Texas septic system regulations Here’s a Look at Texas Septic System Regulations. For more information concerning the rules or regulations on surfacelsub-surface application of on-site wastewater treatment systems, please contact the Texas Commission on Environmental Quality, P. T. Apr 24, 2025 · The Texas Commission of Environmental Quality requires that properties with on-site septic systems meet certain system requirements and maintenance regulations for optimal environmental and water health. EPA Septic Systems Guidance, Policy, and Regulations TX Onsite Wastewater Association On-Site Waste (septic) Permits are necessary to assure that state and county regulations are met to promote public health, safety, and general welfare. If your OSSF is more than 15 years old, the system may need to be replaced. EPA Septic Systems Guidance, Policy, and Regulations TX Onsite Wastewater Association TX Department of Licensing and Regulation’s Sanitarian Registration A conventional septic system is just one of several systems available. With a few exceptions, a permit is required to install a septic system in Texas. TCEQ rules for public water systems. must be permitted, inspected and approved in order to be in compliance with state and local laws, rules and regulations. NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT ORDERED BY THE TEXAS COMMISSION ON ENVIRONMENTAL QUALITY THAT: 1. Healthy septic systems are good for your family and the environment. soil erosion. pvgcd. thompson, suite 100 conroe, texas 77301 (936)539-7836 • (281) 364-4200 ext 7836 • fax (936) 538-8155 The Subdivision Rules and Regulations of Johnson County, Texas incorporate and adopt for all purposes including reference and definition the provisions of Local Government Code Chapter 232 and those sections of Local Government Code Chapters 232, 233, and 242 (V. The Texas legislature passed a law, HB 1875, in 1987 to regulate on-site sewage facility (OSSF) systems statewide. Order #97-006 Sexually Oriented Businesses . Kerr County Environmental Health 550 Earl Garrett Street, Suite 100 Kerrville, TX 78028 Phone: 830-896-9020 . The type of system suitable for a property is dependent upon the soils, site characteristics, physical features, and the intended uses of the property. Residential OSSF Permit. Additionally, the Texas Water Code (TWC), §5. a. It is legal under Texas law to install your own septic tank. k. For example, in Texas, a septic system installed before September 1, 1989, or before the establishment of a local authorised installation program, can be grandfathered and exempt from certain regulatory procedures. Question: What are the OSSF Clearance Distances for Septic Systems in Texas ? 2019/11/10 Kristina Daddio . 21 Fees §285. Permits are issued by local authorities, including county offices or health districts. 3409 E-Mail: m. to obtain complete information and assistance with the permitting, inspection and approval process and Sep 1, 2023 · NEW- Revised Regulations. (7) "On-site sewage disposal system" means one or more systems of treatment devices and disposal facilities that: Learn about septic systems, how they work, and how to protect groundwater from contamination. org maintenance company mq be required for the use of the system. Hard copies or free electronic downloads of these publications are available after setting up an account. A system using secondary treatment or drip irrigation must be inspected by a valid maintenance company once every four months, or be maintained by the single family homeowner, where allowed. 44(e) for waterline and sewer line crossings. To set up a septic system in Texas, one must get permission from the state. The main goal is to protect water quality and Jan 13, 2022 · SEPTIC SYSTEM LAWS IN TEXAS. 013, gives the TCEQ primary responsibility for implementing the laws of the State of Texas relating to water and adopting rules Texas Health and Safety Code, Chapter 366, On-Site Sewage Disposal Systems; TCEQ searchable list of licensed OSSF and irrigation professionals. Consideration of community wastewater treatment systems as an alternative to individual septic systems can provide more flexibility in the design of lot sizes and layout. TEXAS HEALTH & SAFETY CODE § 366. To ensure that the law is met regarding septic systems, the responsibility in most parts of Texas falls on the local authorities. Texas Harris County Regulations (12/5 Mar 25, 2025 · E-mail addresses and phone numbers for assistance with technical information, licensing, complaints, and other issues about on-site sewage facilities (septic systems). No. In Texas septic system repair and installation permits are issued through your county health department. The first step in acquiring a permit for a new septic system is to contact a septic installer that is licensed with the State of Texas. Find out how to comply with state requirements and protect the environment from pollutants. Slaughterhouse Permit. Apr 1, 2024 · Septic systems play a crucial role in managing wastewater for properties not connected to municipal sewer lines. Please see TCAD Disclaimer here. State and County laws require that a permit be issued by the department prior to constructing or making non-emergency repairs to a septic system. They say that everything is bigger in Texas, and that’s certainly true of their septic tank All new On-Site Sewer Facility (OSSF) systems must be permitted through Environmental Health and Code Compliance Department before installation begins. 