Septic Systems
Most Homes Outside Town Need a Septic Permit
If you build or repair a septic system in rural San Augustine County, you need a permit — and the Attoyac Bayou watershed near Sam Rayburn Reservoir gets extra attention.
Most of San Augustine County is rural. Homes are not connected to public sewer lines. That means homes use septic systems — called on-site sewage facilities (OSSF). In Texas, you need a permit to install, change, or repair one.
TCEQ is the Texas state agency that sets the rules for septic systems. The local permitting authority — usually the county — handles most permits. Call the county to find out who issues permits in your area.
There is one exception. If your property is 10 acres or larger and meets all TCEQ standards, including the required distances from property lines, you may not need a permit. Check with TCEQ to be sure.
The Attoyac Bayou runs through San Augustine County and drains into Sam Rayburn Reservoir. TCEQ has run programs in this area to find and fix failing septic systems. Those systems can harm the waterway. Because of this, inspectors pay close attention here.
Source to confirm: TCEQ — On-Site Sewage Facilities (Septic Systems)