Incorrectly installed septic systems can harm water quality and make people sick, which is why South Carolina law requires site approvals and permits for all septic systems. 

If you are planning to build a large residential community with many homes, including manufactured homes, on property not served by a public or community sewer system, you must first obtain SCDES's approval and permits to install septic systems. Without these permits, your county will not be able to issue you building permits.

Incorrectly installed septic systems can harm water quality and make people sick, which is why South Carolina law requires site approvals and permits for all septic systems. 

If you are planning to build a home or place a manufactured home on property not served by a public or community sewer system, you must first obtain DHEC's approval and a permit to install a septic system. Without this permit, your county will not be able to issue you a building permit.

If you install, clean, or repair septic systems or if you haul and dispose of sewage from septic systems and portable toilets, you must be licensed by DHEC and renew your license each year.

Application Form

Download and complete the application form for a License to Construct or Clean Onsite Wastewater Systems and Self-Contained Toilets, then contact your local DHEC Environmental Affairs office to make arrangements for testing.

Incorrectly installed septic systems can harm water quality and make people sick, which is why South Carolina law requires site approvals and permits for all septic systems. 

If you are planning to build a commercial facility (restaurant, laundry mat, etc.) not served by a public or community sewer system, you must first obtain DHEC's approval and permits to install septic systems. Without these permits, your county will not be able to issue you building permits.

General Process

After you apply for a permit to install a septic tank for a new home:

If your land and septic system are ever flooded, follow this advice:

• Do not use your sinks and toilets if the soil around your home and septic system is saturated and flooded. Your septic system will not work.
• Plug all drains in the basement and drastically reduce water use until the system has time to recover.
• If you clean up flood waters inside your home or basement, do not dump the water in your sink or toilet.
• Do not open the septic tank or have it pumped it out while the soil is still saturated.

Looking to purchase land for your new home? Call your local government to determine water and sewer availability.

The process to locate a septic tank on property varies by the year a home was built and whether a copy of the septic permit is available. Please select the scenario below and follow its guidance. 

Please follow these safety rules at all times.