Septage
Septage is a fluid mixture of untreated and partially treated sewage solids, liquids and sludge of human or domestic origin, which is removed from a septic tank system. The state's septage management program is responsible for assuring that septage is managed in a responsible, safe and consistent manner across the state. The major areas of emphasis are: permitting of septage management firms, land application sites and treatment and detention facilities; developing applicable laws and rules; and providing technical/problem solving assistance to septage management firms, general public and the Solid Waste Section.
The Solid Waste Section does not have the statutory authority to issue permits for the installation of domestic septic systems (e.g. tanks and /or nitric field lines). That authority lies with and is the responsibility of your local government (i.e. county or other municipal government). Please contact your local health department for further information specific to your location.
| Septage Management Firm Permitting | |
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| Septage Detention and Treatment Facility (SDTF) | |
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| Septage Land Application Site (SLAS) | |
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| Additional Resources | |
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The links below provide access to public records maintained by the Division of Waste Management for Septage Management Firms and permitted septage facilities. Separate links are available for Septage Management Firms, Septage Detention and Treatment Facilities (SDTFs), and Septage Land Application Sites (SLASs). Within each records system, documents are organized by permit number, and each permit number contains a folder with the applicable records for that firm or facility, which may include permits, initial and renewal applications, inspection reports, and other related documents.
An interactive map is available to identify the locations of permitted Septage Detention and Treatment Facilities (SDTFs) and Septage Land Application Sites (SLASs) throughout North Carolina.
| Online Records for Septage Management Firms and Facilities | |
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| Rules & Statutes | |
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| Training Resources | |
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| Annual Continuing Education | Annual Requirements: Approved Course Providers: |
| New Septage Management Firm Operator Training | The NC DEQ offers free online training every two months for new septage operators. 2026 Training Dates: |
| New Septage Land Application Site Training | NC DEQ offers free online training for new septage land application site operators. For training dates, contact |