Licensing Guides
Minnesota septic license: How to become a septic contractor in Minnesota
Septic, MN
October 1st, 2026
Table of contents
What is the mean wage for a septic professional in Minnesota?
What are the reciprocity requirements for a septic license in Minnesota?
What are the penalties for unlicensed septic work in Minnesota?
Septic license requirements in Minnesota
We all need safe, reliable sewage management for our homes and businesses. Those homeowners and businesses that rely on septic tanks, also known as on-site sewage facilities (OSSF), depend on people who know how to install and maintain those systems while protecting public health.
According to the University of Minnesota Water Resources Center Onsite Sewage Treatment Program (OSTP), around one third of Minnesotans rely on septic systems to treat their wastewater.
According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS), there are 30,650 septic tank servicers and sewer pipe cleaners nationwide, and Minnesota employs 240 of them. The BLS projects national growth of 8% from 2024 to 2034, adding 2,900 of these skilled workers to the ranks. In the state of Minnesota, according to CareerOneStop, the U.S. Department of Labor's job search website, the projected growth rate is 12% for septic tank servicers and sewer pipe cleaners.
If you're thinking about starting a septic business or working in this field, you need to know the requirements in your state or local jurisdiction. This guide will help you determine what you need before you get started in Minnesota.
The Minnesota Pollution Control Agency (MPCA) oversees Subsurface Sewage Treatment System (SSTS) licensing for businesses and certifications for individuals. All Minnesota businesses that design, install, repair, maintain, operate, or inspect septic systems must be licensed with the MPCA. Licensed businesses are required to employ at least one certified individual for each specialty offered (maintainer, installer, service provider, designer, and inspector).
Types of septic licenses in Minnesota
There's one SSTS business license and several individual certifications depending on the SSTS work you intend to do, which include:
Maintainer: Required for sewage tank evaluation, cleaning, and repairs of existing systems, as well as portable toilet and septage management.
Installer: Required for SSTS installation.
Service Provider: Required for SSTS operational assessment, adjustment, sampling, and interpretation of operational performance, repair, groundwater monitoring, and collection system maintenance, as well as operation of systems less than 10,000 gallons per day (GPD).
Basic Designer: Required for the design of Type I – Type III new systems less than or equal to 2,500 GPD.
Intermediate Designer: Required for the design of Type I – Type V systems less than or equal to 2,500 GPD.
Advanced Designer: Required for the design of Type I – Type V systems less than or equal to 10,000 GPD.
Basic Inspector: Required for the inspection of Type I – Type III systems less than or equal to 2,500 GPD.
Intermediate Inspector: Required for the inspection of Type I – Type V systems less than or equal to 2,500 GPD.Advanced Inspector: Required for the inspection of Type I – Type V systems less than or equal to 10,000 GPD.
Steps to get a septic license in Minnesota
To obtain an SSTS business license, follow these steps:
Obtain a surety bond and general liability insurance.
Fill out an application.
Mail application form with required documents, including proof of employment for an SSTS certified individual per specialty, to SSTS Licensing Coordinator, Certification and Training Unit, Minnesota Pollution Control Agency, 520 Lafayette Road North, St. Paul, MN 55155. Include a payment of $200 per specialty ($400 maximum).
The steps to obtain an individual certification are roughly the same, though the required training, experience, and exam vary. The process includes:
Enroll in the required training with the University of Minnesota.Maintainer: Introduction to Onsite Systems and Maintaining Onsite SystemsInstaller: Introduction to Onsite Systems and Installing Onsite SystemsService Provider: Introduction to Onsite Systems and Service ProviderBasic Designer: Introduction to Onsite Systems, Installing Onsite Systems, Basic Design of Onsite Systems, and Soils Pre-certificationIntermediate Designer: Introduction to Onsite Systems, Installing Onsite Systems, Basic Design of Onsite Systems, Soils Pre-certification, and Intermediate Design and InspectionAdvanced Designer : Introduction to Onsite Systems, Installing Onsite Systems, Basic Design of Onsite Systems, Soils Pre-certification, Intermediate Design and Inspection, and Advanced Design and InspectionBasic Inspector: Introduction to Onsite Systems, Installing Onsite Systems, Basic Design of Onsite Systems, Inspecting Onsite Systems, and Soils Pre-certificationIntermediate Inspector: Introduction to Onsite Systems, Installing Onsite Systems, Basic Design of Onsite Systems, Inspecting Onsite Systems, Soils Pre-certification, Service Provider, and Intermediate Design and InspectionAdvanced Inspector: Introduction to Onsite Systems, Installing Onsite Systems, Basic Design of Onsite Systems, Inspecting Onsite Systems, Soils Pre-certification, Service Provider, Intermediate Design and Inspection, and Advanced Designer and Inspection
Pass the required exam. Each certification has a designation exam.
