Septic Tank Pumping Companies in Virginia

The Virginia Department of Health (VDH) requires a sewage disposal construction permit to install, modify or repair a septic tank or dispersal field. Since July 1, 2009, the Virginia Department of Professional and Occupational Regulation (DPOR) has licensed onsite soil evaluators, installers and operators through the Board for Waterworks and Wastewater Works Operators and Onsite Sewage System Professionals.

Inside Chesapeake Bay Preservation Areas, Virginia regulations require a pump-out at least once every five years. Local governments may instead accept documentation, certified by a licensed operator or onsite soil evaluator, that the system was inspected and is working properly, or offer a plastic filter option. Elsewhere, VDH advises pumping the tank at regular intervals as recommended by a professional.

Yes. Under the Sewage Handling and Disposal Regulations (12VAC5-610), anyone who removes and transports by vehicle the contents of a septic tank is a sewage handler and needs a sewage handling permit. Applications go to the local or district health department, so ask a company to confirm its permit before you book.

Since July 1, 2023, VDH manages and enforces pump-out compliance in Accomack, Essex, Gloucester, King and Queen, King William, Lancaster, Mathews, Middlesex, Northampton, Northumberland, Richmond and Westmoreland Counties and the towns within them. In other Chesapeake Bay localities the local government runs the program. Hanover County, for example, asks owners to report the service date and the company that pumped the tank.

VDH says owners of alternative onsite sewage systems (AOSS) must keep a relationship with a licensed operator, have at least one service visit each year and keep a maintenance log. VDH also notes that it is ultimately the owner's responsibility to make sure the system is working properly.