KEEP YOUR SEPTIC SYSTEM RUNNING WELL

 The septic maintenance and operation requirements for Ellis County, Texas, outside of city limits are primarily governed by the Texas Commission on Environmental Quality (TCEQ) regulations and enforced by the Ellis County Department of Development. System maintenance requirements include the following: Routine Pumping: Septic tanks must be pumped out periodically to remove sludge and scum build-up. The frequency depends on the tank size and household usage but is generally every 3-5 years. Any repairs must comply with TCEQ regulations and may require approval or permitting from Ellis County. Aerobic systems require a maintenance contract with a licensed service provider for the life of the system. Do not allow grease, oils, chemicals, or non-biodegradable materials to enter the system. Avoid overloading the system with excessive water use. Fix leaking faucets and spread out laundry loads. Do not park vehicles, plant trees, or build structures over the drain field. Maintain proper grading to prevent erosion or runoff.

An aerobic septic system in Ellis County, Texas, is an on-site sewage facility (OSSF) designed to treat and dispose of wastewater using aerobic (oxygen-loving) bacteria. These systems are often used in areas where traditional septic systems are not feasible due to soil conditions, space limitations, or environmental concerns. 

The system introduces air into the wastewater treatment process to promote the growth of aerobic bacteria, which break down organic matter more effectively than anaerobic bacteria used in conventional systems

There are 4 treatment component steps of an Aerobic Septic System. 

• The Pretreatment Tank is the initial tank where solids settle, similar to a conventional septic tank.
•  The next treatment step is where air is introduced to the wastewater to promote aerobic bacterial activity.
•  The third step is the disinfection step. This is where treated water is disinfected using chlorine, Ultraviolet light or other methods. 
• The final step is where the treated water is either dispersed throughout a surface (spray irrigation ) or a subsurface drain field

Setbacks: Systems must meet distance requirements from property lines, water wells, and surface water.
Floodplains: Additional regulations may apply if the property is in a floodplain.
Variances: May be required for non-standard installations or properties with unique conditions. Routine pumping and maintenance are the homeowner's responsibility. Keep records of pumping and any repairs. Aerobic Systems must have a continuous maintenance contract with a licensed provide. Maintenance providers are required to submit inspection reports to the permitting authority.

Address: 109 S. Jackson St., Waxahachie, TX 75165
Phone: 972-825-5200
Website: Ellis County Department of Development
https://www.co.ellis.tx.us/Search?searchPhrase=DOD%20Development%20and%20Septic%20Permit%20Flowchart&pageNumber=1&perPage=10&departmentId=-1

Current regulations do not give homeowners the opportunity to maintain or repair their own OSSF systems. You must use a licensed OSSF expert.

Your site must be evaluated by a licensed site evaluaor or a license engineer. The table in this link will provide the information needed to determine what type of system you will need: https://www.tceq.texas.gov/permitting/ossf/ossfsystems.html

It is not recommended that the homeowner installs or maintains their own septic system, due to strict environmental standards and guidelines. Contact a reputable, licensed OSSF septic company for all of your septic system related issues.

Watch what you put down the drain. Fats, grease and solids, even coffee grinds can clog your system. Even with the use of a garbage disposal. Don't overload your toilet. Keep your septic area clear of trees, shrubs and roots as these can clog and damage your septic system. Check your yard regularely for leaks or sign of improper drainage. Have your system inspected and maintained by your county and city requirements. 

Region 4, Dallas/Fort Worth

You can call 817-588-5800, or write to  Ellis County DOD 2309 Gravel Drive Fort Worth, TX 76118. 

Properties within city limits may be subject to both county and city regulations. Although, Ellis County Department of Development still oversees TCEQ-mandated requirements for on site sewage facitlites (OSSF), your city authorities may impose additional regulations. These regulations and contact information can be answered by selecting city specific Permit Application questions in these FAQs. Cities may charge separate fees for their approval process and inspections. Within the city limits city inspectors may work with county inspectors. 

An aerobic septic system in Ellis County, Texas, is an on-site sewage facility (OSSF) designed to treat and dispose of wastewater using aerobic (oxygen-loving) bacteria. These systems are often used in areas where traditional septic systems are not feasible due to soil conditions, space limitations, or environmental concerns. 

