How does the Groundwater Division help keep Knox County healthy?
The mission of the Groundwater Protection Division of the Knox County Health Department is to protect the groundwater supply and environment from pollutants by enforcing the laws governing onsite wastewater systems.
This division regulates the installation of subsurface sewage disposal systems (SSDS). All residential and commercial facilities not connected to public sanitary sewer must have a SSDS to receive and treat all wastewater generated within the facility.
Our environmental specialists assist property owners in evaluating, designing, and inspecting all SSDS installed in Knox County.
Tennessee Department of Environment and Conservation (TDEC) regulations and statutes govern the Knox County Health Department Groundwater Division. SSDS regulations and information can be accessed by clicking here.
* To obtain records and/or permits for properties outside of Knox County, TN, contact TDEC. Please click herefor more information re: surrounding counties.
Questions? Send us an email.
What you need to know about...
- How to Apply for a Permit or Certification
- Property Records and File Search Requests
- Tennessee Rules and Regulations
- Licensed Soil Consultants in TN
- Information for Installers and Pumpers
How to Apply for a Permit or Certification
The KCHD EH Groundwater division can assist by issuing septic permits for new builds, remodels, and repairs to existing SSDS when needed. Please call our office to inquire about permit needs. 865-215-5200.
An SSDS Permit (aka drain field layout) or other groundwater services like certifications or verifications can be prepared for your property. Depending on your project, our team may need a soil map and/or a site plan.
Soil testing is a service done by private consultants. Please click here for a contact list of approved soil consultants in Tennessee.
Property Records and File Search Requests
The KCHD EH Groundwater division can provide available records on existing subsurface sewage disposal systems (SSDS) in Knox County. To submit a file search request please complete this form and email the completed form to kchd.filesearch@knoxcounty.org
When is a SSDS file search request needed? A file search request can be helpful to potential buyers of property seeking to learn if the property they are interested in has an existing SSDS. A file search can also reveal previous records on a piece of property such as soil mapping conducted or previous repair work completed.
Tennessee Rules and Regulations
Rules and regulations governing subsurface sewage disposal systems (SSDS) and wastewater in the State of Tennessee are available here.
Licensed Soil Consultants in TN
Here is a contact list of approved soil consultants in Tennessee.
If you need information regarding individuals that run Percolation Tests, please reach out to our office for a current contacts list 865-215-5200.
Information for Installers and Pumpers
An annual permit is required in Knox County for septic tank installers or septic tank pumpers.
If you want to install or pump septic tanks in Knox County, please call our office for more information, 865-215-5200.
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