Septic in Sarasota County, FL

Last updated: Mar 21, 2026

Sarasota County's neighborhoods pulse with growth and character, from leafy inland cul-de-sacs to sun-drenched coastal streets. In many of these places, the quiet workhorse behind daily living is a septic system—hidden from sight but essential to keeping bathrooms, kitchens, and laundry running smoothly.

Is septic common in Sarasota County? Should I expect septic if I own or buy a home?

Yes. Septic is still common in substantial parts of the county, especially in rural parcels, older subdivisions, and areas that aren't connected to a municipal sewer network. If you own or are buying a home, you should expect to encounter a septic system unless the property is currently served by city or county sewer. A diligent due-diligence check is worthwhile: verify installation and maintenance records, check for a current pumping history, and confirm that the system has an up-to-date permit and any required local inspections.

Why homes typically use septic systems in Sarasota County

Sarasota's soil and development pattern make septic a practical choice. The sandy, well-drained soils found in many parts of the county are well-suited to the natural treatment process of a septic system, but they require proper design, placement, and maintenance. In addition, building out centralized sewer lines across every neighborhood isn't always feasible or cost-effective, especially in older or more rural areas and on barrier islands. That combination—private lots, cost considerations, and the local geology—has kept septic as a common option for homes here.

County growth history and how that has impacted septic coverage

Sarasota County has experienced strong growth for decades, transforming rural land into vibrant residential and resort communities. Growth since mid- to late-20th century outpaced the expansion of centralized sewer infrastructure in some areas, so many homes were built with septic systems as the practical solution. As the county expanded and urban areas connected to sewer lines over time, some properties transitioned to municipal service, but a substantial number still rely on septic today. This history means septic coverage is uneven across the county: widespread in older neighborhoods and more rural tracts, with ongoing emphasis on proper maintenance to protect groundwater and nearby waterways as development continues.

High-level explanation (why septic exists here)

In short, septic exists here because it's often the most feasible, affordable way to manage wastewater on smaller lots where centralized sewer isn't immediately available. When designed and cared for correctly, septic systems are a dependable, long-term solution that fits the county's mix of coastal and inland communities. Working with a local professional helps ensure your system remains reliable, compliant, and body of local knowledge stays green and healthy.

How Septic Is Regulated in Sarasota County

Who Regulates Septic Systems

  • The Florida Department of Health (DOH) oversees onsite sewage treatment and disposal systems (OSTDS) statewide, sets minimum standards, and issues permits.
  • Local implementation in Sarasota County is handled by DOH in Sarasota County with environmental health staff to review plans, issue permits, perform inspections, and enforce regulations for systems in unincorporated areas and applicable municipalities.
  • The Florida Administrative Code, Chapter 64E-6, covers design, installation, operation, maintenance, and abandonment of OSTDS.
  • Licensed professionals (designers, engineers, and septic contractors) work within this regulatory framework to ensure systems meet state and local standards.

Link: DOH OSTDS page:

Soil, Groundwater & Environmental Factors in Sarasota County

Soils in Sarasota County

  • Sarasota's soils are largely sandy and well-drained, which helps drainfield effluent through the soil profile. However, soil depth and composition vary by neighborhood and can affect septic performance.
  • Nearshore and low-lying areas may have thin soil layers over limestone or bedrock, reducing the vertical space available for a proper drainfield and making proper separation from groundwater even more important.
  • Clayier pockets or compacted layers can slow infiltration and impede effluent dispersal. Local grading, tree roots, or heavy foot traffic over the drainfield can disrupt performance.
  • Seasonal moisture matters: sand drains quickly, but a perched or rising water table during wet months can limit downward movement of effluent. This is why soil testing and proper siting are essential before installation or replacement.

