Septic Designer or Installer

Any structure that is connected to a water supply must be connected to a wastewater disposal system such as a sewer system or individual sewage disposal system. Applications for individual sewage disposal systems or septic systems must be prepared by a permitted designer. With the exception for homeowners installing for their primary domicile, septic systems must be constructed by a permitted installer.

NHDES Designers and Installers Exams 

Per NH RSA 485-A:35, NHDES issues an ISDS Designers permit to individuals that demonstrate a sound working knowledge of the procedures and practices required in the site evaluation, design and operation of subsurface sewage or waste disposal systems.

Per NH RSA 485-A:36, NHDES issues ISDS Installers permits to individuals that demonstrate a sound working knowledge of RSA 485-A:29-35 and the ability to read approved waste disposal plans.

To apply to become a permitted designer or installer, individuals must submit a Designer Permit Application or Installer Permit Application and pass an exam. To ensure that applications are accepted and not returned for being incomplete, please read and follow the directions carefully.

NHDES administers Designers and Installers exams in the spring and fall. Exam space is filled on a first come, first served basis of complete applications. The postmark date of applications is used to determine date of registration. There is no benefit to submitting applications in person.

Exam dates will be assigned after an application has been accepted. Written notification of acceptance and the exam date will be mailed or emailed as preferred.

On the day of the exam, examinees must present a valid photo ID and copy of acceptance letter to be checked in.

Please review the Installer exam prep sheet and Designer exam prep sheet, see these sheets for recommended preparation and additional information about the exams.

Notice: Spring 2024 Exams all exam seats have been filled.

Renewals and Continuing Education

Installer and designer permits are valid for two years from January 1 of years ending in odd numbers to December 31 of years ending in even numbers. Within this period, permitted designers and installers must complete a minimum of six credit hours of continuing education from the NHDES Approved Continuing Education Seminars. Permits for designers and installers are renewable upon proper application, payment of a biennial fee of $80 and compliance with the continuing education requirements.