Hundreds of thousands of Maine homes rely on private wells and septic systems. This guide covers what wells and septic systems cost, the licensing behind them, and how to keep them healthy.
What it costs in Maine
Drilled well
Priced largely by depth (per foot) plus the pump and pressure tank.
$5,000–$12,000
New septic system
Varies with soil, system type, and site conditions.
$10,000–$25,000+
Septic tank pumping
Typically every 3–5 years depending on household size.
$300–$600
Well pump replacement
Submersible pump plus labor and any pressure-tank work.
$1,200–$3,500
Water test
Maine recommends testing for arsenic, uranium, and bacteria.
$100–$300
Ranges are typical Maine estimates — always get written quotes for your specific project.
Licensing & requirements
Well drillers and pump installers in Maine are licensed by the Maine Well Drillers and Pump Installers Commission. Septic systems must be designed by a licensed Site Evaluator and installed to the Maine Subsurface Wastewater Disposal Rules, with a local plumbing inspector’s permit. Verify credentials before any work begins.
Common jobs
New well drilling
Well pump and pressure tank replacement
Septic system design and installation
Septic tank pumping and inspection
Water quality testing and filtration
Leach field repair and replacement
Questions to ask before you hire
Are you a licensed Maine well driller / pump installer or Site Evaluator?
Will you obtain the required permits and inspections?
How is the well priced — per foot, and what does that include?
What water tests do you recommend for this area?
What maintenance schedule do you advise?
Maine-specific notes
In rural Maine, well depth and water chemistry vary a lot by town — arsenic and uranium occur naturally in some bedrock, so testing matters. Septic costs swing widely with soil type; ledgy or wet sites may need engineered systems. Pump your tank every 3–5 years to avoid a far costlier leach-field failure.
Frequently asked questions
How much does a new well or septic system cost in Maine?
A drilled well commonly costs $5,000 to $12,000 depending on depth, and a new septic system often runs $10,000 to $25,000 or more depending on soil and system type.
How often should a septic tank be pumped in Maine?
Most households should pump every 3 to 5 years. Regular pumping protects the leach field, which is far more expensive to replace than a routine pump-out.