On-Site Sewage Facility Licensing
Information about how to obtain an on-site sewage facility license as an Installer Class I and II, a Designated Representative, a Site Evaluator, or an Apprentice.
The Texas Commission on Environmental Quality (TCEQ) promulgated new and revised rules on September 27, 2007 which will affect many licensing programs.
Please review the URL below to become acquainted with the newly
adopted Chapter 30 rules for
Texas Administrative Code (TAC), Chapter 30, Subchapter A, and
Subchapter G: On-Site Sewage Facilities Installers, Apprentices,
Designated Representatives, Maintenance Providers, and Site
Evaluators, Rules 30.231 - 30.247.
Note: Some of the links on this page will take you off the
TCEQ web site.
To operate as an On-Site Sewage Facility (OSSF) installer, apprentice, maintenance company or maintenance provider in Texas you must be licensed or registered by the TCEQ.
To perform the duties of a designated representative, you must be licensed by the TCEQ and be employed by an authorized agent of the agency.
To perform site evaluations, you must be licensed by the TCEQ or a licensed Professional Engineer.
What work does each license level do?
- Installer Class I (OSI)
- Installer Class II (OSII)
- Designated Representative (DR)
- Site Evaluator (SE)
- Apprentices
- Maintenance Providers
- Maintenance Companies
Installer Class I (OSI) is authorized to install standard OSSF systems (septic tanks, absorptive drainfields, unlined ET drainfields, leaching chambers, gravel-less pipe, and pumped effluent drainfields).
Installer Class II (OSII) is authorized to install all types of OSSF systems.
Designated Representatives (DR) work for an authorized agent of the TCEQ. They perform site evaluations (when it is part of their job duties), complaint investigations, system evaluations, and inspections of OSSFs that have been issued an authorization to construct to ensure the OSSF has been installed to the criteria established by the TCEQ, or the Authorized Agent Order approved by the TCEQ, whichever is more stringent.
Site Evaluator (SE) is authorized to perform preconstruction site evaluations to determine a site's suitability for a particular OSSF system and to identify all features in the area where an OSSF is to be installed that could be contaminated by the OSSF or could prevent the proper operation of the system.
Apprentices: Registered apprentices may not perform any services associated with OSSF installations except under the direct supervision of a licensed installer on the site, by radio, or other means of direct communication at all times. The apprentice may represent the supervising installer at the job site, however, the licensed installer must visit the job site at least once each work day to verify that the work of the registered apprentice is in accordance with State and/or Authorized Agent requirements.
Maintenance Providers are authorized to provide service or maintenance to on-site disposal systems using aerobic treatment.
Maintenance Companies are businesses that employ one or more individuals that are authorized to maintain on-site sewage facilities.
When is a license not required?
You are not subject to training and licensing requirements:
- when installing, constructing, altering, extending, or
repairing an OSSF on single-family residential property that you
own.
- However, you must contact the permitting authority before you install, construct, alter, extend, or repair the OSSF to inquire about permitting requirements; and
- If you pay someone to construct any portion of an OSSF, the person performing the work must be a licensed installer, except when otherwise specified.
- This provision does not apply to developers or to those who develop property for sale or lease.
- when installing electrical components through a licensed electrician.
- when delivering a treatment or pump tank.
- when working under the direct supervision of and receiving compensation from a licensed installer or the installer's registered apprentice.
- when a licensed professional engineer is conducting a site evaluation.
Obtaining a License
| To obtain this license level ... | You will need classroom training ... | With this much experience ... | Pass an exam, scoring at least a ... | And pay an application fee of ... |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Designated Representative (DR) |
Yes
|
0 years
|
70
|
$111.00
|
| Installer Class I (OSI) |
Yes
|
0 years
|
70
|
$111.00
|
| Installer Class II (OSII) |
Yes
|
70
|
$111.00
|
|
| Site Evaluator (SE) |
Yes
|
0 years, however, you must possess a current OSII, DR, Professional Engineer, Professional Sanitarian, or Professional Geoscientist with a Soil Scientist discipline license |
70
|
$111.00
|
| Apprentice |
No
|
None
|
N/A
|
$111.00
|
| Maintenance Provider |
Yes
|
None
|
N/A
|
$111.00
|
| Maintenance Company |
No
|
None
|
N/A
|
$111.00
|
Applications for a license must be approved before taking a license exam.
