Septic in Real County, TX
Last updated: Mar 21, 2026
Real County feels like a place where neighbors know your name and your well and septic system are part of everyday life. From Leakey to the surrounding ranches, many homes sit on larger lots with the practical reality that centralized sewer isn't everywhere you'd want to build or buy. Is septic common in Real County? Yes—unless you're in a town sewer system, you'll likely find a septic system serving most single-family homes and small developments. If you're buying or already own here, you should plan on septic being part of the home's essential infrastructure.
Is septic common in Real County? Should I expect septic if I own or buy a home?
- In Real County, rural properties are the norm. Most homes rely on on-site wastewater treatment rather than municipal lines.
- A septic system is the practical, affordable option for properties with private wells and larger lot sizes.
- If you're house-hunting, ask for the current septic permit, service history, and any repair or replacement records. A good pre-purchase inspection saves headaches later.
Why Real County homes typically use septic systems
- Rural and spread-out development: Many homes sit far from any existing sewer lines, making connection impractical or costly.
- Private water supplies: Most homes rely on wells, so on-site wastewater treatment helps protect water quality on the property.
- Cost and long-term planning: A well-designed septic system is often the most economical way to handle wastewater on an undeveloped or semi-developed lot.
- Terrain and soil realities: The Hill Country soils, rock, and drainage patterns influence how a system is designed and placed to work reliably.
County growth history and how that has impacted septic coverage
Real County has grown gradually rather than rapidly. Tourism and seasonal residents bring more activity to areas around Garner State Park, Lost Maples, and the Frio River corridor, while many tracts remain rural and privately owned. This slow, uneven growth means sewer expansion has kept pace unevenly—some towns and newer subdivisions are served by sewer, but many rural pockets remain fully septic. As a result, septic system upkeep, replacement, and proper design remain central to protecting soil and groundwater across the county.
High-level explanation (why septic exists here)
On-site systems align with Real County's physical and economic landscape: dispersed homes, private wells, and limestone soils that make centralized infrastructure challenging to extend everywhere. Septic systems let wastewater be treated close to where it's produced, keeping wells and streams safer while fitting the real-world layout of homes and ranches. If you're planning, buying, or maintaining, you'll find practical guidance here from a neighbor who's also a local septic pro. In the sections ahead, you'll find actionable steps and checks to keep your system running smoothly.
How Septic Is Regulated in Real County
The regulatory framework you'll encounter
- Real County follows Texas state rules for On-Site Sewage Facilities (OSSFs). The Texas Commission on Environmental Quality (TCEQ) sets statewide standards, while local authorities in Real County administer permits, inspections, and compliance checks.
- OSSFs include septic tanks, drain fields, and related components. The goal is to protect groundwater, wells, streams, and public health by ensuring proper design, installation, and maintenance.
- You'll see references to the Texas Administrative Code (TAC) that codifies OSSF regulations. This is the official rulebook governing how OSSFs must be designed, sited, and operated. Official resources:
Who administers OSSFs in Real County
- The state provides the overarching rules, but Real County (often via its Health Department or Environmental Health office) issues permits, conducts inspections, and handles local enforcement under the state framework.
- Homeowners interact with the Real County-regulated OSSF program to obtain permits and schedule inspections. The county works with TCEQ guidelines to ensure systems meet local site conditions and state standards.
The step-by-step process you'll typically follow
- Confirm you need an OSSF permit
- Most new installations, modifications, or replacements require a permit before you begin work.
- Hire a qualified designer or installer
- Plans and specifications should be prepared by a licensed professional (engineer or a registered sanitarian/qualified designer) per TAC requirements.
- Prepare the site work package
- Expect a soils evaluation or percolation test, a site plan showing setbacks (distance to wells, property lines, and water bodies), and design calculations for the proposed system.
- Submit the permit package to Real County
- Include the design, soils report, site plan, and any other county-specific forms. The county will review for compliance with state rules and local conditions.
- Obtain permit approval and begin work
- Once approved, you'll receive an OSSF permit. Work must proceed in accordance with the approved plans and inspected at key milestones.
- Pass inspections and receive final approval
- Inspections are conducted during and after installation. When the system passes, you'll get an Operation Permit or equivalent documentation.
Design, siting, and construction basics you should know
- Design responsibility: Plans must be prepared by a qualified professional (PE, LPS, or other approved designer) per TAC 285 requirements.
