Suffolk County’s 2024 Septic Tank Capacity Assessment Program: Your Guide to New Requirements and Upgrade Recommendations
Suffolk County has implemented significant changes to its septic system regulations, introducing new capacity assessment requirements that directly impact homeowners throughout Long Island. These updated standards, part of the county’s broader water quality protection initiative, require property owners to evaluate their systems more thoroughly than ever before.
Understanding the New Capacity Assessment Requirements
The liquid capacity of a residential septic tank shall be based on the number of bedrooms. The minimum tank capacity shall be one thousand gallons (1,000) for 3 bedrooms or less. Each additional bedroom shall require an additional two hundred and fifty (250) gallons. This bedroom-based calculation system has become more stringent, with the Suffolk County Department of Health Services (SCDHS) Division of Environmental Quality (DEQ), Office of Wastewater Management (OWM) employing specific bedroom counting methodology for septic system assessment and design process to determine whether an upgrade to an Innovative and Alternative Onsite Wastewater Treatment System (I/A OWTS) might be required.
The assessment process now includes detailed evaluations of existing system capacity versus current usage demands. A residence with a garbage grinder shall require an increase in septic tank capacity by two hundred and fifty (250) gallons and an additional 75 square feet of leaching area. These requirements ensure systems can handle actual wastewater volumes without compromising environmental protection.
When Upgrades Are Required
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. 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.
Property owners must upgrade their systems when:
- Constructing new residential buildings
- Undertaking major reconstruction projects (50% or more of property value)
- Adding bedrooms that exceed previously approved capacity
- Converting existing spaces to increase bedroom count
- Installing new multi-family or commercial projects
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 goal is reducing nitrogen pollution that has severely impacted Suffolk County’s water quality.
Environmental Impact and Water Quality Protection
Suffolk County has put these new regulations in place to address the problem of nitrogen entering ground and surface water. 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. Alternative septic systems work to reduce nitrogen to keep the county’s water sources clean.
A conventional onsite septic system was never designed to remove nitrogen. The average residential septic system discharges approximately 40 pounds of nitrogen per year. The new I/A OWTS systems can reduce nitrogen output by up to 70 percent, making them crucial for protecting Long Island’s groundwater and surface waters.
Financial Assistance Available
Suffolk County recognizes the financial burden these upgrades can place on homeowners. Funding is available through the Suffolk County Septic Improvement Program grants (SIP) and the New York State Septic System Replacement Program (SSRP). The SIP offers a $10,000 grant, with an additional $5,000 for low to moderate income applications and $5,000 when a Pressurized Shallow Drainfield is required. In certain instances it may be possible to receive a combined $25,000 grant for septic systems on Long Island – covering the costs of the installation of a nitrogen reducing septic system.
Professional Assessment and Installation
Given the complexity of these new requirements, working with experienced professionals is essential. 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. When you need reliable Septic Tank Services Suffolk County, NY, choosing a contractor with deep local knowledge makes all the difference.
For more than 60 years, Antorino and Sons has been keeping the septic systems of Fort Salonga, NY homeowners flowing smoothly. Offering a full range of septic services, including cleaning, pumping, general maintenance, and installation, our septic company can service all of your needs. Their extensive experience with Suffolk County regulations ensures compliance with all new assessment requirements.
System Maintenance and Compliance
The adopted Article 19 of the Suffolk County Sanitary Code establishes a framework for the Department of Health Services to act as the Responsible Management Entity with the responsibility to evaluate, approve, register, oversee, and facilitate the use of I/A OWTS. This means ongoing maintenance requirements are now more structured and monitored.
Suffolk County requires cesspool pumping records for property transfers and renovation permits. Homeowners must maintain documentation showing regular waste removal by licensed contractors to avoid delays during real estate transactions. Proper documentation has become crucial for property values and legal compliance.
Looking Ahead
Suffolk County’s 2024 septic tank capacity assessment program represents a significant shift toward environmental protection and public health. 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.
Homeowners should proactively assess their current systems and plan for potential upgrades. Early evaluation can help avoid emergency situations and take advantage of available grant funding. With proper planning and professional guidance, these new requirements can be navigated successfully while contributing to Long Island’s environmental restoration efforts.