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How to Apply for the Suffolk County Septic Grant, Step by Step

Last reviewed October 17, 2026 · Official sources linked throughout

You apply for both the Suffolk County SIP grant and the New York State SSRP grant with a single county application. The county runs both programs. [source] The most important rule: apply and get your grant issued before any installation starts. [source]

Before you start

Gather your current, town-issued property tax bill and, if your system has failed, proof such as photos or service receipts. Additional documentation may be requested. Properties owned by a trust, LLC or corporation need extra documentation. [source] [source]

Step by step

1. Apply online. Go to suffolkcountyny.gov/septicgrants, search for your address to confirm eligibility, answer questions 1–8, agree to the attestation, and submit. [flyer]
2. Scoring and ranking. Complete applications are scored and ranked (documented failure and priority area first). Awardees are notified by email. [source]
3. Sign the grant agreement. E-sign and return the county SIP and state SSRP agreement to SCDHS within 30 days of receipt. [source]
4. Hire a design professional (at your expense). They submit the permit application to the Office of Wastewater Management and identify any town, village or state permits. SCDHS issues a Permit to Construct. [source] If you're only replacing the system, your approved installer can apply on your behalf through the county's Septic Hauler's Information Portal. [source]
5. Choose an approved installer. Submit their price quote, based on the approvable permit plans, and sign the Assignment of Payment forms. SCDHS sends a Grant Eligibility Memo based on that quote. Compare installers' published prices. [source]
6. Install. Work begins after the installer gets an "OK to Proceed." SCDHS inspects the installation and witnesses start-up; your design professional submits as-built plans. [source]
7. Paperwork and payment. The installer submits installation and abandonment certifications, you submit an O&M agreement and I/A registration, and once the inspector's certification letter is issued, the county pays the grants to the installer. [source]

Questions about your application go to Suffolk County DHS: 631-852-5811, [email protected].

Independent guide. Not affiliated with, endorsed by, or operated by Suffolk County, New York State, or any installer. This page is general information, not legal or financial advice.

Sources

• Suffolk County – “Suffolk County’s Septic Grant Program” flyer (PDF) — revised 9-29-2026
• Suffolk County – Septic Improvement Program Grant Process Overview (2026, PDF) — 2026 edition
• Suffolk County – Septic Improvement Program FAQ (April 2026, PDF) — dated 4-2026
• Suffolk County – Septic Grants Information Homepage — page accessed Oct 17, 2026

Last reviewed October 17, 2026. Program rules change; always confirm with Suffolk County Department of Health Services (631-852-5811, [email protected]).