 For properties located inside city limits in Ellis County, Texas, septic maintenance and operation requirements are primarily guided by Texas Commission on Environmental Quality (TCEQ) regulations, but additional rules may apply depending on the specific city’s ordinances. See city specific FAQs for further detail. We recommend that you contact your cities permitting office for detailed information. In summary, conventional septic systems should have the tanks pumped every 3-5 years to prenent sludge build up and system failure. Regular inspections will be required by a licesnes provider. Any repairs must meet the TCEQ standards and may require city approval. for Aerobic Treatment Units you will need maintenance contracts by a licensed provider. A contract should include periodic inspections, testing and maintenance 3 times per years or as required by your city permit. Systems using chlorine disinfection must have chlorine tablets replenished regularly with septic-safe chlorine products.

The system introduces air into the wastewater treatment process to promote the growth of aerobic bacteria, which break down organic matter more effectively than anaerobic bacteria used in conventional systems

Maintenance reports for aerobic systems must be submitted by licensed providers and submitted in a timely manner. Homeowners should maintain records of maintenance, pumping and repair activities. Further requirements for an outside cities can be found in other FAQs for that city.

There are 4 treatment component steps of an Aerobic Septic System. 

• The Pretreatment Tank is the initial tank where solids settle, similar to a conventional septic tank.
•  The next treatment step is where air is introduced to the wastewater to promote aerobic bacterial activity.
•  The third step is the disinfection step. This is where treated water is disinfected using chlorine, Ultraviolet light or other methods. 
• The final step is where the treated water is either dispersed throughout a surface (spray irrigation ) or a subsurface drain field

The system design must comply with TCEQ Chapter 285 regulations. Some cities may impose additional rules, stricter setbacks and enhanced treatment standards or addtional inspections. Follow your specific city guidelines along with those in the TCEQ Chapter 285 regulations. 
Types of systems permitted depend on soil conditions, property size, and usage. These include:
Conventional septic systems.
Aerobic treatment units.
Low-pressure dosing systems.
Systems must accommodate the expected wastewater flow and soil absorption rate. More information can be found by contacting the Ellis County Department of Development (DOD) at 109 S. Jackson St., Waxahachie, TX 75165 Phone 972-825-5200

Setbacks: Systems must meet distance requirements from property lines, water wells, and surface water.
Floodplains: Additional regulations may apply if the property is in a floodplain.
Variances: May be required for non-standard installations or properties with unique conditions. Routine pumping and maintenance are the homeowner's responsibility. Keep records of pumping and any repairs. Aerobic Systems must have a continuous maintenance contract with a licensed provide. Maintenance providers are required to submit inspection reports to the permitting authority.

Setbacks: Systems must meet distance requirements from property lines, water wells, and surface water. See city specifc questions for more detail. 
Floodplains: Additional regulations may apply if the property is in a floodplain.
Variances: May be required for non-standard installations or properties with unique conditions. Routine pumping and maintenance are the homeowner's responsibility. Keep records of pumping and any repairs. Aerobic Systems must have a continuous maintenance contract with a licensed provide. Maintenance providers are required to submit inspection reports to the permitting authority.

Address: 109 S. Jackson St., Waxahachie, TX 75165
Phone: 972-825-5200
Website: Ellis County Department of Development
https://www.co.ellis.tx.us/Search?searchPhrase=DOD%20Development%20and%20Septic%20Permit%20Flowchart&pageNumber=1&perPage=10&departmentId=-1

This will depend on the actual city requirements, not Ellis County Requirements. These regulations and contact information can be answered by selecting city specific Permit Application questions in these FAQs.

Current regulations do not give homeowners the opportunity to maintain or repair their own OSSF systems. You must use a licensed OSSF expert.

Your site must be evaluated by a licensed site evaluaor or a license engineer. The table in this link will provide the information needed to determine what type of system you will need: https://www.tceq.texas.gov/permitting/ossf/ossfsystems.html

It is not recommended that the homeowner installs or maintains their own septic system, due to strict environmental standards and guidelines. Contact a reputable, licensed OSSF septic company for all of your septic system related issues.

