Licensing Guides
State Septic License: How to Become a Septic Contractor in Arkansas
Septic, AR
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Septic License Requirements in Arkansas
We all need safe, reliable sewage management for our homes and businesses. Those homeowners and businesses that rely on septic tanks, also known as on-site sewage facilities (OSSF), depend on people who know how to install and maintain those systems. Everyone, in every community, needs septic professionals to have the expertise to protect the environment and water supply from the inherent contaminants. In the state of Arkansas, septic systems are also referred to as individual sewage disposal systems. Roughly 40% of Arkansas’s population is on a septic system.
There are 27,900 septic tank servicers and sewer pipe cleaners nationwide, according to the Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS,) and Arkansas employs 110 of them. The projected growth rate nationally is expected to be 8% from 2023 to 2033, adding 3,000 of these skilled workers to the ranks. In Arkansas, according to CareerOneStop, the U.S. Department of Labor’s job search website, the projected growth rate is much higher at 20% for septic tank servicers and sewer pipe cleaners.
If you’re thinking about starting a business in this field or you want a job in it, you need to know the rules and regulations in your state or local jurisdiction. This guide will help you determine what you need before you get started.
Who Issues Septic Licenses in Arkansas?
Licensing for septic installers for the entire state of Arkansas falls under the authority of the Arkansas Department of Health (ADH), specifically the Onsite Wastewater Program. In Arkansas, Act 402 requires septic tank installers and septic tank manufacturers to be licensed and pass an examination.
According to the ADH, “The Arkansas Department of Health’s Onsite Wastewater program sets statewide policies and provides assistance to Environmental Health Specialists in each of the county health departments. This program, in cooperation with the local Environmental Specialist, reviews permit applications for onsite wastewater systems under 5,000 gallons per day for subsurface treatment and under 2,000 gallons per day for surface discharging design.”
The ADH, located in Little Rock, is also responsible for approving and inspecting individual disposal systems, including subdivisions, mobile homes, and alternate and experimental sewage systems. The ADH’s website includes more information for licensing, training, renewal, and more.
Types of Septic Licenses in Arkansas
Arkansas offers three license classifications related to septic work: Septic Tank Installer, Septic Tank Cleaner, and Designated Representative. Each license includes specific licensing requirements. See the ADH license descriptions below.
Septic Tank Installer: “Any person, firm, corporation, association, municipality, or governmental agency licensed by the department, which constructs, installs, alters, or repairs onsite wastewater systems for others.”
Septic Tank Cleaner: “Any person, firm, corporation, or association which cleans septic tanks, marine sanitation devices, portable toilets, or transports septage or sewage within the State of Arkansas.”
Designated Representative: “A person certified by the Department to make percolation tests, system designs, and inspections subject to the Authorized Agent's final approval.”
Steps to Get a Septic License in Arkansas
The steps to earn any of the septic licenses listed above are similar, with variations in the work experience and examination requirements.
Septic Tank Installer: (No application required)
Gain employment with a licensed septic company
Meet criminal history requirements and background check
Pass a licensing examination administered by ADH
Pay the $100 registration fee
Septic Tank Cleaner: (No application required)
Gain employment with a licensed septic company
Meet criminal history requirements and background check
Pass a licensing examination administered by ADH
Pay the $25 license fee
Designated Representative:
Note: Designated Representatives must first obtain a professional degree, including engineer, land surveyor, sanitarian, or master plumber, to qualify for the DR license.
Complete the Designated Representative application
Complete the Designated Representative application letter
Pass a licensing examination administered by ADH
Pay the $100 registration fee
Benefits of Getting a Septic License in Texas
There are many benefits to getting a septic license in Arkansas.
First, and most important, it is illegal to operate as an Septic Tank Installer, Septic Tank Cleaner, and Designated Representative in Arkansas without being licensed.
A license is proof of your experience and skill in the industry.
Only licensed professionals can operate a business and advertise services and perform them.
Having a license protects your company and customers.
Licensing gives you a competitive advantage in the job market.
It also increases your earning potential.
How Much Does It Cost to Get a Septic License in Arkansas?
Getting a septic license in Arkansas is reasonably affordable. None of the licenses require an exam fee. The Installer and Designated Representative licenses have a $100 registration fee. The Cleaner license has a $25 registration fee.
Note: Each license requires annual renewal at the same rate as the registration fee.
What Business Owners Need to Know
Getting the most out of a septic technician, no matter where they are in their licensing journey, takes work. ServiceTitan cloud-based, all-in-one septic business software gives technicians and business owners the technology they need to do the work efficiently, and the data they need to do it smartly.
ServiceTitan features:
SMS communications that keep customers informed about the technician’s visit.
Location-specific service history, including recorded calls, accessible from the mobile app.
Required forms that ensure every job is done right, driving consistency.
The ability to build multi-option proposals with photos, on-site, in minutes.
Sales presentations that make conversations with customers easier and drive the average ticket.
Mobile payment acceptance, eliminating lost checks and increasing cash flow.
To learn more, schedule a demo with a product expert today.
How to Get a Septic License in Arkansas
There are no educational requirements to get started as a septic professional. However, the ADH requires you to be gainfully employed by a licensed septic business in order to apply for licensing. Next, prepare to take the installer licensing exam, administered by the ADH. Exams are held several times per year at the Arkansas Rural Water Association in Lonoke. The examination includes 100 multiple-choice questions that cover math, wiring, and field sections, where applicants must “record rod readings/elevations and determine if maximum storage of effluent can be achieved.”
