Does LCRA require a septic inspection when a house sells?

Yes, inside LCRA's zone. A system inspection is required before LCRA can approve the new owner for continued use. LCRA recommends scheduling it before closing.

How do I know if a property is in LCRA's septic zone?

Enter the address or ZIP code on LCRA's OSSF jurisdiction map. If it is unclear, call LCRA at 512-578-3200 or 800-776-5272.

Who maintains an aerobic septic system?

A maintenance contract is required for the first two years. After that, the owner may do the maintenance after completing the required class and passing the test.

Which reinspection form should I use?

Use the Reinspection Application Packet LCRA updated in May 2026. It is the only version LCRA will accept starting Jan. 1, 2027.

Guides

Lake LBJ septic rules: what LCRA requires when you buy or sell

By Greg Gaynor, Fokus Waterfront · Updated October 2026

Bottom line: LCRA permits and inspects septic systems within 2,200 feet of the upper Highland Lakes. When a home in that zone sells, LCRA must inspect the system before it approves the new owner to keep using it. LCRA recommends booking that inspection before closing.

In short

LCRA regulates septic systems (it calls them OSSF) within 2,200 feet of the upper Highland Lakes.
A new owner needs LCRA approval for continued use, and that takes a system inspection.
LCRA recommends scheduling the inspection before closing.
Aerobic systems need a maintenance contract for the first two years.
A new reinspection form (May 2026) is the only one LCRA accepts starting Jan. 1, 2027.

Who regulates septic systems around Lake LBJ?

LCRA runs the On-Site Sewage Facilities (OSSF) program for the Highland Lakes as an authorized agent of the Texas Commission on Environmental Quality. It has regulated septic systems near the lakes since September 1971.

LCRA's zone covers 2,200 feet around the upper Highland Lakes and 2,000 feet around Lake Travis. Enter any address on LCRA's jurisdiction map to check it. If the map is unclear, call LCRA at 512-578-3200 or 800-776-5272.

What happens to the septic system when a home sells?

The new owner needs LCRA approval for continued use before the system can legally operate. LCRA must inspect the system before it gives that approval.

Inspection item	When it applies
Pump and alarm testing	Every routine inspection
Tank inlet and outlet uncovered	If LCRA has not seen them in the last 10 years
Manholes or portholes accessible	If the last inspection was more than 5 years ago

What should buyers and sellers do before closing?

Book early. LCRA recommends the inspection before closing, so build it into the contract timeline.
Gather records. Sellers should find the permit, past inspection reports and maintenance records.
Know the system type. Aerobic systems need a maintenance contract for the first two years. After that, the owner may maintain the system after taking the required class and passing the test.
Use the current form. LCRA updated its Reinspection Application Packet in May 2026. It is the only version accepted starting Jan. 1, 2027.

Questions and answers

Does LCRA require a septic inspection when a house sells?: Yes, inside LCRA's zone. A system inspection is required before LCRA can approve the new owner for continued use. LCRA recommends scheduling it before closing.
How do I know if a property is in LCRA's septic zone?: Enter the address or ZIP code on LCRA's OSSF jurisdiction map. If it is unclear, call LCRA at 512-578-3200 or 800-776-5272.
Who maintains an aerobic septic system?: A maintenance contract is required for the first two years. After that, the owner may do the maintenance after completing the required class and passing the test.
Which reinspection form should I use?: Use the Reinspection Application Packet LCRA updated in May 2026. It is the only version LCRA will accept starting Jan. 1, 2027.

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Sources

Checked October 2026.