Transform Your Home’s Wastewater System to Meet Suffolk County’s Groundbreaking Water Quality Revolution

Suffolk County has implemented some of the most progressive water quality standards in New York State, fundamentally changing how homeowners must approach septic system management. Suffolk County Executive Steve Bellone has signed legislation banning the installation of cesspools, effective July 1, 2019, which have been identified as a primary source of nitrogen pollution that has degraded water quality throughout Suffolk County in Long Island, NY. The ban will advance water quality efforts and set the stage for the use of new technologies that reduce nitrogen in residential wastewater by up to 70%.

Understanding the New Requirements

Septic improvement and innovative treatment systems are required in Suffolk County in accordance with new changes passed by Suffolk County Legislature in October 2020. The changes are effective July 1, 2021 and require I/A OWTS to be installed under a number of circumstances. These Innovative/Alternative Onsite Wastewater Treatment Systems (I/A OWTS) are now mandatory for several scenarios:

As of July 1, 2021, Article 6 requires the new systems to be installed for all new construction.
Nitrogen-reducing systems are required for the following projects: Reconstruction projects are considered “major,” when the costs of reconstruction are 50% or more than the market value of the structure. For example, if a structure’s value is $100,000 and it costs $60,000 to reconstruct or repair, this would fall under the “major reconstruction” classification.
Nitrogen-reducing systems are required for new family residential construction, major reconstruction projects, new multi-family or non-residential projects, and all new commercial projects.

The Environmental Impact Behind These Standards

More than 360,000 homes in the Suffolk County rely on outdated cesspools and septic systems that do not properly treat wastewater to remove nitrogen. Studies show that declining water quality that has closed beaches, caused brown tides and fish kills is cause by excess nitrogen, and that cesspools and septics are the largest source of nitrogen pollution.

A conventional septic system releases around 40 pounds of nitrogen per year, which contributes to unhealthy water conditions in the Sound. The enhanced systems have the potential to reduce up to 70 percent of this nitrogen, depending on the specific brand and model. High nitrogen levels cause harmful algae blooms that impact water quality, create water dead zones, increase the treatment cost of drinking water, and stifle some ecosystems.

Financial Assistance Available

Recognizing the financial burden these upgrades can place on homeowners, Suffolk County and New York State have established comprehensive funding programs. The Suffolk County Septic Improvement Program provides up to $10,000 base grant. There is also up to an additional $10,000 that can be awarded to a grantee that installs a pressurized shallow drain field leaching system ($5,000) and/or toward the unit installation for low to moderate incomes eligible applicants ($5,000).

Homeowners can receive funds from both county and state programs, resulting in up to $20,000 in grants to install the more environmentally effective systems that remove more nitrogen than a conventional septic system. A total of two thirds – or $20 million – of the funds announced today will go directly to support projects in Suffolk County, helping to safeguard the region’s sole source aquifer and other waterbodies.

Choosing the Right Professional Partner

When preparing your septic system for Suffolk County’s enhanced water quality standards, selecting an experienced, local contractor is crucial. We are a family-owned and operated cesspool company serving Long Island. We’re not just about fixing cesspools; we’re about building relationships with our customers and providing solutions that last. Local Knowledge: We understand the unique challenges of Long Island’s soil and water table.

For homeowners seeking reliable Septic Tank Services Suffolk County, NY, working with established professionals who understand both the technical requirements and local regulations is essential. With over 60 years of quality experience and satisfied customers, we are the team you can trust. 24/7 Emergency Service: Cesspool emergencies don’t stick to a 9-to-5 schedule, and neither do we. Customer Satisfaction Guaranteed: We’re not happy until you’re happy.

Taking Action Now

Grants have already been awarded to over 1,000 applicants to cover some or all of the cost of their new I/A OWTS systems. Officials hope that the new law, along with the financial assistance being offered, will lead to more residents and businesses understanding the importance of restoring water quality in the county, and taking action to address the need for change.

The enhanced water quality standards represent more than regulatory compliance—they’re an investment in Long Island’s environmental future. Water quality has been on the decline for decades, and reversing the trend now will lead to cleaner water for generations to come. By upgrading to nitrogen-reducing systems now, homeowners not only ensure compliance with current regulations but also contribute to the restoration of Suffolk County’s precious water resources.