Septic systems in Bexar County require a county permit

Any home in Bexar County that cannot connect to a public sewer must use an On-Site Sewage Facility, or OSSF—a septic system. The county requires a permit for every system. That covers new installs, repairs, changes, and old systems that were never permitted. If a home inspector finds an unpermitted system, the owner must register it.

Standard permits must be renewed every five years. Renewal usually means pumping the tank. Aerobic treatment systems are more involved. They need an annual service contract after a two-year startup period. Bexar County's heavy clay soil often makes a basic gravity system impractical. Many homes need aerobic or other special designs.

Dumping wastewater illegally is the most serious violation under county rules. Before buying rural land in Bexar County, ask about the septic permit status. Call Bexar County Environmental Services at 210-335-6700 or visit bexar.org. State rules are set by TCEQ under 30 TAC Chapter 285.