Watch what you put down the drain. Fats, grease and solids, even coffee grinds can clog your system. Even with the use of a garbage disposal. Don't overload your toilet. Keep your septic area clear of trees, shrubs and roots as these can clog and damage your septic system. Check your yard regularely for leaks or sign of improper drainage. Have your system inspected and maintained by your county and city requirements. 

Region 4, Dallas/Fort Worth

You can call 817-588-5800, or write to  Ellis County DOD 2309 Gravel Drive Fort Worth, TX 76118. 

An aerobic septic system in Ellis County, Texas, is an on-site sewage facility (OSSF) designed to treat and dispose of wastewater using aerobic (oxygen-loving) bacteria. These systems are often used in areas where traditional septic systems are not feasible due to soil conditions, space limitations, or environmental concerns. 

 For properties located inside city limits in Ellis County, Texas, septic maintenance and operation requirements are primarily guided by Texas Commission on Environmental Quality (TCEQ) regulations, but additional rules may apply depending on the specific city’s ordinances. See city specific FAQs for further detail. We recommend that you contact your cities permitting office for detailed information. In summary, conventional septic systems should have the tanks pumped every 3-5 years to prenent sludge build up and system failure. Regular inspections will be required by a licesnes provider. Any repairs must meet the TCEQ standards and may require city approval. for Aerobic Treatment Units you will need maintenance contracts by a licensed provider. A contract should include periodic inspections, testing and maintenance 3 times per years or as required by your city permit. Systems using chlorine disinfection must have chlorine tablets replenished regularly with septic-safe chlorine products.

The system introduces air into the wastewater treatment process to promote the growth of aerobic bacteria, which break down organic matter more effectively than anaerobic bacteria used in conventional systems

Maintenance reports for aerobic systems must be submitted by licensed providers and submitted in a timely manner. Homeowners should maintain records of maintenance, pumping and repair activities. Further requirements for an outside cities can be found in other FAQs for that city.

There are 4 treatment component steps of an Aerobic Septic System. 

• The Pretreatment Tank is the initial tank where solids settle, similar to a conventional septic tank.
•  The next treatment step is where air is introduced to the wastewater to promote aerobic bacterial activity.
•  The third step is the disinfection step. This is where treated water is disinfected using chlorine, Ultraviolet light or other methods. 
• The final step is where the treated water is either dispersed throughout a surface (spray irrigation ) or a subsurface drain field

The system design must comply with TCEQ Chapter 285 regulations. Some cities may impose additional rules, stricter setbacks and enhanced treatment standards or addtional inspections. Follow your specific city guidelines along with those in the TCEQ Chapter 285 regulations. 
Types of systems permitted depend on soil conditions, property size, and usage. These include:
Conventional septic systems.
Aerobic treatment units.
Low-pressure dosing systems.
Systems must accommodate the expected wastewater flow and soil absorption rate. More information can be found by contacting the Ellis County Department of Development (DOD) at 109 S. Jackson St., Waxahachie, TX 75165 Phone 972-825-5200

Setbacks: Systems must meet distance requirements from property lines, water wells, and surface water.
Floodplains: Additional regulations may apply if the property is in a floodplain.
Variances: May be required for non-standard installations or properties with unique conditions. Routine pumping and maintenance are the homeowner's responsibility. Keep records of pumping and any repairs. Aerobic Systems must have a continuous maintenance contract with a licensed provide. Maintenance providers are required to submit inspection reports to the permitting authority.

Setbacks: Systems must meet distance requirements from property lines, water wells, and surface water. See city specifc questions for more detail. 
Floodplains: Additional regulations may apply if the property is in a floodplain.
Variances: May be required for non-standard installations or properties with unique conditions. Routine pumping and maintenance are the homeowner's responsibility. Keep records of pumping and any repairs. Aerobic Systems must have a continuous maintenance contract with a licensed provide. Maintenance providers are required to submit inspection reports to the permitting authority.

Address: 109 S. Jackson St., Waxahachie, TX 75165
Phone: 972-825-5200
Website: Ellis County Department of Development
https://www.co.ellis.tx.us/Search?searchPhrase=DOD%20Development%20and%20Septic%20Permit%20Flowchart&pageNumber=1&perPage=10&departmentId=-1

This will depend on the actual city requirements, not Ellis County Requirements. These regulations and contact information can be answered by selecting city specific Permit Application questions in these FAQs.

