Septic / OSSF

Homes Outside City Sewer Lines Need a Septic System

In rural and unincorporated Waller County, homes that are not connected to a city sewer system must have an approved on-site sewage facility — commonly called a septic system.

Waller County Rules & Licenses

Texas calls these systems On-Site Sewage Facilities, or OSSF. Before you build or place a home on land without city sewer, you need a permit from the county or an authorized agent under TCEQ rules. The system must be designed for your soil type, lot size, and expected water use.

A failing septic system can contaminate groundwater and create health hazards. If you are buying rural land, have the existing septic system inspected before closing. If land has no system yet, factor in the permit and installation cost — it varies by site conditions. Waller County administers the OSSF program locally. Contact the county to confirm current permit requirements.

Source to confirm: TCEQ — On-Site Sewage Facilities

More Waller County notes

Property Tax Basics

Two Separate Offices Handle Your Property Taxes

In Waller County, one office sets your home's value and another collects the taxes — you need to know which is which.

Read note ->

Homestead Exemption

Homestead Exemption Can Lower Your Tax Bill

If you own and live in your home in Waller County, you likely qualify for a homestead exemption that reduces your property taxes.

Read note ->

Agricultural Valuation

Land Used for Farming or Ranching May Be Taxed at a Lower Rate

In Waller County, qualifying farm and ranch land is taxed on its agricultural productivity, not its market value, which can mean a much lower tax bill.

Read note ->

Municipal Utility Districts

Many Waller County Subdivisions Are Inside a MUD

A Municipal Utility District — called a MUD — is a small local government that provides water, sewer, and drainage to a subdivision, and it adds its own tax rate on top of county and school taxes.

Read note ->