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Septic Systems

Septic Permitting

Starting January 2, 2025, the Florida Department of Environmental Protection (DEP) will manage septic system permitting in 16 counties: Bay, Calhoun, Escambia, Franklin, Gadsden, Gulf, Holmes, Jackson, Jefferson, Leon, Liberty, Okaloosa, Santa Rosa, Wakulla, Walton, and Washington. For more information, visit DEP’s Onsite Sewage Program webpage. If you live outside these 16 counties, your local county health department will still handle septic system permitting and inspections.
Since July 1, 2021, the DEP has been in charge of enforcing Florida laws and rules about Onsite Sewage Treatment and Disposal Systems (OSTDS).
If you have any questions, email OSTDS_Feedback@FloridaDEP.gov.

Onsite sewage treatment and disposal systems (OSTDS), commonly referred to as septic systems, are a safe and effective means of wastewater disposal for 30% of Florida’s population.

The OSTDS program ensures that the OSTDS is properly designed, constructed, and maintained through permitting and inspection and contributes to safe ground water, which provides 90% of Florida’s drinking water. 

Bill Pay 

Environmental Health bills and fees can be paid in-person, by mail, or through our online bill pay site.

Location and Contact Information 

Find local contact information at the following FDOH-location-finder

Private Provider Inspections 

Starting July 1, 2022, owners or contractors with owner authorization, have the option to hire a private provider to perform inspections of OSTDS.

DEP has begun implementation of this new law. Visit private provider inspections of OSTDS for more information.

OSTDS Operating Permits 

Only apply to counties that use operating permits.

Operating permits are required for aerobic treatment units (ATU), performance based treatments systems (PBTS), commercial septic systems, and industrial or manufacturing zoned (or equivalent) septic systems.