If you own or plan to buy a home with a septic system in Boone County, you want it to run smoothly and protect your property value. A well‑maintained system is out of sight and out of mind until something goes wrong. In this guide, you’ll learn the rules that apply locally, simple maintenance that prevents breakdowns, warning signs to watch for, and what to expect during a sale. Let’s dive in.
Know the rules in Boone County
Boone County follows Illinois’ statewide Private Sewage Disposal Code, which is overseen by the Illinois Department of Public Health (IDPH). IDPH licenses installers and pumpers and provides code guidance for system design and maintenance. You can review the state program on the IDPH private sewage page for an overview of how systems are regulated in Illinois.
Your first local contact should be the Boone County Health Department for permits, septic records, and questions about local procedures. Ask for any available permit files or “as‑built” drawings for your property. County health departments typically review designs, issue permits, and inspect new or repaired systems.
- Learn more about Illinois rules: IDPH Private Sewage Disposal
- Find local contacts: Boone County Health Department
Common septic systems you will see
Most single‑family homes have a conventional gravity system with a septic tank and subsurface drainfield. Where soils are limiting or lots are small, you may see alternative systems such as pressure distribution, aerobic treatment units, sand filters, chamber systems, or mound systems. Illinois code allows various system types when designed and installed by licensed professionals.
Site and soil matters in northern Illinois
In Boone County, soil depth, seasonal saturation, and depth to bedrock can vary by parcel. Those conditions affect whether a conventional drainfield will work or if an alternative design is needed. Before new construction or a major replacement, a certified soil and site evaluation is typically required to guide system design. Setbacks from wells, property lines, and waterways are also enforced by local health authorities.
Routine care that saves you money
A little attention goes a long way toward avoiding expensive repairs.
- Inspect regularly. Have a professional check your system every 1 to 3 years. Complex or alternative systems may need more frequent monitoring. See guidance in the EPA’s homeowner FAQs.
- Pump on schedule. Most tanks need pumping every 3 to 5 years, depending on tank size and household use. Keeping a regular schedule prevents solids from reaching and clogging the drainfield.
- Keep records. Save permits, “as‑built” drawings, inspection reports, and pumping receipts. These help with maintenance and will matter if you sell.
- Protect the drainfield. Keep it covered with grass only. Do not drive, park, or build over it, and avoid deep‑rooted plantings.
Helpful resource: EPA Septic FAQs for homeowners
Everyday do’s and don’ts
- Do spread out laundry loads and fix plumbing leaks to reduce strain on the system.
- Do clean or replace the effluent filter if your system has one, following a pro’s guidance.
- Don’t flush wipes, diapers, feminine products, or pour grease, paint, or harsh chemicals down drains.
- Don’t plant trees over the drainfield or route roof and sump water onto it.
Find homeowner education materials here: EPA SepticSmart
Warning signs to address now
Call a licensed septic contractor if you notice slow drains or gurgling, sewage odors in the yard or home, soggy or unusually green areas over the drainfield, sewage surfacing, or backups into the house. If a system is failing or creates a health hazard, the county health department may require corrective action. See the EPA’s list of common failure indicators in its homeowner FAQs.
- Reference: EPA Septic FAQs
What it costs to maintain or fix
Routine pumping and inspection typically cost in the low hundreds to several hundreds of dollars, depending on tank size, access, and local rates. Replacing a failed drainfield or entire system can range from about $5,000 to $20,000+, with complex or engineered systems costing more. Regular maintenance helps you avoid those big‑ticket repairs.
- Why maintenance matters: EPA on septic care and costs
Buying or selling with a septic system in Boone County
There is no single statewide rule in Illinois that requires a septic inspection at property transfer. Requirements can vary by county and lender. Many lenders or local authorities expect proof of proper function before closing. Check early with your lender and the Boone County Health Department.
If you are buying, request the septic permit or “as‑built” drawings, pumping and maintenance records, and any repair documentation. Consider making a septic inspection a contract contingency. A licensed professional can open the tank, check components, and assess the field’s condition.
If you are selling, disclose known issues and be prepared that repairs may require a new permit and design depending on site conditions. Buyers often negotiate repairs or credits when inspections reveal problems.
- Transfer guidance: EPA Septic FAQs
- Local contact: Boone County Health Department
Who to call and how to hire
- Verify licenses: Use the IDPH resources to confirm your installer or pumper is licensed in Illinois. Start here: IDPH private sewage program
- Learn maintenance basics: Review the EPA’s SepticSmart materials before you schedule service.
- Explore homeowner guides: The industry association NOWRA offers plain‑language resources for understanding different system types and care: NOWRA homeowner resources
Planning a move that involves a septic system? Whether you are buying in Boone County or listing nearby, you deserve a smooth process and clear answers. Reach out to Kim Keefe to talk through your next steps and align your sale or purchase with your goals.
FAQs
How often should a Boone County homeowner pump a septic tank?
- Most households should inspect every 1 to 3 years and pump every 3 to 5 years, depending on tank size and water use. See the EPA’s guidance.
What can I plant over my drainfield in northern Illinois?
- Use grass or shallow‑rooted plants only. Avoid trees, deep‑rooted shrubs, and hard surfaces to protect the drainfield’s function. See the EPA FAQs.
Where can I find septic permits or drawings for a Boone County property?
- Contact the Boone County Health Department to request available “as‑built” records and permits.
Are septic inspections required when selling a home in Boone County?
- Illinois has no universal rule at transfer; requirements depend on lender and local practices. Confirm with your lender and the Boone County Health Department, and review the EPA’s sale guidance.
What are the common signs of a failing septic system?
- Slow drains, gurgling, sewage odors, soggy or unusually green patches over the field, sewage surfacing, or backups into the home. Refer to the EPA FAQs.