Licensing Guides
State Septic License: How to Become a Septic Contractor in Maine
Septic, ME
Table of Contents
Septic License Requirements in Maine
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.
According to the EPA, New England states have the highest proportion of homes served by septic systems. Maine reports that about 50% of all homes are served by individual systems.
The projected growth rate nationally is expected to be 8% from 2022 to 2032, adding 3,000 of these skilled workers to the ranks. In Maine, according to CareerOneStop, the U.S. Department of Labor’s job search website, there’s a projected 6% decrease of 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 Maine?
While Maine does not require a license to install or inspect septic systems, there is a voluntary certification program administered by the Maine Department of Environmental Protection, Non-point Source Training and Resource Center and the Division of Health Engineering for septic system installation and septic system inspection.
To design new septic systems, a Site Evaluator license is required from the Maine Department Of Health And Human Services Center For Disease Control & Prevention Division Of Environmental Health.
Types of Septic Licenses in Maine
There are two voluntary certifications for septic professionals:
Septic Installer
Septic Inspector
In addition, there’s a required Site Evaluator license for septic system design.
Steps to Get a Septic License in Maine
The steps to obtain a Voluntary Onsite Wastewater Disposal System Installer or Inspector certification include:
Attend an all-day Basic System Installation Training Session conducted by the Subsurface Wastewater Program.
Submit two completed HHE-200 Forms (wastewater disposal system designs) that were permitted and approved by the local plumbing inspector or code enforcement officer.
Fill out the application.
The steps to obtain a Site Evaluator license include:
Meet one of the following education and experience requirements:
Have an undergraduate degree in engineering, geology, pedology, or similar discipline from an accredited college or university and 12 months of site evaluation work experience.
Have a high school diploma or its equivalent and four years of site evaluation work experience.
Fill out an application, which requires three references, one of whom must be a licensed Site Evaluator. There is a $25 application fee.
Pass written and field portions of the required exam, which incurs a $100 fee.
Pay $100 license fee.
How Much Does It Cost to Get a Maine Septic System License?
There is no cost associated with the voluntary certification program for septic installers and inspectors in Maine. The Site Evaluator license fees include a $25 application fee, $100 exam fee, and $100 license fee, for a total of $225. There will also be permit fees for each treatment system design, which are determined by the municipality.
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 Maine?
The time it takes to receive a voluntary certificate in Maine varies. You need to take an all-day training class and submit evidence of two completed installation projects.
For a Site Evaluator license, you must meet one of the following requirements:
Be a graduate from an accredited college or university with an undergraduate degree in engineering, geology, pedology, or similar discipline and have 12 months of site evaluation work experience.
Be a high school graduate or its equivalent and have four years of site evaluation work experience.
Maine Septic Training Programs and Schools
Applicants for Installer or Inspector certifications must attend an all-day Basic System Installation Training Session conducted by the Subsurface Wastewater Program.
Site Evaluators can obtain undergraduate degrees in engineering, geology, pedology, or related disciplines. Options with these degree types include:
Bates College in Lewiston
Bowdoin College in Brunswick
Colby College in Waterville
Maine Septic Licensing Exam Details
There is no required exam for voluntary Septic Installer or Inspector certification in the state of Maine. For Site Evaluators, an exam is required. The examination consists of written and field portions focused on the principles and practices of site evaluation, including soil types, soil tests, public health, leach fields, and subsurface wastewater disposal rules.
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Do I Need to Renew My Maine Septic License?
Yes, the voluntary certification is valid for five years. For renewal, the certified individual must submit proof of attendance at six hours of subsurface wastewater related training sessions to the Division of Environmental Health.
Site Evaluator licenses must be renewed by March 1 of odd-numbered years for a $100 fee.
Does Maine Reciprocate Septic Licenses?
There are no reciprocity requirements in place for septic professionals in other states.
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
Certified installers and inspectors are required to take six hours of subsurface wastewater related training sessions every five years. Site Evaluators need 12 professional development hours each license period through approved training providers.
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, electrical, or general contractor license in Maine, or in any of the other 49 states and the District of Columbia through the ServiceTitan Licensing Hub.
