This is a plain-language summary, not legal advice. Rules change, so check your exact address with the state before making plans.
Why Marion County septic systems get extra attention
Marion County has one of the largest numbers of septic systems in Florida, about 125,000 in 2019 state health data, the third most of any county (Ocala Gazette). Much of the county drains to Silver Springs and Rainbow Springs, and nitrogen from septic systems is one source of the pollution affecting them.
To reduce that pollution, the state adopted springs restoration plans called Basin Management Action Plans (BMAPs). Each BMAP maps "priority focus areas" where septic rules are stricter.
What the rules mean for existing septic systems
According to the Florida Department of Environmental Protection, some springs BMAPs include requirements for existing septic systems. These usually kick in when a system needs a repair or modification permit, for example after a failure or a change to the home it serves (DEP fact sheet). At that point, the owner may need to:
- Connect to central sewer, if it is available
- Repair or modify the existing system, if sewer will become available
- Upgrade to an enhanced nitrogen-reducing septic system
Routine pumping does not need a permit, so it does not trigger these requirements. That is one more reason to pump on schedule: it is the cheapest way to avoid a failure that leads to a costly repair permit.
New homes and new septic systems
A 2023 Florida law requires new septic systems on lots of one acre or less inside springs BMAP areas, where sewer is not available, to use nitrogen-reducing technology. If you are building, buying land or replacing a system, ask about this early because it affects cost.
How to check your property
DEP publishes a map tool showing which properties fall under existing-system requirements, and the details are in each springs BMAP. Questions about a specific site go to the state onsite sewage program. If you are buying a home, a septic inspection plus a quick check of the map can prevent surprises. See also our guide to buying a home with septic in Marion County.
Signs your septic tank needs pumping
- Sinks, tubs or toilets draining slowly
- Gurgling sounds in the plumbing
- Sewage smell in the yard or near the tank
- Soggy ground or extra-green grass over the drain field
- Water or sewage backing up into the house
- It's been 3 to 5 years since the last pump-out
How it works
- Call or request a quoteTell us what's going on and where you are.
- Get a price up frontAsk the septic company for a price before any work starts.
- Get it doneSchedule the pump-out, inspection or repair with a local company.
Why call us
- One callSkip calling around. Tell us what you need and we'll point you to a local company.
- Local companiesSeptic companies that work in Marion County.
- Free to useThere's no charge to you for the referral.
- Pump now, save laterRegular pumping costs a fraction of a new drain field.
Don't wait for a backup. Get your tank pumped.
Call now(352) 322-4689Common questions
Does pumping my tank trigger the springs rules?
No. Routine pumping doesn't require a repair or modification permit, which is what usually triggers the requirements for existing systems.
Do the rules apply to all of Marion County?
No. They apply in mapped priority focus areas of specific springs BMAPs. Check your address with the state's map tool.
What is a nitrogen-reducing septic system?
It's an upgraded septic system that removes more nitrogen before wastewater reaches the ground. It costs more than a conventional system, so ask for quotes early if you might need one.
Request septic service
Send your details and we'll call you back. Sewage backing up? Call (352) 322-4689 now.