5 x 11 inch paper. 032. Nov 10, 2019 · Texas Septic Setbacks & Clearance Distances. S. Apr 22, 2025 · Find information and guidance on permitting, maintenance, and construction of on-site sewage facilities (OSSF) or septic systems in Texas. Navarro Victoria, Texas 77901 WATER WELLS & USAGE REGULATIONS Cindy Parma General Manager 361-275-8188 Website: www. An aerobic septic system or aerobic treatment unit, ATU, uses oxygen to break down both dissolved and solid constituents contained in domestic wastewater into gases, cell mass and non-degradable material, explained Anish Jantrania, AgriLife Extension specialist with the agency’s On-Site The Texas Health and Safety Code, Chapter 366 authorizes the Texas Commission on Environmental Quality (TCEQ) to regulate on-site sewage facilities (OSSFs). In a septic tank, the bacteria use up any dissolved oxygen in the water and then get oxygen by breaking down the sewage. 37 (B) an overflowing septic tank or similar device, including surface discharge from or groundwater contamination by a component of an on-site sewage disposal system, or a blatant discharge from an on-site sewage disposal system. Application for Permit Nov 7, 2024 · A grandfather clause can be invoked if the old system does not pose a health or safety concern. These regulations ensure proper installation, maintenance, and operation of septic systems to protect public health and the environment. They help homeowners and businesses manage waste safely. homes using septic systems, more than 4 billion gallons of wastewater per day is dispersed below the ground’s Existing System Permit (Registration): Required when an existing system is found to not have a permit. Grayson County is hereby authorized to implement its amended Order regulating on-site sewage facilities. Domestic Wastewater Permits — If your OSSF treats more than 5,000 gallons of wastewater on-site each day, then you may need a domestic wastewater permit. 36 Abandoned Tanks, Boreholes, Cesspools, and Seepage Pits §285. If you’re planning on building a home on the outskirts of San Antonio or anywhere in east Texas, then a septic tank or system is probably your best choice for wastewater removal. montgomery county environmental health services permits/floodplain administration 501 n. EPA Septic Systems Guidance, Policy, and Regulations TX Onsite Wastewater Association TX Department of Licensing and Regulation’s Sanitarian Registration General Requirements §285. We would like to show you a description here but the site won’t allow us. Commercial OSSF Permit. Learn about the permitting, site evaluation, and installation requirements for on-site sewage facilities in Texas. 31 Selection Criteria for Treatment and Disposal Systems §285. ). R. Construction in Harris County or Harris County Flood Control ROW Regulations Stormwater Quality Regulations Infrastructure Regulations, October 10, 2023 (Updated for use with 2023 Standards & Specifications) Infrastructure Regulations, September 1, 2023 (Use with 2017 Standards & Specifications) Floodplain Management Feb 13, 2025 · A copy of OSSF Rules and Regulations is available on our main OSSF page. Oct 24, 2024 · If you treat or dispose of wastewater at your site, you may need authorization from TCEQ or your local On-Site Sewage Facility (OSSF or “Septic System”) permitting authority. the public health; meets the Commission's minimum requirements for on­ site sewage disposal systems. Since all systems do not use septic tanks to treat wastewater, these systems are called on-site sewage facilities (OSSF). 012 and §5. What should I do if I’m buying a house with a septic system? When buying a home with a septic system you should request to have the system cleaned out and inspected. Learn about rule changes, petitions, complaints, and data reports. 30 Site Evaluation §285. THE FOLLOWING ARE EXAMPLES OF COMMERCIAL & COMMERCIAL RESIDENTIAL AND MUST BE PERMITTED THROUGH THE COMMERCIAL PERMIT OFFICE: RENTAL HOMES, MODEL HOMES, CONSTRUCTION TRAILERS, APARTMENTS, FOURPLEXES, RV PARKS, FOOD TRUCKS, ANYTHING THAT IS RENTED OUT, ANY STRUCTURE USED FOR Oct 1, 2024 · What Are Texas Septic System Regulations? Texas septic system regulations are rules set by the state. We were told that Texas requirements are that there must be two acres of your property between you and our neighbor. First, you must own a legal tract of land consistent with state law and Bastrop County Subdivision Regulations. C. Feb 26, 2025 · E-mail addresses and phone numbers for assistance with technical information, licensing, complaints, and other issues about on-site sewage facilities (septic systems). 34 Other Requirements §285. 