Septic Service in James City, NC

James City sits right across the Trent River from New Bern, but it’s unincorporated, and city sewer only reaches parts of it. Many homes here rely on a septic tank and drain field. Here’s what to know.

Sewer in some spots, septic in many others

Because James City isn’t an incorporated town, it doesn’t have its own sewer system. The City of New Bern has extended sewer to some properties in the area, but not everywhere. If your utility bill has no sewer charge, your home is almost certainly on septic.

Craven County’s own environmental health report notes that significant portions of the county are served by septic systems, and the county provides water service, not sewer.

Low ground near the rivers

With the Trent River to the north and Brices Creek to the west, much of the land around James City is low, and Craven County soils hold water. When the ground is saturated, a drain field can’t absorb wastewater the way it should. Regular pumping keeps solids out of the field, and spreading out laundry and showers helps during wet stretches.

Septic services in James City

Septic trouble in James City?

From neighborhoods off US-70 to homes near Brices Creek, James City homeowners on septic can call for pumping, repairs, or a free estimate.

Call (252) 631-6129

James City septic questions

Who issues septic permits here?

Craven County’s On-Site Water Protection program, part of Environmental Health, handles septic permits in the county: site and soil evaluations, construction approvals, operation permits, and repair permits for failing systems. Call 252-636-4936.

Is my James City home on sewer or septic?

Check your utility bill for a sewer charge. If there isn’t one, you’re on septic. You can also ask Craven County Environmental Health whether there’s a septic permit on file for your address.

Call (252) 631-6129