Licensing Guides
Colorado Septic License: How to Become a Septic Contractor in Colorado
Septic, CO
May 21st, 2026
Table of Contents
Licensing Requirements for Septic Contractors in Colorado
Types of Septic Licenses in Colorado
Steps to Get a Septic License in Colorado
Benefits of Getting a Septic License in Colorado
What Is the Mean Wage for a Septic Professional in Colorado?
How Much Does It Cost to Get a Septic License in Colorado?
How to Get a Septic License in Colorado
How Long Does It Take to Get a Septic License in Colorado?
Colorado Septic Training Programs and Schools
Colorado Septic Licensing Exam Details
How Can I Prepare for the Septic License Exam in Colorado?
Who Issues Septic Licenses in Colorado?
Does My Colorado Septic License Work in Any Other State?
What Are the Reciprocity Requirements for a Septic License in Colorado?
Septic-Specific Requirements
National Septic Certifications
Other Requirements Unique to Colorado
Are There Septic Scholarships in Colorado?
How Can Someone Verify My Septic License in Colorado?
When Can a Septic License Get Suspended in Colorado?
What Are the Penalties for Unlicensed Septic Work in Colorado?
Continuing Education
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 29,050 septic tank servicers and sewer pipe cleaners nationwide.
The projected growth rate nationally is expected to be 8% through 2034, adding 2,900 annual projected job openings. 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% through 2032 for septic tank servicers and sewer pipe cleaners.
Contractors across the state struggle to find skilled tradespeople while the demand for them continues to grow. According to the Associated General Contractors of Colorado, Construction employment in Colorado in July 2025 totaled 186,700, a decrease of 700 (-0.4%) from July 2024 and an increase of 7,300 or 4% from February 2020. The demand for licensed septic professionals offers strong career opportunities for those willing to acquire the training and credentials.
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.
Licensing Requirements for Septic Contractors in Colorado
Is a license required to work as a septic contractor in Colorado? Yes, but requirements are set at the county level, not statewide. Under the Colorado Department of Public Health and Environment (CDPHE) and its Regulation 43, each local public health agency in Colorado has adopted regulations that are at least as stringent as the state minimum. Counties that have adopted licensing regulations require contractors, installers, cleaners, inspectors, and maintenance providers to hold valid licenses before performing OWTS work.
Working without the required license or permit is a violation of the On-site Wastewater Treatment System Act (C.R.S. §25-10-113) and constitutes a civil infraction that can result in penalties, cease-and-desist orders, and other enforcement actions by the local public health agency.
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.
Scope of work: Authorized to install conventional, non-engineered OWTS systems (gravity-fed systems with standard septic tank and soil treatment area).
Supervision rules: May work independently once licensed. Employees of a licensed systems contractor need not be individually licensed.
Experience requirements: None specified; must pass the Tier 1 exam.
Limitations: Cannot install engineered systems, higher-level treatment systems, or systems requiring professional engineer design.
Progression: A Tier 1 licensee can pursue a Tier 2 license by passing the Tier 2 exam and attending the required EPCPH training session.
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.
Scope of work: Authorized to install both conventional and engineered OWTS systems, including higher-level treatment systems that require specialized design and construction.
Supervision rules: May work independently once licensed. Employees of a licensed systems contractor need not be individually licensed.
Experience requirements: None specified beyond passing the Tier 2 exam and attending one El Paso County Public Health training session.
Limitations: Must still obtain a permit from EPCPH before starting any installation or repair work.
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.
Supervision rules: May work independently once licensed by Boulder County Public Health.
Experience requirements: Must complete the NAWT installer class or equivalent; no minimum years of field experience required.
Limitations: Licensed to install and maintain systems only. Does not authorize inspection for property transfers or system pumping/cleaning.
Cleaner/Pumper
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.
Supervision rules: May work independently once licensed.
Experience requirements: Must pass the NAWT O&M 1 or 2 training course or equivalent; no minimum years of field experience required.
Limitations: Authorized only to remove sewage and conduct routine maintenance. Cannot install new systems or perform property-transfer inspections.
Inspectors
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.
Supervision rules: May work independently once licensed.
