Florida Septic Tank Regulations: What Every Homeowner Must Know (2026)

Florida has approximately 2.7 million septic systems — more than any other state except Texas. These systems are regulated primarily by the Florida Department of Health (FL DOH) under Florida Statute 381.0065 and Florida Administrative Code Chapter 64E-6. Whether you're installing a new system, repairing an existing one, or just trying to stay compliant, here's what you need to know in plain English.

Who Regulates Septic Systems in Florida?

The Florida Department of Health (FL DOH) is the primary regulatory authority for onsite sewage treatment and disposal systems (OSTDS) — the official term for septic systems. Each county has a DOH environmental health office that handles permits, inspections, and enforcement locally. Some counties, like Pinellas and Hillsborough, have additional local ordinances that go beyond state requirements. Always check with your county's environmental health office for rules specific to your area.

When Do You Need a Permit?

Florida requires a permit from the county health department for the installation, repair, modification, or abandonment of any septic system. Routine maintenance like pumping does not require a permit. However, replacing a damaged tank, modifying drain field lines, adding a pump chamber, or connecting a new building to an existing system all require permits. The permitting process includes a site evaluation, soil testing, and a system design that meets current code. Permit fees typically range from $200 to $500 depending on the county and scope of work.

Setback Requirements

Florida law mandates minimum distances between septic system components and various features on your property. These setback requirements protect water sources and structures from contamination:

These are state minimums — some counties enforce greater distances. If your property can't meet setback requirements, a variance may be possible but requires additional engineering and approval from the county health department.

Tank Size Requirements

Florida determines minimum septic tank size based on the number of bedrooms in the home, not the number of occupants. The state minimums are:

If you add bedrooms to your home — through a renovation or garage conversion — the septic system must be evaluated to ensure it still meets capacity requirements. Adding a bedroom without upgrading the system when needed is a code violation and can create problems when selling the home.

Inspection Requirements

Florida does not have a statewide mandatory septic inspection program. The state passed SB 550 in 2010, which would have required inspections every 5 years, but that provision was repealed in 2012 before it took effect. Currently, inspection requirements vary by county. Pinellas County requires an operating permit and inspection when property is sold. Some other counties have voluntary inspection programs. For most Florida homeowners, the only time an inspection is required is during a property sale (if the lender demands it) or when applying for a repair permit. If you're buying a home, read our guide on septic inspections before buying a house.

Advanced Treatment Systems

In environmentally sensitive areas — such as near springs, certain waterways, or in areas with high water tables — Florida may require an advanced treatment system instead of a conventional septic tank and drain field. These systems include nitrogen-reducing technologies that lower the nitrogen content of wastewater before it reaches the drain field. Advanced systems cost significantly more ($10,000–$25,000) and require maintenance contracts with licensed service providers. Areas around the Wekiva River basin, the Florida Keys, and portions of the Indian River Lagoon watershed have some of the strictest requirements.

County-Specific Rules to Know

• Pinellas County — Requires operating permits for all septic systems, including inspection at property transfer. One of the strictest counties in Florida.
• Hillsborough County — Requires a maintenance entity for systems with aerobic treatment units. Has additional setback requirements near certain waterways.
• Orange County — Located partially within the Wekiva Study Area, which requires nitrogen-reducing systems for new installations in designated zones.
• Monroe County (Florida Keys) — Requires advanced wastewater treatment for all systems. The Keys have some of the strictest septic regulations in the state.
• Brevard County — Additional requirements near the Indian River Lagoon, including potential mandatory hookup to central sewer when available.

Penalties for Non-Compliance

Operating a septic system without proper permits or in violation of Florida regulations can result in fines of up to $500 per day per violation. The county health department can also issue orders requiring immediate repair or replacement. In severe cases involving environmental contamination or public health risks, the Florida Department of Environmental Protection (DEP) may get involved, and penalties can escalate significantly. Unpermitted work discovered during a property sale can delay or kill the transaction and require expensive retroactive permitting and corrections.

How to Check If Your System Is Compliant

• Contact your county DOH environmental health office and request your septic permit records
• Verify your tank size meets the minimum for your home's bedroom count
• Confirm all repairs or modifications have been permitted
• Check whether your county requires an operating permit or inspection
• If your system is near a spring, waterway, or in a designated protection zone, confirm whether advanced treatment is required
• Schedule a professional inspection if your system is over 15 years old or you have no maintenance records — see our Florida septic pumping cost guide for pricing

Frequently Asked Questions

Do I need a permit to repair my septic tank in Florida?

Yes. Florida requires a permit from the county health department for any septic system repair, modification, or replacement. This includes replacing a tank, fixing drain field lines, adding risers, or installing a pump. Routine pumping and maintenance do not require a permit. The permitting process ensures the repair meets current code and protects groundwater.

How often does Florida require septic inspections?

Florida does not have a statewide mandatory inspection schedule. The proposed every-5-year inspection requirement (SB 550) was repealed in 2012. Inspection requirements currently vary by county — Pinellas County requires inspection at property transfer, while most other counties have no mandatory schedule. The EPA and most septic professionals recommend inspections every 3 years regardless of legal requirements.

What are the setback requirements for septic tanks in Florida?

Florida requires septic systems to be at least 75 feet from private drinking water wells, 200 feet from public water wells, 50 feet from surface water bodies, 5 feet from property lines, 5 feet from building foundations, and 15 feet from swimming pools. Some counties enforce greater distances. These setbacks apply to the entire system including the tank, drain field, and distribution box.

Can I install my own septic system in Florida?

No. Florida law requires that septic systems be installed by a licensed septic contractor registered with the Florida Department of Health. Homeowners cannot legally install or substantially modify their own systems. The installation must follow an approved permit design, and the county health department inspects the work before the system can be used. Using an unlicensed installer voids the permit and can result in fines.

What happens if my septic system fails inspection?

If your system fails a required inspection, the county health department will issue a notice requiring you to bring the system into compliance within a specified timeframe — typically 30 to 90 days depending on the severity. You'll need to hire a licensed contractor to make repairs, obtain a repair permit, and pass a follow-up inspection. Failure to comply can result in daily fines. During a property sale, a failed inspection gives the buyer leverage to negotiate repairs or walk away from the deal.