Calvert County Health Department

Perc Test

The percolation test is designed to determine the soil suitability of a site for a subsurface private sewage disposal system (i.e. septic system). More specifically, a percolation test measures the ability of the soil to absorb liquid. Septic system designers use the results of percolation tests to properly construct septic systems. The uniform slowest rate of drop of the water level over a measured time interval is converted to minutes per inch and used as a basis of design in determining the septic system size.

Soil conditions are one of the criteria used for determining the suitability of a site for construction. Critical area designations, slopes, zoning restrictions and other conditions are also factored into the approval process for a construction permit.

The Health Department accepts percolation test applications for wet season, areas that must be tested when the water table is at its highest, during the months of January through the end of April. However these dates are subject to change based on rain/snowfall amounts.

Fees for service:

Record plat approvals - $50.00/lot
Subdivision of land - $250.00/lot
Site plan revisions - $50.00/each revision
Septic system repair - $175.00
Percolation test - $250.00/application
Public sewer review- $40.00

If you have any questions please call Environmental Health at 410-535-3922.