Galveston County Septic Regulations: What Homeowners Need to Know in 2026

Galveston County requires septic permits ($310 residential) through the Health District, with 8-10 week processing and high-water-table rules that push most properties toward aerobic systems.

Galveston County's coastal geography creates septic challenges you won't find in most of Texas. High groundwater, low-lying terrain, and flood risk from both hurricanes and heavy rain mean your system has to work harder to treat wastewater before it reaches the water table. Per TCEQ rules (30 TAC Chapter 285), septic systems need at least 4 feet of unsaturated soil beneath the drain field, and many Galveston County properties struggle to meet that standard. The county runs its own permitting program through the Health District, and site evaluations here carry extra weight because soil and groundwater conditions vary so much from one property to the next.

This guide covers who handles permits, fees, the application process, system types, high water table and flood zone rules, aerobic maintenance, enforcement, and costs in Galveston County.

Topic	Key Facts
Permit authority	Galveston County Health District, Texas City
Residential permit fee	$310 (includes $10 state fee)
Processing time	8-10 weeks
Conventional system cost	$5,500-$8,500 (3-bedroom)
Aerobic system cost	$10,000-$20,000
Biggest local challenge	High water tables and flood zone exposure
Aerobic self-maintenance	Allowed after 2-year pro contract + 8-hour course
10-acre exemption	Available under TCEQ rules with strict conditions

Who Handles Septic Permits in Galveston County?

The Galveston County Health District (GCHD) Consumer Health Services division issues all septic permits in unincorporated Galveston County.

The Health District operates as an authorized agent of TCEQ, handling plan reviews, permit issuance, inspections, and enforcement for all septic systems in the county's jurisdiction. If your property is inside an incorporated city (like League City or Galveston), check whether the city handles its own permitting.

The permitting process coordinates with building officials, floodplain management, and in some coastal areas, state and federal agencies including the General Land Office and the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers.

Contact information:

Detail	Information
Office	Galveston County Health District, Consumer Health Services
Address	9850 Emmett F. Lowry Expressway, Texas City, TX 77591
Phone	(409) 938-7221
Fax	(409) 938-2271
Hours	Monday-Friday, 8:00 AM - 5:00 PM
Website	gchd.org

The Health District accepts electronic form submissions through their online portal. You can fill out, sign, and submit applications from a phone, tablet, or computer.

What Are the Septic Permit Types and Fees in Galveston County?

Residential septic permits in Galveston County cost $310 (including the $10 state fee). Fees were increased effective January 1, 2025, to align with other Texas county health districts.

Here's the current fee schedule:

Permit Type	Fee	Notes
Residential OSSF permit	$310	Includes $10 state fee
Commercial OSSF permit	$510	Includes $10 state fee
Aerobic maintenance agreement fee	$125	One-time filing fee
Residential re-inspection	$150	If initial inspection fails
Commercial re-inspection	$250	If initial inspection fails
Variance request	$150	Non-standard design review
Groundwater review	$100	Required in some areas
Subdivision review (5 or fewer lots)	$20/lot	Per-lot charge
Subdivision review (6+ lots)	$100 + $5/lot over 5	Base plus per-lot

These are Health District fees only. You'll also pay for professional site evaluation ($600-$1,200) and system design, which together add $1,000+ to the permit package.

The 10-acre exemption: Under TCEQ rules (30 TAC Chapter 285), properties of 10 acres or more with a single home and single septic system may not need a county permit if the disposal area is at least 100 feet from all property lines. The system still must meet every technical standard.

How Does the Galveston County Septic Permit Process Work?

Initial septic permit processing in Galveston County takes 8-10 weeks. That's longer than most inland Texas counties, so factor this into your construction timeline.

Here's the step-by-step process:

1. Check your jurisdiction. Make sure your property is in unincorporated Galveston County. Properties inside incorporated cities may have separate permitting. Also check your flood zone designation through the county's floodplain permitting department.

