What Could Nassau County’s New “S.E.P.T.I.C. Program” Mean for You?

Nassau County, New York, has recently begun its new “S.E.P.T.I.C. Program” (program), which is intended to replace antiquated or failing septic systems. This program shall provide grant money to both homeowners and small businesses to improve existing or construct new septic systems at residential and commercial properties. Each grant shall be capped at a maximum of $20,000, with tens of thousands of properties estimated to be eligible.

Why should older or failing tanks be replaced or upgraded?

The most pressing reason for this program is nitrogen pollution resulting from the use of existing septic systems within the county; nitrogen removal technology is not present in the vast majority of conventional septic systems. An overabundance of nitrogen stemming from sanitary waste has the potential to adversely affect Long Island’s groundwater, leading to fish kills, restrictions on shellfishing, beach closures, and more.

What is different about newer septic systems?

Newer septic systems are equipped with nitrogen-reduction technology which will help combat the issues described above and improve overall performance, such that local water quality will gradually improve as long as these newer systems are properly installed and maintained.

Which properties, specifically, are eligible under this program?

Single and two-family homes, non-profits, and small businesses with a sanitary design flow of 1,000 or less gallons per day are eligible. All existing septic systems must be replaced with a nitrogen-reducing system. Properties must have a valid certificate of occupancy or use, have no outstanding or open liens, and may not be connected to a public/private sewer. If the property is located in a proposed sewer district and the owner feels he or she cannot feasibly connect to the new sewer, the owner may be eligible under this program as well.

What types of nitrogen-reducing systems are acceptable?

Any of the five technologies below may be used under this program:

• Hydro-Action AN Series
• Norweco Singulair TNT and Norweco HydroKinetic
• Orenco Advantex AX20
• Fuji Clean CEN Series
• SeptiTech STAAR

Walden has decades of experience in septic system design, investigations, and permitting; we are ready to help you determine your eligibility and apply for grant funding. Give us a call today at 516-588-6859 to learn more.