Groundwater and Water Table

  • Florida's groundwater fluctuates with rainfall, tides (in coastal areas), and seasonal wet periods. In Sarasota, the water table can rise after heavy rain or storms, reducing the available unsaturated soil above the groundwater.
  • A shallow groundwater table or shallow bedrock can limit the depth at which a drainfield can be installed and operated safely. When the drainfield sits too close to groundwater, treatment efficiency declines and risk to surface water increases.
  • For existing systems, high groundwater or saturated soils can cause surface pooling or slow drainage in the leach field, sometimes triggering odor, backups, or surface damp spots.
  • Consulting a licensed OSTDS professional and your local health department helps determine appropriate setbacks and field design for your lot, given soil and groundwater conditions. Official guidelines and requirements are available from the Florida Department of Health:

Flooding, Storms & Sea-Level Considerations

  • Sarasota County is in a coastal climate zone with heavy rain events and occasional flooding. Flood-prone soils and elevated groundwater during storms can temporarily affect septic performance.
  • Saltwater intrusion is a broader coastal concern, but for septic systems the focus is on maintaining proper drainage, preventing backflow from high water, and avoiding areas that flood routinely.
  • If you live in a flood-prone area or near wetlands or shorelines, work with an experienced installer to ensure proper siting, flood resistance, and post-storm inspection plans.

Environmental Factors & Local Regulations

Practical Steps for Homeowners

  1. Assess your soil and site before any septic work:
    • Look for signs of standing water, soggy areas, or perched moisture near the drainfield.
    • If you're unsure, request a soil evaluation from a licensed septic professional.
  2. Understand your groundwater context:
    • Identify whether your lot sits in a high-water-table zone; plan drainfield placement accordingly.
    • Schedule inspections after heavy rains or storms to check for surface pooling or slow drainage.
  3. Plan for flood and weather resilience:
    • Avoid placing equipment and heavy loads over the drainfield; protect it from rubber-tired vehicles.
    • Consider elevation or protective measures if your property experiences frequent flooding.
  4. Maintain compliance with regulations:
    • Work with licensed installers and follow OSTDS guidelines and local setback rules.
    • Keep records of inspections, pumping, and repairs for county health audits.
  5. Regular maintenance reduces risk:
    • Pump and service on a schedule advised by your septic professional to prevent solids buildup that can affect drainage in variable soil conditions.
    • Be mindful of what goes into the system—avoid excessive fats, oils, non-biodegradable items, and chemicals that can alter soil biology.
  6. When in doubt, contact official resources:

Typical Septic System Types in Sarasota County

Conventional gravity drainfield

  • The most common option for older homes and many newer builds in Sarasota County. A two-compartment septic tank provides primary treatment, and effluent flows by gravity into a soil absorption drainfield (trenches or beds).
  • Works best in soils with adequate percolation and a reasonable setback from wells, foundations, and high groundwater. Typical maintenance plan includes regular pumping every 3–5 years, depending on tank size and daily usage.
  • Pros: straightforward design, fewer moving parts. Cons: performance depends on soil and water table; poor soils may require upgrades.

Pressure distribution (PD) systems

  • Used where soils vary across the lot, slope is steep, or modest drainfield areas can't evenly receive effluent by gravity.
  • A pump chamber (basin) meters dose to multiple lateral lines in uniform portions of the drainfield, improving distribution and longevity.
  • Maintenance tends to include pump service and timely replacement of components; grid layout helps prevent premature failure in challenging soils.

Mound systems

  • Common in coastal Sarasota areas with high water tables or soils that don't percolate well. The drainfield is built up above native soil in a gravel/sand mound.
  • Dosing is controlled, and effluent passes through an engineered root zone before reaching the soil below.
  • Pros: allows septic treatment where native soils aren't suitable. Cons: larger footprint and more components, so professional design and regular inspection are important.

Sand filter systems

  • A secondary treatment step used when the native soil is insufficient for direct absorption. Treated effluent from the septic tank goes through a lined, engineered sand bed (sand filter) before reaching the drainfield.
  • Often paired with conventional or ATU pre-treatment. Requires periodic maintenance of the filter media and flow control components.
  • Pros: improved effluent quality; Cons: more complex and ongoing maintenance needs.

Aerobic Treatment Units (ATU) with soil disposal

  • Provide higher level of treatment before final disposal, useful on lots with constraints or stricter groundwater protection goals.
  • ATUs require electricity, routine maintenance, and service contracts. Final disposal is typically via a drainfield (gravity, PD, mound, or sand filter) after ATU treatment.
  • Pros: higher effluent quality and potential for smaller or more flexible drainfields. Cons: higher upfront cost and ongoing service needs.

Evapotranspiration (ET) systems

  • Less common in Sarasota, but found in some areas where climate and design allow moisture to be removed mainly through plant transpiration.
  • Design and permitting are specific; performance depends on climate, plantings, and maintenance.
  • Pros: reduced drainfield footprint in suitable sites. Cons: climate-sensitive and not universally permitted.

