Outside City Limits? You Need a Permitted Septic System

Most septic systems in Texas need a permit. You must get that permit before you build or install anything. In unincorporated areas, the county usually handles permits. If the county has not been set up as an agent, the TCEQ regional office takes over.

There is one exception. If your property is 10 acres or more, you may not need a permit. But three things must be true. Every part of the system must sit at least 100 feet from the property line. The property can have only one home. And the system must still meet state rules.

If you are buying rural land in Johnson County, ask the seller for proof the septic system was permitted and inspected. An unpermitted system can cost thousands to fix. It can also break state law. Go to tceq.texas.gov/permitting/ossf for statewide rules. Contact Johnson County for local details.