Jurisdiction

Austin Water regulates On-Site Sewage Facilities (OSSF), commonly known as septic tanks, within the City of Austin full jurisdiction and areas annexed for implementing the Health and Safety Code. Properties with water frontage on Lake Austin or its tributaries are in the City of Austin jurisdiction regardless of lot configuration, house location, or drainfield location.

If you are not sure your property is located within the City of Austin's jurisdiction for OSSFs, you can enter your address in the OSSF Interactive Map provided below. Alternatively, you may use the Full Page Interactive Map. The following information may be obtained from this interactive map:

  • Whether your property is located within the City's jurisdiction for OSSFs.
  • Whether your property is located within the Edwards Aquifer Recharge Zone or the Barton Springs segment.

Regulatory Authority

The City of Austin is authorized by the Texas Commission on Environmental Quality to administer the On-site Sewage Facilities (OSSF) Program. The program falls primarily under the authority of TCEQ rules contained within 30 TAC Ch.285 On-Site Sewage Facilities.

OSSFs installed and operated within the City of Austin's jurisdiction must follow the requirement established in City Code, Ch.15-5

Services We Provide

Permitting: Process permit applications and related fees for new and/or existing on-site sewage system.

Inspections: Perform inspections as part of the permitting or complaint investigation processes

Complaint Investigation: Investigate exposed sewage and public complaints related to OSSFs. This activity may involve issuing legal notices of violation and/or initiating potential court actions. Program Information: Address general customer inquiries, including system records' information requests, permitting and fee process inquiries, technical inquiries on types of systems and regulatory compliance questions.

Fee Schedule

Fees are associated with all services provided and are reviewed annually during the City budget process. All fees are collected when applications for service are made and submitted. Additional fees may be required depending on specific aspects of an application or when permits have expired and are being reactivated or renewed. See a complete listing of OSSF Fees.

Division Contact Information

Physical Address

Austin Water Utility, Utility Development Services Division, OSSF Program, 6310 Wilhelmina Delco Drive in Austin

  • Division Phone Numbers: Division/Program Management Inquiries: 512-972-0050
  • Exposed Sewage Complaints: 512-972-1000