Land records · Parcel maps · October 5, 2026
How to Find Septic Records for a Property
How to find septic records: ask the county or district health department for permits and as-built drawings, check pumping and inspection history, and more.
How to find septic records: contact the county or district health department, often called environmental health, and request the septic permit file for the property. It may include the original soil evaluation, permit, as-built drawing showing tank and drainfield locations, inspection reports, and repair permits. Then add pumping and inspection receipts from the owner and any service companies. This page is general land-records background, not legal advice.
Where septic records are kept
| Record | Typical source |
|---|---|
| Soil evaluation or perc test | Health department |
| Installation permit and approval | Health department or state environmental agency |
| As-built drawing | Health department, installer |
| Repair and replacement permits | Health department |
| Pumping records | Owner, pumping company, sometimes reported to county |
| Operation and maintenance reports | Required in some areas for advanced systems |
In some states, a state agency handles septic permits instead of the county.
How to request records
- Search online: some health departments post septic records searchable by address or parcel.
- Call or email environmental health with the address and parcel number.
- File a public records request if required.
- Ask the seller for pumping, inspection, and repair receipts.
- Contact local septic companies, which may have service history.
What an as-built drawing shows
- Tank location, size, and type.
- Drainfield location and layout.
- Distance from house, well, and property lines.
- Reserve area for a replacement field. See what is a septic reserve area.
This drawing helps you avoid driving over or building on the drainfield.
If there are no records
Older systems may predate permitting. A septic inspector can locate the tank and assess the system, sometimes using probes and cameras. Lack of records is a reason for a thorough inspection before buying.
Septic inspections before buying
Many buyers order a septic inspection, and some jurisdictions require one at sale. Inspections often include pumping, checking baffles and the drainfield, and looking for signs of failure.
Planning additions
Adding bedrooms can require proof the septic system is sized for the increase. Building permits may trigger septic review. See how to find building permits for a property. Treated water discharge from household systems may also matter; see RO wastewater on a septic lot.
Protecting the system once you know where it is
Once you have the as-built drawing, mark the tank lids and drainfield edges so they are not driven over, paved, or planted with trees whose roots can clog lines. Keep the drawing with your house papers and give a copy to anyone designing an addition, pool, fence, or outbuilding. Pumping intervals depend on tank size and household use, but many owners schedule an inspection every few years and keep every receipt, since the next buyer will likely ask for them.
Bottom line
To find septic records, ask the county or district health department for the permit file, soil evaluation, and as-built drawing, then gather pumping and inspection receipts. If records are missing, order an inspection. For new land, see what is a perc test. Locate the parcel on the Platbookmapper map.
How to find septic records FAQ
Who keeps septic records?
Usually the county or district health department, sometimes a state agency.
What is a septic as-built?
A drawing showing where the tank and drainfield were installed.
How do I find where my septic tank is?
Check the as-built drawing or hire a septic company to locate it.
What if there are no septic records?
The system may predate permits. Get an inspection.
Do I need a septic inspection when buying a house?
It is commonly recommended and required in some places.