Training courses and examinations are provided by the Texas Engineering Extension Service (TEEX). You may register for a course on-line by clicking here, or by calling 800/824-7303.
I am not licensed; what do I do?
- Installer Class I
- Installer Class II
- Designated Representative
- Site Evaluator
- Apprentice
- Maintenance Provider
- Maintenance Company
Installer Class I license
To qualify for an Installer Class I license, you must:
- submit an application for approval at least three weeks before the basic training course,
- pay an application fee,
- complete the basic Installer I training course, and
- pass the Installer I exam.
Return to not licensed information
Installer Class II license
To qualify for an Installer Class II license, you must:
- submit an application for approval at least three weeks before the basic training course,
- pay an application fee,
- complete the basic Installer II training course, and
- pass the Installer II exam.
- meet experience requirements
- meet one of the following requirements:
-
- held an Installer I license for at least one year,
- held an apprentice registration for at least two years; or
- previously possessed an Installer II license.
- met the experience requirements. Applicants for an Installer II license must submit statements attesting to the individual's work experience. Such statements shall include a description of the type of on-site sewage facility (OSSF) work that was performed by the individual and the physical addresses where the activity occurred. The experience shall be actual work accomplished under the license or registration. The number of systems will not substitute for the time required
Designated Representative license
To become licensed as a designated representative, you must:
- submit an application for approval at least three weeks before the basic training course,
- pay an application fee,
- complete the basic training course, and
- pass the exam, and
You shall not peform any Designated Representative duties until you are employed by an authorized agent.
Return to not licensed information
Site Evaluator license
To become licensed as a site evaluator, you must:
- possess at least one of the following licenses:
- Installer Class II
- Designated Representative
- Professional Engineer
- Professional Sanitarian
- Professional Geoscientist with a Soil Scientist discipline
- submit an application for approval at least three weeks before the basic training course,
- pay an application fee,
- complete the basic training course, and
- pass the exam.
Return to not licensed information
Apprentice registration
To become a registered apprentice, you must:
- submit an application to register under a current licensed installer; and
- pay an application fee
You must possess an apprentice registration for at least two years and complete at least six installations under the apprentice registration before you can qualify for an Installer Class II license.
Maintenance Provider registration
No applications for maintenance provider registrations will be accepted after April 30, 2009.
To become a registered maintenance provider prior to April 30, 2009, you must:- complete the basic maintenance provider training course;
- possess a current OSSF Installer II license; or
- work for a Maintenance Company that employs at least one OSSF Installer II;
- submit an application for approval, and
- pay an application fee.
- maintenance provider license; or
- maintenance technician registration.
Effective September 1, 2009, all current maintenance provider registrations will be converted to maintenance technician registrations.
Individuals renewing their maintenance provider registration after April 30, 2009 will be issued a maintenance technician registration or may apply for a maintenance provider license, provided they meet the qualifications for the initial license of a maintenance provider.
