The following are the steps to obtain a license from LCRA to operate an on-site sewage facility.
1. Application process
- Obtain a permit application package by calling 1-800-776-5272, Ext. 3216.
- Submit a complete application for a permit and license along with appropriate fee.
A complete application will include: application form; proof of ownership of property (including warranty deed or tax record); drawing or survey of the property; soil analysis; floor plan of the proposed structure; floodplain compliance letter from the appropriate floodplain administrator; a drawing showing proposed location of the septic system, wells, structures, etc.; a copy of the system design plans (if professionally designed, two sets should be submitted); affidavit to the public; and appropriate fee. All drawings must be to scale.
If your property is less than one acre, you also must submit a recorded plat of the property along with all associated plat notes.
2. Inspection preparation
Within two workdays of submitting the application, mark your property with the proposed location of the drain field, septic tank, house, wells, driveways, etc.
Within two workdays of submitting your application, post the notice provided to you by LCRA at the site. This notice will list the owner's name and property description. The notice must be visible from the roadway to help inspectors locate your property.
3. Permitting process
LCRA staff will perform an on-site inspection at your property in order to determine whether it can receive tentative field approval. The property should be marked prior to this inspection.
The on-site inspection report will then be forwarded to the office, and a detailed plan review will be performed. If no issues are found in either of these reviews that would delay approval, a construction permit (authorization to construct) will be issued.
The permit will be mailed to you unless you indicate to us that you would prefer to pick it up. Once your installer has possession of the permit, installation of the system may begin.
4. Inspection process
Installation inspections are performed at various stages of the installation process. The owner or installer must schedule the required inspections. To schedule an inspection, call 1-800-776-5272, Ext. 4091. If you have questions about the installation process, call 1-800-776-5272, Ext. 3216, to leave your message.
Installation inspections will be performed within two workdays of receiving the inspection request. A notice (pass or fail) will be left at the site by the inspector.
5. Approval for use process
When your system is completed and approved, you will receive the approval for use by mail.
For more information, see FAQs about on-site sewage program.
