Licensing Guides
State Septic License: How to Become a Septic Contractor in Colorado
Septic, CO
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Septic License Requirements in Colorado
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 systems (OWTS), depend on people who know how to install and maintain those systems.
In Colorado, the exact number of septic systems is unknown, but expected to be in the hundreds of thousands, due to the large number of homes in rural settings.
According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS), there are 27,900 septic tank servicers and sewer pipe cleaners nationwide, and Colorado employs 660 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 Colorado, according to CareerOneStop, the U.S. Department of Labor’s job search website, the projected growth rate is more than double at 17% 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 Colorado?
In the state of Colorado, the Water Quality Control Commission (WQCC), a division of the Colorado Department of Public Health and Environment (CDPHE), oversees Regulation 43, which governs on-site wastewater treatment and septic systems.
On-site Wastewater Treatment System Regulation 43 “sets minimum standards for how on-site wastewater treatment systems in Colorado (treating 2,000 gallons of wastewater or less per day) should be located, designed, constructed, and used. County health departments use these minimum standards to create local regulations, including permit application requirements, issuing permits, system inspection, and system maintenance.”
In Colorado, the issuance of an On-site Wastewater Treatment System OWTS permit is required for any installations, upgrades, or maintenance. For DIY projects, the property owner is responsible for obtaining the permit and paying the permit fee.
As such, licensing requirements vary in Colorado. Make sure to check the local public health agency where you plan to work. Read on to learn how to get your septic license in El Paso County and Boulder County.
Types of Septic Licenses in Colorado
El Paso County
The El Paso County Board of Health oversees on-site wastewater treatment systems for the county. All license holders must first obtain a septic permit before starting any work. The county offers the following licenses:
Tier 1 Licensed Systems Contractor
A Tier 1 Onsite Wastewater Treatment System installer is authorized to install conventional, non-engineered OWTS systems. These systems are typically standard designs that do not require a professional engineer.
To qualify for licensure, you must pass the Tier 1 Licensed Systems Contractor exam.
Tier 2 Licensed Systems Contractor
A Tier 2 Onsite Wastewater Treatment System installer is authorized to install engineered systems that require specialized design and construction. These systems are typically more complex than conventional OWTS and necessitate a higher level of expertise.
To qualify for licensure, you must pass the Tier 2 Licensed Systems Contractor exam. Tier 2 licensees must also complete 10 hours of approved continuing education every 24 months.
Boulder County
In Boulder County, OWTS regulations require a license for on-site wastewater treatment system installers, property transfer inspectors, and cleaners. Licenses are issued to OWTS professionals by the Boulder County Public Health Septic Smart program.
The license holder installs and maintains wastewater systems. This includes septic tanks, soil treatment areas, and lift stations. Installers must complete the National Association of Wastewater Technicians (NAWT) installer class or equivalent and agree to the code of ethics.
The license holder removes sewage from septic tanks and other system components. They conduct routine maintenance, inspect for potential issues, and properly dispose of wastewater in designated effluent fields to prevent system failure and safeguard environmental health. Cleaners must pass the NAWT O&M 1 or 2 training course or an equivalent class and maintain a contract with an approved septage disposal site.
The license holder evaluates septic system design for compliance, functionality, and safety. They conduct inspections for OWTS design, new systems, repairs, property sales, transfer of titles, and routine maintenance, ensuring systems meet regulatory standards. Inspectors must complete the NAWT inspector class or an equivalent course.
Operation and Maintenance Service Providers
The license holder performs routine maintenance, monitoring, and servicing of OWTS. They ensure ongoing system efficiency by conducting performance checks and soil evaluations, making necessary adjustments, and educating system owners on proper care. The licensee must pass the NAWT O&M 1 and 2 training course or an equivalent class.
Steps to Get a Septic License in Colorado
The licensing requirements in El Paso and Boulder Counties are far less stringent than obtaining an electrician, plumbing, or general contractor license. For most classifications, you only need to fill out an application, pass an exam, and pay licensing fees.
El Paso County
Tier 1 Licensed Systems Contractor
Complete the license application online.
Pass the required Tier 1 Licensed Systems Contractor exam.
Pay the licensing fee.
Tier 2 Licensed Systems Contractor
Complete the license application online.
Pass the required Tier 2 Licensed Systems Contractor exam.
Must attend one El Paso County Public Health training session.
Pay the licensing fee.
Boulder County
OWTS Installer
Complete the license application online.
Sign the Code of Ethics.
Complete the NAWT installer class or an equivalent.
Pay the $100 license fee.
Cleaner/Pumper
Complete the license application online.
Sign the Code of Ethics.
Complete the NAWT O&M 1 or 2 training course or an equivalent class.
Maintain a contract with an approved septage disposal site.
Pay the $100 license fee.
Inspector
Complete the license application online.
Sign the Code of Ethics.
Complete the NAWT inspector class or an equivalent.
Pay the $100 license fee.
Operation and Maintenance Service Provider
Complete the license application online.
Sign the Code of Ethics.
Complete the NAWT O&M 1 or 2 training course or an equivalent class.
Provide proof of training required by the manufacturer (as applicable and available) for all equipment you service.
Pay the $100 license fee.
How Much Does It Cost to Get a Septic License in Colorado?
El Paso County doesn’t charge a license fee for septic workers, but all candidates must pay a $154 fee to take the licensing exam.
In Boulder, all license classifications charge a $100 processing fee.
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 Colorado?
Obtaining a septic license in Colorado takes far less time than obtaining other types of trade licenses. Neither El Paso or Boulder counties require extensive classroom training or previous work experience. In most cases, you can obtain licensure in a matter of weeks.
Colorado Septic Training Programs and Schools
Colorado requires only minimal training to obtain a septic license. In El Paso County, you only need to pass an exam.
Boulder County accepts training from the following organizations:
Colorado Septic Licensing Exam Details
In El Paso County, you need to pass the Licensed Systems Contractor exam, based on your license tier. The exam fee is $154.
In Boulder County, you only need to pass a training course.
Do I Need to Renew My Colorado Septic License?
Yes. In El Paso County, you must renew your license every two years. Licenses expire on Dec. 31 of the second year. In Boulder County, you need to renew your license every year by Dec. 31 and pay a $100 fee.
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Does Colorado Reciprocate Septic Licenses?
No, Colorado doesn’t permit license reciprocity for septic workers.
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
In El Paso County, Tier 2 Licensed Systems Contractors must complete 10 hours of continuing education every 24 months. In Boulder County, Installers, Cleaners, and Operations and Maintenance Service Providers must complete six hours of continuing education every year.
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 Colorado or in any of the other 49 states and the District of Columbia through the ServiceTitan Licensing Hub.
