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 investigation within five workdays of receiving your completed application and notification that the property is marked.

If approved for permitting, the inspector will forward his or her on-site report to the permitting section. A construction permit will be issued to you within three work days after receiving an approved on-site investigation and reviewing design plans

The construction permit will be mailed to you. Upon receipt of the permit, you may proceed with the installation of your on-site septic system.

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. If you are unable to pick up the notice at the site, you may call 1-800-776-5272, Ext. 3171 on the afternoon of the day following your inspection for a verbal report.

5. License process
When your system is completed and approved for use, you will receive a license to operate. This license will be mailed to you within 20 workdays of the final inspection.

For more information, see FAQs about on-site sewage program.