Suffolk County’s Revolutionary 2024 Septic Tank Installation Rules: What Every Homeowner Needs to Know Before They Dig

If you’re a Suffolk County homeowner planning any construction or septic system work, the landscape of wastewater management has dramatically changed. Suffolk County Executive Steve Bellone has signed legislation banning the installation of cesspools, effective July 1, 2019, and the legislation also requires the wastewater industry to provide data regarding system replacement and pumping activities to the Department of Health Services and requires permits for replacement of existing systems. Suffolk County Legislature passed new changes in October 2020 that require septic improvement and innovative treatment systems, effective July 1, 2021.

The Game-Changing I/A OWTS Requirements

The most significant change affecting homeowners is the mandatory installation of Innovative and Alternative Onsite Wastewater Treatment Systems (I/A OWTS) for specific projects. Suffolk County Sanitary Code specifies when an innovative and alternative onsite wastewater treatment system (I/A OWTS) is required to be installed for residential properties as means of sewage disposal. These new systems are designed to reduce wastewater nitrogen pollution from reaching groundwater.

As of July 1, 2021, Article 6 requires the new systems to be installed for all new construction. The code defines residential new construction as the construction of a new dwelling on a vacant tax parcel; construction of a replacement residential dwelling; the addition of bedrooms to an existing residential dwelling.

When You Must Install Advanced Systems

Understanding when these nitrogen-reducing systems are mandatory is crucial for project planning. The changes are effective July 1, 2021 and require I/A OWTS to be installed under a number of circumstances. 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.

Additionally, nitrogen-reducing septic systems will be required in all new home and commercial construction, and for single family home renovations that increase the number of bedrooms to more than five and increase the building’s footprint or floor area.

Permit Requirements and System Standards

The permit process has become more stringent under the new regulations. The installation of a sewage disposal system(s) is prohibited by the Suffolk County Sanitary Code unless a permit to construct has been issued by the Commissioner. The installation of an I/A OWTS is prohibited unless a permit to construct the I/A OWTS has been approved.

For homeowners upgrading existing systems, owners who decide to voluntarily upgrade their existing system MUST install a septic tank prior to the leaching structure in accordance with current standards. However, when they voluntarily choose to upgrade their existing system they MUST install a septic tank prior to the leaching structure in accordance with current standards.

Environmental Impact and System Performance

The environmental benefits of these new requirements are substantial. An innovative/alternative septic system reduces nitrogen output by 70 percent or more, compared to a conventional system. An innovative/alternative system is required to reduce nitrogen to 19 milligrams per liter. This dramatic reduction addresses the critical water quality issues plaguing Suffolk County’s waterways.

Financial Assistance Programs

Recognizing the significant investment required, Suffolk County offers substantial financial support. 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). Suffolk County also has low interest loans of up to $10,000 through the Community Development Corporation of Long Island.

Suffolk County launched its Septic Improvement Program in 2017 to help cover the expense of upgrading local systems. 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.

Working with Licensed Professionals

Given the complexity of these new requirements, selecting a qualified contractor is essential. Suffolk County maintains strict licensing requirements for septic professionals, including applicants for a license shall demonstrate prior trade experience of five years in the commercial, industrial and residential septic tank/sewer treatment, bacteria additives and maintenance field. Applicants shall furnish certificates of public liability and property damage insurance in the amount of $1,000,000.

For homeowners in Suffolk County seeking professional Septic Tank Installation Suffolk County services, working with an experienced, family-owned company can make all the difference. Quality Cesspool brings four generations of expertise to Long Island’s wastewater management needs, providing comprehensive services from initial assessment to system installation and ongoing maintenance.

The Quality Cesspool Advantage

At Quality Cesspool, we’re not just a service provider—we are part of the Long Island community. Our company has been family-owned and operated for four generations, delivering dependable cesspool and septic system services that homeowners and businesses rely on. Our history is built on trust, and we strive to uphold this legacy with every job.

What sets Quality Cesspool apart is their comprehensive approach to customer service. We start with a thorough assessment of your needs, offering expert advice and free estimates. Our skilled technicians perform the necessary services using the latest techniques and equipment. We ensure satisfaction with a comprehensive follow-up to address any further needs or questions.

Planning Your Installation Project

Before breaking ground on any septic project, homeowners should understand the full scope of current requirements. If the remodeling is classified as “new” construction, then the homeowner must apply to the county for a permit for the new sewage treatment systems. There are exceptions within the county code that homeowners and their contractors should consult.

The investment in advanced septic systems represents more than regulatory compliance—it’s an investment in Long Island’s environmental future. 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. Water quality has been on the decline for decades, and reversing the trend now will lead to cleaner water for generations to come.

With Quality Cesspool’s expertise and Suffolk County’s financial assistance programs, homeowners can navigate these new requirements confidently, ensuring their projects meet all current standards while contributing to the restoration of Long Island’s precious water resources.