Licensing Guides
State Septic License: How to Become a Septic Contractor in Florida
Septic, FL
Table of Contents
Septic License Requirements in Florida
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 from the inherent contaminants. In the state of Florida, septic systems are also referred to as onsite sewage treatment and disposal systems (OSTDS). Roughly 30% of Florida’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 Florida employs 1,390 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 Florida, according to CareerOneStop, the U.S. Department of Labor’s job search website, the projected growth rate is more than double that at 18% 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 requirements in your state or local jurisdiction. This guide will help you determine what you need before you get started.
Who Issues Septic Licenses in Florida?
Licensing for septic installers for the entire state of Florida falls under the authority of the Florida Department of Environmental Protection - Onsite Sewage Program. The department’s website includes requirements for licensing, training, renewal, and more. You can also register to take an exam and find training and continuing education courses.
Permitting and inspection of OSTDS is handled by the Environmental Health section of the Florida Department of Health (DOH) in each county.
Types of Septic Licenses in Florida
To operate as an OSTDS installer, maintenance provider, or maintenance technician, Florida statutes require you to be licensed and registered by the Florida Department of Environmental Protection. Florida offers two license classifications, Registered Septic Tank Contractor and Master Septic Tank Contractor. Both licenses include specific licensing requirements.
Additionally, Florida allows licensed plumbers to work on septic systems, and a homeowner can do septic work only on his or her owner-occupied, single-family home.
The Registered Septic Tank Contractor is authorized to perform the following services under the supervision of a licensed Master Septic Tank Contractor or Plumbing Contractor.
Install on-site sewage treatment and disposal systems
Repair, modify, and maintain on-site sewage treatment and disposal systems
Septic tank pumping and septage disposal services, excluding companies which only provide portable toilet or temporary holding tank services
The Master Septic Tank Contractor is authorized to perform “unlimited” septic tank contracting services and “has the experience, knowledge, and skills to install, maintain, repair, close repairs of, and alter all types of on-site sewage treatment and disposal systems, to design on-site sewage treatment and disposal systems, where not prohibited by law, to perform and submit soil evaluations, when determined to meet site-evaluation expertise established by rule, and to use materials and items used in the installation and maintenance of all types of on-site sewage treatment and disposal systems.”
Steps to Get a Septic License in Florida
The steps to earn any of the septic licenses listed above are similar, with variations in the work experience and examination requirements.
Registered Septic Tank Contractor
Demonstrate 3 years of active experience serving under the supervision and control of a registered septic tank contractor or a plumbing contractor
Review Septic Tank Contractor Registration packet and complete the application for Septic Tank Contractor Registration
Meet criminal history requirements and background check
Include the business name of all contractors you trained under
Pass the license examination administered by the Department with a minimum passing score of 75%.
Pay the $75 exam fee and $100 registration fee to the Florida DEP
Provide a list of the 25 most recent contracts by the applicant or business organization completed immediately preceding the date of filing
Provide two customer references
Submit documentation of payment of federal withholding tax and social security as required by law
Submit two recent color passport-style photographs
Mail the completed application, fees, and supporting documentation to:
Florida Department of Environmental Protection Division of Water Resource Management Onsite Sewage Program 2600 Blair Stone Road, MS 3596, Tallahassee, FL 32399-2400
Master Septic Tank Contractor
Demonstrate 3 years of active experience as registered septic tank contractor or a licensed plumbing contractor
Completed 30 hours of “master contractor course work approved by the department. At a minimum, this course work shall include “training and testing of soil classification, system design and theory, system material and construction standards, and regulatory requirements.”
Complete the application for Master Septic Tank Contractor
Meet criminal history requirements and background check
Pass the license examination based on the Florida Administrative Code Chapter 62-6 with a score of at least 75%.
Pay the $75 exam fee and $100 registration fee to the Florida DEP
Pay the $25 fee if starting a partnership or corporation
Mail the completed application, fee, and supporting documentation to:
Florida Department of Environmental Protection Division of Water Resource Management Onsite Sewage Program 2600 Blair Stone Road, MS 3596, Tallahassee, FL 32399-2400
Benefits of Getting a Septic License in Florida
There are many benefits to getting a septic license in Florida.
First, and most important, it is illegal to operate as a septic installer, maintenance provider, or maintenance technician in Florida without being licensed or registered by the DEP.
A license is proof of your experience and skill in the industry.
Only licensed professionals can operate a business and advertise septic 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 Florida?
