Build to suit
Septic systems for a new home in Arizona: how permitting works
Where there's no sewer, a septic system needs a construction authorization before work starts and a discharge authorization before use.
When you need one
On rural land without a sewer connection, your home's wastewater goes to an onsite system, usually called a septic system. Arizona regulates these under ADEQ's Type 4 general permits. A conventional septic system, with a tank and a trench, bed or chamber disposal field, falls under the 4.02 general permit; alternative systems are covered by permits 4.03 through 4.23.
Step one: authorization to construct
Before construction, the applicant submits a notice of intent with a design that meets state requirements. In Maricopa County this is handled by the county Environmental Services Department, which says a Construction Authorization must be issued before construction of the system starts. According to ADEQ, an approved application gives the applicant two years to build the system.
Step two: authorization to discharge
After the system is built, inspected and tested, the applicant submits a Notice of Intent to Discharge. A Discharge Authorization is issued once the design, construction, testing and operation requirements are verified, and the system can't be used before that. ADEQ says the permit is valid for the life of the facility.
Plan around your well
Septic and water have to be planned together. Arizona rules say a well can't be drilled within 100 feet of a septic system or sewage disposal area unless the Department of Water Resources director authorizes it in writing, and some counties add their own setbacks.
When you sell later
Arizona requires a transfer inspection when a home on a septic system is resold: the seller hires a qualified inspector within six months before the transfer. Keep your system's permits and maintenance records.
How we handle it
Septic needs are site-specific, so we review them as part of the site visit for your land, and county requirements vary. Your local environmental or health department is the authority for your parcel.