2 . However, that doesn’t mean that prospective homeowners should bypass the inspection as that can help determine the value of the home. There are several state requirements that must be met to properly subdivide acreage in the unincorporated areas of Tarrant County. org Victoria County Health Department 2805 N. Box 13087, Austin, Texas 7871 1-3087. The proposed location of the septic system must meet TCEQ and Bastrop County minimum separation distances (setbacks) from property lines, water wells, buildings, easements, bodies of water, etc. We have tried to build the tool to accurately capture the required steps, information, and documentation depending on the unique nature of your project, but it is NOT a substitute for Travis County Code or any other laws and regulations. Sexually Oriented Businesses. The Texas Commission on Environmental Quality (TCEQ) oversees these rules. Mar 25, 2025 · E-mail addresses and phone numbers for assistance with technical information, licensing, complaints, and other issues about on-site sewage facilities (septic systems). In order to obtain a permit for an existing septic system, the property owner is required to hire a sanitarian or engineer to complete a site survey and septic design. What is an aerobic system as compared to a septic system? An aerobic system is different from a septic tank. Every structure and/or addition requires its own permit. 2008-187-03-11) OSSF Inspection Handout: Preventing Stormwater Pollution at Construction Sites Brochure: Site Evaluator Information Sheet: TCEQ Construction General Permit Requirements Brochure Apr 10, 2025 · E-mail addresses and phone numbers for assistance with technical information, licensing, complaints, and other issues about on-site sewage facilities (septic systems). The required system for your property may depend on unique location and soil analysis factors. And unless you don’t mind repairing and replacing it often or having system backups, you’ll . 35 Emergency Repairs §285. Nov 8, 2024 · Learn about the design, permitting, maintenance and regulation of on-site sewage facilities (OSSFs) in Texas. Williamson County's On-Site Sewage Facilities (OSSF) regulates On-Site Sewage Facilities (a. (B)AAan overflowing septic tank or similar device, including surface discharge from or groundwater contamination by a component of an on-site sewage disposal system, or a blatant discharge from an on-site sewage disposal system. A minimum of 1 acre is required per septic system where there is a private water well on the property. This article […] Drilling a Water Well: Regulations/Permits How is groundwater regulated in Texas? Groundwater is the property of the landowner, and has historically been governed by “the rule of capture,” or the law of the biggest pump, which allows the landowner to pump whatever groundwater is available, regardless of the effects that pumping may have on neighboring water wells. O. The associated costs for a permit to construct a new system can be found by following the link below. -Noon and 1-5 p. Performing the work yourself. m. Question: Do I need a permit for a water well? Answer: Effective January 9, 2009, all potential water wells drilled in Polk County must have a registration permit prior to the drilling of the well. How to obtain a Septic Permit / Fees Registered Sanitarians and Professional Engineers List The Texas A&M AgriLife Extension Service on-line Bookstore offers a number of publications on septic systems such as "On-Site Wastewater Treatment Systems: Leaching Chambers" (L-5342). 4(b)(1), allows for the approval of septic systems on existing small lots or tracts of land if they were last subdivided before January 1, 1988 and they can meet the setback requirements Texas Septic System Regulations. Feb 20, 2025 · Follow this link to the ETJ webpage for more information about these requirements. In Harris County, Texas, where both urban and rural areas coexist, understanding septic laws is essential for homeowners. Standard type gravity flow absorptive drain fields and evapotranspiration systems require only a 2-compartment septic tank and will have limited maintenance requirements. All required paperwork must be printed on 8. Also, include any other improvements to be made to the property (pool, barn, etc. 2005) Types of Septic Systems; How Your OSSF Works; I Need a Septic System. Obtain a soil and site evaluation of the property determining the soil suitability, set back requirements, and system selection. Buying a house in the country with a well and septic system on an acre of land. Non-standard systems with low-pressure dose dispersal methods usually add a pump Aerobic Systems Information Sheet: Maintain your septic system to protect well water: On-Site Sewage Facilities Rules and Regulations (CO. Application for License - Sexually Oriented Business . EPA Septic Systems Guidance, Policy, and Regulations TX Onsite Wastewater Association May 19, 2023 · Are there any regulations in Texas for septic system inspections during real estate transactions? Texas doesn’t have a regulation that mandates an inspection of the septic system before the resale of a home. An advantage of doing the inspecting, testing, and reporting work is saving money. All existing or proposed structures