Septic Systems

You Need a Permit for a Septic System Outside City Limits

Any on-site sewage system — like a septic tank — built outside Odessa's city sewer service requires a permit before installation.

Ector County Home & Property

If you are building or buying a home outside Odessa's city sewer system, you will likely need a septic system. The official term is an on-site sewage facility, or OSSF. Texas law says you must get a permit before you install, repair, or add to one.

In rural Ector County, a local authorized agent or TCEQ handles the permits. TCEQ stands for the Texas Commission on Environmental Quality — it is the state agency that sets the rules. You must have an approved plan before any work starts. If you skip the permit, you could face fines or be forced to remove the system. Check with TCEQ's OSSF program or the county health office to find out who issues permits for your location.

Source to confirm: TCEQ – On-Site Sewage Facilities (Septic Systems)

More Ector County notes

Property Tax Basics

Two Offices Handle Your Property Tax in Ector County

The appraisal district sets your property value; the tax assessor-collector handles payments — they are two separate offices.

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Homestead Exemption

Homestead Exemption Cuts Your School Tax Bill

Texas law gives homeowners a $140,000 exemption from the school district portion of their property tax if the home is their primary residence.

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Senior & Disabled Exemption

Extra Tax Break for Homeowners 65 or Older

Homeowners who are 65 or older or who are disabled get an additional $60,000 school district exemption and may qualify for a tax freeze.

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Ag Valuation

Agricultural Land Can Be Taxed on Productivity, Not Market Value

Landowners who use their Ector County property for farming or ranching can apply to have it taxed on what it produces, not what it would sell for.

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