Current regulations do not give homeowners the opportunity to maintain or repair their own OSSF systems. You must use a licensed OSSF expert.

Your site must be evaluated by a licensed site evaluaor or a license engineer. The table in this link will provide the information needed to determine what type of system you will need: https://www.tceq.texas.gov/permitting/ossf/ossfsystems.html

It is not recommended that the homeowner installs or maintains their own septic system, due to strict environmental standards and guidelines. Contact a reputable, licensed OSSF septic company for all of your septic system related issues.

Watch what you put down the drain. Fats, grease and solids, even coffee grinds can clog your system. Even with the use of a garbage disposal. Don't overload your toilet. Keep your septic area clear of trees, shrubs and roots as these can clog and damage your septic system. Check your yard regularely for leaks or sign of improper drainage. Have your system inspected and maintained by your county and city requirements. 

Region 4, Dallas/Fort Worth

You can call 817-588-5800, or write to  Ellis County DOD 2309 Gravel Drive Fort Worth, TX 76118. 

An aerobic septic system in Ellis County, Texas, is an on-site sewage facility (OSSF) designed to treat and dispose of wastewater using aerobic (oxygen-loving) bacteria. These systems are often used in areas where traditional septic systems are not feasible due to soil conditions, space limitations, or environmental concerns. 

 For properties located inside city limits in Ellis County, Texas, septic maintenance and operation requirements are primarily guided by Texas Commission on Environmental Quality (TCEQ) regulations, but additional rules may apply depending on the specific city’s ordinances. See city specific FAQs for further detail. We recommend that you contact your cities permitting office for detailed information. In summary, conventional septic systems should have the tanks pumped every 3-5 years to prenent sludge build up and system failure. Regular inspections will be required by a licesnes provider. Any repairs must meet the TCEQ standards and may require city approval. for Aerobic Treatment Units you will need maintenance contracts by a licensed provider. A contract should include periodic inspections, testing and maintenance 3 times per years or as required by your city permit. Systems using chlorine disinfection must have chlorine tablets replenished regularly with septic-safe chlorine products.

The system introduces air into the wastewater treatment process to promote the growth of aerobic bacteria, which break down organic matter more effectively than anaerobic bacteria used in conventional systems

Maintenance reports for aerobic systems must be submitted by licensed providers and submitted in a timely manner. Homeowners should maintain records of maintenance, pumping and repair activities. Further requirements for an outside cities can be found in other FAQs for that city.

There are 4 treatment component steps of an Aerobic Septic System. 

• The Pretreatment Tank is the initial tank where solids settle, similar to a conventional septic tank.
•  The next treatment step is where air is introduced to the wastewater to promote aerobic bacterial activity.
•  The third step is the disinfection step. This is where treated water is disinfected using chlorine, Ultraviolet light or other methods. 
• The final step is where the treated water is either dispersed throughout a surface (spray irrigation ) or a subsurface drain field

The system design must comply with TCEQ Chapter 285 regulations. Some cities may impose additional rules, stricter setbacks and enhanced treatment standards or addtional inspections. Follow your specific city guidelines along with those in the TCEQ Chapter 285 regulations. 
Types of systems permitted depend on soil conditions, property size, and usage. These include:
Conventional septic systems.
Aerobic treatment units.
Low-pressure dosing systems.
Systems must accommodate the expected wastewater flow and soil absorption rate. More information can be found by contacting the Ellis County Department of Development (DOD) at 109 S. Jackson St., Waxahachie, TX 75165 Phone 972-825-5200

Setbacks: Systems must meet distance requirements from property lines, water wells, and surface water.
Floodplains: Additional regulations may apply if the property is in a floodplain.
Variances: May be required for non-standard installations or properties with unique conditions. Routine pumping and maintenance are the homeowner's responsibility. Keep records of pumping and any repairs. Aerobic Systems must have a continuous maintenance contract with a licensed provide. Maintenance providers are required to submit inspection reports to the permitting authority.