Drip irrigation disposal systems

  • A method of distributing treated effluent through buried drip lines in landscaped areas, often used to reduce surface pooling and optimize land use.
  • Requires careful design to prevent clogging and root intrusion; typically paired with ATU or other pre-treatment.
  • Pros: can integrate with landscaping; Cons: higher design and maintenance requirements.

Cesspools (older homes)

  • Found in some older Sarasota homes. Cesspools collect untreated wastewater and can pose groundwater risk if not upgraded.
  • If you have a cesspool, most counties encourage or require conversion to a compliant OSTDS (onsite sewage treatment and disposal system).
  • Pros: none in modern practice; Cons: potential contamination and requirement for replacement.

Advanced nitrogen-removal systems (AES)

  • Specialized systems designed to reduce nitrogen loads to protect sensitive groundwater and surface waters.
  • Often used in high-use or environmentally sensitive areas; maintenance is more extensive and may be tied to local regulations.
  • Pros: environmental benefits; Cons: cost and service needs.

How to identify your system type

  1. Locate your septic tank access lids or records from the original installation or permit.
  2. Look for labeling on tanks or control panels that indicate a specific system type (PD, ATU, mound, etc.).
  3. Check with the county environmental health office or a licensed septic professional if you're unsure.
  4. Review your maintenance history to see what components exist (pump, dosing chamber, sand filter, etc.).

Official guidance and permitting resources

Typical Septic Issues Across Sarasota County

High groundwater and seasonal rain impact drainfields

In coastal Sarasota County, a high water table and heavy seasonal rainfall can saturate drainfields, making it hard for effluent to percolate through the soil. Signs include damp or spongy soil over the drainfield, lingering odors, and toilets or sinks that drain slowly after rain.

  • Common indicators:
    • Soggy or marshy areas above the drainfield
    • Unpleasant sewer-like smells near the house or yard
    • Gurgling sounds or slow drains after rainfall
  • What you can do:
    • Spread out laundry loads and limit water use during wet periods
    • Avoid driving or parking on the drainfield
    • Keep landscape clear of trees and large shrubs with aggressive roots near the system

Drainfield problems and soil conditions

Drainfield failure in Sarasota often comes from root intrusion, soil compaction, or improper placement of landscaping and irrigation. Roots from trees or shrubs can penetrate trenches, and heavy equipment or foot traffic can compact soils, reducing infiltration.

  • Common causes:
    • Tree and shrub roots growing into trenches or chambers
    • Soil compaction from vehicles, decks, or heavy equipment over the field
    • Inadequate separation between the drainfield and landscaping or irrigation zones
  • What you can do:
    • Plant only shallow-rooted vegetation away from the drainfield
    • Keep heavy use equipment out of the drainage area
    • Have roots and soil checked if you notice localized wet spots or odors

Overloading the system and water use habits

Excessive water and improper discharge are frequent culprits. Florida homes can generate a lot of water quickly from laundry, showers, and irrigation, which can overwhelm a small septic tank or drainfield.

  • How it shows up:
    • Recurrent backups or slow drains after large water use
    • Frequent toilet clogs or gurgling plumbing
    • High weekly water bill with no other explanations
  • How to reduce load:
    1. Stagger laundry and dishwasher cycles; run full loads only
    2. Repair leaks in toilets, faucets, and irrigation lines promptly
    3. Install or upgrade to high-efficiency toilets and fixtures
    4. Limit irrigation during hot, dry periods and fix misaligned sprinklers
    5. Avoid flushing wipes, grease, coffee grounds, and chemicals down the drain

Maintenance gaps and aging components

Older systems age out, and missing or damaged parts can trigger failures. In Sarasota, aging tanks, corroded lids, broken baffles, or failed pumps can cause backups and odors.

  • Common failures:
    • Damaged or missing baffles inside the tank
    • Cracked or sun-damaged tank lids and access ports
    • Pump, float, or alarm failures in pump chambers
    • Sludge and scum buildup that reduces tank capacity
  • Maintenance you should expect:
    • Schedule pumping and inspection every 3–5 years based on usage
    • Have a licensed septic professional inspect the baffles, pump chamber, and lids
    • Keep a maintenance log and follow local pumping recommendations

Local triggers seen in Sarasota County

Specific local factors can stress septic systems in Sarasota.

