Licensing Guides
State Septic License: How to Become a Septic Contractor in South Carolina
Septic, SC
Table of Contents
How Much Does It Cost to Get a Septic License in South Carolina?
How Long Does it Take to Get a Septic License in South Carolina?
Septic License Requirements in South Carolina
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 systems (OWSS), depend on people who know how to install and maintain those systems in order to protect public health and key water resources.
Approximately 40% of South Carolina homes are on a septic system, according to the South Carolina Department of Environmental Services.
There are 27,900 septic workers nationwide, according to the Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS), and South Carolina employs 500 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 South Carolina, according to CareerOneStop, the U.S. Department of Labor’s job search website, the projected growth rate is slightly lower at 7% for septic tank systems servicers.
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 South Carolina?
Licensing for septic installers for the entire state of South Carolina falls under the authority of the South Carolina Department of Environmental Services.
Some local governments have additional requirements and ordinances, so make sure to check the local health department in the city or town where you plan to work.
Types of Septic Licenses in South Carolina
According to the SCDES, “If you install, clean, or repair septic systems or if you haul and dispose of sewage from septic systems and portable toilets, you must be licensed.”
Specifically, you must be a licensed Installer or Pumper/Hauler. South Carolina offers three tiers of installer licenses.
The license holder can install all gravity-fed and fill-cap residential systems, and self-inspect systems they have installed when directed by the Department.
The license holder can install all Tier 1 systems in addition to systems that require pumps, grease traps, curtain drains, elevated infiltration systems, mounded systems, and all commercial systems. Tier 2 installers can also self-inspect systems they have installed when directed by the Department.
The license holder can install all Tier 1 and 2 systems in addition to Standard 610, Specialized Onsite Wastewater Systems. Tier 3 licensees must be bonded and insured, and must “be actively installing in South Carolina for 3 years with no pending or prior disciplinary or enforcement action involving onsite wastewater systems OR actively installing out of state for 5 years with no pending or prior disciplinary or enforcement action involving onsite wastewater systems.”
The license holder can clean onsite wastewater treatment systems, self-contained toilets, and other sewage holding systems regardless of tank size and transport sewage to designated disposal sites.
To protect water quality and safeguard drinking water, South Carolina law requires property owners to obtain septic tank permits and hire a licensed installer when constructing or installing new septic systems, private wells, and other onsite wastewater systems not connected to a sewer system. The permit application can be found online.
For more information on license classifications and requirements, contact the Department of Environmental Services at info@des.sc.gov. You can also find additional information, including fact sheets, on the Department’s website.
Steps to Get a Septic License in South Carolina
The steps to getting any of the septic licenses listed above are similar, except for the Tier 3 license, which includes work experience and bonding requirements.
Download and complete the license application.
List septage disposal locations where you have permission to dispose of waste.
Pass the licensing exam with a minimum score of 80%.
If applying for a Tier 3 license, you must include a signed affidavit demonstrating at least 5 years of work experience and proof of a contractor bond.
Pass a vehicle suitability inspection if applying for a Pumper/Hauler license.
Pay the application fee.
Submit the application to the Department of Environmental Services.
How Much Does It Cost to Get a Septic License in South Carolina?
The licensing fees for South Carolina septic workers include:
Installer:
Tier 1: $100
Tier 2: $100
Tier 3: $200
Pumper/Hauler:
$100
Dual License:
Tier 1 Installer/Pumper/Hauler: $150
Tier 2 Installer/Pumper/Hauler: $150
Tier 3 Installer/Pumper/Hauler: $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 South Carolina?
The process is relatively quick for septic system installers and cleaners in license Tiers 1 & 2, as there is no work experience requirement. Tier 3 license holders must acquire a minimum of 5 years of work experience before qualifying for licensure.
South Carolina Septic Training Programs and Schools
While not required for licensure, the South Carolina Onsite Wastewater Association provides several training courses to help septic workers gain experience and sharpen their skills. The Onsite Wastewater Professionals website also offers a 3-day septic installer training course in South Carolina.
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South Carolina Septic Licensing Exam Details
When applying for the initial septic license, you must pass an exam with a minimum score of 80%. The exam covers State Regulation 61-56. There is no fee for the exam, and you don’t need to retake the exam when you renew your license.
Do I Need to Renew My South Carolina Septic License?
Yes. Licenses require renewal every year. Failure to renew your license within 90 days will result in a cancellation. The renewal fees include:
Installer:
Tier 1: $100
Tier 2: $100
Tier 3: $200
Pumper/Hauler:
$100
Dual License:
Tier 1 Installer/Pumper/Hauler: $150
Tier 2 Installer/Pumper/Hauler: $150
Tier 3 Installer/Pumper/Hauler: $250
Does South Carolina Reciprocate Septic Licenses?
South Carolina doesn’t have formal agreements with other states and treats license reciprocity on an individual basis. To qualify, you must be licensed in another state and face no disciplinary actions.
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.
The Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) also provides general resources on septic system care and environmental protection.
Continuing Education
South Carolina requires septic installers to complete continuing education every two years. You must provide documentation of completing continuing education when you renew your license.
Continuing education requirements include:
Tier 1: 8 hours
Tier 2: 12 hours
Tier 3: 18 hours
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 South Carolina, or in any of the other 49 states and the District of Columbia through the ServiceTitan Licensing Hub.