Setbacks: Systems must meet distance requirements from property lines, water wells, and surface water. See city specifc questions for more detail. 
Floodplains: Additional regulations may apply if the property is in a floodplain.
Variances: May be required for non-standard installations or properties with unique conditions. Routine pumping and maintenance are the homeowner's responsibility. Keep records of pumping and any repairs. Aerobic Systems must have a continuous maintenance contract with a licensed provide. Maintenance providers are required to submit inspection reports to the permitting authority.

Address: 109 S. Jackson St., Waxahachie, TX 75165
Phone: 972-825-5200
Website: Ellis County Department of Development
https://www.co.ellis.tx.us/Search?searchPhrase=DOD%20Development%20and%20Septic%20Permit%20Flowchart&pageNumber=1&perPage=10&departmentId=-1

This will depend on the actual city requirements, not Ellis County Requirements. These regulations and contact information can be answered by selecting city specific Permit Application questions in these FAQs.

Current regulations do not give homeowners the opportunity to maintain or repair their own OSSF systems. You must use a licensed OSSF expert.

Your site must be evaluated by a licensed site evaluaor or a license engineer. The table in this link will provide the information needed to determine what type of system you will need: https://www.tceq.texas.gov/permitting/ossf/ossfsystems.html

It is not recommended that the homeowner installs or maintains their own septic system, due to strict environmental standards and guidelines. Contact a reputable, licensed OSSF septic company for all of your septic system related issues.

Watch what you put down the drain. Fats, grease and solids, even coffee grinds can clog your system. Even with the use of a garbage disposal. Don't overload your toilet. Keep your septic area clear of trees, shrubs and roots as these can clog and damage your septic system. Check your yard regularely for leaks or sign of improper drainage. Have your system inspected and maintained by your county and city requirements. 

Region 4, Dallas/Fort Worth

You can call 817-588-5800, or write to  Ellis County DOD 2309 Gravel Drive Fort Worth, TX 76118. 

 For properties located inside city limits in Ellis County, Texas, septic maintenance and operation requirements are primarily guided by Texas Commission on Environmental Quality (TCEQ) regulations, but additional rules may apply depending on the specific city’s ordinances. See city specific FAQs for further detail. We recommend that you contact your cities permitting office for detailed information. In summary, conventional septic systems should have the tanks pumped every 3-5 years to prenent sludge build up and system failure. Regular inspections will be required by a licesnes provider. Any repairs must meet the TCEQ standards and may require city approval. for Aerobic Treatment Units you will need maintenance contracts by a licensed provider. A contract should include periodic inspections, testing and maintenance 3 times per years or as required by your city permit. Systems using chlorine disinfection must have chlorine tablets replenished regularly with septic-safe chlorine products.

An aerobic septic system in Ellis County, Texas, is an on-site sewage facility (OSSF) designed to treat and dispose of wastewater using aerobic (oxygen-loving) bacteria. These systems are often used in areas where traditional septic systems are not feasible due to soil conditions, space limitations, or environmental concerns. 

Maintenance reports for aerobic systems must be submitted by licensed providers and submitted in a timely manner. Homeowners should maintain records of maintenance, pumping and repair activities. Further requirements for an outside cities can be found in other FAQs for that city.

The system introduces air into the wastewater treatment process to promote the growth of aerobic bacteria, which break down organic matter more effectively than anaerobic bacteria used in conventional systems

The system design must comply with TCEQ Chapter 285 regulations. Some cities may impose additional rules, stricter setbacks and enhanced treatment standards or addtional inspections. Follow your specific city guidelines along with those in the TCEQ Chapter 285 regulations. 
Types of systems permitted depend on soil conditions, property size, and usage. These include:
Conventional septic systems.
Aerobic treatment units.
Low-pressure dosing systems.
Systems must accommodate the expected wastewater flow and soil absorption rate. More information can be found by contacting the Ellis County Department of Development (DOD) at 109 S. Jackson St., Waxahachie, TX 75165 Phone 972-825-5200

There are 4 treatment component steps of an Aerobic Septic System. 