Experience requirements: Must complete the NAWT inspector class or equivalent; no minimum years of field experience required.
Limitations: Authorized only for inspections. Cannot install, repair, or pump systems.
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.
Supervision rules: May work independently once licensed.
Experience requirements: Must pass the NAWT O&M 1 and 2 training course or equivalent; must also provide proof of manufacturer training for any equipment serviced.
Limitations: Authorized for routine servicing and performance checks. Does not authorize new installations or property-transfer inspections.
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.
While the specific requirements vary by county and license type, the general pathway to getting a septic license in Colorado follows these steps:
Determine which county or counties you plan to work in and which license type applies to the work you want to perform.
Complete any required training — such as a NAWT course for Boulder County licenses, or self-study of Regulation 43 for El Paso County exam preparation.
Complete the license application online through the appropriate county health department portal.
Pass the required exam (El Paso County) or provide proof of completed training (Boulder County).
Sign any required code of ethics (Boulder County).
Pay the applicable license or exam fee.
Receive your license and obtain an OWTS permit before beginning any work.
If you want to start your own business, register your septic contracting company with the appropriate local and state authorities and obtain required business insurance.
Below are the specific steps for each county and license classification.
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.
Benefits of Getting a Septic License in Colorado
There are many benefits to getting your Colorado septic license:
In counties that have adopted licensing regulations under the OWTS Act, it is required by law to hold a valid license before performing septic contracting, cleaning, or inspection work.
A septic license is proof of your training, competency, and commitment to professional standards.
Only licensed septic contractors can pull OWTS permits, perform installations and repairs, and advertise their services legally in jurisdictions that require licensure.
Licensed contractors are eligible to bid on government and public-sector projects that require licensed OWTS professionals.
Holding a license protects your customers by ensuring systems are installed to code, safeguarding public health and groundwater quality.
A license gives you a competitive advantage in the job market and increases your earning potential.
Licensed contractors can obtain commercial insurance and build credibility with homeowners and property managers.
What Is the Mean Wage for a Septic Professional in Colorado?
The national annual mean wage for septic tank servicers and sewer pipe cleaners is $52,730, according to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics and $56,470 for Colorado. Nationally, wage percentiles for this occupation break down as follows:
10th percentile: $36,500
25th percentile: $42,700
Median (50th percentile): $49,140
75th percentile: $60,320
90th percentile: $73,670
The meaning of "mean wage" and "median salary" can be confusing. Here is the difference:
Mean wage tells you the mathematical average.
Median salary tells you the point at which 50% of workers make less and 50% make more, and is usually a better indicator of what most people actually earn.
Salaries can vary depending on the area of Colorado where you work, your experience level, certifications, and whether you own your own business. If you choose to start a septic business, this blog can give you ideas on how to grow your revenue.
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.
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 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.
Training Costs
In Boulder County, you must complete training from an approved provider before applying for your license. Training costs vary by organization and course type. Check with providers such as Colorado Professionals in Onsite Wastewater (CPOW) and NAWT for current tuition.
Contractor and Business Costs
If you plan to start your own septic business, you should factor in additional costs beyond the license itself, including:
General liability insurance
Commercial vehicle insurance for pump trucks and equipment
Business registration with the Colorado Secretary of State
Equipment purchases (pump trucks, excavation equipment)
OWTS permit fees for each project, which vary by county
Renewal Costs
In Boulder County, you will pay a renewal fee annually. El Paso County does not charge a license renewal fee, but Tier 2 Licensed Systems Contractors must complete continuing education every renewal cycle, which may involve course fees.
How to Get a Septic License in Colorado
Getting a septic license in Colorado is more straightforward than many other trades because the state does not mandate a lengthy apprenticeship or classroom program. Here is a career-path narrative for the two most commonly referenced counties.
Education and Age Requirements
Neither El Paso County nor Boulder County specifies a minimum age or formal education requirement for septic licensure. However, you should have a basic understanding of wastewater systems, soil science, and relevant Colorado regulations before pursuing a license.
