Septic in Bedford County, VA

If you've driven the winding hills around Smith Mountain Lake or pulled into Bedford along Route 460, you've met a county where rural charm meets growing neighborhoods. Welcome to Bedford County's septic guide—a friendly, practical resource from a local contractor who also lives here and understands the land, the water, and the way homes are built in this corner of Virginia.

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

• Yes. In most rural and many suburban parcels, a septic system is the standard wastewater solution unless the property is connected to public sewer.
• In towns or newer developments with public sewer, you may not have a septic system, but that varies by lot and service area.
• If you're buying a home, ask for the septic permit, the last pumping date, and a service history. Have the system inspected by a qualified septic professional before you close.
• For properties around Smith Mountain Lake and in outlying rural areas, you'll likely encounter a septic system rather than public sewer. Always confirm what services are available for the specific property.

Why homes typically use septic systems in Bedford County

Bedford's landscape—rolling farmland, rocky soils, and hillside lots—along with limited sewer expansion, makes on-site treatment practical and economical for single-family homes. Central sewer lines are costly to install across uneven terrain, so most lots rely on a septic system designed to fit the land and protect groundwater. A well-planned system, properly installed and maintained, treats wastewater on-site and helps protect nearby wells, streams, and the lake. Regular maintenance, like periodic pumping and avoiding flushes of inappropriate materials, keeps these systems operating reliably.

County growth history and how that has impacted septic coverage

Bedford County has grown along two tracks: enduring farm communities and a surge of new homes around Smith Mountain Lake and along major corridors toward Lynchburg. This development has increased the share of properties relying on on-site septic rather than centralized sewer. It's boosted demand for thoughtful maintenance, regular inspections, and, when needed, upgrades to aging systems or replacement with newer technologies. The result is a practical, land-aligned wastewater approach that works with our hills, soils, and water resources.

High-level explanation (why septic exists here)

The land, soil variability, and dispersed lot patterns make centralized wastewater infrastructure challenging in many parts of the county. Septic systems provide a local, efficient way to treat wastewater while safeguarding wells, streams, and the lake—especially where public sewer isn't readily feasible.

In the sections below, you'll find practical guidance and local contractor tips to keep your system running smoothly.

How Septic Is Regulated in Bedford County

Governing bodies and where regulation happens

• The Bedford County Health Department administers onsite septic permits, reviews designs, and conducts inspections for properties in Bedford County, under the Virginia Department of Health (VDH).
• The Virginia Department of Health provides statewide rules, guidance, and enforcement for onsite sewage systems.
• State law and regulations govern on-site systems, including the On-site Sewage Systems program and related codes (for details see 12VAC5-610 and related materials).

Permit and design process (step-by-step)

1. Verify property eligibility and zoning with the county.
2. Hire a qualified professional to perform soil evaluation and prepare an onsite wastewater design compliant with VDH guidelines.
3. Submit the design, soil report, and required forms to the Bedford County Health Department with any applicable fees.
4. Receive a permit if the design meets Virginia requirements; the installation must be inspected at key milestones.

Soil testing and site requirements

• A proper soil evaluation is critical. The evaluation determines whether a conventional septic system or an alternative system (mound, ATU, etc.) is appropriate.
• Soil characteristics such as absorption rate, depth to groundwater, and soil layering affect system type and placement.
• County rules set setback distances from wells, streams, property lines, and structures; these must be observed in the design.

Inspections during construction

• Pre-construction site inspection may be required before any trenching or digging.
• The health department conducts inspections at critical points: trench installation, backfill, and final system startup.
• Do not cover trenches or install components until an inspector approves each stage.

Operation, maintenance, and records

• Standard gravity systems require routine pumping and maintenance; records should be kept for service dates.
• Alternative or advanced treatment systems (mound systems, ATUs, drip systems) have enhanced O&M requirements and often require a licensed service provider to maintain ongoing records and pump schedules.
• Homeowners are typically responsible for scheduling pump-outs and notifying the county if changes occur or if a system fails.

Where to find official resources

• Virginia Department of Health – On-site Sewage Systems:
• Virginia Administrative Code – Onsite Sewage Systems (12 VAC 5-610): https://law.lis.virginia.gov/admincode/title12/agency5/chap610/

Soil, Groundwater & Environmental Factors in Bedford County

Typical Bedford County Soils

Bedford County sits on varied terrain with a mosaic of soils that influence septic system performance. The mix ranges from well-drained sandy loams to soils with higher clay content and shallower depth to bedrock. Infiltration rates can change dramatically over a small area, so a site-specific evaluation is essential.