• The Pretreatment Tank is the initial tank where solids settle, similar to a conventional septic tank.
•  The next treatment step is where air is introduced to the wastewater to promote aerobic bacterial activity.
•  The third step is the disinfection step. This is where treated water is disinfected using chlorine, Ultraviolet light or other methods. 
• The final step is where the treated water is either dispersed throughout a surface (spray irrigation ) or a subsurface drain field

Setbacks: Systems must meet distance requirements from property lines, water wells, and surface water. See city specifc questions for more detail. 
Floodplains: Additional regulations may apply if the property is in a floodplain.
Variances: May be required for non-standard installations or properties with unique conditions. Routine pumping and maintenance are the homeowner's responsibility. Keep records of pumping and any repairs. Aerobic Systems must have a continuous maintenance contract with a licensed provide. Maintenance providers are required to submit inspection reports to the permitting authority.

Setbacks: Systems must meet distance requirements from property lines, water wells, and surface water.
Floodplains: Additional regulations may apply if the property is in a floodplain.
Variances: May be required for non-standard installations or properties with unique conditions. Routine pumping and maintenance are the homeowner's responsibility. Keep records of pumping and any repairs. Aerobic Systems must have a continuous maintenance contract with a licensed provide. Maintenance providers are required to submit inspection reports to the permitting authority.

This will depend on the actual city requirements, not Ellis County Requirements. These regulations and contact information can be answered by selecting city specific Permit Application questions in these FAQs.

Address: 109 S. Jackson St., Waxahachie, TX 75165
Phone: 972-825-5200
Website: Ellis County Department of Development
https://www.co.ellis.tx.us/Search?searchPhrase=DOD%20Development%20and%20Septic%20Permit%20Flowchart&pageNumber=1&perPage=10&departmentId=-1

Current regulations do not give homeowners the opportunity to maintain or repair their own OSSF systems. You must use a licensed OSSF expert.

Your site must be evaluated by a licensed site evaluaor or a license engineer. The table in this link will provide the information needed to determine what type of system you will need: https://www.tceq.texas.gov/permitting/ossf/ossfsystems.html

It is not recommended that the homeowner installs or maintains their own septic system, due to strict environmental standards and guidelines. Contact a reputable, licensed OSSF septic company for all of your septic system related issues.

Watch what you put down the drain. Fats, grease and solids, even coffee grinds can clog your system. Even with the use of a garbage disposal. Don't overload your toilet. Keep your septic area clear of trees, shrubs and roots as these can clog and damage your septic system. Check your yard regularely for leaks or sign of improper drainage. Have your system inspected and maintained by your county and city requirements. 

Region 4, Dallas/Fort Worth

You can call 817-588-5800, or write to  Ellis County DOD 2309 Gravel Drive Fort Worth, TX 76118. 

An aerobic septic system in Ellis County, Texas, is an on-site sewage facility (OSSF) designed to treat and dispose of wastewater using aerobic (oxygen-loving) bacteria. These systems are often used in areas where traditional septic systems are not feasible due to soil conditions, space limitations, or environmental concerns. 

 For properties located inside city limits in Ellis County, Texas, septic maintenance and operation requirements are primarily guided by Texas Commission on Environmental Quality (TCEQ) regulations, but additional rules may apply depending on the specific city’s ordinances. See city specific FAQs for further detail. We recommend that you contact your cities permitting office for detailed information. In summary, conventional septic systems should have the tanks pumped every 3-5 years to prenent sludge build up and system failure. Regular inspections will be required by a licesnes provider. Any repairs must meet the TCEQ standards and may require city approval. for Aerobic Treatment Units you will need maintenance contracts by a licensed provider. A contract should include periodic inspections, testing and maintenance 3 times per years or as required by your city permit. Systems using chlorine disinfection must have chlorine tablets replenished regularly with septic-safe chlorine products.

The system introduces air into the wastewater treatment process to promote the growth of aerobic bacteria, which break down organic matter more effectively than anaerobic bacteria used in conventional systems

Maintenance reports for aerobic systems must be submitted by licensed providers and submitted in a timely manner. Homeowners should maintain records of maintenance, pumping and repair activities. Further requirements for an outside cities can be found in other FAQs for that city.

There are 4 treatment component steps of an Aerobic Septic System. 