  • Frequent heavy rainfall and rising groundwater
  • Lawn irrigation that runs during peak wet periods or overlaps with rainfall
  • Soil types and shallow bedrock in parts of the county
  • Landscaping choices over the drainfield and root intrusion
  • Household practices like flushing non-biodegradables or disposing fats and oils down the drain

When to seek professional help

If you notice backups, persistent odors, wet spots over the drainfield, or unusually green, lush patches in the yard, contact a licensed septic professional promptly. Avoid heavy use of the system until it's inspected.

  • Immediate steps:
    1. Conserve water and avoid using drains heavily
    2. Check for obvious leaks or overflows
    3. Schedule a professional inspection and pumping if advised
    4. Have drainfield and tank components evaluated for root intrusion or damage
    5. Follow up with official guidance on OSTDS maintenance

Official resources:

  • EPA: Septic Systems -

Septic Inspection, Permits & Local Oversight

Local oversight in Sarasota County

  • Septic systems are regulated at the state level by the Florida Department of Health Onsite Sewage Program, with local coordination in Sarasota County for permits, inspections, and records.
  • The county maintains records of OSS permits and system status. If you're buying or selling, ask for the OSS permit, design, and inspection reports.

Permits you may encounter

  • New installation or replacement: An Onsite Sewage Permit is typically required.
  • Major repairs or modifications: A permit is usually required; minor maintenance work may not require a new permit, but verify with the issuing agency.
  • Abandonment or decommissioning: A permit and a decommissioning inspection are required when shutting down a system.
  • Changes in ownership or use: If a property with a septic system undergoes significant changes, ensure permits and records are current.

Inspections you will encounter

  • Pre-design/site evaluation (if required by project): Some projects need a soil test and design approval before work begins.
  • Tank installation inspection: After placement and setup, before backfill.
  • Soil absorption field (leach field) inspection: Once trenches and components are in place, before backfill.
  • Final inspection and system commissioning: When the system is ready to operate, for final approval.
  • Decommissioning inspection: Conducted when a system is being abandoned.

How to apply and schedule inspections

  1. Confirm who issues permits for your project (DOH Onsite Sewage Program or Sarasota County). Start with the Florida Department of Health in Sarasota for guidance:
  2. Gather required documents: site plan, system design, soil test results, contractor information.
  3. Submit the permit application to the appropriate agency and pay any fees.
  4. Schedule inspections through the same agency. Do not backfill or cover components until inspection is completed and approved.

Documentation and practical tips

  • Maintain a file with all permits, design drawings, inspection reports, and correspondence.
  • Hire licensed professionals (designers, installers, and inspectors) who understand local requirements.
  • If you're buying a home, request recent permit records and a certificate of proper operation or status, if available.

Helpful resources

Cost Expectations for Septic Services in Sarasota County

Septic Tank Pumping and Cleaning

  • What it includes: removing accumulated sludge and scum, inspecting interior components, checking tank lids and baffles, and noting pumping frequency recommendations.
  • Sarasota County specifics: coastal soils, seasonal rains, and sometimes tighter access can affect both frequency and cost. Expect larger tanks or hard-to-reach locations to shift price upward.
  • Typical cost in Sarasota County: roughly $300–$550 for standard residential tanks; larger (up to 1,500 gallons) or difficult-to-reach tanks can run $550–$700.

Septic System Inspection (Routine, Pre-Purchase, or For Sale)

  • What it includes: visual inspection of tank and lids, baffle integrity, pump chamber (if present), records check, and sometimes camera inspection of laterals.
  • Sarasota County specifics: lenders and buyers often require a formal inspection; some scenarios may require a camera scan of lines.
  • Typical cost in Sarasota County: about $150–$350.

Drainfield Evaluation and Repair

  • What it includes: soil evaluation, percolation or infiltration tests, dye tests, probe testing, and assessment of field performance; repair options may include trench/line repairs, soil amendments, or transitioning to alternative designs.
  • Sarasota County specifics: sandy coastal soils and higher groundwater in parts of the area can influence failure modes and the need for relocation or mound systems; costs can rise with soil conditions and site access.
  • Typical cost in Sarasota County: evaluation $300–$900; repairs commonly $3,000–$12,000; full drainfield replacement $8,000–$25,000+ depending on scope.