- Site constraints: OSSFs must be sited to avoid contamination of wells, streams, and drinking water sources; setback distances and soil suitability matter.
- System types: Real County follows state guidance on conventional vs. alternative systems, mound systems, aerobic units, and other designs based on soil and slope.
Ongoing maintenance and records
- After installation, maintain an Operation Permit (or equivalent) and keep records of pumping, maintenance, and service.
- Pumping frequency depends on system type, household usage, and soils; many households biannually to every few years, with a licensed service provider performing recommended cleanouts.
- If you notice sewage backups, wet spots, odors, or slow drains, contact the Real County regulator or a licensed septic service promptly to prevent larger problems.
Practical tips for Real County homeowners
- Plan ahead: Start a permit and design package early if you're building or replacing an OSSF to avoid project delays.
- Keep records: Store permits, inspection reports, and maintenance receipts in a dedicated folder so you're prepared for inspections or sales.
- Use licensed professionals: Work with designers, installers, and pumpers who are familiar with TAC 285 and Real County requirements to minimize compliance risks.
- Schedule maintenance: Align pumping and inspection with your family's needs and the system's designer recommendations to extend system life.
Official resources to consult
Soil, Groundwater & Environmental Factors in Real County
Soils and Drainage in Real County
Real County features a mix of shallow, stony loams, caliche-rich layers, and areas where limestone bedrock approaches the surface. Soil depth and structure strongly influence septic system performance: deeper, well-drained soils give wastewater more time to treat, while shallow or fractured limestone can lead to faster, less predictable movement. Percolation rates and groundwater proximity are the two most critical factors to assess before sizing and siting a system.
- How to learn about local soils: use the National Cooperative Soil Survey's Web Soil Survey to view soil types and depth by parcel. https://websoilsurvey.nrcs.usda.gov/
- Why it matters: sandy or highly permeable soils can dissipate effluent quickly, increasing the risk of contamination spreading beyond the drainfield; dense clays or shallow soils can cause slow drainage or effluent backing up.
Groundwater Depth & Bedrock Characteristics
In Real County, bedrock is commonly limestone, and groundwater depths can vary widely by location. Karst features and fractured rock pockets can create unpredictable subsurface pathways, so a septic system behaves differently from site to site. Deeper groundwater and deeper soils improve treatment time, while perched or rising water tables after rains can shorten it.
- Check groundwater context: contact the Texas Water Development Board and local resources for groundwater availability data, well logs, and seasonal variations. https://www.twdb.texas.gov/
- Confirm well separation and aquifer distance: if you have an existing well, note its depth and proximity to the planned septic area.
- Plan for variability: on sites with limestone or fractured rock, anticipate more rigorous setback assessments and potential alternative system designs.
Water Table Fluctuations & Seasonal Rainfall
Shifts in the water table with heavy rains or drought can change how a septic drainfield drains and how quickly effluent is treated. In Real County, seasonal rainfall patterns influence soil moisture and the risk of drainfield saturation. Always account for the wettest periods when planning setbacks and system placement.
- Observe after storms: inspect the site for pooling or damp soil in the drainfield area for several days after significant rainfall.
- Plan for protection: design setbacks and excavation depths with local hydrology in mind; consider raised or mound drainfield configurations where soils or groundwater are a concern.
- Test guidance: ensure percolation testing accounts for seasonal moisture variations so the chosen system remains functional year-round.
Environmental Sensitivities & Land Use
Real County land use and nearby environmental features can affect septic performance and regulations. Proximity to streams, wetlands, or protected habitats may impose additional setbacks or require specific system types. Sloped sites can influence drainage direction and the risk of surface runoff carrying effluent.
- Evaluate site topography: avoid drainfield locations on steep slopes or above flood-prone zones.
- Protect water features: keep drainfields well away from streams and wetlands, and follow local setbacks and environmental guidelines.
- Wildlife considerations: minimize disturbance to native habitats and consult local codes for land-use restrictions.
Local Regulations & Official Resources
Siting, permitting, and inspection requirements for septic systems in Real County fall under state and local oversight. Use official guidance to ensure compliance and system longevity.
Typical Septic System Types in Real County
Conventional septic system (tank + drainfield)
- What it is: A buried concrete or plastic tank that holds wastewater long enough for solids to settle, plus a soil absorption field (drainfield) where effluent percolates into the soil.