2. Hire a site evaluator. A TCEQ-licensed site evaluator or professional engineer must evaluate your soil conditions, groundwater levels, and percolation rates. This is especially critical in Galveston County where high water tables can disqualify conventional systems.

3. Gather documents. Your application needs: completed OSSF Application and Inspection Report form, Site Evaluation Form, property plat or survey, system design, and (for aerobic or alternative systems) an Affidavit to the Public.

4. Submit application. Submit online through the Health District's electronic portal, by fax to (409) 938-2271, or in person at the Texas City office. Include all documents and payment.

5. Health District review. Standard review takes 8-10 weeks. Resubmissions for corrections add 1-3 weeks. Building permits cannot be issued until the septic plan is approved.

6. Authorization to construct. Once approved, only a TCEQ-licensed installer can perform the work.

7. Inspection. Schedule at least 24 hours in advance. The Health District inspector verifies the system matches approved plans and meets all standards. Failed inspections require a $150 re-inspection fee (residential).

8. Approval to operate. After passing inspection, the Health District forwards documents to the building department. Final notification typically comes within 1-5 business days.

Important disclaimer: The Health District notes that even properly designed and installed systems may not function satisfactorily at all times due to high water tables, variation in water usage, and local soil and climate conditions. Approval does not guarantee performance.

How Do High Water Tables and Coastal Flooding Affect Septic Systems?

Galveston County's high water tables are the single biggest challenge for septic systems. When groundwater rises too close to the drain field, wastewater doesn't get treated properly before reaching the water table.

According to the EPA's 2022 Report to Congress, roughly 25% of U.S. homes rely on septic systems, and more than 10% of those systems are malfunctioning at any given time. Coastal counties like Galveston face even higher failure risks. TCEQ's Coastal OSSF Remediation Project found that nearly a third of inspected systems in the Texas Coastal Zone needed replacement. Here's what that means for your property:

High groundwater. TCEQ regulations require a minimum of 4 feet of unsaturated soil beneath the soil absorption system. In many parts of Galveston County, the water table sits too close to the surface (especially during wet seasons) to meet this standard reliably. When groundwater is high, wastewater can't filter through enough soil to be treated, and it reaches the water table with bacteria and contaminants still present.

Flood zone exposure. Large portions of Galveston County fall within FEMA-designated flood zones. All buildings and septic systems must be out of the 100-year flood-prone area, or additional permitting through the county's floodplain management department is required. Flooding can overwhelm septic systems, saturate drain fields, and push untreated sewage to the surface.

Rising sea levels. Galveston has seen over 2 feet of sea level rise in the past century, with more than 8 inches of that coming in just the last 14 years. Rising seas push water tables higher, reducing the dry soil buffer that septic systems depend on. The Texas General Land Office has published research documenting the threat of rising sea levels and water tables to coastal septic systems.

Hurricane and storm surge. Major storms can temporarily push water tables well above normal levels, flood drain fields, and cause system failures. After a storm, systems may take days or weeks to return to normal function as soils dry out.

What this means for system selection: Many Galveston County properties can't rely on conventional gravity systems because the soil conditions are too variable. Aerobic systems, mound systems, and other alternatives designed for high-water-table conditions are common. Your site evaluation determines what's feasible for your specific property.

What Septic System Types Are Allowed in Galveston County?

Galveston County permits both conventional and aerobic systems, but soil conditions often push homeowners toward alternatives. The Health District specifically cautions that high water tables may affect system performance.

Common system types:

• Conventional gravity systems: Allowed where soil and groundwater conditions support them. Require adequate soil depth and percolation rates.
• Aerobic treatment units (ATUs): More common in Galveston County than many inland areas, since they produce cleaner wastewater that's safer in high-water-table environments.
• Low-pressure dose / drip irrigation: Even distribution of treated wastewater, useful on properties with variable soil conditions.
• Mound systems: Elevated drain field built above grade when the natural water table is too shallow.
• Evapotranspiration systems: Lined beds that use plants and soil microbes rather than ground absorption.

