirements.

New Septic System Installation

• What it includes: site evaluation, soil testing, design, permitting, tank and field installation, and initial startup.
• Deadwood specifics: steep or uneven lots, rocky soils, and permitting through county/state agencies can add to duration and cost.
• Typical cost in Deadwood: roughly $8,000–$25,000+, with high-end projects for mound systems or challenging slopes; most standard systems land in the lower to mid range depending on field type and tank size.
• Planning note: budgets should include design and permit fees plus potential erosion or landscape restoration.

System Upgrades and Add-Ons

• What it includes: tank risers and lids for easier future access, effluent filters, alarm/pump upgrades, automatic dosing or pump chamber enhancements, check valves, and monitoring wells.
• Deadwood specifics: winter access and older infrastructure make access improvements prudent; upgrades can extend life and reduce future excavation.
• Typical cost in Deadwood: $300–$3,000 depending on the add-on; risers and lids are on the lower end, full pump or dosing upgrades are higher.

Emergency/After-Hours Backup Service

• What it includes: urgent diagnostic, pumping, and potential field repair outside normal hours.
• Deadwood specifics: severe winter storms can necessitate after-hours calls; terrain can complicate rapid arrival.
• Typical cost in Deadwood: trip charge around $75–$150 plus hourly rates of $100–$180, plus materials or pumping costs if needed.

Permitting, Planning, and Site Preparation

• What it includes: permit applications, plan reviews, and any required soil or drainage assessments.
• Deadwood specifics: Lawrence County and state requirements apply; delays can occur if weather or access issues slow work.
• Typical cost in Deadwood: permit and plan fees commonly range from $100–$500, depending on scope and local regulations.

Official resources:

• EPA Septic Systems:
• Lawrence County, SD (local permitting health oversight): http://www.lawrencecounty.org
• City of Deadwood (local regulations and services): https://www.deadwood.org/