The ADH provides an Installer license Study Packet to help you prepare for the exam. View a list of the Installer exam dates here, but note you don’t need to register for the exam. After passing the exam with a score of 75% or better and paying the $100 certification fee, you’ll receive your license.
The steps to obtain the Cleaner license are similar to the Installer license. You must gain employment, pass the licensing exam, and pay the $25 certification fee.
Note: You don’t need to fill out an application for the Installer or Cleaner license.
To qualify as a Designated Representative, you must already possess one of several approved professional titles, including engineer, land surveyor, and master plumber. This is because the DR provides specialized knowledge and usually works in tandem with septic businesses. If you meet these qualifications, you can submit the Designated Representative application, application letter, and take the license exam. After passing the exam with a score of 75% or better and paying the $100 certification fee, you’ll receive your license.
If you don’t already hold one of the professional titles mentioned above, you may still apply for a Designated Representative License if you meet either of these requirements:
Bachelor’s degree in natural science or math
Three years of experience in septic system design AND attached statement from an Environmental Health Specialist and Designated Representative affirming experience
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How Long Does it Take to Get a Septic License in Arkansas?
Compared to other trades, it doesn’t take long to receive an installer or cleaner license in Arkansas. After gaining employment with a licensed company, the only other requirement is passing the corresponding exam.
Arkansas Septic Training Programs and Schools
Because Arkansas doesn’t require formal training before starting employment with a septic company, there aren’t many training options available. A majority of the training opportunities (required for renewal) take place at the Arkansas Environmental Training Academy at Southern Arkansas University Tech.
Arkansas Septic Licensing Exam Details
As part of the process to receive your Septic Tank Installer, Cleaner, or Designated Representative license, you will need to take and pass an examination via the ADH.
Installer/Cleaner exam details:
The Installer/Cleaner license exam is administered on a monthly basis. Click here to see a list of exam dates. You do not need to register for the exam, but you must take the exam at the Arkansas Rural Water Association in Lonoke.
The exam consists of 100 questions, and candidates may consult the Study Packet during the exam. The test covers environmental health, soil evaluation, and wastewater treatment facilities, as well as effluent filters, septage and sewage treatment, vector and pathogen reduction, applicable federal and state laws, land application and property lines, plan review, and permit fees as required by form EHP-19.
A minimum of 75% is required to receive licensure.
Designated Representative exam details:
The ADH advises candidates to review the exam Study Packet to prepare for the test.
The exam consists of four parts:
Part 1: 50 multiple-choice questions chosen from information in the Act 402, as amended, 2014, and the Rules and Regulations Pertaining to Onsite Wastewater Systems, 2019
Part 2: Includes pressure distribution and pump design problem
Part 3: Involves determining the loading rate from two actual soil profiles, texturing a known sample of soil for clay percentage, and using the textural triangle to determine textural classification
Part 4: Tests ability to design, lay out, and draw to scale an onsite wastewater system
A minimum of 75% is required to pass each section, and each section is stand-alone. Exams are given once a quarter. Contact Nicholas.Kitchens@arkansas.gov to register for the exam.
Do I Need to Renew My Arkansas Septic License?
Arkansas requires septic workers to renew their licenses annually. According to the ADH, all septic licenses expire on Dec. 31. License holders must complete the recertification form and pay the renewal fee, which is $100 for installers and designated representatives and $25 for cleaners. All license holders must also attend one annual training course approved by the Department.
Visit the Onsite Wastewater Program website to find renewal forms for all three septic licenses.
Arkansas Septic License Exceptions
Arkansas has a permitting exemption for work performed by the homeowner on a single residence where all parts of the sewage system are more than 200 feet from any property line, including roads.
According to the ADH, “The exemption is only for obtaining a permit. The property owner is still required to install and operate the sewage system in a manner that meets state requirements and does not cause a nuisance. A letter stating that the property is exempt from the permit requirement may be obtained from the local Health Unit.”
Does Arkansas Reciprocate Septic Licenses?
Yes, Arkansas does reciprocate septic licenses so long as the training requirements are equal to or greater than the licensing requirements in Arkansas. Out-of-state- candidates must be actively licensed and in good standing to qualify for reciprocity.
National Septic Certifications
Other certifications can help you demonstrate your proficiency to potential employers and clients. The National Association of Wastewater Technicians and the National Onsite Wastewater Recycling Association offer certifications. Those and other professional certifications are not required but can add to your marketability and therefore increase your opportunity to make more money. You can also learn more about certification and the septic business in Arkansas through the Arkansas Water & Wastewater Managers Association.
Other Requirements Unique to Arkansas
While performing commercial septic services requires a license in Arkansas, the state allows homeowners to perform very limited work on their owner-occupied, single-family homes. Property owners should contact the local board of health before starting work.
Continuing Education
In Arkansas, septic installers, cleaners, and designated representatives are required to attend an annual state-run seminar organized by the Arkansas Department of Health to renew their licenses. Contact the ADH for more information on training session dates and locations.
Resources
You can stay up to date on all septic industry news several ways:
Check top septic blogs, including ServiceTitan’s blog.
Read about the latest industry trends, and discover ideas on how to grow your septic business.
Listen to top septic podcasts like ServiceTitan’s “Toolbox for the Trades” podcast.
The states have licensing requirements for other trades too. You can find out more about how to get an HVAC, Plumbing, or Electrical license in any of the 50 states and the District of Columbia through the ServiceTitan Licensing Hub.
