Can You Install Your Own Septic System In Texas

Generally septic systems also known as on site sewage facilities are regulated under a portion of the texas health and safety code which you can find here and the water code here.

Can you install your own septic system in texas. Site evaluators installers and apprentices can face license revocation for any of the following offenses. The first step in any septic installation is to perform a site survey and do a percolation soil test on the area where the powts is going to be installed. A permit is also required to conduct repairs on a septic system and any expansion or alteration of an existing septic system. Unless you are skilled and familiar with heavy machinery i suggest you contact a local professional to get the job done right.

To set up a septic system in texas one must get permission from the state. If you pass with a score of 80 or more you will receive a wallet size certificate then you are free to install your septic system. Make sure you purchase materials approved by the state. However certain systems cannot be sold to property owners individually and must be sold to factory representatives.

Is is legal under texas law to install your own septic tank. In addition if you pay for any work done by contractors while installing the tank yourself the contractors must be licensed for septic tank installation by the state. Prepare and design your system. State code regarding the septic rule rule 410 iac 6 8 3 residential sewage disposal systems can be found here.

After a wary pause i give a thoughtful and well articulated gem of advice. In many areas of the country a homeowner can still install their own septic tank and field line system. People often ask me if they can install their own septic system usually a replacement system. The system then can be designed based on the findings of the survey and results of the soil test.

If your hire a licensed installer he would probably already be aware of approved materials. You can search for your local permitting authority online. He or she can also suffer legal penalties for using an inadequate septic system. Falsifying information or documentation.

Finally one can read about minimum state standards in the texas administrative code here. Take the test at your leisure and bring fax or mail it back to the health department to be graded. Under texas septic system laws a homeowner can be prosecuted for deviating from the approved plan. Permitting for on site sewage facilities producing 5 000 gallons per day or less of domestic sewage including septic systems pump out stations holding tanks and hauling systems.

Guidance on how to select the proper system and an installer.