In Missouri all on-site sewage disposal systems except a single family residence on 3 acres or more has been required to get a “permit to construct” since 1996.
Who can install the on-site sewage disposal system?
Since 2004 an installer registered with the Missouri Department of Health must install all systems. The list for Texas County can be found on the link provided or contact this office.
How is it determined what sewage system should be installed?
The first step is obtaining a “soils morphology report”. From this information, along with specific site considerations and what is being served, a system can then be designed.
What if the soils report says conventional septic tank and laterals won’t work on my site?
Then you will need to have an engineer design an alternative system installed by an advanced installer. In a few cases a lagoon might be allowed if you can meet the set-backs. Lagoons don’t require an engineer.
Can I add additional residences on a lot greater than 3 acres without getting a permit?
It depends on the number of acres. To be exempt your will need 10 acres in the aggregate for each residence and all points of the sewage systems must be 360 feet or more apart. If these things aren’t the case you will need to get a permit.
We are selling our home and the buyer wants the sewage system inspected, can you do that?
No, as there are trained/registered 3rd party inspectors to do this type of request. I will supply a list of these persons
Do I need a permit to renovate the sewage disposal system?
Yes, unless you are exempt by being a single-family residence on 3 acres or more.
While driving down this country road I saw several houses that had what appeared to be sewage running into the ditch, can I make a complaint?
No, you must be an adjoining landowner or be an aggrieved party.
If I have more than 3 acres and have received a “Notice of Violation” from the Department of Health, do I need a permit to renovate or change the system?
Yes, once you are cited with a “Notice of Violation” the number of acres is irrelative. Once you have installed a proper system you will be exempt again.
