Septic System Permits

Private Wastewater Disposal systems are installed in areas where no public sewers are available. New lots must be at least 3 acres for a septic system. A permit is required for all new systems and repairs to existing systems. Systems are inspected to ensure compliance with Missouri Department of Health rules.

To apply for a sewage permit, use the button below to access the online application or contact the Environmental Division at MSEnvironmental@indepmo.org or (816) 325-7716.

On-Site Sewage Disposal Permit

For more detailed information, see The City of Independence Municipal Services Regulations (Chapter 17) and the Department of Health and Senior Services Specifications 

1.  Contractors and subcontractors are responsible for obtaining a Business License prior to performing work.
2. Any construction that varies from the designed plans that were signed, sealed, and turned into the Municipal Services Department, will be the installer’s responsibility to contact the engineer and verify that Municipal Services receives updated signed and sealed sets of plans prior to the final inspection.
3. The installer is responsible to ensure accessibility of the installed system for inspections by City staff.  
4. The absorption trench field shall be protected from all ground-compacting traffic during construction activities. Three eights inch (3/8”) clean rock shall be used for bedding and cover of sanitary sewer laterals. Four inch (4”) bedding depths shall be used in soil and six inch (6”)bedding depths shall be used on rock.
5. In case of a rain event, it may be permitted to add water to the tank in order to prevent it from floating.
6. An inspection port is required at a minimum of one (1) of the lateral runs.
7. When finishing the system, it is a best management practice to leave several inches of additional soil where the laterals have been placed in order to allow for settling and to ensure that runoff water is diverted away from the absorption trenches. Once the system is covered, the site is to be seeded.  
8. Vegetation will be the responsibility of the contractor/installer.
9. Verify that you have a diversion field if watershed flows into the area where the lateral field is placed.
10. Lots approved for On-Site Disposal Systems vary based on the date that the lot was established:
    1. Before April 1, 1993 – 15,000 sq. ft.
    2. After April 1, 1993 – One (1) acre or more in size
    3. After January 1, 1997 – Three (3) acres or more in size 

Disconnection/Demolition of Septic Tank

1. The septic tank must be properly emptied of all contents before removal.
2. Concrete-type tanks can be crushed in place with dimensions not to exceed twelve inches (12”) and voids filled with gravel, sand, and/or dirt material and buried in place. Plastic and Metal tanks must be removed from the ground entirely.