• Infiltration and percolation depend on soil texture, structure, and moisture.
• Soils with high clay content or shallow bedrock may reduce drainage and require alternative designs (such as mound systems) or adjusted drainfield sizing.
• Always use a county-approved soil survey and a licensed designer to determine what your site can support.

Anchor resources: the official Web Soil Survey lets you view soil types and limitations for your exact address. (onsite sewage program information)

Environmental Factors That Influence Septic Performance

Bedford County's environment—topography, drainage patterns, and natural features—affects how well a septic system works over time.

• Slope: steep slopes can cause runoff and erosion of the drainfield area; flatter sites generally drain more evenly but still need proper design.
• Floodplains and stormwater: heavy rainfall or flooding can saturate soils and impact absorption areas.
• Bedrock depth and karst features: shallow bedrock or hidden voids can complicate installation and performance; professional evaluation is important.
• Proximity to streams and surface water: protect water quality by ensuring proper setbacks and containment of effluent in approved absorption areas.

Practical Siting & Maintenance Considerations

Follow a proactive plan to protect your system and the environment.

• Get a site-specific soil evaluation (perc test) from a licensed septic designer before installation or major upgrades.
• Confirm groundwater depth and well proximity with the local health department or a licensed inspector.
• Plan drainage and manage stormwater to reduce soil saturation around the drainfield.
• Minimize soil compaction around the system by limiting heavy equipment and foot traffic on the installation area.
• Use water-saving fixtures and sensible irrigation to reduce load on the system.
• Schedule regular septic inspections and pump-outs per your system design.

Step-by-step approach:

1. Look up your exact soil type and limitations using the Web Soil Survey.
2. Have a licensed professional perform a percolation test and drainfield design tailored to your site.
3. Verify groundwater depth and well setback requirements with the local health department.
4. Confirm permit approvals and system specifications with Bedford County authorities.
5. Implement proper drainage and plantings to avoid root intrusion and compaction.
6. Maintain a routine service schedule and keep detailed records.

Official resources to consult:

• NRCS Web Soil Survey for your specific property:
• Virginia Cooperative Extension for homeowner septic guidance and best practices:
• Bedford County government information and resources:

Typical Septic System Types in Bedford County

Conventional septic systems

• What they are: a standard septic tank paired with a drainfield that relies on gravity or simple distribution to soil. Most homes in Bedford County use this unless soils or site constraints require an alternative.
• Where they fit in Bedford: common in areas with adequate soil depth and permeability. A leach field designed for the lot helps treat wastewater in a straightforward way.
• Pros: lower upfront cost, simple design, easy maintenance.
• Cons: performance depends on on-site soils; may require a larger footprint on properties with percolation or groundwater constraints.
• Maintenance steps:
  1. Pump the septic tank every 3–5 years (frequency depends on usage and household size).
  2. Conserve water to reduce load on the system.
  3. Don't flush or pour harsh chemicals, grease, or nonbiodegradable items.
  4. Have the drainfield inspected if you notice odors, slow drains, or wet patches above the drainfield.

Aerobic Treatment Units (ATUs) and advanced systems

• What they are: mechanically aerated treatment units that provide more treatment of wastewater before it reaches the drainfield. Often paired with a secondary filter or polishing bed.
• Where they fit in Bedford: used when soils are insufficient for a conventional drainfield, space is limited, or higher treatment is desired.
• Pros: higher effluent quality, allows smaller or more flexible drainage options, can help guests or homes in challenging soils.
• Cons: higher purchase and ongoing maintenance costs; requires regular service by a licensed operator; electricity is required.
• Maintenance steps:
  1. Schedule and keep regular service visits (per manufacturer/installer guidance).
  2. Check alarms and ensure access to service providers.
  3. Avoid incompatible chemicals that can disrupt treatment units.
  4. Maintain records of pumpings and service.

