On-Site Wastewater & Septic Systems

septic

Septic & On-Site Wastewater Permits, Site Evaluations, and Inspections

All on-site wastewater systems must be designed, installed, and inspected according to North Carolina rules to support long-term performance and reduce environmental and public health risks. Before building, expanding, or changing how a property is used, septic and on-site wastewater requirements must be reviewed. Improvement Permits and site evaluations help confirm that a system can safely handle wastewater and support the proposed use.

This review process involves coordination between Permitting & Inspections and Environmental Health to ensure projects meet the requirements and protect groundwater and nearby properties. Before starting work, review the information below to understand which permits are required and what details you will need to apply.

Questions or Additional Information
Improvement Permits - Inspections & Permitting: Call 252-902-3150
Authorization to Construct - Environmental Health: Call 252-902-3200
or Email or Contact the Departments Now

  1. Construction Approvals
  2. Improvement Permits

Authorization to Construct Permitting Process

An Authorization to Construct Permit may be required before on-site waste water or septic system construction begins. If required, a plot plan must be submitted that shows:

  • Property boundaries
  • Distances from structures to property lines and roads
  • Building length, width, and layout
  • Outlines of buildings and features such as porches, decks, and garages

The plan will be reviewed before issuing the Authorization to Construct Permit.

State Criteria Guide for Septic Evaluations

North Carolina rules set minimum standards to ensure septic systems work properly. The site evaluation will review several factors, including:

  • Soil Texture and Structure: Soil must absorb and treat wastewater. Sandy soils may drain too quickly, while clay soils may drain too slowly.
  • Seasonal High Water Table: Systems must be installed above groundwater levels to meet required separation distances.
  • Depth to Rock or Other Limitations: Shallow bedrock or dense soil layers can limit treatment and must meet depth requirements.
  • Lot Size and Layout: Properties must allow space for both a primary drain field and a repair area.
  • Slope and Drainage: Land cannot be too steep or prone to flooding, which could cause system failure.
  • Setbacks from Protected Areas: Required distances from wells, buildings, property lines, and surface waters help protect water quality.
  • Intended Use and Daily Flow: Building size, number of bedrooms, and expected water use determine system capacity.
  • System Type: Site conditions determine whether a conventional or advanced system is needed.