Other systems being used in the county include holding tanks and portable toilets, leaching chambers, absorption beds, absorption evapotranspiration trenches, greywater systems, and pressure dosed sand filters. The County requires 24-hours advance notice prior to inspecting systems. County inspectors use a checklist to see if a system meets all standards. If it does, they mark it with a green tag. If it fails, they leave a red flag and send a letter to the person seeking a license telling them what needs to be corrected and how to do it.
Inspectors also make a scale drawing of each system.
Last year, Harris County received nearly 700 complaints that failing on-site systems were causing nuisances. When complaints are investigated, the County can take a number of steps. If the parties refuse, the County can refer the matter to the Justice of Peace Court where more fines can be imposed. Failure to comply with on-site regulations is a misdemeanor. The County can act on its own or in response to complaints when on-site wastewater systems are not being properly operated.