If you're building a new home in Comal County, replacing a septic system, or even making significant repairs, you're going to deal with permits and regulations. Understanding the rules upfront can save you time, money, and a lot of frustration.
Who Makes the Rules?
Septic systems in Texas are regulated by the Texas Commission on Environmental Quality (TCEQ). TCEQ sets the statewide standards for on-site sewage facilities (OSSFs), and counties enforce those rules through a designated representative.
The Permitting Process
Step 1: Site Evaluation
A licensed site evaluator examines soil conditions, measures depth to bedrock, performs percolation testing, and identifies features that affect system placement.
Step 2: System Design
Based on the site evaluation, a licensed installer or professional engineer designs the system — tank size, system type, drain field layout, and setback distances.
Step 3: Permit Application
Submitted to Comal County with the site evaluation report, system design, property survey, and fees. Plan for 2 to 4 weeks turnaround.
Step 4: Installation
A licensed installer builds the system according to the approved design. Any changes require county approval.
Step 5: Final Inspection
The county inspects before the system can be covered. It cannot be backfilled or used until it passes.
Key OSSF Rules to Know
Setback distances. Minimum distances from wells (50 to 150 feet), property lines (5 to 10 feet), structures, and water features.
Minimum lot size. Depends on system type. Lots under a half acre may have limited options.
Aerobic maintenance contracts. TCEQ requires a two-year maintenance contract at installation, with inspections every four months.
Transfer inspections. May be required when property changes hands.
What Happens If You Build Without a Permit?
- Fines. TCEQ and Comal County can impose significant fines.
- Removal or replacement. You may have to remove an unpermitted system and install a properly permitted one — paying twice.
- Property sale complications. An unpermitted system can derail a real estate transaction.
- Liability. If an unpermitted system contaminates a neighbor's well, you face legal liability on top of penalties.
How A&R Handles the Paperwork
We handle the permitting process for every system we install — coordinating the site evaluation, preparing the design and application, submitting to the county, scheduling the final inspection, and making sure it passes the first time.
You don't need to become an expert on TCEQ regulations — that's our job. When you hire us, the permit process is included.
Need help with your septic system?
Start your project or call (830) 837-0050