Licensing Guides
State Septic License: How to Become a Septic Contractor in Mississippi
Septic, MS
Table of Contents
How Much Does It Cost to Get a Septic License in Mississippi?
How Long Does it Take to Get a Septic License in Mississippi?
Septic License Requirements in Mississippi
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 disposal systems, depend on people who know how to install and maintain those systems while protecting water quality.
The American Society of Civil Engineers’ Infrastructure Report Card for Missisissippi shows approximately 40% of Mississippi residents (nearly 400,000 households) rely on onsite wastewater treatment, such as septic systems.
According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS), there are 27,900 septic tank servicers and sewer pipe cleaners nationwide, and Mississippi employs 200 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 Mississippi, according to CareerOneStop, the U.S. Department of Labor’s job search website, the projected growth rate is 10% 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 licensure requirements in your state or local jurisdiction. This guide will help you determine what you need before you get started in Mississippi.
Who Issues Septic Licenses in Mississippi?
While Mississippi offers no state-level licensure for septic operators, the Mississippi State Department of Health On-Site Wastewater Program issues required certifications for septic professionals to work in the state. The MSDH On-Site Wastewater Program aims to reduce the spread of disease through improper waste disposal and treatment, which can contaminate groundwater and surface water, causing both an environmental and public health concern.
Types of Septic Licenses in Mississippi
The types of septic professional certifications in Mississippi are:
Certified Evaluator: Required to design and construct individual on-site wastewater
disposal systems.
Certified Installer: Required to install individual on-site wastewater disposal systems.
Certified Pumper: Required to pump and clean individual on-site wastewater
disposal systems, lift stations, holding tanks, portable toilets, and grease traps.
Certified Manufacturer: Required to register an individual on-site wastewater disposal or wastewater treatment system product or alternative treatment or disposal component in the State of Mississippi.
Steps to Get a Septic License in Mississippi
Follow these steps to obtain an Evaluator certification:
Complete and return application.
Pay a $162.50 fee for study materials and examination seating.
Pass the exam.
Submit a valid Errors and Omissions Policy.
Pay a $780 certification fee.
Follow these steps to obtain an Installer certification:
Complete and return application with $162.50 fee.
Pass exam.
Submit a valid general business liability insurance policy with coverage of $50,000 per occurrence and at least $100,000 in total aggregate amount.
Pay a $150 certification fee.
Follow these steps to obtain a Pumper certification:
Complete and return application with $162.50 fee.
Pass exam.
Submit a valid general business liability insurance policy.
Pass a vehicle inspection.
Obtain a letter of disposal from a Mississippi Department of Environmental Quality-permitted facility
Pay a $150 certification fee.
For Certified Manufacturers, there’s an application and $250 fee.
How Much Does It Cost to Get a Septic License in Mississippi?
The cost varies depending on the certification type:
Evaluator: $162.50 exam fee and $780 certification fee
Installer: $162.50 exam fee and $150 certification fee
Pumper: $162.50 exam fee and $150 certification fee
Manufacturer: $250
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 Mississippi?
With no formal experience or education requirements, the process to obtain a septic certification can be relatively quick. You will need to give yourself time to study for the exam.
Mississippi Septic Training Programs and Schools
While the Mississippi State Department of Health previously hosted training courses for certification and renewal, these are on an indefinite pause. However, the Mississippi Rural Water Association hosts a number of training events throughout the year.
Mississippi Septic Licensing Exam Details
Applicants must sit for an exam for Installer, Evaluator, and Pumper certifications. The exam is open book and requires a $162.50 fee. The exam covers Mississippi Code, sewer systems, drain fields, and more.
The #1 newsletter for the trades.
Do I Need to Renew My Mississippi Septic License?
Yes, certifications must be renewed annually. Evaluators pay a $650 renewal fee. Pumpers and installers pay a $150 renewal fee. Manufacturers pay a $100 renewal fee.
Does Mississippi Reciprocate Septic Licenses?
No, Mississippi does not have reciprocity agreements with other states for its septic certifications.
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
The Mississippi State Department of Health no longer requires continuing education units (CEUs) or professional development hours (PDHs) for septic certification renewal.
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, or general contractor license from the Mississippi State Board of Contractors, or in any of the other 49 states and the District of Columbia, through the ServiceTitan Licensing Hub.