- Real County fit: Works well in soils with adequate depth and permeability. In hill-country settings with rocky patches, professionals may adjust trench design or use flexible pipe layouts.
- Pros: Simple design, familiar to installers, lower upfront cost.
- Cons: Requires suitable soil and adequate bottom depth; performance drops in compacted or shallow soils.
- Maintenance: Have the tank pumped every 3–5 years (or per local guidance); schedule a system inspection during pumping.
Chamber or gravel-free drainfield system
- What it is: A modern alternative to a traditional gravel drainfield using shallow, interconnected chambers or perforated pipes with minimal or no gravel.
- Real County fit: Good when soil rules out gravel beds or when rock or limited trench width is an issue.
- Pros: Often faster installation, easier to inspect, good separation between system and landscape.
- Cons: Still needs adequate soil depth and percolation; local code may dictate specific chamber products.
- Maintenance: Regular pumping as needed; avoid heavy equipment over the drainfield; protect from compaction.
Mound system (raised drainfield)
- What it is: A raised drainfield built above grade on imported soil when natural soil is too shallow, too sandy, or has high water table.
- Real County fit: Common on properties with shallow bedrock, limestone outcrops, or high groundwater; archaeologically, Texas Hill Country soils vary.
- Pros: Expands usable area and lets effluent reach subsoil in challenging conditions.
- Cons: Higher upfront cost; more ground to maintain; requires space above grade.
- Maintenance: Routine inspections; maintain vegetation cover; pump schedule based on usage and tank size.
Aerobic Treatment Unit (ATU) / aerobic systems
- What it is: An enhanced treatment unit that adds controlled aeration and sometimes disinfection to reduce organics and pathogens before disposal.
- Real County fit: Helpful where soils are marginal for conventional systems or require higher treatment before leach fields.
- Pros: More robust performance in challenging soils; can extend life of drainfields.
- Cons: More complex—requires electricity, regular maintenance, and monitoring; higher service costs.
- Maintenance: Regular servicing by a licensed provider; monitor for alarms; annual inspection and pumpings as recommended.
Sand filter systems
- What it is: A treatment unit with a shallow trench filled with sand as a secondary treatment stage before the drainfield.
- Real County fit: Suitable where legacy soils are slowly permeable or where effluent needs extra polishing.
- Pros: Good effluent quality; can be used with limited drainage area.
- Cons: Higher maintenance and potential for clogging in coarse sands if not maintained.
- Maintenance: Periodic sand replacement or cleaning as recommended; keep the area clear of roots and heavy traffic.
Drip irrigation / alternative irrigation systems
- What it is: Treated wastewater discharged below grade to irrigation zones, typically within landscape beds or dedicated zones.
- Real County fit: In spots with low-percolation soils or where landscape reuse is desired; more common in newer homes or with custom designs.
- Pros: Efficient water use; reduces drainfield footprint.
- Cons: Requires proper design, filtration, and monitoring; not suitable for all soils.
- Maintenance: Regular filtrations checks; ensure drip lines are not blocked; annual system audit.
Holding tanks (no-discharge or limited-use)
- What it is: A sealed tank that stores wastewater when disposal or dispersal isn't permitted, used in special cases.
- Real County fit: Occurs where on-site disposal isn't possible due to soil or regulatory constraints.
- Pros: Simple containment; avoids improper discharge when permitted alternatives aren't available.
- Cons: Requires frequent hauling or disposal; odor and legal restrictions; not a long-term solution in most homes.
- Maintenance: Regular tank inspections; coordinate with licensed haulers and local health authority.
Maintenance reminders and compliance:
- Schedule regular inspections and pump-outs per local codes; Real County homes often follow 3–5 year pumping windows, but exact intervals depend on tank size, household water use, and system type.
- Protect the drainfield: keep vehicles off, don't plant deep-rooted trees nearby, and manage infiltrating rainwater.
- Official guidance: consult local permitting and wastewater guidelines, and refer to trusted sources for background and standards, such as EPA guidance and Texas OWTS resources [EPA septic systems](
Typical Septic Issues Across Real County
Common signs of trouble
- Odors: a sewer smell near drains, toilets, or the yard.
- Slow drainage and gurgling sounds in pipes.
- Backups in toilets or sinks, especially after heavy use.
- Wet, spongy ground or unusually lush patches over the drain field.
