Texas septic (OSSF) inspection requirements: a plain-English guide
Texas regulates septic systems, called on-site sewage facilities (OSSFs), under Texas Health and Safety Code Chapter 366 and 30 TAC Chapter 285. Most of the day-to-day work is done by local governments acting as TCEQ authorized agents.
When an inspection is required
- New, altered, repaired or extended systems. A permit and approved plan are required (30 TAC §285.3), and a system "may not be used unless it is inspected and approved" by TCEQ or the authorized agent (Health & Safety Code §366.055). Under 30 TAC Chapter 285, the installer must notify the permitting authority at least five working days before the system will be ready for inspection, and the system can't be used until it passes.
- Aerobic and other secondary-treatment systems. TCEQ says contracting with a licensed maintenance provider to check, troubleshoot and test the system as required by 30 TAC §285.91(4) helps keep it working. The provider inspects components at each visit and reports required repairs that aren't made to the permitting authority. With an electronic monitor, reporting may be reduced to every six months.
- Complaints. Authorized agents and their representatives investigate complaints. If problems are found, the owner normally has 30 days to make substantial progress on fixing them.
- Buying or selling. The state statute sections above cover permits, installation inspections and maintenance. Local rules can add more: for example, the Angelina & Neches River Authority says a transfer permit is required in its area when property changes hands. Lenders may also have requirements. Ask the local authorized agent and your lender before closing.
Who does what
| License | What TCEQ says they do |
|---|---|
| Installer I | May install standard ossf systems |
| Installer II | May install all types of ossf systems |
| Site Evaluator | Performs pre-construction site evaluations |
| Maintenance Provider | Services aerobic treatment systems |
| Designated Representative | Inspects for a local authorized agent (permitting authority) |
Designated Representatives must work for an authorized agent, and only they (or TCEQ) perform the official permit and installation inspections. For a pre-purchase look at a system, people commonly hire a licensed installer, site evaluator or maintenance provider. Ask what the inspection covers and get it in writing.
Who is the authorized agent for my county?
Every county page lists the authorized agents that reported to TCEQ for 2024, and the TCEQ local contact search gives current phone numbers. Some cities, river authorities and lake areas have their own agent. Where there is no local agent, TCEQ's regional office handles permits.
What does a septic inspection cost?
We don't list prices, because TCEQ and the authorized agents we checked don't publish typical private inspection costs. Permit fees are set locally; TCEQ notes each authorized agent collects a $10 fee per permit for the Texas On-site Wastewater Research Council. Ask several licensed providers for written quotes.
Routine care
TCEQ recommends pumping a conventional septic tank every three to five years. Only domestic sewage belongs in an OSSF; chemicals kill the bacteria that treat the waste.
Verify a license
Every listing links to its TCEQ record. You can also search by name or license number in the TCEQ licensing database, and check TCEQ's list of court judgments against OSSF professionals.