Septic / OSSF

You need a permit for a septic system in unincorporated Smith County

Any on-site sewage system — including a standard septic tank — requires a permit before you build or alter it in Smith County.

Smith County Home & Property

Texas calls these systems OSSFs (on-site sewage facilities). The rule applies outside of city sewer service areas. In Smith County, the local permitting authority handles OSSF permits. You need an approved plan before any construction starts.

There is a limited exemption if your lot is 10 acres or more and you meet certain setback rules, but you still need a site evaluation from a licensed professional. Check with the Smith County permitting office or the TCEQ to confirm who issues permits in your area before you buy or build.

Source to confirm: TCEQ — On-Site Sewage Facilities: Permits

More Smith County notes

Property Tax Basics

Two offices handle your property tax in Smith County

The Smith County Appraisal District sets your property value; a separate tax office collects what you owe.

Read note ->

Homestead Exemption

File a homestead exemption to lower your Smith County tax bill

If your home is your primary residence, you can file a homestead exemption with Smith CAD to reduce the taxable value.

Read note ->

Over-65 Exemption

Turning 65 freezes your school taxes in Smith County

Once you qualify for the over-65 homestead exemption, your school taxes cannot go higher than the amount you paid in your first qualifying year.

Read note ->

Appraisal Protest

You can protest your property value in Smith County

If you think Smith CAD valued your property too high, you have the right to protest — and the deadline is printed on your appraisal notice.

Read note ->