In Texas, on-site sewage facilities (OSSFs) — septic systems — are regulated by the Texas Commission on Environmental Quality (TCEQ) under 30 TAC Chapter 285. TCEQ delegates day-to-day permitting to county designated representatives, so the people you actually deal with work at your county health or environmental department.
When you need a permit
New septic system installation
Replacing a failed tank or drain field
Adding bedrooms (which changes system sizing)
Repairs that change the system type (e.g. converting conventional to aerobic)
Routine pumping and maintenance do NOT require a permit.
Who issues permits in the DFW Metroplex
Dallas County: Dallas County Health & Human Services — Environmental Health Division
Tarrant County: Tarrant County Public Health — Environmental Health Division
Collin County: Collin County Development Services — Environmental Health
Denton County: Denton County Environmental Health
Rockwall County: Rockwall County Environmental Services
Kaufman County: Kaufman County Environmental Health
Ellis County: Ellis County Environmental Health
Johnson County: Johnson County Public Works
Parker County: Parker County Environmental Services
What the permit process looks like
1. Soil evaluation by a licensed site evaluator. Soil class determines what system types are allowed.
2. System design — sized for the home and meeting county setback rules.
3. Application and fee submission to the county.
4. County review — typically 1–3 weeks.
5. Installation by a Texas-licensed OSSF installer (DIY isn't permitted).
6. Final county inspection before backfill.
Typical permit and design costs
Soil evaluation: $300–$650
System design: included with a licensed installer's quote
County permit fee: $250–$650 depending on county
Final inspection fee: usually bundled with permit
Aerobic maintenance contract requirement
Aerobic systems must have an active maintenance contract with a Texas-licensed maintenance provider. The provider files quarterly inspection reports with the county. Letting the contract lapse puts you out of compliance and can hold up real-estate sales.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I pull my own septic permit?+
No — the licensed installer is the responsible party for design, permit, and inspection. Homeowners can ask questions and review records but cannot self-install or self-permit.
How long is a septic permit valid?+
Most DFW counties issue permits valid for 6–12 months from issuance. If construction is delayed beyond that, renewal is usually a small fee.
What if my system was installed before permitting was required?+
Pre-existing systems are usually grandfathered. Major repairs may trigger a requirement to bring the system up to current code.