Mound systems

• What they are: a raised "mound" of sand and soil built above the native soil with a dosing chamber and laterals, used when the natural soil depth or drainage is poor.
• Where they fit in Bedford: common in sites with high water tables or shallow bedrock where conventional trenches won't work.
• Pros: makes use of deeper treated effluent in difficult soils.
• Cons: more expensive and complex; requires specialized design and maintenance; turf or soil compaction can affect performance.
• Maintenance steps:
  1. Protect the mound area from heavy vehicles and compaction.
  2. Keep vegetation and roots away from dosing lines.
  3. Have the mound inspected during routine system checkups.
  4. Pumping schedules follow the design recommendations.

Sand filter systems

• What they are: an advanced treatment option where effluent passes through a sand filtration bed before infiltration to soil.
• Where they fit in Bedford: used when soil conditions don't support a drainfield with adequate treatment.
• Pros: robust polishing of effluent; works well in marginal soils.
• Cons: larger footprint and more components; maintenance to prevent clogging of the filter.
• Maintenance steps:
  1. Inspect filter media and ensure backwash or dosing functions properly.
  2. Keep the area clear of debris and compacting activities.
  3. Schedule professional inspections and pumping as recommended.
  4. Monitor surface conditions for pooling or odors.

Drip irrigation systems

• What they are: wastewater effluent is delivered through a network of emitters to a landscaped area.
• Where they fit in Bedford: helpful when there is limited drainfield space or when a landscape is planned as part of the system; not suitable for every soil type.
• Pros: efficient use of water, landscape-friendly disposal.
• Cons: design and maintenance complexity; requires proper filtration and emitter care.
• Maintenance steps:
  1. Regularly inspect emitters and replace clogged ones.
  2. Protect lines from roots and physical damage.
  3. Filter and chemical checks to prevent clogging.
  4. Follow a professional maintenance schedule.

Low-Pressure Dose (LPD) / pressure distribution

• What they are: small, controlled doses of effluent distributed under pressure to multiple lines in the drainfield.
• Where they fit in Bedford: effective in soils with limited depth or where uniform distribution improves performance.
• Pros: more even distribution, can extend usable drainfield area.
• Cons: more components (pump, controls) and maintenance.
• Maintenance steps:
  1. Check pumps, valves, and pressure controls regularly.
  2. Test the distribution points for proper flow.
  3. Keep the dosing chamber accessible and free of obstructions.
  4. Schedule professional inspections.

Septic Tank Effluent Pump (STEP) systems

• What they are: use a pump chamber to move effluent to a drainfield that may be uphill or farther away.
• Where they fit in Bedford: useful when gravity flow isn't possible due to site layout.
• Pros: flexible siting of the drainfield.
• Cons: pump failures can disrupt function; higher maintenance needs.
• Maintenance steps:
  1. Test and service the pump at recommended intervals.
  2. Ensure backup power reliability for pump operation.
  3. Inspect float switches and alarms.

Holding tanks / cesspools (historical)

• What they are: storage tanks for wastewater or abandoned gravity systems; not allowed for new installations in Virginia.
• Where they fit in Bedford: some older homes may still exist; not a recommended option today.
• Pros: simple concept.
• Cons: no treatment; frequent pumping required; odors and environmental concerns.
• Maintenance steps:
  1. Plan for conversion or upgrading if present.
  2. Pump regularly and monitor for leaks.

Official resources:

• US EPA: Septic Systems -

Typical Septic Issues Across Bedford County

Common Causes in Bedford County

• Soils vary from sandy pockets to heavy clay and shallow bedrock in parts of the county, which can slow down or stress drain fields.
• Seasonal groundwater and fluctuating moisture levels can saturate soil around the drain field, making it harder for effluent to percolate.
• Tree roots and landscaping near the septic system can intrude on tank lids, pumps, and drain lines, causing blockages or breaks.
• Aging systems installed decades ago may not meet current capacity or design standards, especially with modern household water use.
• Overloading your system with solids (from large amounts of grease, flushable wipes, or non-flushables) accelerates sludge buildup and reduces treatment efficiency.

Signs Your System Is Struggling

• Slow drains, frequent backups, or toilets gurgling after flushing.
• Persistent sewage odors in the house or yard, especially near the tank or drain field.
• Wet, spongy, or unusually green patches over the drain field, or standing water after rainfall.
• Backups or effluent surfacing in sinks, showers, or near the septic tank cover.
• Short pumping intervals or finding your alarm float/maintenance reminders frequently.

