Private Provider Inspections of OSTDS

Starting July 1, 2022, owners or contractors with owner authorization will have the option to hire a private provider to perform inspections of onsite sewage treatment and disposal systems (OSTDS). The Florida Department of Environmental Protection (DEP) will initiate rulemaking as directed by Chapter 2022-105, Laws of Florida.

Authorized Private Provider Inspectors

A private provider or an authorized representative of a private provider may perform onsite sewage treatment and disposal system inspections if they are:

1. An environmental health professional certified under s. 381.0101;
2. A master septic tank contractor registered under part III of chapter 489;
3. A professional engineer licensed under chapter 471 and have passed all parts of the Onsite Sewage Treatment and Disposal System Accelerated Certification Training; or
4. Working under the supervision of a licensed professional engineer and have passed all parts of the Onsite Sewage Treatment and Disposal System Accelerated Certification Training.

Guidance

Guidance is coming soon.

History

In 2022, the Florida Legislature passed Senate Bill 856, also known as the Private Provider Inspections Act, now Chapter 2022-105, Laws of Florida. This legislation passed the House and Senate with unanimous, bipartisan support.  On May 10, 2022, the bill was presented to Governor DeSantis for signature and Chapter 2022-105, Laws of Florida was signed into law May 12, 2022, with an effective date of July 1, 2022. The Private Provider Inspections Act authorizes private inspections of onsite sewage treatment and disposal systems (OSTDS) by qualified individuals.

How to Get Involved

Sign up to receive rulemaking updates on 62-6, Florida Administrative Code

Send questions and ideas to OSTDS_Feedback@FloridaDEP.gov