Licensing Guides
State Septic License: How to Become a Septic Contractor in Iowa
Septic, IA
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Septic License Requirements in Iowa
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.
National Tank Outlet reports nearly one-third of Iowa residents lack access to a public wastewater system and rely on a private septic system for their wastewater disposal needs.
According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS), there are 27,900 septic tank servicers and sewer pipe cleaners nationwide, and Iowa employs 640 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 Iowa, according to CareerOneStop, the U.S. Department of Labor’s job search website, the projected growth rate is 14% 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 in Iowa state.
Who Issues Septic Licenses in Iowa?
In Iowa, local board of health departments or environmental health divisions regulate onsite wastewater treatment systems (also known as private sewage disposal systems) serving four homes or fewer or less than 15 people, while the Iowa Department of Natural Resources regulates larger, public systems per the Iowa Administrative Code (IAC). To support counties in their regulation efforts, the DNR hosts an annual training for new county sanitarians. This helps ensure proper water quality and public health.
Types of Septic Licenses in Iowa
Statewide septic licenses in Iowa include:
Time of Transfer Inspector: Required to assess septic systems before the sale or deed transfer of properties (time of transfer inspections).
Commercial Septic Tank Cleaner: Required for professionals or firms engaged in septic tank pumping and cleaning.
Drinking Water and Wastewater Operator: Required for water and wastewater operators.
In addition, many counties impose their own licensing or registration requirements. In fact, 25 Iowa counties require a Certified Installer of Onsite Wastewater Treatment Systems (CIOWTS) credential from the Iowa Onsite Waste Water Association (IOWWA).
Steps to Get a Septic License in Iowa
To obtain a Time of Transfer Inspector certification from the Iowa DNR, follow these steps:
Obtain two years of experience in the operation, installation, inspection, design or maintenance of private sewage disposal systems (onsite wastewater treatment or septic systems), or complete the "Basics of Onsite 101" class offered by the Onsite Wastewater Training Center of Iowa or an equivalent class approved by the Iowa DNR.
Register and complete the eligibility exam application process.
Complete the Time of Transfer Inspector Training offered by the Des Moines Area Community College (DMACC) Onsite Wastewater Training Center of Iowa. This incurs a $300 fee.
Pass the exam administered after the training course.
Pay a $300 certification fee to the Iowa DNR.
To obtain a Commercial Septic Tank Cleaner certification, follow these steps:
Complete the license application form.
Pay a fee of $100 for the first truck, and $50 per additional truck.
To obtain a Drinking Water and Wastewater Operator certification, follow these steps:
Apply for exam eligibility.
Once you receive notification of eligibility, register for and pass the exam (incurs $30 fee).
Pay $80 certification fee (may be prorated based on when in the two-year licensing cycle you apply).
To obtain a CIOWTS credential from the IOWWA, follow these steps:
Complete the test application.
If you have less than one year of experience installing septic systems, attend the Installation Overview Course prior to taking the test. The course and test are held in the same two-day event.
Pass the exam.
Be sure to check septic permit application requirements in each locality you intend to work.
How Much Does It Cost to Get a Septic License in Iowa?
The cost depends on credential type:
Time of Transfer Inspector: $600
Commercial Septic Tank Cleaner: $100 for the first truck, and $50 per additional truck
Drinking Water and Wastewater Operator: $80
CIOWTS: $184 to $229 (depending on Basic/Advanced credential and membership)
Additional permit fees may apply, depending on the county.
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 Iowa?
The Time of Transfer certification requires two years of experience or completing a course. The CIOWTS credential requires one year of experience or completing a course. Other license types simply require passing an exam.
Iowa Septic Training Programs and Schools
The DNR and IOWWA partner with Des Moines Area Community College for training.
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Iowa Septic Licensing Exam Details
There is an exam required for each license type except Commercial Septic Tank Cleaner. Time of Transfer and Drinking Water and Wastewater Operator exams are issued by the DNR. IOWWA conducts its own exam. Helpful resources, including a study guide, are listed on the organization’s website.
Do I Need to Renew My Iowa Septic License?
Yes, Time of Transfer, Drinking Water Wastewater Operator, and CIOWTS credentials must be renewed every two years. The Commercial Septic Tank Cleaner certification must be renewed annually.
Does Iowa Reciprocate Septic Licenses?
The DNR offers reciprocity for the Drinking Water Wastewater Operator certification on a case-by-case basis, depending on whether the applicant's out-of-state certification aligns with Iowa's standards and requirements. Applicants must fill out a reciprocity application form.
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
IOWWA requires 12 hours of continuing education in the onsite wastewater industry every two years. CEU opportunities are listed on its website. In addition, the DNR requires a minimum of 12 hours of continuing education each renewal cycle for Drinking Water Wastewater Operators and Time of Transfer inspectors.
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 Iowa, or in any of the other 49 states and the District of Columbia through the ServiceTitan Licensing Hub.
