OSSF / Septic

Buying Rural Land? Check If the Septic System Is Permitted

Texas requires a permit for any septic system — if a rural property's system was never permitted, the new owner may face costs to bring it into compliance.

Cameron County Rules & Licenses

Homes without city sewer service use an on-site sewage facility (OSSF) — a septic tank or similar private system. Texas law requires a permit and an approved design plan before you install or make major repairs to one. Cameron County has its own local office that handles OSSF permits. You do not go directly to the state.

A county-wide survey found areas in Cameron County with many old and possibly failing systems. Before you buy rural or unincorporated land, ask to see documents showing the OSSF is properly permitted and in good shape. More information is at tceq.texas.gov/permitting/ossf.

Source to confirm: TCEQ — OSSF Information for Homeowners

More Cameron County notes

Property Tax Basics

Two Offices Handle Your Property Tax in Cameron County

The Cameron Appraisal District sets your home's value; the Cameron County Tax Office sends the bill and collects the money.

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Homestead Exemption

How to Apply for a Homestead Exemption in Cameron County

If you own and live in your home, you can apply for a homestead exemption that lowers your taxable value.

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Appraisal Protest

How to Protest Your Property Value in Cameron County

If you think your appraised value is too high, you can protest it — but you must act quickly after your notice arrives.

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Ag Valuation

Agricultural Land Gets a Lower Tax Value in Cameron County

Farm and ranch land can be taxed on what it produces, not what it would sell for, which usually means a much lower tax bill.

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