Aerobic System Service (ATDS)

  • What it includes: routine pumping, filter cleaning, aerator and control panel checks, spray or irrigation system checks, and system diagnostics.
  • Sarasota County specifics: many homes use aerobic systems; annual servicing is common and often required by local regulations.
  • Typical cost in Sarasota County: $180–$350 per service visit; annual maintenance typically $350–$750.

Septic System Repair (Minor to Major)

  • What it includes: leak detection, lid or access repairs, baffle replacement, line fixes, or pump modifications.
  • Sarasota County specifics: emergent issues after heavy rains are common; complex repairs can require excavation and permit coordination.
  • Typical cost in Sarasota County: minor repairs $200–$1,500; major repairs $2,500–$10,000+ depending on damage.

Septic Tank Abandonment/Closure

  • What it includes: tank removal or sealing, backfill, and restoration of the area; may require post-closure verification.
  • Sarasota County specifics: often needed when converting to sewer service or removing an unused tank.
  • Typical cost in Sarasota County: $500–$1,500.

Septic System Replacement or New Installation

  • What it includes: site evaluation, soil testing, system design, permit coordination, installation, and final inspections.
  • Sarasota County specifics: proximity to shoreline and groundwater considerations can affect design (conventional vs. mound/alternative systems); state and county oversight applies.
  • Typical cost in Sarasota County: conventional systems $7,000–$20,000; more complex or mound/advanced systems $20,000–$60,000+.

Permits, Inspections, and Fees

  • What it includes: permit filing, inspection scheduling, and county or state review fees.
  • Sarasota County specifics: costs vary by service type and system design; expect separate fees from the Florida Department of Health and local authorities.
  • Typical cost in Sarasota County: $50–$500 depending on scope.

Dye Testing (Real Estate)

  • What it includes: dye introduced to determine absorption and drainage in the system; follow-up assessment of results.
  • Sarasota County specifics: commonly used in real estate transactions to satisfy lenders and buyers.
  • Typical cost in Sarasota County: $150–$350.

Septic to Sewer Conversion

  • What it includes: disconnecting the septic system, capping lines, connecting to a municipal sewer, and final inspections.
  • Sarasota County specifics: if sewer is available, conversions are common; may involve escalation for trenching and utility work.
  • Typical cost in Sarasota County: $8,000–$50,000+ depending on distance to sewer and trenching needs.

Step-by-step cost planning

  1. Inventory your needs (pump, inspect, or replace) and your system type (conventional vs. aerobic).
  2. Get at least 3 quotes from licensed Sarasota County contractors.
  3. Check for required permits and any county/state inspection fees.
  4. Budget a contingency for unforeseen repairs (20–30%).

Official resources

  • Florida Department of Health – Onsite Sewage Treatment and Disposal Systems (OSTDS):
  • Florida Department of Environmental Protection – Onsite Sewage:
  • U.S. EPA – Septic Systems: https://www.epa.gov/septic

Cities & Communities in Sarasota County With Septic Systems

Sarasota

In the City of Sarasota, most homes connect to municipal sewer, but a few older or rural parcels still rely on septic systems. If you own a property outside sewer mains or on private land, septic care becomes a must to protect your system and local groundwater.

  • Common service needs
    • Pumping and inspection to confirm tank condition and sludge levels
    • Drain-field assessment if backups, damp yards, or slow drains appear
    • Tank lid, baffle, or pipe repairs as needed
  • When to call a pro
    • Slow drains, sewage odors, gurgling toilets, or standing water near the leach field
  • Maintenance tips
    • Schedule regular pump-outs every 3–5 years (usage-dependent)
    • Conserve water; spread out laundry and dishwashing
    • Use septic-safe products and avoid harsh chemicals
  • Official resources
    • Sarasota County: Wastewater and septic information (official site)
    • Florida Department of Health – Septic Systems:
    • Florida DOH septic program: https://www.floridahealth.gov/

Nokomis

Nokomis sits along the county's barrier and inland pockets where septic systems are still in use on non-sewered parcels. Proper maintenance is crucial to keep systems functioning and prevent contamination.

