New York County, New York
The dominant drainage class is Well drained and the dominant hydrologic group is C (slow infiltration, moderate runoff). This report summarizes the major soil map units across the survey area to help you understand what to expect when buying, building, or gardening in New York County, New York.
| Soil Map Unit | Acres | Drainage | Hydro Group | Dwellings | Septic |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Water | 7K | Not rated | Not rated | ||
| Urban land, till substratum, 0 to 3 percent slopes | 2K | Not limited | Very limited | ||
| Urban land, till substratum, 3 to 8 percent slopes | 2K | Not limited | Very limited | ||
| Urban land-Flatbush complex, 0 to 3 percent slopes | 1K | Not limited | Very limited | ||
| Urban land, outwash substratum, 0 to 3 percent slopes | 1K | Not limited | Very limited | ||
| Urban land, reclaimed substratum, 0 to 3 percent slopes | 972 | Not limited | Very limited | ||
| Urban land-Greenbelt complex, 0 to 3 percent slopes | 716 | Not limited | Very limited | ||
| Urban land-Laguardia complex, 0 to 3 percent slopes | 678 | Not limited | Very limited | ||
| Urban land-Greenbelt complex, 3 to 8 percent slopes | 598 | Not limited | Very limited | ||
| Laguardia-Urban land complex, 0 to 3 percent slopes | 445 | Well drained | C | Somewhat limited | Very limited |
| Urban land-Laguardia complex, 0 to 3 percent slopes, low impervious surface | 373 | Not limited | Very limited | ||
| Urban land-Greenbelt complex, 3 to 8 percent slopes, low impervious surface | 281 | Not limited | Very limited | ||
| Urban land-Flatbush complex, 0 to 3 percent slopes, low impervious surface | 269 | Not limited | Very limited | ||
| Urban land, tidal marsh substratum, 0 to 3 percent slopes | 260 | Very limited | Very limited | ||
| Urban land, outwash substratum, 3 to 8 percent slopes | 224 | Not limited | Very limited | ||
| Greenbelt-Urban land complex, 0 to 3 percent slopes | 188 | Well drained | B | Not limited | Somewhat limited |
| Urban land, till substratum, 8 to 15 percent slopes | 186 | Not limited | Very limited | ||
| Rock outcrop-Hollis-Chatfield complex, 60 to 80 percent slopes | 173 | Very limited | Very limited | ||
| Greenbelt loam, 3 to 8 percent slopes | 168 | Well drained | B | Not limited | Somewhat limited |
| Chatfield-Hollis-Rock outcrop complex, 35 to 60 percent slopes | 168 | Well drained | A | Very limited | Very limited |
What This Means
Building & Foundations
Most soils are generally favorable for residential construction. Standard foundations are usually viable, though site-specific evaluation is always recommended.
Septic Systems
About 61% of soils are rated "very limited" for septic absorption fields. Despite good drainage overall, limitations may stem from shallow bedrock, steep slopes, or seasonal conditions. Engineered or alternative systems are frequently required. Always get a professional perc test before purchasing land that needs septic.
Gardening & Agriculture
Well-drained soils on sloped terrain — good for most plants but watch for erosion. Terracing, contour planting, and mulching help retain moisture and topsoil. Drip irrigation is more effective than sprinklers on slopes.