Drip irrigation is a wastewater dispersal method used on certain aerobic systems where traditional spray distribution is not appropriate. Instead of spraying treated effluent above ground, drip systems distribute treated wastewater slowly and evenly through shallow subsurface tubing.

These systems are highly regulated, require proper design and permitting, and must be installed and serviced by licensed professionals to remain compliant.

What Is Drip Irrigation?

Drip irrigation uses a network of small-diameter tubing installed just below the soil surface to disperse treated effluent over a wide area. The slow, controlled dosing helps prevent runoff, ponding, and oversaturation while maximizing soil absorption.

When Is a Drip Irrigation System Required?

Drip irrigation may be required or recommended in the following situations:

Limited yard space or tight setbacks
System designs requiring subsurface application
Upgrades from spray systems due to compliance issues

Important: A system can be “working” but still out of compliance. Drip irrigation systems must be designed, permitted, installed, and inspected properly to meet TCEQ requirements.

Drip Irrigation Services We Provide

Service Component	What We Do
Site Evaluation	Review property layout, soil conditions, and setback requirements.
System Design	Coordinate or provide engineered drip system design.
Permitting	Handle required TCEQ and county permitting.
Drip Line Installation	Install subsurface drip tubing at approved depths and spacing.
Zoning & Layout	Properly zone drip areas for even distribution.
Filtration & Controls	Install required filters, valves, and control components.
Compliance Verification	Ensure system meets all regulatory requirements.
System Testing	Verify pressure, flow, and proper operation.

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Drip Irrigation Installation Pricing

Installation Type	Description	Starting Investment
Aerobic System with Drip - New Home Construction	Complete aerobic treatment system with engineered drip irrigation dispersal, including design, permitting, installation, and system startup for new construction.	$25,000 - $30,000+
Aerobic System with Drip - Replacement System for Existing Home	Removal or abandonment of existing system and installation of a new aerobic system with drip irrigation to meet current regulations.	$40,000 - $45,000+
Spray to Drip Conversion	Modification of an existing aerobic system to replace spray irrigation with a compliant drip irrigation dispersal system.	$15,000 - $20,000+
Commercial or Multi-Structure Systems	Systems serving commercial properties or multiple buildings requiring engineered designs and custom layouts.	Varies – Custom Quote Required

Pricing Factors Include:

System size and daily flow (GPD)
Property size and surface obstacles
Number of drip zones
Soil conditions and layout complexity
Design, permitting and inspections
New installation vs system modification

Every drip irrigation system is custom-designed and priced.

Drip Irrigation Maintenance & Repairs

Drip systems require ongoing maintenance to remain functional and compliant.

We provide:

Line flushing
Filter cleaning and replacement
Zone testing
Pressure checks
Leak detection and repairs
Controller diagnostics

Lack of proper maintenance can result in:

Clogged drip lines
Uneven distribution
System failure
Regulatory violations

Who Should Not Work on Drip Irrigation Systems

Drip irrigation systems should not be installed, modified, or repaired by the following unless they are properly licensed by TCEQ and permitted:

Homeowners
Plumbers
Irrigation companies
Landscapers
Pool companies
Handymen

Improper work can result in system failure, fines, and forced system replacement.

Spray Distribution vs. Drip Distribution

Feature	Spray Head Distribution	Drip Irrigation Distribution
Visibility	Above ground sprinklers	Subsurface tubing
Space Needed	Larger open areas	Works in tighter spaces
Overspray Risk	Yes	No
Setback Flexibility	Limited	Greater flexibility
Regulatory Use	Common on larger lots	Often required on smaller or restricted lots