Obtain the required experience.Maintainer: 15 pump-outs and disposal with a MaintainerInstaller: 15 SSTS installations (at least one above-ground and one below-ground) and observe five pump-outs and disposal with a MaintainerBasic Designer: 15 individual sewage treatment system (ISTS) site and soil evaluations, designs, and management plans (at least one above-ground and one below-ground), and observe four installations and five pump-outs and disposal with a MaintainerBasic Inspector: 15 ISTS site and soil evaluations, designs, and management plans (at least one above-ground and one below-ground), observe five site and soil evaluations, designs, and management plans, and five installations and five pump-outs and disposal with a Maintainer
Apply for certification.
For more information on license issuance, MPCA offers a certification and licensing FAQ on its website.
Benefits of getting a septic license in Minnesota
Earning your septic license in Minnesota opens the door to a growing field with strong demand. Here are some key benefits:
Job security: Around one third of Minnesotans rely on septic systems, according to the University of Minnesota Water Resources Center, creating consistent demand for licensed professionals.
Higher earning potential: Licensed septic professionals in Minnesota earn a mean annual wage of $62,010, above the national average of $53,500 for the occupation.
Legal compliance: The Minnesota Pollution Control Agency requires all businesses performing SSTS work to be licensed, so certification keeps you on the right side of state law.
Client trust: Homeowners and businesses prefer hiring licensed professionals who can demonstrate proper training and compliance with state regulations.
Business growth: A licensed SSTS business can offer multiple specialty services—from installation to inspection to design—expanding your revenue streams.
What is the mean wage for a septic professional in Minnesota?
According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS), the national mean annual wage for septic tank servicers and sewer pipe cleaners nationally is $53,500 annually and in Minnesota it's $62,010.
Nationally, wages vary significantly by experience and specialization:
Workers at the 10th percentile earn $37,040 per year
Workers at the 25th percentile earn $43,530 per year
The median (50th percentile) wage is $49,880 per year
Workers at the 75th percentile earn $61,060 per year
Top earners at the 90th percentile bring home $73,490 per year
How much does it cost to get a septic license in Minnesota?
A business license requires $200 per specialty area with a $400 maximum. For individuals, it depends on the courses required for the certification type:
Maintainer: $915
Installer: $885
Service Provider: $1,125
Basic Designer: $1,955
Intermediate Designer: $2,595
Advanced Designer : $3,235
Basic Inspector: $1,745
Intermediate Inspector: $3,665
Advanced Inspector: $4,305
You will also need to budget for required insurance and septic permit application fees.
Additional costs to consider include:
Surety bond and general liability insurance: Required for all SSTS business licenses. Costs vary by provider and coverage level.
Exam retake fees: If you fail an exam, you can repeat the related workshop and retake the exam, or wait at least six months to retake without repeating the course, per the MPCA certification requirements.
Certification renewal: You must renew individual certifications every three years, completing 12 to 18 hours of continuing education depending on your specialization.
Local septic permit fees: Minnesota counties set their own permit fees for SSTS installation and repair. Contact your local SSTS program for specific costs.
What Business Owners Need to Know
Getting the most out of a septic installation technician, no matter where they are in their licensing journey, takes work. ServiceTitan cloud-based, all-in-one septic business software gives technicians and business owners the technology they need to do the work efficiently, and the data they need to do it smartly.
SMS communications that keep customers informed about the technician's visit.
Location-specific service history, including recorded calls, accessible from the mobile app.
Required forms that ensure every job is done right, driving consistency.
The ability to build multi-option proposals with photos, on-site, in minutes.
Sales presentations that make conversations with customers easier and drive the average ticket.
Mobile payment acceptance, eliminating lost checks and increasing cash flow.
To learn more, schedule a demo with a product expert today.
How long does it take to get a septic license in Minnesota?
The University of Minnesota lists dates for the required courses on its website. The time it takes to obtain licensure varies based on course availability, whether you pass the exam on the first try, and how long it takes to complete the experience requirement.
As a general guide, here are approximate timelines by certification type:
Maintainer: Two required courses plus 15 supervised pump-outs. Could be completed in a few months with regular course availability and active fieldwork.
Installer: Two required courses plus 15 supervised installations. The installation experience typically takes several months, as it depends on seasonal construction schedules.
Service Provider: Two required courses with no experience requirement, making this one of the faster certifications to earn.