Common Failures Seen in the County

• Drain field failures due to excessive solids or root intrusion, leading to poor drainage and odors.
• Tank baffles or pumps failing in systems with pumping chambers or wastewater lift stations.
• Leaking or cracked tanks from age or ground movement, which require prompt inspection and replacement.
• Clogged effluent filters or pumps caused by improper solids entering the tank.
• Inadequate system sizing for household demand or expansion (e.g., more occupants, added bathrooms).

Maintenance Tips Specific to Bedford County

• Schedule regular pumping based on tank size, usage, and local soil conditions:
  • Typical homes: every 3–5 years, but less frequent for smaller households or newer systems; more frequent with heavy water use.
  • Keep a maintenance log with pump dates, tank size, and contractor notes.
• Protect the drain field:
  • Limit heavy traffic, parking, and heavy machinery over the system.
  • Plant only shallow-rooted vegetation above or near the drain field; avoid deep-rooted trees or shrubs.
  • Do not connect sump pumps, French drains, or foundation drains to the septic tank.
• Use water wisely:
  • Fix leaks promptly; distribute laundry loads across days; install high-efficiency fixtures where possible.
  • Avoid flushing non-biodegradable items, wipes, grease, solvents, pesticides, or medications.
• Inspect components regularly:
  • Have a licensed septic contractor inspect the system during pumping visits and check for cracks, unusual odors, or wet spots beyond the field.
  • Ensure the septic tank lid is accessible and properly secured.

Quick Maintenance Steps (three-step routine)

1. Locate and access the tank; document tank size and location for future service.
2. Schedule pumping and a professional inspection if you notice odors, surfacing effluent, or backups.
3. Post-service protection: reset usage patterns, repair any leaks, and re-check soil above the drain field after rainfall.

When to Call a Professional

• You notice persistent backups, sewage odors, or toilets that won't drain.
• The drain field appears saturated or you see wetlands in the yard for several days after rain.
• It's been more than the recommended pumping interval, or you're planning significant occupancy or additions.
• There are cracks in the tank, effluent surfacing, or alarm/float indicators are active.

Local Resources and Official Guidance

• Virginia Department of Health – Onsite Sewage Systems: official guidance and consumer tips.
• EPA – Septic Systems: general best practices and troubleshooting steps.
• Virginia Cooperative Extension – home septic resources and homeowner education. https://ext.vt.edu/

Septic Inspection, Permits & Local Oversight

Oversight in Bedford County

In Bedford County, onsite septic systems are regulated by the Virginia Department of Health (VDH) in coordination with the Bedford County Health Department. The local team administers permit applications, plan reviews, soil evaluations, and inspections to ensure systems meet state standards for health, safety, and water quality. For official guidance, start with the VDH Onsite Sewage Program and the Bedford County government pages:

• Virginia Department of Health:

When a permit is required

A permit is required for most OSS work that affects a home's wastewater disposal, including:

• Installing a new septic system for a residence
• Replacing or substantially repairing an existing system
• Modifications that change flow, capacity, or drainage patterns
• Abandonment of an old system followed by a new installation
• Major site changes (boundary setbacks, grading) that affect drainage or load

The permit process (step-by-step)

1. Confirm permit needs with Bedford County Health Department.
2. Hire licensed professionals: a Certified Soil Evaluator to assess site suitability, and a licensed Onsite Sewage System Contractor to design and install the system.
3. Complete required soil evaluation and submit design concepts for review.
4. Prepare and submit the permit package: site plan, system design, soil report, and any required forms; pay applicable fees.
5. Plan review: staff checks compliance with Virginia OSS regulations; revisions may be requested.
6. Permit issuance and construction: begin work after approval; schedule inspections at key milestones (e.g., trenching, tank placement, backfill, final connection).
7. Final inspection and as-built: ensure the installed system matches the approved plan; obtain the as-built drawing for records.

Inspections to expect

• Pre-construction/site evaluation inspection
• Tank placement and trench inspection
• Backfill and piping inspection
• Final inspection with as-built documentation

Real estate disclosures and transfers

• Many real estate transactions involve disclosure of OSS status and any known issues. Check with your real estate professional and Bedford County Health Department for current disclosure requirements and necessary paperwork; having up-to-date records can prevent closing delays.
• If a transfer requires a current OSS inspection or certification, plan ahead to coordinate with the health department.