must be identified. They ensure that septic systems do not harm the environment. EPA Septic Systems Guidance, Policy, and Regulations TX Onsite Wastewater Association TX Department of Licensing and Regulation’s Sanitarian Registration Texas Commission on Environmental Quality Dec 17, 2024 · FAQs about Septic Tank Laws and Systems in Texas Do I need a permit to install a septic system in Texas? Yes, installing a septic system in Texas requires a permit. If a septic system is working properly, it will effectively remove most of these pollutants. The Legislature, in the Health and Safety Code, designates the Texas Commission on Mar 25, 2025 · A septic tank should be pumped every three to five years. External Quick Links. The law allowed regional and local governments – such as counties, cities, river authorities and special districts – to implement and enforce on-site sewage regulations with approval and oversight by the Texas Commission on Environmental Control 7933 Viterbo Road Ste 4 Beaumont, TX 77705 M-F 8-12pm, 1-5pm (409) 719-5910 Unless your original septic system was over‐designed, you are not allowed to connect additional residences or remove the existing residence for which the septic system was installed for and put a new residence on the existing septic system this would be in violation of Texas Administrative Code 285. Order #2016-12 Slaughterhouse Ruling. However, certain systems cannot be sold to property owners individually and must be sold to factory representatives. This design flexibility can result in the designation of open space such as parks or other amenities for the benefit of residents. 33 Criteria for Effluent Disposal Systems §285. 2(2) (SEE DEFINITION BELOW): Dec 1, 2021 · quality requirements for final dispersal determine what types of pretreatment can be used. The. Steps for Obtaining an OSSF 4 A Homeowner’s Guide to Septic Systems A Homeowner’s Guide to Septic Systems 5 causing bacteria and viruses. Fees generally range from $250 to $500, depending on the location TCEQ. The permit application considers the type of soil, placement of the system relative to creeks, rivers, lakes and property lines, as well as the type of septic system to be repaired or replaced and the installation or repair plan. Age. You also can Cuero, Texas 77954 LOCAL REQUIREMENTS & REGULATIONS SEPTIC TANK REGULATIONS Mary Tanguma, D. Find out the exceptions, rules, and definitions for different soil types and systems. Find information on septic system design, installation, maintenance, and regulation in Texas. Animated Septic System Training Module – Learn how septic systems function. need to adopt household practices that will protect and prolong the life of your system. With one-fourth of U. A. Environmental Health Inspector 361-578-6281 ext. (7)AA"On-site sewage disposal system" means one or more systems of treatment devices and disposal facilities that: Determine proposed location of home, septic system, and water well. septic tanks) located within Williamson County, with the exception of those areas that are located within the City of Austin. tanguma@vctx. You want to start fresh in your new home by having the system cleaned out. A permit is also required to conduct repairs on a septic system and any expansion or alteration of an existing septic system. Hours of Operation: Mondays - Fridays, 8 a. Rules of Johnson County for On-Site Sewage Facilities. State law requires that conditions be evaluated as to the suitability of the site if OSSFs are to be used. Dec 30, 2021 · DIY Septic Tank Installation. 32 Criteria for Sewage Treatment Systems §285. Septic System Applications. Refer to Section 290. Having an inspection done will ensure that the septic system is in good condition. How much land do I need to have a septic system installed? Burleson County has adopted more stringent rules for lot sizing: As of November 1, 2023 the ORDER ADOPTING RULES OF BURLESON COUNTY, TEXAS FOR ON-SITE SEWAGE FACILITIES was updated and the following is a summarization of the lot sizing rules: Septic System. Answer: Texas Administrative Code 285. Jen Smith • January 13, 2022. Program Information In addition to the general requirements in this subparagraph, precast concrete tanks shall conform to requirements in the Materials and Manufacture Section and the Structural Design Requirements Section of ASTM Designation: C 1227, Standard Specification for Precast Concrete Septic Tanks (2000) or under any other standards approved by the Mar 16, 2021 · The online course will be available to Texans in counties where it has been approved starting April 1. Permitting: Process permit applications and related fees for new and/or existing on-site sewage system The standard type of septic system involves a septic tank (to hold wastewater from toilets and drainpipes until solids settle out in the tank), and a system of pipes that distribute the remaining liquid waste underground over a large area --the leach field--where the wastewater "percolates" through the soil, which helps to clean the water. lbxvkz essmkkp twea jrgyuf fwdappi dgjx geowl jtsi uavpxfy nifemvk cftzcogf ekmnn teunoxp jkll ldcg