• The Pretreatment Tank is the initial tank where solids settle, similar to a conventional septic tank.
•  The next treatment step is where air is introduced to the wastewater to promote aerobic bacterial activity.
•  The third step is the disinfection step. This is where treated water is disinfected using chlorine, Ultraviolet light or other methods. 
• The final step is where the treated water is either dispersed throughout a surface (spray irrigation ) or a subsurface drain field

The system design must comply with TCEQ Chapter 285 regulations. Some cities may impose additional rules, stricter setbacks and enhanced treatment standards or addtional inspections. Follow your specific city guidelines along with those in the TCEQ Chapter 285 regulations. 
Types of systems permitted depend on soil conditions, property size, and usage. These include:
Conventional septic systems.
Aerobic treatment units.
Low-pressure dosing systems.
Systems must accommodate the expected wastewater flow and soil absorption rate. More information can be found by contacting the Ellis County Department of Development (DOD) at 109 S. Jackson St., Waxahachie, TX 75165 Phone 972-825-5200

Setbacks: Systems must meet distance requirements from property lines, water wells, and surface water.
Floodplains: Additional regulations may apply if the property is in a floodplain.
Variances: May be required for non-standard installations or properties with unique conditions. Routine pumping and maintenance are the homeowner's responsibility. Keep records of pumping and any repairs. Aerobic Systems must have a continuous maintenance contract with a licensed provide. Maintenance providers are required to submit inspection reports to the permitting authority.

Setbacks: Systems must meet distance requirements from property lines, water wells, and surface water. See city specifc questions for more detail. 
Floodplains: Additional regulations may apply if the property is in a floodplain.
Variances: May be required for non-standard installations or properties with unique conditions. Routine pumping and maintenance are the homeowner's responsibility. Keep records of pumping and any repairs. Aerobic Systems must have a continuous maintenance contract with a licensed provide. Maintenance providers are required to submit inspection reports to the permitting authority.

Address: 109 S. Jackson St., Waxahachie, TX 75165
Phone: 972-825-5200
Website: Ellis County Department of Development
https://www.co.ellis.tx.us/Search?searchPhrase=DOD%20Development%20and%20Septic%20Permit%20Flowchart&pageNumber=1&perPage=10&departmentId=-1

In Waxahachie, Texas, inside of City Limits, Building Community Services of Waxahachie serves as the primary regulatory authority for on-site sewage facilities (OSSFs), commonly known as septic systems. This department oversees the permitting, installation, and inspection of septic systems to ensure compliance with local and state regulations. Contact Information:

Address: Waxahachie City Hall, 401 S Rogers St Waxahachie, TX 75165 Phone 469-309-4020 Email: bcservices@waxahachie.com

Current regulations do not give homeowners the opportunity to maintain or repair their own OSSF systems. You must use a licensed OSSF expert.

This will depend on the actual city requirements, not Ellis County Requirements. These regulations and contact information can be answered by selecting city specific Permit Application questions in these FAQs.

Your site must be evaluated by a licensed site evaluaor or a license engineer. The table in this link will provide the information needed to determine what type of system you will need: https://www.tceq.texas.gov/permitting/ossf/ossfsystems.html

It is not recommended that the homeowner installs or maintains their own septic system, due to strict environmental standards and guidelines. Contact a reputable, licensed OSSF septic company for all of your septic system related issues.

Watch what you put down the drain. Fats, grease and solids, even coffee grinds can clog your system. Even with the use of a garbage disposal. Don't overload your toilet. Keep your septic area clear of trees, shrubs and roots as these can clog and damage your septic system. Check your yard regularely for leaks or sign of improper drainage. Have your system inspected and maintained by your county and city requirements. 

Region 4, Dallas/Fort Worth

You can call 817-588-5800, or write to  Ellis County DOD 2309 Gravel Drive Fort Worth, TX 76118. 

An aerobic septic system in Ellis County, Texas, is an on-site sewage facility (OSSF) designed to treat and dispose of wastewater using aerobic (oxygen-loving) bacteria. These systems are often used in areas where traditional septic systems are not feasible due to soil conditions, space limitations, or environmental concerns. 