Fees, timing & contacts

• Permit and inspection fees vary by system type, lot size, and project scope; ask for an itemized estimate before submitting.
• Processing times depend on plan completeness and department workload.
• Key contacts:
  • Bedford County Health Department (local point of contact):
  • Virginia Department of Health Onsite Sewage Program:

Quick tips for homeowners

• Start early: soil evaluations and design plans can take time; plan around weather and scheduling.
• Keep all records: permits, plans, inspections, and as-built drawings should be stored for maintenance and any future sale.
• Use licensed professionals: Virginia requires certified personnel for soil evaluation and system installation and inspection.

Cost Expectations for Septic Services in Bedford County

Septic Tank Pumping and Cleaning

• What it includes: removing accumulated sludge and scum from the septic tank, inspecting the inlet and outlet baffles, and ensuring the tank is properly resealed. In Bedford County, many homes rely on tank and drain-field systems that benefit from regular pumping to protect the drain field in variable soils.
• Bedford County specifics: soil conditions, tank size, and the presence of pump chambers or multiple compartments affect timing and price. Homes with older tanks or concrete tanks may require more effort to access and pump.
• Typical steps to prepare: locate the tank access lid or risers, clear a path if needed, and plan for possible short-term nuisance if tanks are near living areas.
• Typical cost in Bedford County: roughly $250–$500 for a standard 1,000–1,500 gallon tank; $450–$700 if the system includes a pump chamber or a larger tank.
• Notes: annual or biennial pumping schedules may be advised based on household size and water use; keep records for resale or refinancing.

Septic System Inspection

• What it includes: a visual and functional review of the tank, pump (if present), outlet baffles, drain-field trenches, and any alarms or risers; may include camera inspection of pipes for major concerns.
• Bedford County specifics: inspections are especially valuable for homes with limited record history or older systems common in the countryside; inspection helps anticipate field issues before they become failures.
• Typical cost in Bedford County: $150–$300 for a standard inspection; $300–$350 if a detailed, camera-assisted review is requested.
• Steps to prepare: have the system location mapped, bring any previous maintenance records, and coordinate with the licensed inspector for access.

Septic System Design and Permitting

• What it includes: site evaluation, soil testing guidance, system design, and coordination of required local permits and approvals.
• Bedford County specifics: many installations require a design from a licensed septic designer and formal permitting through both the county and the Virginia Department of Health Onsite Sewage Program.
• Typical cost in Bedford County: design fees around $1,500–$4,000; permitting and inspection fees commonly $300–$1,300 depending on the project and location.
• Steps to prepare: confirm site boundaries, perk/soil test results, and any well or drinking-water considerations; secure a designer with Bedford County experience.

New Septic System Installation

• What it includes: initial site evaluation, soil testing, system design, permit acquisition, installation of the tank(s) and drain-field (conventional or advanced), and final inspection.
• Bedford County specifics: groundwater level and soil profiles can drive the choice between conventional drain-field, mound systems, or other advanced designs; some sites require enhanced treatment.
• Typical cost in Bedford County: conventional systems typically $7,000–$15,000; more complex or mound/advanced systems often $20,000–$60,000 depending on site constraints and access.
• Steps to prepare: obtain design approval, plan for seasonal weather impacts on access and installation, and budget for potential site work (grading, landscaping, or driveway adjustments).

Septic System Repairs

• What it includes: baffle or riser replacements, pump repair or replacement, seal fixes, lid/cover adjustments, and targeted drain-field repairs.
• Bedford County specifics: repairs can be more frequent where drainage is tight or soils are variable; some components require trench work or partial field access.
• Typical cost in Bedford County: minor repairs $500–$2,500; more substantial fixes, including limited drain-field work, $3,000–$8,000.
• Steps to prepare: identify the symptom (gurgling, pooling, backups), obtain a recent inspection report, and request a repair plan with cost estimates.

Drain Field Replacement or Repair

• What it includes: repair or replacement of failed lateral lines, excavation, new trenches, sometimes moving to a trench system or mound solution.
• Bedford County specifics: soil and slope influence whether repair stays in place or entails moving to a new field; shallow soils or bedrock can push toward mound or alternative designs.
• Typical cost in Bedford County: lateral-field repair $5,000–$20,000; full drain-field replacement or mound system $20,000–$50,000+ depending on site and design.
• Steps to prepare: secure site access for machinery, review permits, and consider long-term maintenance plans to protect the new field.

