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Environmental Permits Handbook

Subsurface Sewage Disposal System Installer Permit


* Who Needs One? * What Information Must I Provide?
* How Will My Application be Processed? * What Fees are Required?
* What are My  Responsibilities
After the Permit is Issued?
* What are the Division's Responsibilities
After the Permit is Issued?

Who Needs One?

Any person engaged in the business of installing, altering, extending, or repairing a subsurface sewage disposal (septic) systems needs a Subsurface Sewage Disposal System Installer Permit.

What Information Must I Provide?

Applicants must submit "Division of Groundwater Protection Application for Subsurface Sewage Disposal System Installer Permit" form (Form CN-0763). The application includes the following information: the business name and address, owner name and address, owner’s physical description, number and type of machines operated, county where applicant will conduct most business, types of SSDS systems, approximate number of systems installed in previous year, anyone authorized under the permit.

If the applicant was not permitted in the previous year or did not perform satisfactorily they are required to take a written examination. Applicants must score seventy (70) percent correct or above to be granted a permit.

Applicants must satisfactorily install a conventional/alternative subsurface sewage disposal system under the supervision of a person designated by the Department.

Permit Forms

Form Description Form # Application Form Form Instructions
Septic System Installer License CN-0763 wordmed.gif (222 bytes) pdfsmall.gif (153 bytes) N/A N/A

How Will My Application Be Processed?

Completed application forms and application fees should be sent to the Division of Groundwater Protection at the local county office, a regional Environmental Assistance Center, or the Nashville central office. A detailed review of the application is conducted, and the applicant is sent a notification letter when the review is complete. The review process is completed within 45 days of the date of application.

If the applicant was not permitted in the previous year or did not perform satisfactorily they are required to take a written examination. Applicants must score seventy (70) percent correct or above to be granted a permit. Applicants must satisfactorily install a conventional/alternative subsurface sewage disposal system under the supervision of a person designated by the Department. Permits expire on December 31 each year and must be renewed. Permits are not transferable and become invalid upon change of ownership.

What Fees Are Required?

Permit Fee: $200 for conventional, large diameter gravelless pipe and chamber systems

$100 for each type of alternative system

What Are My Rights and Responsibilities After the Permit is Approved?

The applicant has the right to proceed with activities outlined in the approved permit. They must notify the Department of any changes to application information. The applicant is responsible for following all applicable state statutes and regulations. All installer vehicles must display an identifying sticker provided by the Department. SSDS installers must notify the Division when a system has been installed so that it can be inspected and approved. Applicants have the right to appeal a permit that has been denied, suspended or revoked.

What Are the Division’s Rights and Responsibilities After the Permit is Approved?

The Division inspects each SSDS installation to ensure that it was installed in accordance with permit conditions and regulatory requirements. The Division has the right to revoke, suspend, or deny the issuance of a permit to any applicant who violates the state statutes or departmental regulations. Any person who violates or fails to comply with the state statutes, rules, or regulations may be subject to civil penalties.

Whom Do I Contact For Applications, Assistance and Other Information?

Applicants may obtain applications and information from the Tennessee Division of Ground Water Protection.

Applicants may refer to the following publications for further information:

Permitting Home

What Environmental Permits Do I Need?

Prudent Site Checks

Permit Application Forms

Standard Operating Procedures


Division of Ground Water Protection

TDEC Rule 1200-1-6:exittdec3.gif (1060 bytes) Regulations to Govern Subsurface Sewage Disposal Systems

TCA Section 68-221-401..414:exittdec3.gif (1060 bytes) Subsurface Sewage Disposal Systems