Rules guide
Septic rules around San Antonio
Texas calls septic systems On-Site Sewage Facilities (OSSF). TCEQ sets the rules; local "authorized agents" issue permits.
馃摓 Call free (000) 000-0000Who issues permits
| Area | Permitting office |
|---|---|
| Most of Bexar County | Bexar County OSSF, 1948 Probandt, San Antonio 路 (210) 335-67001,2 |
| Hill Country Village, Shavano Park, Hollywood Park, Elmendorf | Each city or town, inside its limits2 |
| Comal County (unincorporated, plus interlocal agreements with Bulverde, Fair Oaks Ranch, Garden Ridge, Schertz, Spring Branch) | Comal County Engineer's Office 路 (830) 608-20903 |
| Kendall County (Boerne area) | Kendall County4 |
Bexar County basics
- Standard systems: permit renewed every 5 years by pumping and submitting a receipt plus a $30 fee1
- Aerobic systems: initial permit valid 2 years; then the owner keeps a service contract on file with the county1
- Systems with no permit need a site survey and design by a sanitarian or engineer1
Building or replacing a system
Comal County describes the steps: site and soil evaluation, a design, an application, authorization to construct, inspections during installation, and approval before use.5
Statewide
Find TCEQ rules, licensing and complaint info on the TCEQ OSSF page.6
Questions
Who permits septic systems in San Antonio?
Bexar County handles most of the county. A few cities, like Hill Country Village, Shavano Park and Hollywood Park, run their own programs. Comal and Kendall counties handle their areas.
Do I need a permit to repair my septic system?
Non-emergency repairs generally need a permit. Ask your local permitting office.
Honest disclosure: SATX Septic Help is a free information site and referral line for San Antonio-area homeowners with septic and aerobic systems. We are not a septic company, do not perform any work and do not endorse any company. Calls may be routed to and recorded by an independent provider. Always check that a company holds the right TCEQ license (installer, maintenance provider or other) and insurance before hiring.
Sources
- Bexar County: On-Site Sewage Facilities
- DulyTrack summary of TCEQ's OSSF authorized-agent register for Bexar County
- Comal County Engineer's Office: Environmental Health (OSSF)
- Kendall County: Onsite Sewage
- Comal County: Steps to Obtain an OSSF Permit
- TCEQ: On-Site Sewage Facilities (OSSF) program
More guides
Aerobic Septic Service 路 Septic Pumping 路 Septic & Aerobic Repair 路 Inspection for Home Buyers 路 Maintenance Contracts Explained 路 Septic Cost Guide & Calculator