Minimum tank sizes by bedrooms:

Bedrooms	Minimum Tank Size
1-2	750 gallons (2-compartment)
3	1,000 gallons
4	1,250 gallons

Both TCEQ and the EPA recommend installing larger tanks than the minimum, as bigger tanks extend drain field life.

What Are the Lot Size and Setback Requirements?

Galveston County follows TCEQ's standard lot size guidelines: 0.5 acres with public water, 1 acre with a private well. Lots platted before January 1, 1988 may qualify on smaller sizes.

Setback distances matter more than lot size in Galveston County because so many properties are near water features:

Feature	Distance from Tank	Distance from Drain Field
Private water well	50 feet	100 feet
Public water well	50 feet	150 feet
Streams, ponds, lakes	50 feet	75 feet
Public water lines	10 feet	10 feet
Property lines	5 feet	5 feet
Swimming pools	5 feet	5 feet

For spray systems, setback distances increase: 100 feet from private wells, 150 feet from public wells, 50 feet from streams, 10 feet from property lines, and 25 feet from swimming pools.

If your well is pressure cemented or grouted to 100 feet (or to the water table if less than 100 feet), the separation distance from all septic components drops to 50 feet.

What Are the Aerobic System Requirements in Galveston County?

Aerobic systems in Galveston County require a maintenance contract with a licensed provider and reports filed every 4 months. After the initial 2-year agreement, homeowners can self-maintain with approved training.

Galveston County offers homeowners more flexibility on aerobic maintenance than many Texas counties.

Initial maintenance: Your installer covers the first two years of maintenance. You must file a copy of your maintenance contract with the Health District along with a $125 one-time maintenance agreement fee.

Reporting schedule: Your maintenance provider submits reports to the Health District and to you at least every 4 months. With electronic monitoring, this drops to every 6 months.

Homeowner self-maintenance option: After the initial two-year professional service agreement, Galveston County allows homeowners to maintain their own aerobic systems if they complete approved 8-hour training courses. Acceptable course codes include 0821, 0434, 0656, and 0904 for most aerobic systems, and 1134 for drip emitter systems. Alternatively, you can get a Class D Wastewater Operator license.

What the maintenance provider checks:

• Aerator and blower operation
• Alarm system function
• Disinfection unit (chlorine or UV)
• Wastewater quality
• Spray heads or drip emitters
• Sludge levels
• General system condition

Budget $200-$400 per year for a professional aerobic maintenance contract, or invest in the training to self-maintain and save on annual costs.

What Happens If You Violate Galveston County Septic Rules?

Galveston County gives property owners 30 days to make substantial progress on fixing violations. After that, the Health District can file a criminal complaint with the local Justice of the Peace.

What triggers enforcement:

• Installing or repairing a system without a permit
• Failing to maintain an aerobic system contract
• Systems causing surface discharge or contamination
• Failing required inspections
• Non-compliance with approved plans

The enforcement process: When the Health District identifies a violation, you get 30 days to show substantial progress toward fixing it. If you don't, the authorized agent may file a criminal complaint.

Penalties under Texas law:

• Class C misdemeanor for installing without a permit: Fine up to $500
• Repeat offenses: Enhanced penalties under Texas Water Code
• Civil penalties: Up to $500 per day per violation
• Administrative remedies: Correction orders, permit denial, or revocation

How Much Does Septic Work Cost in Galveston County?

A conventional septic system in Galveston County runs $5,500-$8,500 installed for a 3-bedroom home, while aerobic systems cost $10,000-$20,000. High water table complications can push costs higher.

