Septic System Ownership in Oklahoma

Septic system ownership is a common occurrence for homeowners in the small towns and rural areas of Oklahoma. Therefore, a number of guidelines and rules exist to carefully regulate the installation and maintenance of private septic systems in order to keep the state's land and water healthy.

Regulation of Septic Tank Systems

The Department of Environmental Quality (DEQ) is the governing body responsible for the treatment of sewage and related matters for private households or public utility. Their guidelines are meant to prevent the pollution of waterways and groundwater sources from sewage contamination.

Licensure Requirements for Septic System Contractors

Based on Title 252, Chapter 645 of the Oklahoma Administrative Code, the DEQ issues licenses for installers and contractors of sewage systems. They also have regulations to guide pumping, hauling, and disposing of sewage which requires the operator to obtain an annual license from the DEQ. Vehicles used for the purposes of pumping, hauling or disposing of sewage also need to be inspected by and registered with the DEQ annually.

Installing a New Septic System

Homeowners have to apply to DEQ for a permit install a private onsite sewage system on their property using a prescribed application form. Soil testing reports and diagrams of exact location from buildings and other water sources are to be provided. Once the soil has been deemed fit for construction of a sewage system, a permit to construct will be authorized. A certified Installer or DEQ representative is required to inspect and approve new installations prior to granting permission to run it.

How to File a Complaint

Environmental complaints can be made through a 24-hour Complaint Hotline at 1-800-522-0206 or via an online complaint form.

Contact information for local DEQ offices can be found here.