Licensing Guides
State Septic License: How to Become a Septic Contractor in Arizona
Septic, AZ
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Septic License Requirements in Arizona
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 wastewater treatment facilities, depend on people who know how to install and maintain those systems.
In Arizona, more than 600,000 homes are on a septic system, according to the Arizona Department of Environmental Quality (ADEQ).
According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS), there are 27,900 septic tank servicers and sewer pipe cleaners nationwide, and Arizona employs 260 of them.
The projected growth rate nationally is expected to be 8% by 2033, adding 3,000 of these skilled workers to the ranks. In Arizona, according to CareerOneStop, the U.S. Department of Labor’s job search website, the projected growth rate is more than double that at 18% for septic tank servicers and sewer pipe cleaners.
If you’re thinking about starting a septic business or working in the 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 Arizona?
The Arizona Department of Environmental Quality is responsible for issuing permits for the installation of on-site wastewater systems and delegates this responsibility to each of the 15 local county health departments.
All septic installations must comply with the Arizona Administrative Code (AAC) R18-9-A314 for on-site wastewater treatment facilities. A septic permit is required for all septic installations, including DIY projects at your home. For more information, visit the ADEQ website at www.azdeq.gov.
To perform commercial and residential septic installations, you must obtain a CR-41 Septic Tanks and Systems license from the Arizona Registrar of Contractors.
Types of Septic Licenses in Arizona
At the state level, Arizona offers the CR-41 Septic Tanks and Systems license, which is required to install or maintain septic tank systems. The license is issued by the Arizona Registrar of Contractors.
The state also mandates specific requirements or certifications to perform septic inspections, site evaluations, and other related tasks. Additionally, some counties have additional license types and requirements, so make sure to check local regulations where you plan to work.
CR-41 Septic Tanks and Systems License
The CR-41 Septic Tanks and Systems license permits the holder to perform excavation work and install new septic systems, oversee system design, repair and maintain existing systems, and connect septic systems to sewer lines.
This license is classified as a dual license (commercial & residential), meaning the contractor can work on both residential and commercial projects.
To qualify for licensure, you must demonstrate three years of work experience and also pass the Arizona Statute and Rules exam and Trade exam.
Comprehensive Septic Tank Inspection Program
In order to safeguard public health and protect the groundwater supply, Arizona requires a Transfer of Ownership Inspection by a qualified inspector before the purchase of any real estate.
The ADEQ “requires any person transferring a property served by an on-site wastewater treatment facility to have an inspection of the facility performed before the transfer of ownership.” This requirement applies to any property served by conventional septic systems, or an alternative system.
The buyer must submit a Notice of Transfer form to the ADEQ, and the contractor who performs the site investigation must issue an official Report of Inspection, unless a Discharge Authorization permit was previously issued for the system.
Qualified inspectors must possess working knowledge of the specific system type, obtain a certificate of training from a course recognized by ADEQ and in collaboration with the University of Arizona, and hold one of the following contractor licenses: Registered Sanitarian, Registered Engineer, or CR-41.
Steps to Get a Septic License in Arizona
Follow these steps to earn a septic contractor license in Arizona.
Register your business with the Arizona Corporation Commission.
Acquire three years of qualifying work experience.
Pass both the Arizona Statute and Rules exam and Trade exam.
Complete the licensed contractor background check form.
Obtain a contractor’s bond.
Pay all fees.
Submit the license application online or mail it to the ROC at 1700 W. Washington St., Suite 105, Phoenix, AZ 85007.
How Much Does It Cost to Get a Septic License in Arizona?
The fees for the CR-41 Septic Tanks and Systems license include:
Application fee: $100
License fee: $380
Recovery Fund Assessment fee: $370
Statutes and Rules exam: $54
Trade exam: $66
Total Cost: $970
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 Arizona?
It will take a minimum of three years to qualify for the CR-41 Septic Tanks and Systems license. Candidates typically earn experience working for a licensed contractor or completing an internship.
Arizona Septic Training Programs and Schools
Because Arizona requires work experience instead of classroom training, most people earn the three years of necessary experience by working directly for a licensed contractor.
The University of Arizona offers an Onsite Wastewater training program for individuals who want to become septic tank inspectors.
Arizona Septic Licensing Exam Details
To qualify for a septic license, you must pass the Statutes and Rules Training exam via GMetrix. The fee is $55; the exam covers Title 32, Chapter 10 of the Arizona Revised Statutes, and Title 4, Chapter 9 of the Arizona Administrative Code.
You also need to pass the relevant Trade exam through PSI. The exam fee is $66.
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Do I Need to Renew My Arizona Septic License?
Septic contractors in Arizona must renew their licenses every two years. The renewal fee is $380; the Recovery Fund Assessment fee is $270. Renewals can be completed online, in person, or by mail.
Does Arizona Reciprocate Septic Licenses?
Yes. Arizona has reciprocity agreements with California, Nevada, and Utah for contractor licenses. These agreements allow contractors to waive the Trade exam requirement.
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.
Continuing Education
Septic contractors in Arizona are not required to complete continuing education in order to renew their licenses.
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 Arizona, or in any of the other 49 states and the District of Columbia through the ServiceTitan Licensing Hub.