- Soaking or standing water near the septic tank or field after rain.
Regional risk factors in Real County
- Soils: clay or compacted soils slow percolation, stressing the drain field.
- Water table and rainfall: heavy rain or seasonal saturation can overwhelm the system.
- Roots and debris: tree roots can invade pipes and damage distribution lines.
- Usage patterns: larger households or frequent use of disposals increase solids entering the tank.
- Chemical misuse: fats, oils, household chemicals, solvents, and non-flushable wipes can kill beneficial bacteria or clog lines.
Typical failure modes you'll encounter
- Drain field saturation: soils hold too much water, preventing effluent from properly percolating.
- Tank solids buildup: solids accumulate, reducing capacity and scouring the outlet.
- Blocked or damaged lines: roots or collapsed pipes interrupt flow.
- Distribution box problems: an out-of-balance field causes uneven wastewater distribution.
Practical maintenance steps you can take
- Know your system: locate the tank, access lids, and the drain-field area so you can protect them.
- Pump on schedule: most homes need pumping every 3–5 years, but larger families or heavy disposal use may require more frequent service.
- Use water wisely: stagger laundry, fix leaks, and spread high-water-use activities over time to reduce load.
- Protect the drain field: keep cars off the area, plant only shallow-rooted grasses, and avoid digging or digging near septic components.
- Be careful what goes down: flush only human waste and toilet paper; dispose of fats, oils, greases, paints, solvents, and chemicals properly.
- Maintain components: ask a licensed septic professional about regular filter checks and a professional inspection every few years.
What to do if you suspect a problem
- Minimize water use immediately to reduce load on the system.
- Do not attempt DIY repairs; call a licensed OSSF professional.
- Share details with the service provider: tank size, location, access points, and any symptoms you've observed.
- Schedule a professional inspection to confirm tank condition and drain-field health.
When to call a licensed professional
- You notice persistent odors, backups, or obvious damp areas above the drain field.
- Drains are consistently slow despite conservative use.
- The system is overdue for pumping based on your tank size and household usage.
Official resources
Quick local checks you can do now
- Walk the property and inspect for unusually green, soggy patches, or septic lids exposed by erosion.
- Check for cracks or wet spots near plumbing cleanouts inside the home.
- Review past pumping records to ensure you're on a sensible maintenance interval for your household size.
Septic Inspection, Permits & Local Oversight
Local oversight in Real County
Real County follows state regulations for on-site sewage facilities (OSSFs). In practice, oversight is coordinated between state agencies and the county's environmental health staff. Your local point of contact is usually the Real County Environmental Health Officer or the county health department, often in partnership with the Texas Commission on Environmental Quality (TCEQ). If you're unsure who to call, start with the Real County Clerk or the county's health department directory to get the right contact. For official state guidance, see:
- TCEQ On-Site Sewage Facilities (OSSF) Program:
- Texas Department of State Health Services (DSHS) OSSF guidance:
Permits you need in Real County
- New installation: A construction permit is normally required before any digging or system installation begins.
- Repairs and upgrades: Major repairs, system upgrades, or changes to the design typically require a permit and review.
- System replacements: If you replace an existing OSSF, you'll usually need a permit and an updated design.
- Transfers and disclosures: Real County homeowners may face disclosure requirements or inspections when selling a property with an septic system.
- Always verify the current requirements with your local health office before starting work.
Steps to get a permit
- Confirm permit eligibility and requirements with the Real County Environmental Health Office or your county health department.
- Hire a licensed OSSF designer/installer familiar with Texas rules.
- Prepare a complete submittal package (site plan, soil information, proposed design, and any supporting documentation).
- Submit the permit application and pay applicable fees.
- Schedule and attend any required site evaluation or pre-construction meetings if requested.
- Receive permit approval before starting work; post-work inspections will be scheduled by the authority.
Inspections: what to expect during and after installation
- Pre-construction evaluation: In some cases, inspectors review site suitability and proximity to wells, water sources, and property lines.
- During construction: Inspectors verify installation steps (tank placement, baffles, connection to building sewer, correct piping and backfill) meet design specs.
- Final inspection: The final check confirms system is properly installed, meets setback requirements, and is ready for use. A certificate of completion or final approval is issued if everything passes.
- Common issues inspectors flag: improper trenching or backfill, incorrect tank alignment, missing or damaged risers/lids, inadequate separation from wells or groundwater, and improper pump or distribution piping.