 For properties located inside city limits in Ellis County, Texas, septic maintenance and operation requirements are primarily guided by Texas Commission on Environmental Quality (TCEQ) regulations, but additional rules may apply depending on the specific city’s ordinances. See city specific FAQs for further detail. We recommend that you contact your cities permitting office for detailed information. In summary, conventional septic systems should have the tanks pumped every 3-5 years to prenent sludge build up and system failure. Regular inspections will be required by a licesnes provider. Any repairs must meet the TCEQ standards and may require city approval. for Aerobic Treatment Units you will need maintenance contracts by a licensed provider. A contract should include periodic inspections, testing and maintenance 3 times per years or as required by your city permit. Systems using chlorine disinfection must have chlorine tablets replenished regularly with septic-safe chlorine products.

The system introduces air into the wastewater treatment process to promote the growth of aerobic bacteria, which break down organic matter more effectively than anaerobic bacteria used in conventional systems

Maintenance reports for aerobic systems must be submitted by licensed providers and submitted in a timely manner. Homeowners should maintain records of maintenance, pumping and repair activities. Further requirements for an outside cities can be found in other FAQs for that city.

There are 4 treatment component steps of an Aerobic Septic System. 

• The Pretreatment Tank is the initial tank where solids settle, similar to a conventional septic tank.
•  The next treatment step is where air is introduced to the wastewater to promote aerobic bacterial activity.
•  The third step is the disinfection step. This is where treated water is disinfected using chlorine, Ultraviolet light or other methods. 
• The final step is where the treated water is either dispersed throughout a surface (spray irrigation ) or a subsurface drain field

The system design must comply with TCEQ Chapter 285 regulations. Some cities may impose additional rules, stricter setbacks and enhanced treatment standards or addtional inspections. Follow your specific city guidelines along with those in the TCEQ Chapter 285 regulations. 
Types of systems permitted depend on soil conditions, property size, and usage. These include:
Conventional septic systems.
Aerobic treatment units.
Low-pressure dosing systems.
Systems must accommodate the expected wastewater flow and soil absorption rate. More information can be found by contacting the Ellis County Department of Development (DOD) at 109 S. Jackson St., Waxahachie, TX 75165 Phone 972-825-5200

Setbacks: Systems must meet distance requirements from property lines, water wells, and surface water.
Floodplains: Additional regulations may apply if the property is in a floodplain.
Variances: May be required for non-standard installations or properties with unique conditions. Routine pumping and maintenance are the homeowner's responsibility. Keep records of pumping and any repairs. Aerobic Systems must have a continuous maintenance contract with a licensed provide. Maintenance providers are required to submit inspection reports to the permitting authority.

Setbacks: Systems must meet distance requirements from property lines, water wells, and surface water. See city specifc questions for more detail. 
Floodplains: Additional regulations may apply if the property is in a floodplain.
Variances: May be required for non-standard installations or properties with unique conditions. Routine pumping and maintenance are the homeowner's responsibility. Keep records of pumping and any repairs. Aerobic Systems must have a continuous maintenance contract with a licensed provide. Maintenance providers are required to submit inspection reports to the permitting authority.

Address: 109 S. Jackson St., Waxahachie, TX 75165
Phone: 972-825-5200
Website: Ellis County Department of Development
https://www.co.ellis.tx.us/Search?searchPhrase=DOD%20Development%20and%20Septic%20Permit%20Flowchart&pageNumber=1&perPage=10&departmentId=-1

This will depend on the actual city requirements, not Ellis County Requirements. These regulations and contact information can be answered by selecting city specific Permit Application questions in these FAQs.

Current regulations do not give homeowners the opportunity to maintain or repair their own OSSF systems. You must use a licensed OSSF expert.

Your site must be evaluated by a licensed site evaluaor or a license engineer. The table in this link will provide the information needed to determine what type of system you will need: https://www.tceq.texas.gov/permitting/ossf/ossfsystems.html

It is not recommended that the homeowner installs or maintains their own septic system, due to strict environmental standards and guidelines. Contact a reputable, licensed OSSF septic company for all of your septic system related issues.

Watch what you put down the drain. Fats, grease and solids, even coffee grinds can clog your system. Even with the use of a garbage disposal. Don't overload your toilet. Keep your septic area clear of trees, shrubs and roots as these can clog and damage your septic system. Check your yard regularely for leaks or sign of improper drainage. Have your system inspected and maintained by your county and city requirements. 

Region 4, Dallas/Fort Worth

You can call 817-588-5800, or write to  Ellis County DOD 2309 Gravel Drive Fort Worth, TX 76118.