Training
In El Paso County, there is no mandatory pre-exam training course, but candidates are strongly encouraged to study Regulation 43 and the El Paso County OWTS Chapter 8 Regulations. Tier 2 candidates must attend one El Paso County Public Health training session.
In Boulder County, you must complete the relevant NAWT training course (installer, O&M, or inspector) or an equivalent class from an approved provider before applying.
Application Process
Both counties accept online applications. In El Paso County, apply through the MyHealthDepartment portal. In Boulder County, apply through the Boulder County Public Health application form. Boulder County applicants must also sign a Code of Ethics.
Exam or Training Verification
El Paso County requires you to schedule and pass the Licensed Systems Contractor exam (Tier 1 or Tier 2). Boulder County verifies your completion of the required NAWT or equivalent training course.
Post-Licensing
After receiving your license, you must obtain an OWTS permit from the local public health agency before performing any installation, upgrade, or maintenance work. If you plan to operate a septic business, you should also register your business with the Colorado Secretary of State and secure appropriate insurance coverage.
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.
Here is a more detailed breakdown by county and license path:
El Paso County — Tier 1: Once you have studied for the exam, you can apply, schedule the exam, pass it, and receive your license in as little as a few weeks, depending on exam scheduling availability.
El Paso County — Tier 2: Similar timeline to Tier 1, but you must also attend one EPCPH training session, which may add additional time depending on the session schedule.
Boulder County — All license types: You must first complete the required NAWT or equivalent training course. After training is complete, submit your application and fee, and you can expect to receive your license within a few weeks.
Unlike many other trades — where apprenticeships can take several years — the septic licensing path in Colorado is one of the fastest ways to enter a skilled trade. This means you can begin earning revenue relatively quickly, and if you choose to start your own septic business, you can be operational in a short timeframe.
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:
Training Program Details
Unlike trades such as plumbing or electrical, Colorado does not require a formal multi-year apprenticeship for septic licensure. Instead, training is accomplished through short courses offered by the organizations listed above.
Common Course Types
NAWT Installer Course: Covers the fundamentals of OWTS installation, including site evaluation, system components, and installation best practices.
NAWT O&M Courses (Level 1 and 2): Focus on operations and maintenance of septic systems, including pumping procedures, troubleshooting, and system monitoring. Required for Cleaner/Pumper and O&M Service Provider licenses in Boulder County.
NAWT Inspector Course: Covers inspection procedures, compliance evaluation, and reporting. Required for the Boulder County Inspector license.
CPOW Courses: Colorado Professionals in Onsite Wastewater offers specialized courses including a Soils Course (prerequisite for the CPOW OWTS Design Course) and continuing education sessions. Member and non-member pricing varies by course.
Program Prerequisites
No formal education prerequisites are specified for most Colorado septic training programs. A basic understanding of construction, plumbing, or environmental science is helpful but not required.
On-the-Job Expectations
Septic work is physically demanding. You should expect outdoor work in varying weather, digging and excavation, working around raw sewage, and operating heavy equipment such as pump trucks. Good mechanical aptitude and attention to detail are essential.
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.
El Paso County Exam Details
Administering body: The exam is administered by El Paso County Public Health (EPCPH).
Reference material: The exam covers Regulation 43 and the El Paso County OWTS Chapter 8 Regulations.
Exam fee: $154 per attempt.
Scheduling: Schedule your exam through the EPCPH exam scheduling page.
Note: Some Colorado counties, such as Lake County, use a two-part exam format — a statewide Part A Installer exam and a county-specific Part B exam.
Boulder County
Boulder County does not administer a standalone licensing exam. Instead, licensure is based on completing the required training course from an approved provider such as NAWT or CPOW.
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How Can I Prepare for the Septic License Exam in Colorado?
If you are preparing for the El Paso County Licensed Systems Contractor exam (Tier 1 or Tier 2), the following tips can help you succeed:
Reference Materials
Colorado Regulation 43 — the statewide minimum standard for OWTS. This is the primary reference for understanding system siting, design, construction, and use requirements.
El Paso County OWTS Chapter 8 Regulations — the county-specific rules that may be more stringent than Regulation 43.