Basic Designer: Four required courses plus extensive field experience. Plan for six months to a year or more.
Advanced Designer or Inspector: Six or more required courses plus field experience. This path can take a year or longer, depending on course scheduling and experience opportunities.
Keep in mind that if you fail an exam, you must either repeat the workshop or wait at least six months before retaking the test, which can extend your timeline.
Minnesota septic training programs and schools
The required training courses are all hosted by the University of Minnesota Extension Water Resources Center Onsite Sewage Treatment Program.
The program offers the following pre-certification courses for each specialty:
Introduction to Onsite Systems: Required for all certification types. Covers the fundamentals of SSTS design, function, and regulation.
Installing Onsite Systems: Required for installers, designers, and inspectors.
Maintaining Onsite Systems: Required for maintainer certification.
Service Provider: Required for service provider, intermediate inspector, and advanced inspector certifications.
Basic Design of Onsite Systems: Required for all designer and inspector certifications.
Inspecting Onsite Systems: Required for all inspector certifications.
Soils Pre-certification: Required for designers and inspectors. Includes a critical field component on soil identification.
Intermediate Design and Inspection: Required for intermediate and advanced designers and inspectors.
Advanced Design and Inspection: Required for advanced designer and advanced inspector certifications.
Courses are offered at locations across the state. Check the University of Minnesota workshop schedule for upcoming dates, locations, and registration.
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Minnesota septic licensing exam details
There is a required exam for each certification type. The questions are based on information from class discussions, Minn. R. 7080-7083, the Manual for Septic Professionals in Minnesota, and MPCA design guidance. The exam is open book and calculators are allowed. You need a score of at least 70% to pass.
You may use reference materials and calculators during the exam, but cell phones and computers are not permitted. You must present a valid photo ID before the exam.
The soils pre-certification exam also includes a critical field portion where you must correctly identify soil colors and textures. You must pass both the written and field portions to earn soils certification.
If you fail an exam, you can either repeat the related workshop and retake the exam immediately, or wait at least six months and retake the test during a pre-certification course examination period. Failing one specialty exam does not prevent you from taking an exam in a different specialty area. For more details, see the MPCA certification and licensing FAQ.
How can I prepare for the septic license exam in Minnesota?
Preparing for your SSTS certification exam starts with the required coursework. Here are strategies to help you pass:
Study the course materials: Exam questions draw from class discussions, Minn. R. 7080-7083, the Manual for Septic Professionals in Minnesota, and MPCA design guidance.
Use open-book resources wisely: Since the exam is open book, organize your reference materials with tabs or bookmarks so you can find key sections quickly.
Practice soil identification: For designer and inspector certifications, the soils pre-certification exam includes a hands-on field component. Practice identifying soil colors using a Munsell chart and recognizing soil textures.
Review MPCA exam descriptions: The MPCA publishes exam descriptions for each specialty that outline the topics covered and the weight of each section.
Connect with experienced professionals: Your mentor — the certified professional guiding your field experience — can help you understand real-world applications of the exam material.
Does my Minnesota septic license work in any other state?
No. Minnesota's SSTS certification does not automatically transfer to any other state. Each state has its own septic licensing requirements, and most require you to complete their own training, exams, and application processes separately.
If you plan to work in another state, research that state's specific licensing requirements. You can explore licensing guides for other states through the ServiceTitan® Licensing Hub.
What are the reciprocity requirements for a septic license in Minnesota?
Minnesota does not offer reciprocity for SSTS certifications. There is no agreement with any other state that would allow out-of-state septic professionals to bypass Minnesota's training, examination, and experience requirements.
If you hold a septic license from another state and want to work in Minnesota, you must complete the full MPCA certification process, including all required training courses through the University of Minnesota, pass the applicable exams, and fulfill the experience requirements.
Septic-specific requirements in Minnesota
Minnesota's SSTS program has several requirements that set it apart from other states:
Business license required: Every business that designs, installs, repairs, maintains, operates, or inspects septic systems must hold an SSTS business license from the MPCA. The business must employ at least one designated certified individual (DCI) for each specialty area offered.
Surety bond and liability insurance: All licensed SSTS businesses must carry a surety bond and general liability insurance.
Mentor requirement: To complete your experience requirement, you must work under a certified mentor who has not had an MPCA enforcement action in the past five years.
Large subsurface sewage treatment systems (LSTS): Systems handling more than 10,000 gallons per day require a service provider certification plus wastewater certification from the MPCA.
Licensed professional requirement for Type V systems: Type V SSTS require involvement of an appropriately licensed AELSLAGID professional (architect, engineer, land surveyor, landscape architect, geoscientist, or interior designer).
