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Septic & well regulations in Harrison County, TX

Harrison County is located in the East Texas / Piney Woods region of Texas. East Texas Piney Woods with sandy loam and clay soils over the Carrizo-Wilcox Aquifer. Caddo Lake (natural lake) and Sabine River create areas with high water tables. Understanding local permit requirements and soil conditions is essential before installing, repairing, or inspecting a septic system.

Permits & Requirements

New Installation

TCEQ OSSF permit required under 30 TAC Chapter 285. Site evaluation including soil analysis required. Permit application submitted to TCEQ Region 5 Tyler office. Properties 10 acres or larger with a single-family dwelling may qualify for the 10-acre exemption.

Repair

Emergency repairs may proceed without prior permit but must be reported to TCEQ within 72 hours. Non-emergency repairs require a permit from TCEQ Region 5.

Inspection

Aerobic systems require inspections 3 times per year by a licensed Maintenance Provider. A 2-year initial maintenance contract is mandatory for all new aerobic installations.

Harrison County Environmental Health

TCEQ Region 5 - Tyler Office

Contact the county environmental health department for permit applications, soil evaluation scheduling, and regulatory questions.

Soil & Terrain Characteristics

East Texas Piney Woods with sandy loam and clay soils over the Carrizo-Wilcox Aquifer. Caddo Lake (natural lake) and Sabine River create areas with high water tables. Sandy upland soils support conventional systems.

County-Specific Considerations

Harrison County is served by TCEQ Region 5 Tyler office for OSSF permitting. Marshall is the county seat. Caddo Lake is the only natural lake in Texas. Wetland areas around the lake require careful septic design. Wells draw from the Carrizo-Wilcox at 100-400 feet.

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Septic Permits & Regulations in Harrison County — FAQ

How much does a septic permit cost in Harrison County, TX?

Septic permit fees in Harrison County vary by permit type. New installation permits typically cost $200–$500, while repair permits are usually $100–$300. Contact TCEQ Region 5 - Tyler Office at (903) 535-5100 for current fee schedules.

How long does it take to get a septic permit in Harrison County?

The septic permit process in Harrison County generally takes 2–6 weeks, depending on soil evaluation scheduling and application completeness. Soil evaluations must be performed by a licensed soil scientist before applying.

Do I need a soil evaluation for a septic permit in Harrison County?

Yes. Harrison County requires a professional soil evaluation before issuing any septic permit. A licensed soil scientist evaluates soil type, depth, drainage, and water table levels to determine the appropriate septic system design.

Who handles septic inspections in Harrison County, TX?

TCEQ Region 5 - Tyler Office oversees all septic system inspections in Harrison County. Contact them at (903) 535-5100 to schedule an inspection or ask about requirements.

Can I install my own septic system in Harrison County?

Harrison County requires septic system installation by licensed contractors. All installations must be permitted through TCEQ Region 5 - Tyler Office and pass inspection before the system can be used.

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