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Ohio Sewage Treatment Systems Bonds

Installing a sewage drainage system on a building site.

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Ohio Sewage Treatment Systems Installer ($25,000) Bond
Ohio Sewage Treatment Systems Installer ($40,000) Bond
Ohio Sewage Treatment Systems Septage Hauler ($25,000) Bond
Ohio Sewage Treatment Systems Service Provider ($15,000) Bond
Ohio Sewage Treatment Systems Service Provider ($25,000) Bond

Introduction

Ohio’s Sewage Treatment Systems (STS) program, regulated by the Ohio Department of Health (ODH), governs the design, installation, operation, and maintenance of on-site wastewater systems for homes and small businesses not served by centralized sewers. These systems, commonly used in rural and unsewered areas, treat and dispose of household sewage safely and effectively.

Administered under Ohio Administrative Code Chapter 3701-29, the STS program ensures that all components—from septic tanks to soil absorption systems—are properly permitted, installed by qualified contractors, and maintained to safeguard public health and the environment. Conformity is demanded at the local level through county health departments, with contractors often required to be bonded and licensed to perform work.

installation of a sewage system subterranean tank.

Explanation: Ohio Sewage Treatment Systems Bonds

In Ohio, contractors who install, service, or alter sewage treatment systems (STS) are required to post surety bonds as part of the registration process with the Ohio Department of Health (ODH). These bonds ensure compliance with Ohio Administrative Code Chapter 3701-29, which governs sewage treatment systems across the state.

See a City of Vermilion, OH – Contractor License Bond.

Types of Ohio – Sewage Treatment Systems Bonds

Here are the main types of sewage treatment systems bonds required in Ohio:

1. Ohio General Sewage Treatment System Contractor Bond

    • Who Needs It: Contractors who design, install, alter, service, or remove household or small flow on-site sewage treatment systems.

    • Purpose: Guarantees the contractor’s compliance with state regulations and proper workmanship.

2. Ohio Installer Bond

    • Who Needs It: Individuals or companies engaged specifically in the installation or alteration of STS components.

    • Purpose: Protects the public and government agencies from defective installation or code violations.

3. Ohio Septage Hauler Bond

    • Who Needs It: Contractors or companies that pump, transport, or dispose of sewage/septage from private systems.

    • Purpose: Ensures compliance with hauling and disposal regulations under OAC 3701-29.

4. Ohio Service Provider Bond

    • Who Needs It: Contractors who perform ongoing service, monitoring, and maintenance of sewage treatment systems.

    • Purpose: Ensures reliable and code-compliant service to prevent public health hazards.

5. Local Health District-Specific STS Bonds

    • Who Needs It: Any STS contractor operating in counties or municipalities that require separate bonding through their health departments in addition to the state bond.

    • Purpose: These bonds offer local jurisdictions additional assurance of contractor accountability.

Have a Smithfield, OH-Fiscal Officer Bond.

Step-by-Step Guide to Obtaining a Sewage Treatment Systems Bond

To operate legally as a sewage treatment systems (STS) contractor in Ohio, you must secure a surety bond as required by the Ohio Department of Health (ODH) under Ohio Administrative Code Chapter 3701-29. Below is a step-by-step guide to help you through the bonding process:

Step 1: Determine the Type of STS Contractor License

First, identify your scope of work to determine the bond type you need:

    • Installer

    • Septage hauler

    • Service provider

    • General STS contractor

    • Or a combination thereof

Check your local health district to see if additional bonding is required beyond the state requirement.

Step 2: Confirm the Bond Amount

The standard bond amount required by ODH is typically $25,000, but it may vary depending on your jurisdiction or the specific license type. Verify:

    • State requirement via ODH Sewage Program

    • Local county or municipal health department bond requirements

Step 3: Choose a Licensed Surety Company or Bond Provider

Select a surety provider licensed to operate in Ohio. You can:

    • Use a surety company directly

    • Work with a licensed surety bond agent or broker

Look for reputable companies that:

    • Understand Ohio contractor regulations

    • Offer competitive rates

    • Provide fast approval

Step 4: Complete the Bond Application

Provide the following information:

    • Legal business name and address

    • Contractor license type (STS installer, hauler, etc.)

    • Owner/partner information

    • Social Security Number or Federal EIN (for underwriting)

    • Financial and credit background, if required

Step 5: Pay the Premium

Bond premiums for a $25,000 sewage treatment system bond is depending on:

    • Credit history

    • Business experience

    • Bond type

Step 6: Receive and Sign the Bond

Once issued:

    • Review the bond to ensure accuracy (contractor name, amount, license type)

    • Sign the bond as the principal

    • Obtain the surety’s signature and seal

Step 7: Submit the Bond to the Appropriate Authority

  • File the signed bond with the Ohio Department of Health and/or the local health district (if applicable)

  • Submit along with your contractor license or registration application

Ensure timely submission before your license renewal or application deadline.

Step 8: Renew Annually

Sewage treatment system bonds are typically valid for 12 months. Track your expiration date and renew on time to avoid penalties or license suspension.

Conclusion

The Ohio Sewage Treatment Systems Bond is a vital requirement for contractors working with on-site sewage systems, ensuring compliance with state and local regulations. It protects public health and holds contractors accountable for proper installation and maintenance practices. Securing this bond is essential for legal operation and demonstrates a commitment to professional and environmental responsibility.

Get a Ohio Surplus License Broker Bond.

The sewage system is made up of sewer pipes.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Here are common questions regarding the Ohio Sewage Treatment Systems (STS) Bond, required by the Ohio Department of Health (ODH) for STS contractors:

Can I use one bond for multiple jurisdictions?

Possibly. While the state bond may cover general compliance, some local health departments require additional, separate bonds.

What happens if I don’t get the bond?

Operating without a required STS bond may result in license denial, penalties, or legal action by the state or local health authority.

Is a credit check required?

Some surety companies may require a credit check for bond underwriting, especially for higher-risk applicants.

Can a bond be canceled?

Yes, but the surety must usually provide advance notice (e.g., 30 days) to the Ohio Department of Health or local agency. Cancellation may affect the contractor’s licensing status.

What happens if a claim is made against the bond?

If a valid claim is filed—such as for improper installation or code violations—the surety may take care of the claimant up to the bond amount. The contractor must then reimburse the surety.

Can I transfer my bond if I move my business to another Ohio county?

No. While your ODH bond may still be valid, local jurisdictions may demand separate bonds. Always check with the local health department for additional bonding rules.

What if I let my bond lapse?

Letting your bond lapse could result in suspension or revocation of your STS contractor license, and you may face enforcement actions from the ODH or local health departments.

Read a Ohio Money Transmitter Bond.