Maintenance Provider License
Effective September 1, 2009, a maintenance provider must be licensed with the executive director. To obtain a maintenance provider license, a person must
- meet the requirements of Subchapter A of this chapter;
- submit a completed application and a $111 fee to the executive director on a form approved by the executive director. Applicants with a current maintenance provider registration will be given a pro rata reduction in the $111 fee toward the maintenance provider license for the unexpired term of their registration;
- submit verification that the applicant holds a current Installer II, Class C (or higher) Wastewater license or acceptable documentation of three years experience as a maintenance technician. Registered maintenance provider experience obtained prior to the effective date of these rules may be applied towards the three years of experience as a maintenance technician; and
- successfully complete agency-approved courses in basic maintenance and advanced aerobic wastewater treatment related to residential proprietary aerobic treatment units. Advanced aerobic wastewater treatment courses must have been approved after September 1, 2008;
- pass the maintenance provider licensing examination;
- any additional information required by the executive director; and
- Exemption. Maintenance provider license applicants who obtained a maintenance provider registration prior to the effective date of these rules, hold a current maintenance provider registration, and meet all of the other provisions of this chapter for licensing as a maintenance provider on the effective date of these rules are exempt from the requirements for completion of the agency-approved advanced aerobic wastewater treatment course and the maintenance provider licensing examination.
To become a registered maintenance provider, you must:
- complete the basic maintenance provider training course,
- obtain manufacturer certification,
- submit an application for approval, and
- pay an application fee.
Maintenance Company registration
To become a registered maintenance company, you must:
- submit an application for approval, and
- pay an application fee.
Return to not licensed information
How do I upgrade my Installer I license or apprentice registration?
To qualify for an Installer Class II license, you must:
- have possessed an Installer Class I license for at least one year or apprentice registration for at least two years,
- have verified experience:
- at least three installations under your Installer Class I license, or
- at least six installations under your Apprentice Registration who directly supervised your installation;
- submit an application for approval at least three weeks before the basic training course,
- pay an application fee,
- complete the Installer II basic training course, and
- pass the Installer Class II exam.
You must submit letters of reference with your application ( 30 TAC 30.240(b)(5)).
To register for a basic training course, call the Texas Engineering Extension Service (TEEX) at 1-800-824-7303.
How soon do I need to renew?
All licenses prior to January 1, 2008 expire in two years. Licenses issued after January 1, 2008 will have a 3 year validity period. The expiration date will be on the last day of the month they were first issued.
If you do not renew your license within 30 days after its expiration date, you will have to fill out a new application, and re-take and pass the exam for the last license level you held. You will be assigned a new license number.
Apprentice registrations will have a three year validity period.
No applications for maintenance provider registrations will be accepted after April 30, 2009. A person that holds a current maintenance provider registration that performs maintenance to on-site sewage disposal systems using aerobic treatment shall be allowed to continue to perform maintenance provider duties until August 31, 2009. Effective September 1, 2009, those individuals shall either hold a:
- maintenance provider license ; or
- maintenance technician registration.
Effective September 1, 2009, all current maintenance provider registrations will be converted to maintenance technician registrations.
Individuals renewing their maintenance provider registration after April 30, 2009 will be issued a maintenance technician registration or may apply for a maintenance provider license, provided they meet the qualifications for the initial license of a maintenance provider.
No applications for maintenance company registrations will be accepted after April 30, 2009.
How do I renew?
- Requirements
- Online Renewal
- Obtaining a renewal application
- Lost applications
- Issues of compliance
- Issues of compliance
- Late renewals
Requirements
| To maintain this license level ... | You need this much continuing education ... | And you must pay an application fee of ... |
|---|---|---|
| Designated Representative (DR) |
24 hours
|
$111.00
|
| Installer Class I (OSI) |
24 hours
|
$111.00
|
| Installer Class II (OSII) |
24 hours
|
$111.00
|
| Site Evaluator (SE)*** |
24 hours
|
$111.00
|
| Apprentice |
0 hours
|
$111.00
|
| Maintenance Provider |
0 hours
|
$111.00
|
| Maintenance Company |
0 hours
|
$111.00
|
| An individual renewing a license for site evaluator shall demonstrate possesion of a current license specified in § 30.240(d)(2)(C) of this title (relating to Qualifications for Initial License) except for individuals who were granted a site evaluator license on the basis of holding either an Installer II or designated representative license. | ||
| *** A Site Evaluator must maintain a current OSII, DR, Professional Sanitarian, Professional Engineer, or Professional Geoscientist with a Soil Science discipline license. | ||
Obtain a list of approved training providers for completion of required CEU's towards license renewal.
