Licensing Guides
State Septic License: How to Become a Septic Contractor in Tennessee
Septic, TN
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Septic License Requirements in Tennessee
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 Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS), there are 27,900 septic tank servicers and sewer pipe cleaners nationwide, and Tennessee employs 590 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 Tennessee, according to CareerOneStop, the U.S. Department of Labor’s job search website, the projected growth rate is more than triple the national rate, at 27% 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 Tennessee.
Who Issues Septic Licenses in Tennessee?
In Tennessee, septic installers, pumpers, and dumpers are required to have valid permits. The Tennessee Department of Environment and Conservation (TDEC) Division of Water Resources issues these permits.
Types of Septic Licenses in Tennessee
The permit types in Tennessee are:
Conventional Subsurface Sewage Disposal Systems (SSDS) Installer: Required for installing, altering, extending, or repairing a conventional septic system.
Alternative Subsurface Sewage Disposal Systems Installer: Required for installing, altering, extending, or repairing an alternative septic system, such as low-pressure pipe (LPP), mound, oxidation lagoon, or aerobic treatment system. (Note: Permit fee must be paid for each type of alternative system you plan to work on.)
Septic Tank Pumping Contractor: Required for removing and disposing of domestic septage from septic tanks, holding tanks, portable toilets, or other similar sewage treatment or disposal facilities.
Domestic Septage Disposal: Required for land disposal of domestic septage from septic tanks or other sewage treatment or disposal facilities.
Steps to Get a Septic License in Tennessee
To obtain a Septic System Installer permit, follow these steps:
Contact your local Environmental Field Office to schedule an exam.
Fill out the application form online.
Pay a $200 fee for a conventional permit and a $100 for each alternative permit you’d like to pursue.
To obtain a Pumping permit, follow these steps:
Contact your local Environmental Field Office to schedule a truck inspection.
Fill out the application form online.
Include written permission from the proper official when contents are to be disposed of at a public wastewater treatment plant or written permission of the property owner and disposal site operator when using a land application site.
Pay $200 fee.
To obtain a permit for domestic septage disposal, follow these steps:
Fill out the required permit application.
Submit it to your local Environmental Field Office, along with a high intensity soil map of the proposed disposal area and a plat with seal and signature of a registered surveyor.
Pay $400 fee.
TDEC also offers an FAQ if you run into any issues in the application process.
How Much Does It Cost to Get a Septic License in Tennessee?
The permit fee is:
$200 for Conventional Subsurface Sewage Disposal Systems Installer
$100 for Alternative Subsurface Sewage Disposal Systems Installer (must obtain permit for each alternative system type you install)
$200 for Septic Tank Pumping Contractor
$400 for Domestic Septage Disposal
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 Tennessee?
Since there are no experience or education prerequisites, the process of obtaining a permit is relatively quick. According to the Tennessee Department of Environment and Conservation, permit issuance can take up to 45 days after the date of application.
Tennessee Septic Training Programs and Schools
Tennessee does not require you to take any classes to become a certified septic installer. However, the Fleming Training Center offers advanced classes in a variety of water and wastewater areas if you want to expand or sharpen your skills.
Tennessee Septic Licensing Exam Details
To become a licensed installer, you must schedule an exam with your local Environmental Field Office. The exam covers installation, operational details, and safety procedures.
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Do I Need to Renew My Tennessee Septic License?
Yes. Permits expire on Dec. 31 every year. The renewal fee is the same as the initial license fee:
$200 for Conventional Subsurface Sewage Disposal Systems Installer
$100 for Alternative Subsurface Sewage Disposal Systems Installer (must obtain permit for each alternative system type you install)
$200 for Septic Tank Pumping Contractor
$400 for Domestic Septage Disposal
Does Tennessee Reciprocate Septic Licenses?
Tennessee does not have septic license 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
While there are no continuing education requirements for septic permit renewal in Tennessee, you’ll want to stay up to date on industry trends.
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 Tennessee, or in any of the other 49 states and the District of Columbia through the ServiceTitan Licensing Hub.
