Elevated Dirt Works · Free On-Site Estimates
Septic System Installation in Missoula & the Bitterroot
New septic systems, replacements and test pits from a Ravalli County certified installer, with the permit steps explained before we dig.
Septic Installation in Missoula and the Bitterroot
If your lot isn't on city sewer, the septic system decides a lot about where the house goes and when you can build. It's also the part of a project people know the least about. Most owners only deal with a septic permit once or twice in their life.
Elevated Dirt Works digs test pits, installs new systems and replaces failed ones across Missoula County and the Bitterroot Valley. We're a Ravalli County certified septic installer, which matters because Ravalli County requires installers to be certified before they can put a system in the ground there.
We also handle the rest of the dirt work that goes with a septic job: the sewer line from the house to the tank, the trench for the water line, and the grading once everything is covered. When the system is covered, we can handle the grading and site prep around it too. One crew, one schedule, fewer handoffs.
What's Included
- Test pits for site evaluations
- Excavation for the septic tank
- Trenching for the drainfield
- Sewer line from the house to the tank
- Setting pipe and gravel to the approved design
- Open-trench inspection with the county
- Backfill and final grade over the system
- Replacement of failed tanks and drainfields
How It Works
- Free on-site estimate
We look at the lot, the access and where the house and well are planned.
- Test pits
We dig pits so the soils can be evaluated for a drainfield.
- Permit
The design and permit go through the county before installation.
- Install
We call Montana811, then set the tank, lay the drainfield and connect the sewer line to the approved plan.
- Inspection and cover
The county inspects the open system, then we backfill and grade.
Septic Permits in Missoula and Ravalli Counties
Septic systems in Montana need a permit from the county before installation. The order of steps is roughly the same everywhere, and knowing it ahead of time saves weeks.
- Test pits. The county needs to see what the soil looks like below the surface. We dig the pits, and the soils are logged by whoever is doing the evaluation.
- Site evaluation. The results show whether the lot can take a standard drainfield or needs a different kind of system, and where it can go relative to the well, the house and property lines.
- County permit. The system design and application go to the county. In Missoula County that's the Missoula City-County Health Department. In Ravalli County it's the county environmental health office.
- Install. With the permit in hand, we dig and set the system to the approved design. We don't change the layout in the field without the county's okay.
- Inspection. The county inspects the system before it's covered. After it passes, we backfill and grade.
In Ravalli County, the installer has to be on the county's certified installer list. Elevated Dirt Works is. In Missoula County, ask the health department about current requirements for your lot. Either way, we'll tell you what the next step is and who to call.
What Affects the Cost
System type
The site evaluation decides what kind of system the lot needs, and that drives the scope.
Soil and rock
Rock or hard digging takes more time in the tank hole and trenches.
Access
Tight lots, slopes and trees can slow the work or require smaller equipment.
Distance
A longer run from the house to the tank means more trench and pipe.
Replacement work
Pulling or abandoning an old system adds steps to a new install.
Season
Frost and snow affect when installs and inspections can happen.
The on-site estimate is free. Call (406) 239-1799
Elevated Dirt Works is crushing it on our tight site. I continue to be impressed with these guys, and am so thankful they are on the dream team building our big addition!
Septic Systems Across Western Montana
We work from our base in Lolo across Missoula County and the Bitterroot Valley.
Ravalli County / Bitterroot Valley
Septic FAQs
Do I need a permit to install or replace a septic system?
Yes. Septic systems in Montana need a permit from the county before installation. We'll point you to the right office for your county.
Why does being Ravalli County certified matter?
Ravalli County requires septic installers to be certified. If your property is in Florence, Stevensville, Hamilton or elsewhere in the county, you need a certified installer, and we are one.
How long does a septic install take?
The permit steps usually take longer than the dig itself. Once the permit is issued, the install depends on the system type, the site and the weather. We'll give you a realistic timeline at the estimate.
Can you dig test pits before I buy a lot?
Yes. Test pits are one of our listed services, and they're a smart step before you buy rural land. Contact us to set one up.
Ready to Break Ground?
Call for a free on-site estimate. Monday–Friday, 7:00 AM – 5:00 PM.