Maintenance inspections and routine checks
- Some OSSFs require regular pumping and preventive maintenance; schedules vary by system type and county ordinance. Schedule service with a licensed pumper and keep a maintenance log.
- If your system is aging, plan preventative maintenance ahead of failures (clogs, sewage odors, or backups can indicate a problem).
- Local rules may require pump records or maintenance verification during transfers or permit renewals.
Records you should keep
- Permits, design drawings, site plans, and approval letters.
- Pumping and maintenance invoices, dates, and service details.
- Any correspondence with the county health department or TCEQ about inspections or repairs.
- Documentation of transfers or disclosures related to real estate transactions.
Resources, contacts & next steps
- Official state guidance for OSSFs (permit and inspection basics): https://www.tceq.texas.gov/pws/ossf
- State OSSF guidance and forms (DSHS): https://www.dshs.texas.gov/ossf/
- Real County health/environmental health contact: check the Real County government directory or contact the Real County Clerk for the correct environmental health contact in your area. For general state inquiries, use the TCEQ and DSHS pages above.
Cost Expectations for Septic Services in Real County
New septic system installation
- What it includes: site evaluation, design, permits, excavation, septic tank installation, absorber drain field or alternative system, initial startup, and final inspection.
- Real County specifics: limestone soils and shallow bedrock can drive designs toward mound systems or aerobic treatment units (ATUs); perc testing and soil analysis are common, and access to rural properties may affect contractor time and travel costs.
- Typical cost: conventional gravity systems usually run roughly $7,000–$15,000, while mound or ATU designs in Real County can range from $15,000–$40,000+ depending on soil conditions, tank size, and access. Permit and inspection fees are often bundled in the total.
- Official resource: Texas Commission on Environmental Quality (OSSF program)
System replacement or upgrades
- What it includes: removing the old system, upgrading components, possible trench field rehab or replacement, updated tank, and required permits plus inspections.
- Real County specifics: upgrading may be needed for higher wastewater load, poor absorption due to rock or shallow soils, or to meet current code; hillside lots or limited access can add labor costs.
- Typical cost: $8,000–$25,000 for conventional replacements; $20,000–$60,000+ for mound or ATU upgrades, depending on field size and access.
- Official resource: OSSF program guidance for replacements https://www.tceq.texas.gov/permitting/ossf/ossf-program
Pumping and routine maintenance
- What it includes: removing settled solids, inspecting baffles, lids, and pumps (if applicable), and scheduling recommendations.
- Real County specifics: remote properties and seasonal access can affect scheduling; drought or heavy rainfall may influence pumping frequency.
- Typical cost: $250–$500 per pump-out; many homes pump every 2–3 years.
- Official resource: EPA septic system basics https://www.epa.gov/septic
Inspections and permits
- What it includes: pre-purchase or routine system inspection, permit verification, and final compliance documentation.
- Real County specifics: Real County follows state OSSF requirements; local permitting processes may add steps or lead times.
- Typical cost: $150–$450 for inspection, plus permit/administrative fees as required.
- Official resource: TCEQ OSSF program (permits and inspections) https://www.tceq.texas.gov/permitting/ossf/ossf-program
Repairs and component replacements
- What it includes: replacing pumps, floats, alarms, piping, valves, or baffles; may involve trench or riser work.
- Real County specifics: rock, roots, and slope can complicate repairs and raise labor costs; older systems may need more frequent attention.
- Typical cost: minor repairs $150–$750; major repairs $1,000–$5,000; trench or field work can push higher.
- Official resource: general OSSF guidance for components https://www.tceq.texas.gov/permitting/ossf/ossf-program
Pump-and-haul services
- What it includes: licensed wastewater hauler removes septic waste to approved facilities; tank cleaning and disposal documentation.
- Real County specifics: used when gravity-fed systems aren't feasible or when access is limited; must comply with TX waste disposal rules.
- Typical cost: $350–$700 per pumping, plus disposal fees; trip charges may apply in remote areas.
- Official resource: EPA septic system overview https://www.epa.gov/septic
Drainfield maintenance and troubleshooting
- What it includes: field evaluation, soil absorption checks, trench repair or supplementation, and potential system redesign.
- Real County specifics: limestone soils and potential bedrock can limit absorption; root intrusion and compacted soils are common considerations.
