Licensing Guides
State Septic License: How to Become a Septic Contractor in New Hampshire
Septic, NH
Table of Contents
How Much Does It Cost to Get a Septic License in New Hampshire?
How Long Does it Take to Get a Septic License in New Hampshire?
Septic License Requirements in New Hampshire
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.
According to the New Hampshire Department of Environmental Services (NHDES), approximately 60% of homes in New Hampshire are served by individual septic systems.
There are 27,900 septic tank servicers and sewer pipe cleaners nationwide, according to the Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS), and New Hampshire employs 150 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 New Hampshire, according to CareerOneStop, the U.S. Department of Labor’s job search website, the projected growth rate is higher at 13% 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 in the state of New Hampshire.
Who Issues Septic Licenses in New Hampshire?
The New Hampshire Department of Environmental Services is responsible for permitting Individual Sewage Disposal System Installers and Designers.
According to the NHDES, “Any structure that is connected to a water supply must be connected to a wastewater disposal system such as a sewer system or individual sewage disposal system. Applications for individual sewage disposal systems or septic systems must be prepared by a permitted designer. With the exception for homeowners installing for their primary domicile, septic systems must be constructed by a permitted installer.”
For more information, check out the Department’s website at www.des.nh.gov, review the FAQs page, or visit the NHDES office at 29 Hazen Drive in Concord. If you require accessibility due to vision or hearing impairment, dial 711 to connect with Relay NH.
Types of Septic Licenses in New Hampshire
New Hampshire RSA 485 lists the licensing guidelines for septic installers and designers.
Individual Sewage Disposal System Installer
The licensee is responsible for the physical construction and installation of new septic systems based on approved designs, including septic tanks, leach fields, and other system components according to approved plans.
Individual Sewage Disposal System Designer
The licensee is responsible for performing site assessments and designing septic systems that comply with New Hampshire state regulations. Permitted designers can perform septic inspections and site assessments, percolation tests, and topographical assessments, as well as prepare and submit plans and permit applications to NHDES for approval.
Steps to Get a Septic License in New Hampshire
Demonstrate a sound working knowledge of the procedures and practices required in the site evaluation, design, and operation of subsurface sewage or waste disposal systems.
Pass the permitting exam.
Pay the $80 exam fee.
Mail the application to the NH Department of Environmental Services – Pease Office (not in Concord): 222 International Drive, Suite 175, Portsmouth, NH 03801.
How Much Does It Cost to Get a Septic License in New Hampshire?
The fee for a Septic Designer or Installer permit is $80. There are no additional licensing fees.
What Business Owners Need to Know
Getting the most out of a septic system 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 New Hampshire?
The Department issues the permit within 5 days of passing the exam. However, the NHDES only administers examinations two times per year, in the spring and fall. This means you may need to wait up to 6 months to take the exam.
New Hampshire Septic Training Programs and Schools
The University of New Hampshire offers a 6-week course covering New Hampshire administrative code Env-Wq 1000 rules to help students prepare for the permitting exam, issued by the NHDES Subsurface Systems Bureau.
New Hampshire Septic Licensing Exam Details
The NHDES administers Designer and Installer exams in the spring and fall. Exam occupancy is filled on a first-come, first-served basis. The postmark date on your application is used to determine the date of registration.
Exam dates will be assigned after an application has been accepted. Written notification of acceptance and the exam date will be mailed or emailed to you. The exam fee is $80.
For more information, review the Installer exam prep sheet or Designer exam prep sheet.
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Do I Need to Renew My New Hampshire Septic License?
Septic System Designer and Installer permits are valid for 2 years from Jan. 1 of years ending in odd numbers to Dec. 31 of years ending in even numbers. You can renew your permit by mail or via the New Hampshire online licensing system. The renewal fee is $80.
Does New Hampshire Reciprocate Septic Licenses?
No, New Hampshire doesn’t allow reciprocity with any other states for Individual Sewage Disposal System Installers and Designers.
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
Septic system Designers and Installers must complete a minimum of 6 hours of approved continuing education every 2 years. The NHDES maintains a list of approved CE courses.
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 New Hampshire, or in any of the other 49 states and the District of Columbia through the ServiceTitan Licensing Hub.
