Purpose
DES issues permits to septic system designers and installers to ensure that effluent disposal systems are properly designed and installed. DES will issue a permit to any person who demonstrates a sound working knowledge of the procedures and practices required in site evaluation and the ability to read approved waste disposal plans.
Applicability
DES administers examinations four times a year, with the major testing taking place in the spring and fall and reexaminations in the summer and winter. An installer or designer permit is issued upon successful completion of the appropriate examination. The designer’s exam consists of three written portions and a field test for soil interpretation. Installers must pass a two-part written examination only. The examinations are intended to ensure that designers and installers can design and install appropriate systems for a variety of site and use conditions. See Permitting of Installers and Designers of Subsurface Sewage Disposal Systems 
(Fact Sheet WD-SSB-4).
Statute and Administrative Rules
RSA-A:29-44 Water Pollution And Waste Disposal/Sewage Disposal Systems
Env-Wq 1000 Subdivision and Individual Sewage Disposal System Design Rules
Applications
Designer Application 
Installer Application
Fee
For both designers and installers, the fee is $80 per exam; $80 per biennial renewal.
Processing Time
The estimated processing time for a licensing decision after an exam is passed is five days.
Term/Renewal
Permits for both licensed designers and installers begin on January 1 and expire on December 31 of every other year.
Pursuant to RSA 485-A:35 & 36, permitted designers and installers are required to complete three hours of DES approved continuing education annually effective January 1, 2009. This requirement must be met to be eligible for each biennial permit renewal. Within each two-year period, at least three of the six credit hours must be obtained by attending educational seminars offered by Subsurface Systems Bureau staff or pre-approved by the bureau. Please note; individuals jointly licensed as both a designer and installer are only required to obtain three-credit hours per year. For more information, please see the Continuing Education section.
Modifications/Amendments
Not applicable.
Transferability
Not transferable.
Appeals
Any person aggrieved by a final decision of the Subsurface Systems Bureau can appeal to the Water Council in accordance with RSA 485-A:40.
Status of Current Applications
Application, Designer, and Installer Search
Contact Us
Subsurface Systems Bureau website or (603) 271-3501.
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