Local Guide · Septic installation and pumping · Texas
How do you check a septic contractor in Texas?
Texas licenses on-site sewage facility installers, site evaluators and maintenance providers through TCEQ. Here is who does what and how to check.
Texas requires a TCEQ license or registration for anyone who constructs, installs, alters, services, maintains or repairs an on-site sewage facility for pay. Site evaluations must be done by a TCEQ-licensed site evaluator or a licensed professional engineer. Check licenses on TCEQ's license search.
Who licenses septic installation and pumping providers in Texas
Texas Commission on Environmental Quality (TCEQ). Health and Safety Code 366.071 requires a TCEQ license or registration for paid OSSF construction, installation, repair, service and maintenance, and a license (or engineering license) for site evaluations. TCEQ licenses installers (I and II), site evaluators and designated representatives, and registers apprentices, maintenance technicians and maintenance providers.
Search TCEQ licenses →Key facts for Texas
- Texas requires a license or registration to construct, install, alter, extend, service, maintain or repair an on-site sewage system for compensation.
- Texas requires a license for preconstruction site evaluations, unless the person is a licensed professional engineer.
- TCEQ licenses Installer I and Installer II, site evaluators and designated representatives.
- TCEQ registers OSSF apprentices, maintenance technicians and maintenance providers.
- TCEQ designated representatives work for authorized agents and inspect OSSF installations.
- EPA says household septic tanks are typically pumped every three to five years.
Who needs a Texas license?
Health and Safety Code 366.071 requires a license or registration for paid OSSF work and a license for site evaluations unless done by a licensed engineer. TCEQ lists the license and registration types.
Who inspects?
TCEQ designated representatives work for authorized agents, often local governments, and inspect installations, investigate complaints and evaluate systems.
How do you check and maintain?
Search TCEQ's license search. Follow EPA maintenance guidance and keep records.
How to choose a provider in Texas
- Check the installer and site evaluator on TCEQ.
- Confirm the permit from the authorized agent.
- Ask about maintenance requirements.
- Keep records.
Questions people ask
Who licenses septic installers in Texas?
TCEQ.
Can an engineer do a site evaluation?
Yes, a licensed professional engineer can.
Who inspects septic installs?
TCEQ designated representatives working for authorized agents.
Do maintenance providers need registration?
Yes, TCEQ registers maintenance providers and technicians.
How often should I pump?
EPA says typically every three to five years.
Where do I check a license?
TCEQ's license search.
Sources
This guide was written by our editorial team from the public sources listed above. It is general information, not legal advice; confirm licensing and terms directly with any provider.
