Wakulla County Onsite Sewage Treatment And Disposal System (OSTDS) Regulatory Update

Dear Residents of Wakulla County,

We are reaching out to inform you of significant regulatory changes that will impact property owners within the Priority Focus Area (PFA) of Wakulla's Basin Management Action Plan (BMAP). The Department of Environmental Protection (DEP) has announced an upcoming requirement that will affect all repairs and modifications to onsite sewage treatment and disposal systems (OSTDS) within this specified area.

New Nitrogen Reducing Septic System Requirements:

Effective May 1, 2024, any property within the PFA undergoing repairs or modifications to existing septic systems will be required to upgrade to a nitrogen-reducing septic system. This initiative is part of our ongoing efforts to protect our water quality and natural resources by reducing the amount of nitrogen entering our groundwater and waterways from septic systems.

Key Points of the New Regulation:

· Effective Date: The requirement for nitrogen-reducing septic systems will tentatively take effect on May 1, 2024.

· Scope: This mandate applies to all properties within the PFA, irrespective of the lot size.

· Requirement: Property owners seeking repair or modification permits for their OSTDS will need to upgrade to systems that reduce nitrogen output.

Financial Assistance for Homeowners:

Upgrading to a nitrogen-reducing septic system is a significant investment for many homeowners. To support this transition, Wakulla County is pleased to announce the availability of the Septic Upgrade Incentive Program, providing additional grant funding specifically designed to assist homeowners with the financial burden of upgrading their septic systems to compliant Onsite Sewage Treatment and Disposal Systems within the PFA 1 and 2 of the Wakulla Spring BMAP.

Starting today, April 15, 2024, eligible homeowners within these specified areas can access up to $9,000 in financial assistance. This initiative aims to alleviate the costs associated with replacing failing existing septic systems with advanced nitrogen-reducing systems, contributing to protecting our precious groundwater and the Wakulla Springshed.

Key Details:

· Amount of Assistance: Up to $9,000 available for eligible homeowners.

· Eligibility Areas: Homeowners with failing septic systems or those seeking to upgrade to OSTDS within PFA 1 and 2 of the Wakulla Spring BMAP.

· Start Date: Funding will be available beginning April 15, 2024. Further information regarding the application process and eligibility criteria is available by clicking the button at the bottom of this email.

Stay Informed:

Wakulla County is committed to ensuring that all residents are well-informed and supported throughout these changes. For comprehensive details on the new requirements and the PFA, please visit mywakulla.com or call the Wakulla County Department of Health at 850-926-0400.

Verify your eligibility for funding or identify if the new requirement applies to your property by searching your address here: Springs BMAP Upgrade Requirements for Repairs or Modifications of Existing OSTDS (Septic Systems)

We appreciate your attention to this matter and your cooperation in complying with these new requirements.

Learn More
Learn more About the Septic Upgrade Incentive Program