Licensing Guides
State Septic License: How to Become a Septic Contractor in Montana
Septic, MT
Table of Contents
Septic License Requirements in Montana
We all need safe, reliable sewage management to protect water quality in our homes and businesses. Those homeowners and businesses that rely on septic tanks, also known as on-site wastewater treatment systems, depend on people who know how to install and maintain those systems.
In Montana, approximately 214,000 homes have septic systems, according to a report by the Montana Department of Environmental Quality (DEQ).
There are 27,900 septic tank servicers and sewer pipe cleaners nationwide, according to the Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) and Montana employs 410 of them. The projected growth rate nationally is expected to be 8% by 2033, adding 3,000 of these skilled workers to the ranks. In Montana, according to CareerOneStop, the U.S. Department of Labor’s job search website, the projected growth rate is nearly three times that at 23% for septic tank servicers and sewer pipe cleaners.
If you’re thinking about starting a septic business or working in the 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 the state of Montana.
Who Issues Septic Licenses in Montana?
The Montana Department of Environmental Quality licenses septic pumpers at the state level. Visit the DEQ resource page for additional information, including FAQs and the Homeowners Guide to Septic Systems.
Montana counties also have their own wastewater regulations and licensing requirements. County health departments are responsible for issuing septic permits and collecting permit fees as well as managing site evaluations, groundwater monitoring, and subdivision reviews.
Types of Septic Licenses in Montana
At the state level, Montana offers a Septic Tank Pumper license. The license is required for any person who is in the business of cleaning cesspools, septic tanks, portable toilets, privies, grease traps, drain fields, car wash sumps, campgrounds, trailer courts, food service establishments, or similar treatment works. The license also permits the disposal of septage and other wastes.
Missoula County offers a Septic System Installer license, issued by the City-County Department of Public Health.
According to the Department, hiring certified installers ensures that systems are installed in a way that does not degrade drinking water or environmental quality and mitigates situations where people come in contact with sewage.
Flathead County offers a Septic Installer license as well as a Self-Installer license for property owners who install their own systems.
Steps to Get a Septic License in Montana
Follow these steps for a Montana Septic Tank Pumper license.
Complete the license application.
Include contact information.
Register your business with the Montana Secretary of State.
Include a check or money order for $300.
Include a signed affidavit from the county health officer where you plan to work.
Submit the license application to the Montana DEQ.
Follow these steps for a Septic System Installer license in Missoula.
Review the Septic Installer’s Study Guide.
Pass an exam administered by the Department of Public Health.
Pay the $115 certification fee.
Follow these steps for a Septic Installer license in Flathead County.
Review the Study Guide for Licensed Installers.
Pass an examination administered by the County Environmental Health Office and pay the $120 exam fee.
How Much Does It Cost to Get a Septic License in Montana?
The fee schedule for the following license types include:
State-issued Septic Pumper license: $300
Missoula Septic System Installer license: $115 exam fee
Flathead County Septic Installer license: $120 exam fee
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.
ServiceTitan features:
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 Montana?
Obtaining a septic license in Montana is relatively quick. Most Montana counties only require you to pass an examination to qualify for licensure.
Montana Septic Training Programs and Schools
Montana counties provide exam preparation, either through online courses or by providing study guides. Both Missoula and Flathead counties provide study materials to help candidates prepare for their examinations.
Montana Septic Licensing Exam Details
The Missoula County licensing exam is open-book and includes a $115 exam fee. The exam covers the Septic Installer’s Study Guide.
In Flathead County, you must pass an exam and pay the $120 exam fee. The licensed installer test covers everything on the Study Guide for Licensed Septic Installers, plus information on county regulations and construction standards.
Do I Need to Renew My Montana Septic License?
Yes. The Septic Pumper license requires annual renewal. Licenses expire Dec. 31, and renewal applications must be received by the Department of Environmental Quality no later than Jan. 31. The renewal fee is $125.
The Septic System Installer license in Missoula requires annual renewal at a cost of $75.
In Flathead County, you must renew your license each year and pay the $65 renewal fee.
The #1 newsletter for the trades.
Does Montana Reciprocate Septic Licenses?
Montana doesn’t permit reciprocity at the state level. Instead each county establishes policies for reciprocity, and many don’t allow reciprocal agreements.
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.
Continuing Education
Similar to reciprocity, Montana counties determine continuing education requirements.
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 Montana, or in any of the other 49 states and the District of Columbia through the ServiceTitan Licensing Hub.
