If you’re building a new home on a rural property in Ontario, or replacing a failing septic system, one of your first questions is likely: how much is this going to cost?
The honest answer is that costs vary significantly. Here’s a realistic breakdown.
Typical Price Ranges
Conventional Septic System (tank + leaching bed): $15,000 – $30,000 The most common and generally most affordable option.
Filter Bed System: $20,000 – $35,000 Required when soil conditions (like heavy clay) need additional treatment. Common near Kemptville, Cumberland, Embrun, and parts of Lanark County.
Eljen GSF System: $20,000 – $35,000 Enhanced treatment with a reduced bed size. Good for properties with space constraints.
Ecoflo Biofilter System: $25,000 – $40,000+ Highest treatment level, smallest footprint. Ideal for tight lots and waterfront properties.
Other Tertiary Treatment Systems (Bionest, Norweco, Waterloo Biofilter, etc.): $25,000 – $45,000+
What Affects the Cost?
Soil conditions — Clay soils, high water tables, shallow bedrock require more complex systems. Common in parts of Lanark County, Kemptville, Cumberland, Embrun, and Rockland.
Lot size and layout — Smaller lots may require advanced systems with smaller footprints. Steep slopes, limited access, or significant setback requirements increase costs.
Number of bedrooms — The Ontario Building Code sizes systems based on bedrooms. More bedrooms = larger system.
System type — Advanced treatment systems cost more than conventional but may be required by your soil conditions.
Permit fees — Budget $500 – $1,500 depending on the authority (MVCA, RVCA, South Nation, or municipal).
Soil testing and system design — Budget $1,500 – $3,000.
Get an Accurate Estimate
The only way to get a reliable cost for your property is to have an experienced installer visit the site. Marchington Excavation provides free on-site estimates throughout Lanark County, Renfrew, Arnprior, Mississippi Mills, West Carleton, Manotick, Greely, Kemptville, Smiths Falls, Merrickville, Cumberland, Rockland, Embrun, Vars, Limoges, and Ottawa.
Call (613) 612-1136 or email marchingtonexcavation@gmail.com.
