Should I connect to city sewer or install a septic system?

Often the choice is made for you. Where a public sewer line is available, local rules commonly require connection; Tarrant County, Texas, for example, states it cannot issue a permit for a new or repaired septic system if a central sewer connection is possible, so check with the city first. Septic is the usual option on rural land with no sewer. Septic means you own the treatment plant: you pay for design, installation and ongoing pumping and inspections, and you need enough suitable land. Ask both the city utility and the septic permitting authority before buying land.

Check your local rule. This varies by state, county or city. Your permitting office has the final word; the official lookup pages below show you who that is.

Sources

• Residential OSSF Permit ApplicationTarrant County Public Health, Texas
• Frequent Questions on Septic SystemsU.S. Environmental Protection Agency
• A Homeowner's Guide to Septic Systems (SepticSmart)U.S. Environmental Protection Agency