SAVE OUR INDIAN RIVER LAGOON TRUST FUND
PRIVATE SEWER LATERAL GRANT PROGRAM
Page 2 of 5
sewer systems must be designed to handle this additional capacity which also adds to the cost of sewer
service. These high flows can also overtax the system and result in sanitary sewer overflows.
Proper maintenance of private sewer laterals greatly reduces the possibility of line blockages which can
result in sewage backing up into the home or property. In addition to reducing the cost associated with
pumping and treating large volumes of storm water, repairing a private lateral will help to protect
property, public health and the Indian River Lagoon.
Funding and Availability
The SOIRL Plan has allocated $840,000 for a pilot Sewer Lateral Program. More funding may become
available as further smoke testing highlights other lateral deficiencies. Grants for the Private Sewer
Lateral Program will be made available on a first come first served basis. Because funds are limited, it is
possible that not every eligible applicant will receive financial assistance. The sooner applications are
received the better the chance of receiving assistance.
Grants are available for up to $2,000 per household.
What Expenses are Covered by the Grant Program?
• Assistance under the program will be available only to registered owners of residential or
commercial property within Brevard County, Florida.
• Only expenses approved by the County are covered under this program. Expenses eligible for
program reimbursement must be specifically related to the repair or replacement of private sewer
laterals cleanouts.
• Eligible expenses include cleaning and inspection, design, materials, equipment and contract labor
required to bring private lateral cleanouts into compliance with County standards. Above ground
landscaping and paving directly related to sewer lateral work may also be eligible only when the
work requested will return the disturbed area back to the preconstruction condition.
• Ineligible expenses include any plumbing work under the foundation of the home or any additional
plumbing work on the property. Labor provided by the applicant or tenant is not eligible for
reimbursement under the program.
How Does It Work?
Once the Property Owner has been made aware of the need for a private sewer lateral cleanout
replacement or repair by either their own investigation or are notified as a result of smoke testing by
the Brevard County Utility Services Department, the Property Owner can apply for the Program.
The Property Owner then must get an estimate from a licensed plumber or contractor. The plumbing
contractor will then obtain permits and begin the work. Once the work is completed, the Property
Owner may file for reimbursement of their expenses.