Texas, Trinity County Plumbing Permit Regulations and County Ordinances for Unincorporated Areas
Trinity County, Texas, does not have a general building permit program for ordinary construction in unincorporated areas. However, permits are required for specific activities such as On-Site Sewage Facilities (OSSF), subdivision plats, heavy-haul use of county roads, and 911 addressing.
County Jurisdiction and Rules for Unincorporated Areas
The Trinity County Commissioners Court and associated offices (County Judge's Office, Commissioners' Office, 911 Addressing and GIS Mapping) have jurisdiction over unincorporated areas of the county, outside the city limits of Groveton and Trinity.
On-Site Sewage Facilities (OSSF) / Septic Permits
For OSSF and septic system work, you must contact the County Judge's Office to obtain the necessary permit application and packet. This process involves:
- Obtaining a site evaluation from a licensed site evaluator.
- Securing a septic system design from a Texas-licensed professional engineer or registered sanitarian.
- Submitting the application, site evaluation, and design to the county.
- For aerobic systems, an Affidavit to the Public and a maintenance agreement are also required.
- The county will review the submission, and if compliant, issue an Authorization to Construct.
- Inspections are required before covering any lines or tanks.
The permit fee for OSSF is $250.00, with an additional $26.00 filing fee for the Affidavit to the Public.
Subdivision and Platting
Subdivisions and plats in unincorporated areas are subject to county subdivision regulations. These regulations aim to ensure adequate roads, drainage, water, sewage, and electrical facilities.
Heavy-Haul Permits
Permits are required for the heavy-haul use of county roads.
911 Addressing and GIS Mapping
The county manages 911 address assignments and GIS coordination.
General Building Permits
There is no publicly advertised countywide general building permit program for ordinary construction in unincorporated Trinity County. However, it is always advisable to contact the Trinity County offices to confirm whether a specific project requires a permit before commencing work.