In locations where providing sewer service is not feasible due to distance from sewer infrastructure, facility capacity, or insufficient density of high-risk systems, there are options to upgrade the highest risk septic systems with higher performing technology to increase the nutrient and pathogen removal efficiency.
This includes converting traditional septic tanks to Advanced Treatment Units (ATUs) which are specialized tanks designed to reduce nitrogen before it enters the drainfield. These are commonly referred to as “aerobic systems” because they incorporate air into the treatment system to help oxygen-hungry bacteria as they “burn off” excess nitrogen.
Funding is included in the Save Our Indian River Lagoon Project Plan to upgrade septic systems that are not feasible to connect to central sewer. Homeowner grants of up to $18,000 are available for eligible homeowners to upgrade their conventional septic system to an advanced septic system. Eligibility amounts are based on a property’s estimated pollution to the groundwater through its septic drainfield.
The Save Our Indian River Lagoon Plan Project Story Map, shows how much grant money is available for your home. Open the map and click on tab #3 Septic System Upgrades. Zoom in and click on your property to see the grant amount available. You may also email [email protected] with any questions.