System Abandonment/Decommissioning

• What it includes: safely sealing and capping an old tank, properly relocating or filling drain-field components, and documenting decommissioning.
• Bedford County specifics: required when switching to sewer service, building renovations, or demolitions; ensures environmental safety and code compliance.
• Typical cost in Bedford County: $1,000–$4,000 depending on tank size and site access.
• Steps to prepare: coordinate with the county and licensed contractors to ensure proper fluid and soil handling.

Regular Maintenance Plans and Preventive Care

• What it includes: scheduled pumping, inspections, filter cleaning (if applicable), and priority service for urgent backups.
• Bedford County specifics: proactive plans help avoid costly field failures in areas with soil limitations.
• Typical cost in Bedford County: $100–$300 per year for basic service contracts; higher if more frequent pumping or comprehensive checks are included.
• Steps to prepare: choose a plan that matches household size and water use; request written estimates with a published maintenance cadence.

Official Resources

• Virginia Department of Health – Onsite Sewage Program:
• Bedford County Government:

Septic vs Sewer Across Bedford County

What determines your choice in Bedford County

• Bedford County relies on a mix: some areas have access to public sewer, while many parcels in rural parts use on-site septic systems. Availability depends on proximity to existing sewer lines and local utility service boundaries. Check with the county's Public Utilities office and your local town, if applicable, to see what's possible for your property.
• If sewer is available, you may be encouraged or required to connect by local rules or future development plans. Always confirm current requirements with Bedford County and your utility provider.

Septic vs Sewer at a glance

• Septic (on-site): You own and maintain the system; responsibility includes pumping and inspection. Pros: potential lower monthly costs if the system is functioning well. Cons: regular pumping, potential repairs, and eventual replacement.
• Public sewer: You connect to a city or county system; homeowner is billed for monthly sewer usage. Pros: typically fewer daily maintenance tasks; environmental safeguards are embedded in the network. Cons: monthly charges; tapping or connection fees may apply; you're tied to a utility schedule rather than a private system.

Cost considerations you should plan for

• Septic system costs and maintenance
  • Installation/replacement: roughly $6,000 to $25,000+ depending on soil, design (conventional, mound, aerobic), and site conditions.
  • Pumping and maintenance: typically every 3–5 years, around a few hundred dollars per service.
  • Repairs and replacements: can be costly if a component fails or soil conditions are challenging.
• Sewer connection costs
  • Tap or connection fees: vary widely by provider and service area; can range from a few thousand dollars to higher amounts.
  • Monthly sewer charges: depend on usage and local rates; expect ongoing bills even if you don't use as much water.
• Tip: obtain written quotes from a septic contractor and your local utility to compare long-term costs, including maintenance, repair, and potential connection fees.

Step-by-step decision guide

1. Step 1 — Check service availability
   • Contact Bedford County Public Utilities (official site: bedfordcountyva.gov) to confirm sewer service status for your address and any future plans that may affect you.
2. Step 2 — Assess site and design needs
   • If septic is needed, hire a qualified designer or septic installer to perform percolation tests and site evaluation required by the Virginia Department of Health.
3. Step 3 — Compare total costs
   • Gather detailed estimates for septic installation or replacement, ongoing pumping, and potential sewer connection fees and monthly bills.
4. Step 4 — Review regulations and maintenance
   • Visit the Virginia Department of Health's Onsite Sewage Disposal Systems page to understand permitting, inspections, and maintenance requirements: [Virginia Department of Health – Onsite Sewage Disposal Systems](
5. Step 5 — Consider long-term implications
   • Think about long-term reliability, environmental impact, and how each option affects property value and resale.

Pros and cons, side by side

• Septic system
  • Pros: potential lower ongoing costs if well maintained; independence from utility schedules.
  • Cons: regular pumping and potential for costly repairs; system failure can be expensive and disruptive.
• Public sewer
  • Pros: reduced on-site maintenance; built-in wastewater treatment, with environmental safeguards.
  • Cons: ongoing monthly charges; possible connection fees; less flexibility if you value private maintenance control.

Helpful resources

• Virginia Department of Health – Onsite Sewage Disposal Systems: [
• Bedford County Public Utilities (official site): [