Getting a septic license in Florida is reasonably affordable. For both license classifications, you need to pay a $75 examination fee and $100 registration fee. Partnerships need to pay an additional $250 for registration.
Note: License renewal and continuing education courses will add to the cost over time.
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.
The #1 newsletter for the trades.
How to Get a Septic License in Florida
There are no educational requirements to get started as a septic professional in Florida if you begin as an apprentice working for a licensed professional.
You need to achieve three years of verifiable hands-on work experience in order to qualify for the Registered Septic Tank Contractor license and exam. Most people obtain their experience working for a private septic company. Out-of-state training may be accepted on a case-by-case basis. After obtaining the minimal work experience, you can fill out the license application and schedule the exam. The examination is open book and consists of 100 questions based on Chapter 62-6 of the Florida Administrative Code. After submitting the required documentation, passing the exam, and paying the $100 registration fee, you’ll receive your license.
To receive a Master Septic Contractor license, you need to work for three years as a licensed Registered Septic Tank Contractor and also complete 30 hours of approved course work by the Department. After meeting these requirements, you can apply for the master license and prepare for the exam. The examination is closed book and consists of 100 multiple choice questions based on Chapter 62-6 of the Florida Administrative Code. After submitting the required documentation, passing the exam, and paying the $100 registration fee, you’ll receive your license.
Note: “Completed application and all required support documentation must be received by the department’s Division of Water Resource Management at least 21 days prior to examination. This office reviews each application to determine the applicant’s eligibility for examination. If eligible for examination, the applicant is notified of an examination date. If the applicant is determined ineligible for examination, the applicant is notified of the reasons for the determination.”
You may also begin your journey in the field after obtaining a Florida plumbing license. Licensed plumbers are exempt from taking the registration exam but still need to meet the other requirements. View the complete Florida Plumbing licensing requirements here.
How Long Does it Take to Get a Septic License in Florida?
While you can begin work as a septic apprentice without any training, Florida requires a minimum of three years of qualified work experience in order to receive a Registered Septic Tank Contractor license. You must work an additional three years as a licensed septic contractor to qualify for the master license.
Florida Septic Training Programs and Schools
Because the Florida Department of Environmental protection specifies which training programs are approved for each license, there is not a lot of choice as to where to attend. A majority of the training opportunities take place at the Florida Onsite Wastewater Association's Training Center in Polk City, Florida.
Florida Septic Licensing Exam Details
As part of the process to receive your Registered Septic Tank Contractor or Master Septic Tank Contractor License you will need to take and pass an examination via the Florida DEP. These examinations are designed to demonstrate that applicants have a grasp of the information needed to perform the various jobs. They are offered at testing centers throughout the state.
Both examinations include 100 multiple choice questions based on Chapter 62-6 of the Florida Administrative Code. Candidates taking the standard exam can use notes, while the master exam is closed book. Both exams require a minimum passing score of 75%.
Examinations are offered in Tallahassee and Orlando. Contact OSTDS_SepticContracting@FloridaDEP.gov to verify the next exam dates.
Do I Need to Renew My Florida Septic Licensee?
Florida requires septic contractors to renew their licenses annually. According to the DEP, all septic tank contractor registrations expire on Sept. 30. If you wish to renew your registration, complete DEP Form 4076 Application for Septic Tank Contractor Registration Renewal and return it to the DEP along with copies of your continuing education certificates and a check or money order for $100 payable to the Florida DEP. Renewal applications must be postmarked no later than Sept. 30 every year. Registrations not renewed annually, by Sept. 30, will automatically revert to inactive status.
Florida Septic License Exceptions
There are few exemptions from the DEP licensing rules in place in Florida. Any person performing septic work for pay must be licensed. However, a homeowner is allowed to perform septic work only on his or her owner-occupied, single-family home.
Does Florida Reciprocate Septic Licenses?
Yes, Florida does reciprocate septic licenses so long as the training requirements are equal to or greater than the licensing requirements in Florida. Click here for more information on license reciprocity. To begin the process, fill out the Reciprocity Application.
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.
Other Requirements Unique to Florida
While performing commercial septic services requires a license in Florida, the state allows homeowners to perform septic work on their owner-occupied, single-family homes.
Continuing Education
The Florida Department of Environmental Protection requires continuing education in order to renew a septic license.
Contractors must complete a minimum of six classroom hours of approved training for renewal each year.
Master Contractors must complete 18 classroom hours of approved training for renewal each year.
Contractors typically complete their continuing education through their local county health department.
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 such as 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.