Major Subject Areas
Based on the regulations covered, expect the exam to test your knowledge of:
OWTS system types and components (septic tanks, soil treatment areas, distribution systems)
Site and soil evaluation requirements
System siting and setback distances
Permitting requirements and procedures
Installation and construction standards
Higher-level treatment system requirements (especially for Tier 2)
Maintenance, inspection, and repair standards
Study Tips
Read Regulation 43 and the county-specific regulations thoroughly — multiple times if necessary.
Consider attending a CPOW or NAWT training course even if not formally required for El Paso County; the instruction will reinforce exam content.
Join CPOW for networking with other OWTS professionals who can share exam preparation insights.
Get plenty of rest the night before the exam.
Who Issues Septic Licenses in Colorado?
In the state of Colorado, the Water Quality Control Commission (WQCC) adopts Regulation 43, which governs on-site wastewater treatment and septic systems, and the Water Quality Control Division of the Colorado Department of Public Health and Environment (CDPHE) implements these rules.
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.
Does My Colorado Septic License Work in Any Other State?
No, your Colorado septic license does not automatically work in any other state. Because Colorado's septic licensing is managed at the county level rather than statewide, there is no single state-issued license that other states would recognize.
If you plan to work in another state, you will need to research that state's specific licensing requirements and apply for a license following their rules. Some states may accept your Colorado training credentials (such as NAWT certifications) as proof of education, but you will still need to meet all other requirements in that state, which may include additional exams, fees, or experience thresholds.
Likewise, if you hold a septic license from another state and wish to work in Colorado, you will need to meet the specific requirements of the Colorado county where you plan to work.
What Are the Reciprocity Requirements for a Septic License in Colorado?
Colorado doesn’t permit license reciprocity for septic workers.
Septic-Specific Requirements
Septic work in Colorado involves several industry-specific requirements that go beyond simply holding a license:
OWTS Permits: An OWTS permit from the local public health agency is required before any installation, alteration, expansion, or major repair of a septic system. Permits are required in every Colorado county under Regulation 43.
Site and Soil Evaluation: A site and soil evaluation must be conducted for each property where an OWTS is proposed. Colorado requires a competent technician — someone who has met specific training requirements — to perform these evaluations.
Septage Disposal Contracts: In Boulder County, Cleaner/Pumper licensees must maintain a contract with an approved septage disposal site. This ensures all waste is disposed of in compliance with environmental regulations.
Manufacturer Training: Boulder County O&M Service Providers must provide proof of training required by the manufacturer for all equipment they service, where applicable and available.
Professional Engineer Requirement: Complex or non-conventional OWTS designs — including systems in challenging soil conditions, on slopes greater than 20%, or systems using pressure distribution — must be designed by a Colorado-licensed Professional Engineer.
Transfer of Title Inspections: Many Colorado counties require an OWTS inspection and use permit before the sale or transfer of a property served by a septic system.
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.
Other Requirements Unique to Colorado
Colorado's approach to septic licensing has several features that set it apart from other states:
County-level licensing, not statewide: Unlike many states that issue a single statewide septic license, Colorado delegates licensing authority to local public health agencies. This means your license is valid only in the county that issued it. If you plan to work in multiple counties, you may need to obtain a license in each one.
Regulation 43 as a floor, not a ceiling: Each county must adopt regulations at least as stringent as state Regulation 43, but many counties add additional requirements. Always check with the specific county health department before starting work.
Updated Regulation 43: The updated Regulation 43 was adopted in 2025 and posted to the CDPHE website effective that year. County health departments have a defined period to update their local regulations accordingly. Stay current with your county's adoption timeline.
Part A Statewide Installer Exam: Some Colorado counties utilize a statewide Part A installer exam in addition to their own county-specific Part B exam. The CDPHE maintains a map of local agencies that utilize the Part A exam.
OWTS permit application by licensed installers: In El Paso County, OWTS permit applications must be submitted by a licensed OWTS installer.
Are There Septic Scholarships in Colorado?
There are limited scholarship programs specifically dedicated to septic professionals, but several options may help offset the cost of entering the field:
CPOW Membership Benefits: Joining Colorado Professionals in Onsite Wastewater (CPOW) provides access to discounted conference and training rates, which can reduce the cost of required and continuing education courses.
