Septic Systems and Rebates

​​​​​​​​​​​​​​Traditional septic systems are also called onsite treatment and disposal systems (OSTDS) and are regulated locally by the ​Alachua County Health Department. To obtain a permit for proposed installations, repairs, modifications, and approvals of existing systems, contact the Florida Department of Health.

To increase the efficiency of your septic system:

  • Have it inspected by a licensed professional every 2-3 years and pump as they recommend
  • Never put grease down the drain
  • Bring household chemicals to the Hazardous Waste Collection Center instead of pouring them down the drain
  • Use water efficiently
  • Upgrade to a nutrient reducing system (see below)
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Septic System Rebate Program

EPD has received funding from the Florida Department of Environmental Protection (FDEP) to provide qualifying property owners with 50% rebates, up to $10,000, to upgrade existing septic systems to enhanced nutrient reducing systems (see below) to i​mprove water quality.


Enhanced Nutrient Reducing Septic Systems

Conventional septic systems are not designed to remove nitrogen, which can harm our water bodies. There are three types of systems that are approved for use in Florida which will reduce the amount of nutrients and protect our water. Learn more about these systems.

  1. In-Ground Nitrogen Reducing Biofilter (INRB) – These are typically a passive system with media layers under the drainfield that remove nitrogen. For a description of the specs view the State Rule.
  2. NSF-245 certified Systems/Aerobic Treatment Unit (ATU) – These systems are certifiedand generally use aerators and pumps or other methods to recirculate effluent to reduce nitrogen. NSF-245 certified systems approved for use in Florida may be found on the Florida Department of Environmental Protection website.
  3. Performance Based Treatment System (PBTS) – Systems that are engineer-designed to achieve certain treatment goals for certain pollutants. Certain systems are approved for use in Florida​.
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