Contact Ground Water Protection

The Division of Ground Water Protection's goal is to ensure that the ground waters of Tennessee are maintained in a safe and usable condition by regulating subsurface sewage disposal. This activity is provided through administration of the Subsurface Sewage Disposal Program and has its legal authority in T.C.A. 68-221-401 et.seq.

The Subsurface Sewage Disposal Program involves permitting construction, inspection and approval of underground septic systems for wastewater disposal in areas lacking wastewater treatment plants.  Additionally, in cases where soil conditions are inadequate to support a conventional septic system, the Division may recommend an approved alternative system, if possible.  Also, when septic systems fail, the Division permits construction and inspects repairs made to systems.  More permitting information can be found in the Environmental Permitting Handbook.

The majority of septic tank system related complaints are received by staff located in the county environmental offices.  Staff collects water samples and respond to complaints associated with private water supplies (springs and wells). 

The Division also performs soil evaluations in order to determine suitability for subsurface sewage systems and provides consultation and project approval for subdivision developments which are to be served by subsurface sewage systems.

The Subsurface Sewage program has a total staff of 139 people - 9 in the Central Office and 130 providing direct services in counties throughout the state.

If additional information is needed, you can contact an Environmental Field Office in your area by calling 1-888-891-8332.