NOWRA Membership: A National Onsite Wastewater Recycling Association membership is included with CPOW membership, providing additional educational discounts and networking.
Construction Careers Now Program: The AGC of Colorado, in partnership with Emily Griffith Technical College, offers construction career training programs. For current program details, visit Emily Griffith Technical College's apprenticeship page.
Employer Sponsorship: Many established septic companies will sponsor the training and licensing costs for new employees. If you are hired by an existing septic contractor, ask whether they cover NAWT course fees and exam costs.
If you are aware of additional scholarship or financial aid programs for septic professionals in Colorado, check with your local community foundation or workforce development office.
How Can Someone Verify My Septic License in Colorado?
Because septic licensing in Colorado is managed at the county level, license verification is handled by each county's public health department rather than a single statewide portal.
El Paso County
El Paso County maintains OWTS records that are viewable online through the El Paso County Assessor's Public Records Real Estate Property Search website. You can also find a list of licensed OWTS professionals through the EPCPH OWTS professional resources page. For additional assistance, contact EPCPH at HEAsepticinfo@elpasoco.com.
Boulder County
In Boulder County, you can verify a septic professional's license by contacting the Boulder County Public Health Septic Smart program directly. They maintain records of all licensed OWTS installers, cleaners, inspectors, and O&M service providers.
For counties other than El Paso and Boulder, contact the local public health agency that administers the OWTS program in that jurisdiction. The CPOW website maintains a list of county health department contacts for onsite wastewater issues.
When Can a Septic License Get Suspended in Colorado?
Because septic licensing is administered at the county level in Colorado, the specific grounds for suspension or revocation of a license may vary by jurisdiction. However, common reasons that a septic license can be suspended or revoked include:
Installing, altering, or repairing an OWTS in a manner that materially varies from the terms of the permit or approved design
Submitting false or misleading information to the local public health agency
Performing work without the required OWTS permit
Violating the terms of a cease-and-desist order issued by the local health officer
Failure to comply with local OWTS regulations or Regulation 43 standards
Operating on a lapsed or expired license
Failure to meet continuing education requirements (where applicable)
Violations of the Code of Ethics (Boulder County)
The local public health agency may issue cease-and-desist orders and pursue enforcement action against licensees who violate regulations.
Note: The information above should not be considered legal advice. For detailed and specific information about Colorado septic license regulations, refer to the Colorado OWTS Act (C.R.S. §25-10-101 et seq.) and your county's OWTS regulations.
What Are the Penalties for Unlicensed Septic Work in Colorado?
Performing septic work in Colorado without the required license or permit is a violation of the On-site Wastewater Treatment System Act, C.R.S. §25-10-113. Under this statute, the following acts constitute a civil infraction:
Constructing, altering, installing, or permitting the use of any OWTS without first applying for and receiving a permit
Constructing, altering, or installing an OWTS in a manner that involves a knowing and material variation from the terms of the permit or application
Violating the terms of a cease-and-desist order that has become final
Conducting business as a systems contractor without having obtained the required license in jurisdictions where the local board of health has adopted licensing regulations
Conducting business as a systems cleaner without having obtained the required license in jurisdictions where the local board of health has adopted licensing regulations
Additionally, local public health agencies may issue cease-and-desist orders requiring the owner or operator to bring the system into compliance or stop using the system entirely. These orders are enforceable in district court.
Note: The information above should not be considered legal advice. For a detailed explanation of penalties and enforcement under Colorado law, refer to the official Colorado Revised Statutes, Title 25, Article 10 and your local county OWTS regulations.
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.
Course Approval
In El Paso County, continuing education courses must be approved by El Paso County Public Health. In Boulder County, training from approved organizations including CEHA, CPOW, NAWT, NEHA, and NOWRA is accepted toward continuing education requirements. Check with your county health department to confirm which courses qualify.
License Renewal
Yes, you must renew your septic license in Colorado. 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.
Grace Periods
Check with your specific county health department regarding any grace periods for late renewal. Working on an expired license may result in enforcement action and penalties under the OWTS Act.
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.
