Licensing Guides
State Septic License: How to Become a Septic Contractor in New Jersey
Septic, NJ
Table of Contents
How Much Does It Cost to Get a Septic License in New Jersey?
How Long Does it Take to Get a Septic License in New Jersey?
Septic License Requirements in New Jersey
We all need safe, reliable sewage management for our homes and businesses. Those homeowners and businesses that rely on septic tanks, also known as onsite wastewater treatment systems, depend on people who know how to install and maintain those systems.
Jersey Water Check reports that about 10% of New Jersey’s population is served by private wells and septic systems.
According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS), there are 27,900 septic tank servicers and sewer pipe cleaners nationwide, and New Jersey employs 410 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 New Jersey, according to CareerOneStop, the U.S. Department of Labor’s job search website, the projected growth rate is 3% 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 New Jersey.
Who Issues Septic Licenses in New Jersey?
According to the New Jersey Department of Environmental Protection (NJDEP) Division of Water Quality, “The location, design, construction, installation, repair and operation of individual septic systems in New Jersey are subject to the Standards for Individual Subsurface Sewage Disposal Systems (N.J.A.C. 7:9A) pursuant to the authority of the Realty Improvement Sewerage and Facilities Act (N.J.S.A. 58:11-23). These standards, by rule, integrate the elements of soils, geology and engineering, so that a relatively simple system will effectively remove disease-causing pathogens and chemical nutrients from domestic wastewater.”
The New Jersey DEP develops those regulations, and municipal and county boards of public health, along with local health departments, assist with onsite wastewater management.
For more, including when you might need to hire a professional engineer, check out the Division of Water Quality’s frequently asked questions (FAQs).
Types of Septic Licenses in New Jersey
There’s no statewide licensing for septic professionals in the state of New Jersey. It’s important to verify any local certification or licensing requirements. For example, the Borough of Oakland, New Jersey, offers two septic license types:
Septic Contractor: Required to repair, alter, and construct septic systems in Oakland.
Septic Cleaner/Pumper: Required to pump septic systems in Oakland.
Steps to Get a Septic License in New Jersey
To obtain a Septic Contractor license in Oakland, follow these steps:
Must have a valid Contractor Registration card from the Division of Affairs.
Call the Department of Health Secretary (201-337-9254) to schedule a time to take the Septic Installer's Examination, which incurs a $100 fee.
Obtain a $20,000 one-year license bond and a $1,000,000 general liability insurance policy.
Submit the license application form.
Pay $150 application fee.
To obtain a Septic Cleaner/Pumper license in Oakland, follow these steps:
Submit the license application.
Pay $150 application fee.
How Much Does It Cost to Get a Septic License in New Jersey?
For the Septic Contractor license in Oakland, you must first register as a contractor, which costs $500 for one year or $750 for two years. There’s a $100 exam fee, and a $150 application fee.
Septic Cleaner/Pumpers in Oakland must pay a $150 application fee.
You will also incur septic permit fees, which vary based on 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 New Jersey?
The length of time depends on the requirements in each locality where you intend to work. Since there aren’t any experience or education requirements in Oakland, it is relatively quick to complete the application process and become licensed.
New Jersey Septic Training Programs and Schools
In New Jersey, you can find septic training programs and schools through Rutgers Office of Continuing Professional Education (OCPE) and American Water College, among others. Though schooling isn’t required, it’s a great way to learn the trade before becoming licensed.
New Jersey Septic Licensing Exam Details
There’s a required exam for the Septic Contractor license in Oakland. You can study for the exam by reviewing the State Septic Code N.J.A.C. 7:9A. The exam costs $100, and there’s a $50 retake fee if you fail.
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Do I Need to Renew My New Jersey Septic License?
In Oakland, licenses expire on Dec. 31, and require annual renewal for $150.
Does New Jersey Reciprocate Septic Licenses?
Since there’s no statewide license requirement, there are no reciprocity agreements with 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
Septic professionals should verify any continuing education requirements depending on the credentials they hold. There’s no continuing education requirement for septic licensing in Oakland.
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 service providers, too. You can find out more about how to get an HVAC, plumbing, electrical, or general contractor license in New Jersey or in any of the other 49 states and the District of Columbia through the ServiceTitan Licensing Hub.