  • Common service needs
    • Pump-outs and scale checks
    • Drain-field performance tests after landscaping changes
  • When to call a pro
    • Slow drains, sewage odor, or soggy yard near the drain field
  • Maintenance tips
    • Space out water use; protect the drain field from compaction
    • Use septic-safe cleaning products
  • Official resources

Siesta Key

Siesta Key experiences high groundwater influence and varies between sewered zones and private septic areas. Even where sewer exists, some properties rely on septic systems since the island's infrastructure can lag in uptake.

  • Typical service needs
    • Regular pumping, tank inspections, and drain-field checks
    • Siting and assessment if planning new construction or renovations
  • When to call a pro
    • Backups, slow drainage, or unusual odors
  • Maintenance tips
    • Avoid overloading with kitchen grease and trash, install proper monitoring
  • Official resources

Septic vs Sewer Across Sarasota County

What's the difference in Sarasota County

  • Septic (OSTDS) is an on-site system that treats wastewater on your property. Wastewater flows from your home into a septic tank, solids settle, and then liquid effluent drains into a drain field. Regular pumping and careful usage are essential.
  • Sewer means your home is connected to a municipal wastewater system. Wastewater enters the city/county sewer mains and is carried to a treatment plant. You pay a monthly sewer bill, and there's typically no on-site drain field to maintain.

Key contrasts you'll care about:

  • Maintenance: Septic requires periodic pumping (roughly every 3–5 years for most homes) and careful use of water and dispose-only items. Sewer shifts maintenance to the utility, but you still must avoid excessive rainfall or flushing inappropriate items to protect the system.
  • Space and installation: Septic needs space for a drain field and proper soil conditions. Sewer requires a connection to a public line, which may involve installation costs if you're not already connected.
  • Costs over time: Septic has ongoing pumping, inspections, and potential replacement costs for tanks or field components. Sewer has ongoing monthly service charges, but no drain-field maintenance on your property.
  • Environmental implications: Properly managed septic can be safe and effective, but failure or mis-use can impact groundwater. Public sewer systems are designed to treat larger volumes with centralized treatment; again, proper use matters for the entire system.

Are you on septic or on sewer?

  • Check your service area: Sarasota County Utilities and your city (if you're within an incorporated area) publish service area maps and connection options. Visit the Sarasota County Utilities page for details and contacts.
  • Look at your bill: A sewer line charge or wastewater service section on your statement often indicates a sewer connection; absence of such a line commonly means septic.
  • Contact for confirmation: If in doubt, call Sarasota County Utilities or your local city's utility department to verify whether your property is on sewer or septic. Official resource: Sarasota County Utilities page.

Costs and monthly bills to expect

  • Septic on your property:
    • Pumping/inspection: typically every 3–5 years, plus occasional tank or baffle repairs.
    • Drain field care: keep heavy machinery off the area; avoid planting trees over the field.
    • Potential replacement: tanks or drainage components may require replacement, which is a larger one-time cost.
  • Public sewer:
    • Connection costs: if you're not already connected, there may be a one-time hookup or extension charge to reach the main.
    • Monthly sewer/wastewater bill: ongoing charge based on utility rates, plus water usage may affect overall costs.
  • Real-world note: costs vary by jurisdiction and property specifics. Check with Sarasota County Utilities or your city for current rates and any available programs or incentives.

Conversion: when and how to connect to sewer

  1. Confirm sewer availability for your property through Sarasota County Utilities or your city.
  2. Obtain a formal estimate for the connection—from the main to your home—and any required impact fees.
  3. Discuss permit and inspection requirements with the local utility or building department.
  4. Schedule the connection work and arrange septic tank pumping/inspections as needed before disconnect.
  5. Complete the switch, retire the drain field as directed, and update property records and taxes if applicable.

Maintenance matters: keeping either system healthy

  • Do's for septic:
    • Pump on schedule; keep records.
    • Use water wisely; spread out laundry and avoid excessive use after heavy rain.
    • Only treat toilet paper and human waste; avoid flushable wipes, fats, oils, and harsh chemicals.
  • Do's for sewer connections:
    • Report slow drains, backups, or strong sewage odors promptly to the utility.
    • Conserve water to reduce load on the system; fix leaks quickly.
    • Avoid connecting improper materials that can clog mains or damage pumps.

Official resources

  • Sarasota County Utilities:
  • Florida Department of Health OSTDS information:
  • Additional guidance on OSTDS and local permitting: check your county or city's environmental health page and the state's environmental health resources.