National septic certifications
Other certifications can help you demonstrate your proficiency to potential employers and clients. The National Association of Wastewater Technicians and The National Onsite Wastewater Recycling Association offer certifications. Those and other professional certifications are not required but can add to your marketability and therefore increase your opportunity to make more money.
Other requirements unique to Minnesota
Minnesota has a layered regulatory structure for septic systems. In addition to state MPCA licensing, be aware of:
County-level SSTS ordinances: Minnesota counties must adopt SSTS ordinances and administer local SSTS programs that comply with state rules. As of 2025, 188 local SSTS programs are actively managing septic systems. Local ordinances may impose requirements above and beyond state regulations, including compliance inspections prior to property transfer.
Local governments cannot require additional professional licenses: While counties can set stricter system requirements, they cannot require septic professionals to obtain additional local licenses beyond MPCA certification.
Government employees must be certified: Local and state government employees who perform SSTS work must obtain individual certification in their applicable specialty areas.
SSTS administrator training: Local governments administering SSTS programs must have at least one staff member who has completed the MPCA's online SSTS administrator training.
Are there septic scholarships in Minnesota?
While dedicated septic-only scholarships are limited, several avenues can help offset training costs:
MPCA and University of Minnesota partnerships: The MPCA has periodically worked with the University of Minnesota's Onsite Sewage Treatment Program to offer reduced-cost or subsidized training to encourage more professionals to pursue advanced certifications.
Employer-sponsored training: Many licensed SSTS businesses cover the cost of training and certification for their employees as a business investment.
Workforce development programs: Check with your local Minnesota CareerForce center for potential training grants and workforce development funds that may apply to septic certification coursework.
Trade association resources: Organizations like the National Onsite Wastewater Recycling Association (NOWRA) and the National Association of Wastewater Technicians (NAWT) may offer scholarships, grants, or discounted training for members.
How can someone verify my septic license in Minnesota?
Customers, employers, and local governments can verify your SSTS certification or business license through the MPCA's online tools:
Visit the MPCA SSTS individual search tool to look up a certified professional by name. The tool displays certification specialties, certification number, and expiration date.
Use the MPCA SSTS business search tool to verify a licensed SSTS business, including the specialties it's licensed to perform and its designated certified individuals.
You can also use the individual search tool to check your own certification status, continuing education credits, and expiration date.
When can a septic license get suspended in Minnesota?
The MPCA can take enforcement action against SSTS businesses and certified individuals for violations of Minn. R. 7080-7083. Common grounds for suspension or revocation include:
Performing SSTS work outside the scope of your certification
Failing to follow approved SSTS designs or installation standards
Operating without proper insurance or surety bond coverage
Failing to complete required continuing education before your certification expires
Receiving repeated compliance violations from local or state inspectors
If your certification expires because you did not complete continuing education on time, you must follow the MPCA's reinstatement process. The MPCA may also bar professionals with enforcement actions on their record from serving as mentors for new certification candidates for up to five years.
What are the penalties for unlicensed septic work in Minnesota?
Performing SSTS work without proper certification and business licensing is a violation of Minnesota state rules. Consequences can include:
MPCA enforcement actions: The Minnesota Pollution Control Agency can issue notices of violation, administrative penalties, and cease-and-desist orders against unlicensed individuals or businesses.
County enforcement: Local SSTS programs — run by counties, cities, and townships — also enforce compliance. They can deny permits, issue notices of noncompliance, and require system owners to hire only licensed professionals for remediation.
Financial liability: Unlicensed work that results in a faulty system can leave you personally liable for the cost of system replacement, environmental remediation, and potential harm to public health.
Loss of future licensing eligibility: Enforcement actions can delay or prevent you from obtaining SSTS certification in the future.
Working with proper licensing protects both your clients and your career.
Continuing education
Continuing education is required for individual certification renewal. Maintainers, installers, and service providers must complete 12 hours of continuing education, while designers and inspectors must complete 18 hours, including at least six hours of soils education. Continuing education courses are hosted by the University of Minnesota Extension Water Resources Center Onsite Sewage Treatment Program.
Resources
You can stay up to date on all septic industry news several ways:
Check top septic blogs, including ServiceTitan's blog.
Read about the latest industry trends, and discover ideas on how to grow your septic business.
Listen to top septic podcasts like ServiceTitan's "Toolbox for the Trades" podcast.
The states have licensing requirements for other trades, too. You can find out more about how to get an HVAC, plumbing, electrical, or general contractor license in Minnesota, or in any of the other 49 states and the District of Columbia through the ServiceTitan Licensing Hub.