Check the status of your license.
Return to renewal informationOnline Renewal
If you have obtained your required training credits and your license has not been expired for more than 30 days you can renew online at: TCEQ Occupational License and Registration Online Renewal
Obtaining a renewal application
We will mail you a renewal notification at least 60 days before your license expires. The notification will go to the last known address we have on file for you. This notification will give you instructions for renewing your license using the Texas Online license renewal process.
If you are unable to renew online, please contact our office immediately to receive a printed renewal application. You can contact the TCEQ Licensing Section at licenses@tceq.state.tx.us or phone (512) 239-2045. Please be sure to include your full name and license number with your request. Follow the directions which accompany the application, and return it with the requested materials before your license expires.
Remember, it is your resonsibility to submit a renewal application in a timely manner.
Lost renewal notifications or applications
If you've lost your renewal notification or application or did not receive one, call 512-239-2045 or e-mail (Please make sure you include your name, contact information, license number or social security number) to licenses@tceq.state.tx.us before your license expires to obtain a new application. You must submit your application on an approved form.
Issues of compliance
You must be in compliance in regard to payment of guaranteed student loans, child support payments, and TCEQ fees or penalties in addition to the requirements summarized in the table above.
If you are currently under enforcement, you are encouraged to resolve these issues before you renew to avoid delays in the renewal of your license.
Delinquent Fees or Penalties
Effective September 1, 2006, the TCEQ no longer issues, amends, or renews permits, registrations, certifications, or licenses to an entity or person who is delinquent on any penalties or fees.
Late renewal
License expired for less than 30 days?
License expired for more than 30 days?
If your license has been expired for less than 30 days:
You must show proof that you have completed the required number of hours of approved training before your license expired.
- If you lost or did not receive a renewal notification or application, click here.
- If you completed your continuing education BEFORE your license
expired:
- You must submit your renewal application with the appropriate fee within 30 days after your license expired.
- We will also review whether you are delinquent in the paying student loans, and penalties owed to the TCEQ.
- If you did not complete your continuing education BEFORE your
license expired:
- You will need to follow the same procedures as if your license was expired for more than 30 days.
- You will be assigned a new license number.
If your license has been expired for more than 30 days:
- submit an application for approval at least three weeks before taking the exam,
- pay an application fee, and
- retake and pass the exam of the license level you last held.
To obtain an application and register for an exam, call the Texas Engineering Extension Service (TEEX) at 1-800-824-7303.
What if I change my address or phone number?
You must notify us of changes in your address or phone number, in writing, by:
- mail; TCEQ, Operator Licensing Section, MC-178, PO Box 13087, Austin, Texas 78711-3087 or by
- fax; 512/239-0533 or by
- e-mail; licenses@tceq.state.tx.us
(Please make sure you include your name, contact information, license number or social security number)
How do I replace a lost or damaged license?
To obtain a replacement license, contact the TCEQ Operator Licensing Section at (512) 239-0914 or by email at licenses@tceq.state.tx.us and request a duplicate license request form. The form will be forwarded to you either by mail, fax or email. Complete and submit the form and a $20 payment to the address listed on the form.
What laws and rules govern my license?
The license requirements are listed in Chapter 366 of the Texas Health and Safety Code, Sections 366.014 & 366.071 and Chapter 37 of the Texas Water Code.
The qualifications for each license level vary and can be found in more detail in the rules ( 30 TAC Chapter 30 Subchapters A & G).
The duties and responsibilities for each license level vary and can be found in more detail in the rules ( 30 TAC Chapter 285 Subchapter F).
The enforcement provisions of this program can be found in Texas Water Code, Chapter 7
Who can I call for more information?
- General Information, licenses@tceq.state.tx.us,
or call 512/239-6133
