The Licensed Irrigator Program in Texas
By Guy Fipps
TAMU Extension Agricultural EngineerMany times County Extension Offices receive questions from the public about the Texas Natural Resource Conservation Commission’s Licensed Irrigator Program. Listed below are some of the common questions associated with application and licensure:
TAEX does offer approved continuing education courses, some of which are in cooperation with county Extension programs. These course descriptions and schedules are mailed to current licensed irrigators and are posted on our Texas A&M School of Irrigation Web Site.
- Who needs an irrigator’s license?
Anyone who designs, installs, consults or repairs landscape irrigation system for the general public (note: there is no corresponding program for agricultural irrigation).
- Who is exempt?
Homeowners who do their own systems, employees who work on their employer’s irrigation system, plumbers and certain other professionals.
- How to get a license:
Applicants must complete the “Basic Course” and pass an exam given by the TNRCC about 3 times a year. The Basic Course involves 3 to 4 days of instruction. (Note: TAEX does NOT offer the Basic Course. A list of providers can be obtained from the TNRCC, 512-239-6659, 512-239-3659; Texas Natural Resource Conservation Commission).
- How to keep your license:
Licensed Irrigators must take 8 hours of continuing education units each year and pay a renewal fee.