Septic System Ownership In Tennessee

The state of Tennessee is concerned about protecting and improving the quality of its land, air, and water. With this in mind, the Department of Environment and Conservation was created to implement programs that help preserve the state's environmental resources. The Department's Division of Ground Water Protection regulates subsurface sewage disposal systems, also known as septic systems.

Regulations that govern septic systems are found in the Division's Chapter 1200, 1- 6, and include

• septic system design and construction,
• soil testing,
• permitting,
• Installation,
• repairs, and
• maintenance

Licensure Requirements for Tennessee Septic System Contractors

Contractors of septic systems require a license which is issued by the Commissioner of the Department of Environment and Conservation. In addition, to obtain the license, the contractor must achieve a pass mark of at least 70% on a written or oral test issued by the Department. Once a permit is granted, it is only valid until the 31 December of the year it was issued. License applications forms are available from the Department website.

Installing A New Septic System In Tennessee

Regardless of whether you are a contractor or homeowner, to install a septic system, you must have a construction permit, which ranges in cost from $150 to $500 depending on the type of septic system you wish to install. Application forms are available here.

How To File A Complaint

Any complaints relating to the possible health risks of a septic tank should be forwarded to a ground water regional office.