Licensing Guides
State Septic License: How to Become a Septic Contractor in Alaska
Septic, AK
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Septic License Requirements in Alaska
We all need safe, reliable sewage management for our homes and businesses. Those homeowners and businesses that rely on septic tanks, also known as on-site sewage facilities (OSSF), depend on people who know how to install and maintain those systems.
Onsite disposal systems (OSDS) are used widely in Alaska, according to the Alaska Department of Environmental Conservation (ADEC) Division of Water.
According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS), there are 27,900 septic tank servicers and sewer pipe cleaners nationwide, and Alaska employs 80 of them. The projected growth rate nationally is expected to be 8% from 2022 to 2033, adding 3,000 of these skilled workers to the ranks. In the state of Alaska, according to CareerOneStop, the U.S. Department of Labor’s job search website, the projected growth rate is 17% for septic tank servicers and sewer pipe cleaners.
If you’re thinking about starting a septic business or working in this field, you need to know the requirements in your state or local jurisdiction. This guide will help you determine what you need before you get started.
Who Issues Septic Licenses in Alaska?
Licensing for septic installers in Alaska falls under the authority of the Alaska Department of Environmental Conservation Division of Water. The Division of Water has all the information you need on its website, at dec.alaska.gov, including requirements for certification and a registration form.
Certified Installers may install septic systems throughout most of the state, though the municipality of Anchorage, as well as Valdez, mandate city requirements. The Certified Installer designation enables the holder to install septic systems for private residences and single-service connection systems that serve small commercial facilities that generate less than 500 gallons per day of domestic wastewater.
Types of Septic Licenses in Alaska
The main septic license in Alaska is the Certified Installer designation. However, a licensed contractor can perform septic system upgrades or septic system installation if the work and system design is overseen by a registered engineer.
In addition, a homeowner can take an Approved Homeowner training course that certifies them for one installation serving their private residence within a one-year period, beginning on the date the property owner attends the training course. Approved homeowners must hire a professional engineer to evaluate the soils in the area within 25 feet of the proposed septic system before starting the design and excavation of the system.
Steps to Get a Septic License in Alaska
The steps to become a Certified Installer include the following:
Have a current general, excavation, or water and sewer contractor's license, be working under another's license, or be employed by a government or health corporation.
Register for and attend the Certified Installer course, which incurs a $100 tuition fee.
Pass a written examination.
Pay a certification fee of $850 to the Department of Environmental Conservation (DEC) for a two-year certification period. This fee may be paid in two annual installments of $460.
To become an Approved Homeowner, you must attend the Certified Installer course and pay a $275 tuition fee. An Approved Homeowner can complete one installation on their private residence within a one-year period of attending the course.
You should also verify additional requirements in municipalities. For example, Anchorage requires installers to fill out a permit application that meets municipal code. The permit must be approved by the Development Services On-Site Water and Wastewater Section.
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How Much Does It Cost to Get a Septic License in Alaska?
To become a Certified Installer, you must pay a $100 tuition fee for the required course as well as an $850 certification fee, for a total of $950.
Becoming an Approved Homeowner costs $275 in tuition for the required course. Approved Homeowners will also be responsible for the installation permit fee for new construction of on-site water treatment systems.
What Business Owners Need to Know
Getting the most out of a septic installation technician, no matter where they are in their licensing journey, takes work. ServiceTitan cloud-based, all-in-one septic business software gives technicians and business owners the technology they need to do the work efficiently, and the data they need to do it smartly.
ServiceTitan features:
SMS communications that keep customers informed about the technician’s visit.
Location-specific service history, including recorded calls, accessible from the mobile app.
Required forms that ensure every job is done right, driving consistency.
The ability to build multi-option proposals with photos, on-site, in minutes.
Sales presentations that make conversations with customers easier and drive the average ticket.
Mobile payment acceptance, eliminating lost checks and increasing cash flow.
To learn more, schedule a demo with a product expert today.
How Long Does it Take to Get a Septic License in Alaska?
To obtain a septic license in Alaska, you’ll need to devote time to the required course. In 2025, the Certified Installers course includes three live online instructor-led training sessions March 18-20, from 10 a.m. to noon (AKST). You must also complete four self-learning modules and schedule and pass an exam.
Alaska Septic Training Programs and Schools
The required Certified Installer course is held by the DEC. Information about the course, including dates, times, and how to register, is available online.
Alaska Septic Licensing Exam Details
After completing the required course, installers must pass a written exam through the DEC. The exam covers course learning and the Onsite Wastewater System Installation Manual (OWSIM) Technical Guidance and Approved Best Management Practices.
Do I Need to Renew My Alaska Septic License?
Yes, Certified Installer licenses must be renewed every two years. For renewal, an individual must attend a refresher course and pass the exam. If a Certified Installer has a complete and satisfactory inspection of an installation each of the previous two years, they can opt out of the examination, but still must take the refresher course.
Does Alaska Reciprocate Septic Licenses?
Yes, Alaska considers reciprocity with operators from other states on a case-by-case basis, taking into consideration the experience/education requirements of the certificate one holds, the exam they passed, and their education and operator experience.
National Septic Certifications
Other certifications can help you demonstrate your proficiency to potential employers and clients. The National Association of Wastewater Technicians and The National Onsite Wastewater Recycling Association offer certifications. Those and other professional certifications are not required but can add to your marketability and therefore increase your opportunity to make more money.
You can also learn more about certification and the septic business in Alaska through one of the industry associations in the state, such as the Alaska Water Wastewater Management Association.
Continuing Education
Certified Installers are required to take a refresher course through the DEC every two years at renewal time.
Resources
You can stay up to date on all septic industry news several ways:
Check top septic blogs, including ServiceTitan’s blog.
Read about the latest industry trends, and discover ideas on how to grow your septic business.
Listen to top septic podcasts like ServiceTitan’s “Toolbox for the Trades” podcast.
The states have licensing requirements for other trades, too. You can find out more about how to get an HVAC, plumbing, or electrical license in Alaska, or in any of the other 49 states and the District of Columbia through the ServiceTitan Licensing Hub.
