Step-by-Step Guide to Obtaining a Septic System Permit in Florida

The permitting process for septic systems in Florida is essential to ensure compliance with environmental and public health regulations. Whether you’re installing a new system, repairing an existing one, or upgrading to a more advanced system, the process involves several key steps.

Below is a detailed step-by-step guide to help you navigate the permitting process.

1. Site Evaluation and Soil Testing

The first step in obtaining a septic system permit is a thorough site evaluation. This step ensures that the location is suitable for a septic system based on Florida’s environmental regulations.

Hire a Licensed Professional: You’ll need to hire a licensed soil scientist or a septic system contractor to conduct the site evaluation and soil testing.
Soil Testing: This includes testing the soil’s permeability, which determines how well the soil can filter and absorb wastewater. Florida’s sandy or clay soils may require specific solutions.
Water Table Evaluation: The professional will also assess the water table level, which is particularly important in Florida due to the high water table in many areas.

Deliverables: A detailed report that includes soil characteristics, water table depth, and recommendations for the type of septic system suitable for the site.

2. Design the Septic System

Once the site evaluation is complete, the next step is to design the septic system based on the site conditions.

System Type: The type of septic system (conventional vs. alternative) will be chosen based on the soil test results, water table depth, and local environmental conditions. In sensitive areas, such as wetlands or coastal regions, more advanced systems like aerobic treatment units (ATUs) or mound systems may be required.
Licensed Professional: The design should be completed by a licensed septic system contractor or engineer who is familiar with Florida’s regulations.

Deliverables: A septic system design plan that includes the layout, system type, and specifications.

3. Submit the Permit Application

With the site evaluation and design plan in hand, you can now apply for a permit through your local County Health Department, which oversees the permitting process on behalf of the Florida Department of Health (DOH).

Application Form: Obtain and fill out the septic system permit application form from the local county health department.
Required Documents: Submit the following along with the application:
- Site evaluation and soil testing report.
- Septic system design plan.
- Property survey showing the location of the proposed septic system.
- Proof of ownership (property deed).
Application Fee: Pay the permit application fee, which can vary by county. Fees generally range from $300 to $600, depending on the complexity of the system and the location.

Deliverables: Completed application, including all necessary documents and fees.

4. Permit Review and Approval

After submitting your application, the county health department will review your application and supporting documents.

Environmental Review: The review will ensure that the proposed septic system complies with local environmental requirements, such as setbacks from water bodies, wetlands, and property lines.
Compliance Check: The design and site evaluation will be checked against Florida’s septic system regulations, ensuring that the system will function properly in the specific environmental conditions.

Timeline: Permit reviews typically take 1-3 weeks, depending on the complexity of the system and the volume of applications in your county.

5. Permit Issuance

If the county health department approves the application, a septic system permit will be issued.

Permit Details: The permit will include specific conditions, such as the approved system design, required inspections, and any additional regulatory requirements (e.g., nitrogen-reducing systems in sensitive areas).
Expiration: Septic system permits generally have an expiration date, often within one year of issuance, meaning the installation must be completed within that time frame.

Deliverables: An official septic system permit.

6. Installation of the Septic System

Once you have the permit, you can proceed with installing the septic system according to the approved design.

Licensed Contractor: Ensure that a licensed septic system contractor installs the system according to the specifications laid out in the permit.
Scheduling Inspections: During the installation process, you may need to schedule inspections with the county health department to ensure that the system is being installed correctly.

7. Final Inspection and Approval

After the septic system has been installed, a final inspection is required to ensure that the system complies with the approved design and state regulations.

County Health Department Inspection: An inspector will verify that the system was installed according to the approved plan, check for proper functionality, and ensure that all setbacks and environmental safeguards have been adhered to.
Approval: If the system passes the inspection, you will receive a final approval to use the system.

Deliverables: Final approval certificate, indicating the septic system is ready for use.

8. Maintenance Requirements

Once the system is installed and approved, ongoing maintenance is required to ensure long-term performance and compliance with Florida’s regulations.

Regular Pumping: Septic systems must be pumped every 3-5 years, depending on the system size and household usage, to prevent overloading.
Scheduled Inspections: In certain areas, particularly those governed by Basin Management Action Plans (BMAPs), regular inspections may be mandated to ensure the system is not contributing to nutrient pollution.

Step-by-Step Guide to Obtaining a Septic System Permit in Florida

Step	Description	Key Actions
1. Site Evaluation and Soil Testing	Hire a licensed professional to evaluate the site and test the soil and water table.	– Conduct soil testing and water table evaluation. – Receive a report on soil conditions and recommendations.
2. Design the Septic System	Design the septic system based on the site evaluation and environmental conditions.	– Work with a licensed professional to create a system design. – Choose the appropriate system type.
3. Submit the Permit Application	Apply for a permit through your local County Health Department.	– Complete the application. – Submit soil test results, system design, and property documents. – Pay the application fee.
4. Permit Review and Approval	The County Health Department reviews the application for compliance.	– Application review takes 1-3 weeks. – Ensure the design meets local and state regulations.
5. Permit Issuance	Receive the septic system permit with specific conditions and approval.	– Permit is valid for a limited time (usually one year). – Review any conditions or requirements.
6. Installation of the Septic System	A licensed contractor installs the septic system according to the permit design.	– Hire a licensed contractor. – Schedule any necessary inspections during installation.
7. Final Inspection and Approval	The County Health Department conducts a final inspection after installation.	– Ensure system matches the approved design. – Receive final approval to use the system.
8. Maintenance Requirements	Regular pumping and inspections to maintain system performance and compliance.	– Pump the septic system every 3-5 years. – Schedule regular inspections, especially in sensitive areas.

Conclusion

Navigating the permitting process for septic systems in Florida is critical to ensuring compliance with environmental and public health regulations. By following this step-by-step guide—conducting a proper site evaluation, designing the system, submitting a complete application, and undergoing the necessary inspections—you can ensure a smooth process from start to finish. Working with licensed professionals and staying informed of local regulations will help avoid delays and ensure a successful septic system installation.