On-Site Wastewater Program

On-Site Wastewater Program North Carolina general statutes state that a person owning or controlling a residence, place of business, or place of public assembly shall provide an approved sanitary sewage system. As a result, the Commission for Health Services has compiled rules and regulations addressing the placement, design, installation, and maintenance of subsurface ground absorption sewage disposal systems. The Environmental Health Section of the Department of Public Health acts as authorized agents of the Department of Environment and Natural Resources and ensures that these rules and regulations are enforced and the public's health is protected.

Apply for a Sewage Disposal System Permit

How to Register for the Online Public Portal

Creating a Permit Application

The Environmental Health Specialist will make a site evaluation based on the following factors:

• Topography and landscape position
• Soil characteristics
• Soil wetness
• Soil depth
• Restrictive horizons
• Available space

Once the lot has been evaluated and approved, a Construction Authorization Permit for a subsurface sewage disposal system is issued. This permit is also used to obtain building permits at the County Permits and Inspections Department. Once the septic system is installed, another inspection is performed. If approved, an Operations Permit is issued to the property owner. 

Please see the Forms & Fee Schedule for a list of fees.

Certified Septic Installers

All septic system contractors must be certified by the North Carolina Onsite Wastewater Contractor Inspector Certification Board.