New Septic System Application Requirements

Permits are required to install new onsite sewage septic systems (OSTDS) to ensure that the system is designed and installed correctly, protecting both public health and the environment.

The permit process helps prevent contamination of groundwater and surface water, which can occur if a septic system is improperly installed or maintained. It also ensures that the system complies with local regulations and standards, which are in place to safeguard the community’s health and safety.

1. Complete and submit the Application For Construction Permit. The instructions accompanying application explain what information is needed. 

• • All submitted forms must be signed and dated.   
  • The application fee in Lee County is $390.00.  
  • If it is determined that a site evaluation is needed, the applicant will be billed an additional $115.00.  
  • An additional fee of $100.00 must be paid for inspections on the outer islands only accessible by boat. 
  • The Performance Based Treatment System application fee is $465.00.  
  • All fees are made payable to the Florida Department of Health in Lee County. 
  • Pay online by visiting MyFloridaEHPermit.com. 
  
  

2. The Site Plan must show boundaries with dimensions and any of the following features that exist or that are proposed:
   
   
   • Structures 
   • Swimming pools 
   • Recorded easements 
   • Onsite sewage treatment and disposal system components 
   • Slope of the property 
   • Wells 
   • Potable and non-potable water lines and valves 
   • Drainage features 
   • Filled areas 
   • Excavated areas for onsite sewage systems 
   • Obstructed areas 
   • Surface water bodies 
   • Location of the reference point for system elevation. 
     
     
     
3. The floor plan must be drawn to scale or showing building area totals, all rooms labeled, and outside dimensions of each dwelling unit is required.
   
   If the residence has multiple units, then a utility easement agreement, notarized and recorded with the clerk of courts, is required.
   
   Non-residential establishments require a floor plan showing the plumbing plan.
   
   
   
4. All new OSTDS applications, in unincorporated Lee County, must be designed by a Florida licensed professional engineer and must include the required seal and signature.
   
   
   
5. A copy of the site survey must be included as part of the application package. This includes any surface water bodies and storm-water systems within 75 feet of the lot.
   
   
   
6. Nitrogen-reducing systems are required within Basin Management Action Plans (BMAPs).
   
   In 2023, House Bill (HB) 1379 expanded the areas in which nitrogen-reducing systems are required for new septic systems rather than conventional septic systems.
   
   These requirements apply in BMAPs on lots one acre or less when a new septic system construction permit is required, and sewer is not available.
   
   Find out if your address is in a BMAP.
   
   
   
7. Applications may be sent via email to LeeEH@flhealth.gov.
   
   Once a complete application package has been received, DOH-Lee will:
    
   • Review the application to ensure all design features are included and accurate. 
   • If there is additional information required before a permit can be issued, you will receive a letter detailing what that information is.  
   • Issue the permit. 

If you want to check on the status of a septic permit application or inspection, use our new Septic Online Services page for quick access to the information.