River ground
Low ground near the Colorado and its creeks can carry a high water table after heavy rain. A drain field needs unsaturated soil beneath it to treat effluent, so systems close to the river are often designed differently from systems up on the sandy ridges toward Buescher State Park. When a field that’s worked for years starts gurgling after a wet spell, high water is a usual suspect.
After a flood
If floodwater has covered your tank or field, the system can’t work until the ground drains. Use as little water as you can, keep people and pets away from any surfacing sewage, and don’t pump a tank while the ground around it is still saturated without asking a professional first: an empty tank in waterlogged soil can shift or float. Once the water is down, have the system checked.
Who permits septic here
Smithville properties outside any city program fall under Bastrop County Development Services, the TCEQ’s authorized agent for the county. The same county rules apply: a permit for every new or modified system.
Smithville questions
Asked around Smithville.
My septic backs up every time it rains hard in Smithville. Why?
A saturated drain field can’t accept water, so the tank fills and drains slow down or back up. It can also mean the field is near the end of its life or the tank is overdue for pumping. A pump-out and inspection after the ground dries tells you which.
Should I pump my septic tank right after a flood?
Not while the ground is still saturated, unless a professional has looked at it. A tank emptied in waterlogged soil can shift or float. Cut water use, keep away from any sewage, and call us once the water drops.
Do you do septic inspections for home sales in Smithville?
Yes. Larry’s NAWT-certified inspectors check the tank, the drain field and, on aerobic systems, the mechanical parts and sprinklers, and give you a written report.
Reviews
What customers wrote.
We worked with Cody on a new septic system installation. He was communicative and honest throughout the planning and preparation and executed the project end to end in one day with high-quality results. Would definitely recommend to others!
Office was very friendly and responsive. Jacob was on time and very professional, highly recommend, I will reach out as needed!!
Went with Larry's another time and was very well pleased both times. Very professional vet Small Town friendly. Thank you for getting us out of a bind.