Here's what homeowners in the League City and Texas City area should budget:

Item	Cost Range
Conventional system install (3-bedroom)	$5,500-$8,500
Aerobic system install	$10,000-$20,000
Mound system	$15,000-$25,000
Site evaluation and soil testing	$600-$1,200
County permit fee (residential)	$310
Aerobic maintenance agreement filing	$125
Total permit + site eval	$1,035-$1,735
Septic pumping (1,000-gallon tank)	$250-$375
Aerobic maintenance contract (annual)	$200-$400
Typical repair	$250-$350/hour + materials
Drain field replacement	$5,000-$12,000

Costs in Galveston County are generally in line with the greater Houston metro area. But properties with high water table issues or flood zone complications can see costs climb, especially if a mound system or other engineered solution is needed instead of a conventional install.

Conventional vs. aerobic cost comparison: A conventional system at $5,500-$8,500 looks attractive next to a $10,000-$20,000 aerobic install. But if your site evaluation shows high groundwater, the conventional system may not be an option. Spending more upfront on an aerobic or mound system beats paying for a conventional install that fails within a few years.

Financial assistance: The Houston-Galveston Area Council (H-GAC) maintains funding for repair and replacement of failing septic systems for homeowners meeting income restrictions. H-GAC has identified that roughly 12% of septic systems in the greater Houston-Galveston service area need repair or replacement. No matching funds are required. Contact H-GAC for eligibility details.

For a full breakdown of Texas septic costs, see our septic pumping cost guide.

Frequently Asked Questions

Do I need a permit for septic work in Galveston County?

Yes. New installations, repairs, modifications, and extensions all require a permit from the Galveston County Health District. The 10-acre exemption applies under strict conditions. Routine pumping does not require a permit. Contact the Health District at (409) 938-7221 to start the process.

How much does a septic permit cost in Galveston County?

Residential permits cost $310 (including the $10 state fee). This fee increased effective January 1, 2025. Budget another $600-$1,200 for professional site evaluation and system design. For aerobic systems, add the $125 one-time maintenance agreement filing fee. Total pre-installation costs typically run $1,035-$1,735.

How long does it take to get a septic permit in Galveston County?

8-10 weeks for initial processing. If your application needs corrections, add 1-3 weeks per resubmission. After installation and inspection, final approval comes within 1-5 business days. Plan for 3-4 months from application to operating your system.

How do high water tables affect septic systems in Galveston County?

High groundwater is the biggest challenge. When the water table rises too close to the drain field, wastewater doesn't get filtered through enough soil to remove bacteria and contaminants. Many Galveston County properties need aerobic systems, mound systems, or other alternatives designed for high-water-table conditions. Your site evaluation determines what's feasible, and the Health District warns that even approved systems may not function perfectly at all times due to groundwater variability.

Can I maintain my own aerobic system in Galveston County?

Yes, after the initial 2-year professional service agreement. Galveston County allows homeowner self-maintenance if you complete an approved 8-hour training course (codes 0821, 0434, 0656, or 0904 for most systems; 1134 for drip emitters). Alternatively, you can obtain a Class D Wastewater Operator license. This is more flexible than many Texas counties that restrict self-maintenance.

Is there financial help for failing septic systems in Galveston County?

Yes, the Houston-Galveston Area Council (H-GAC) offers funding for repair and replacement of failing systems. Homeowners who meet income restrictions can qualify with no matching funds required. TCEQ also funds coastal septic remediation through its Coastal OSSF Remediation Project, which has replaced failing systems in the Texas Coastal Zone since 2010.

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Last updated: February 7, 2026 Reviewed by: Texas Septic Guide Editorial Team, content verified against TCEQ regulations, Galveston County Health District OSSF requirements, and 30 TAC Chapter 285

Need septic help in Galveston County? Get free quotes from vetted local providers

Sources: Galveston County Health District, Consumer Health Services Division; Texas Commission on Environmental Quality (TCEQ), 30 TAC Chapter 285; Texas Health and Safety Code Chapter 366; Texas General Land Office, Coastal Septic Systems Report; Houston-Galveston Area Council (H-GAC); U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA), Report to Congress on Septic Systems (2022); TCEQ Coastal OSSF Remediation Project, Phases I-VI.

Serving Galveston County communities: League City