- Typical cost: trench repair $2,000–$6,000; drain-field replacement $7,000–$15,000+ depending on size and design.
- Official resource: OSSF program design guidance https://www.tceq.texas.gov/permitting/ossf/ossf-program
Soil testing, perc testing, and system design (pre-install)
- What it includes: soil borings, percolation tests, site planning, and engineering for gravity, mound, or ATU designs.
- Real County specifics: bedrock depth and soil heterogeneity often drive design toward alternative systems; certified designers are commonly required.
- Typical cost: $500–$1,000 for testing and design, plus design/permit fees.
- Official resource: OSSF design and approval standards https://www.tceq.texas.gov/permitting/ossf/ossf-program
Emergency/after-hours service
- What it includes: urgent pump-out or repair, rapid dispatch, and temporary contingencies.
- Real County specifics: rural access and weather can delay response; after-hours rates apply.
- Typical cost: 1.25x–2x standard rates, plus any travel or after-hours fees.
- Official resource: EPA septic system basics for urgent care https://www.epa.gov/septic
Official resources
Septic vs Sewer Across Real County
Real County context
In Real County, many rural homes rely on on-site septic systems because municipal sewer service isn't available everywhere. If you're near a town or city boundary, you may have access to sewer through a local utility, but most properties outside that limited coverage use septic systems. Knowing what's available for your property matters for cost, maintenance, and long-term reliability.
Key differences at a glance
- Upfront costs:
- Septic: installation and permitting for an on-site system.
- Sewer: connection fees and any necessary trenching or main line work to bring service to your property.
- Ongoing costs:
- Septic: pumping every 3–5 years, occasional repairs, electrical if your lift pump is used.
- Sewer: regular monthly or quarterly bills from the utility, plus any rate changes over time.
- Maintenance and responsibility:
- Septic: you're responsible for design, installation quality, regular pumping, and avoiding hazardous chemicals.
- Sewer: the utility handles maintenance of the main lines and the treatment plant; you pay for service through your bill.
- Environmental impact:
- Septic: proper design, soil suitability, and routine maintenance reduce failure risk and groundwater contamination potential.
- Sewer: centralized treatment can be efficient in high-density areas but requires reliable long-term service and rate affordability.
- Suitability considerations:
- Septic: best for properties with suitable soil, adequate drainage, and space for a drain field.
- Sewer: makes sense if a reliable municipal line is nearby and you don't want on-site maintenance.
Availability and permitting in Real County
- Availability varies by exact location. Start with your utility provider or Real County planning office to confirm sewer availability and any connection requirements.
- If you install or convert to an on-site system, you'll typically need a permit and inspection from the Texas Commission on Environmental Quality (TCEQ) or your local authority in coordination with TCEQ's Onsite Sewage Facilities program.
Practical checks before deciding
- Property specifics:
- Soil type and drainage on your lot (soil tests help determine septic viability).
- Lot size and space for a drain field.
- Financial considerations:
- Compare the long-term costs of maintenance and pumping for septic vs predictable monthly sewer bills.
- Don't forget potential future repairs or replacement for the septic system.
- Lifestyle and reliability:
- If you want predictable service without on-site maintenance, sewer may be appealing where available.
- If you value independence and property value tied to on-site systems, septic is a solid path with proper upkeep.
Maintenance and best practices for septic systems
- Use a licensed installer for initial design and installation.
- Pump every 3–5 years, or as recommended by the system professional.
- Conserve water to reduce load on the drain field.
- Avoid disposal of fats, oils, solvents, chemicals, and non-dumpable items down drains.
- Keep the drain field protected from heavy traffic and root intrusion.
Steps to explore your options (sequence you can follow)
- Confirm sewer availability with your local utility and Real County offices.
- Get a professional assessment of soil suitability if you're considering a septic system.
- Compare the total cost of septic installation and ongoing maintenance vs sewer connection fees and bills.
- If septic, hire a licensed OSSF designer/installer and obtain necessary permits.
- Schedule installation, inspections, and set a pumping/maintenance plan.
Official resources
- Texas Commission on Environmental Quality (TCEQ) – Onsite Sewage Facilities (OSSF): https://www.tceq.texas.gov/permitting/ossf
- U.S. Environmental Protection Agency – Septic Systems: https://www.epa.gov/septic
- Real County local utilities and planning contacts (check Real County official website or county clerk): [Real County official resources]
