Natural Resources Management Department
2725 Judge Fran Jamieson Way Viera, FL 32940
(321) 633-2016
As of 2018, there were an estimated 53,204 septic systems in Brevard County within the Indian River Lagoon watershed. The Save Our Indian River Lagoon Project Plan (SOIRLPP) addresses this (and other) sources of pollution and is committed to reducing the impact of those systems most likely to increase nutrients making their way to the Indian and Banana River Lagoons. Upgrading to advanced treatment septic systems or connecting to local sewer reduces algae bloom-feeding nitrogen and phosphorous pollution in the groundwater that migrates to the lagoon.
Septic systems are commonly used where central sewer does not exist. When properly maintained, septic systems are often a safe means of disposing of domestic waste. However, when septic systems are installed over sand or other poor soils close to the groundwater table or open water, they can be a major contributor of nutrients, bacteria and viruses to the system. Leaky tanks and failing drainfields also contribute to water pollution.
Where are the proposed sewer projects located? We have created a handy tool for you, the Save Our Indian River Lagoon Plan Project Story Map, showing the location of all our proposed projects. Once it opens you can click on tab #4 Septic to Sewer Conversions to see the areas currently planned to be connected to the sewer system. You may also email IRLProject@brevardfl.gov with any questions.
In 2018, Brevard County conducted a detailed evaluation of septic system impacts to local surface waters. This evaluation found that groundwater conductance (how quickly water moves through a particular soil) and soil types (sandy, organic, rocky, etc.) were important for determining nitrogen transport from septic systems to the Indian River Lagoon. This also helped Brevard County narrow down specific properties at high risk of polluting the groundwater. An explanation of this process can be found in Applied Ecology’s analysis.
Funding is allocated to help Brevard County homeowners address the septic systems posing the highest risk of polluting the IRL. Through a careful selection process, the County identified 2,763 (just 4%) of current septic systems, that when connected to sewer, will reduce over 17% of the nutrient load contribution from septic systems. Funding is included in the SOIRLPP to convert these properties from septic to sewer.
The detailed septic analysis also identified 4,496 properties located within 30 feet of existing sewer infrastructure. Funding is included in the SOIRLPP to connect 876 of these highest loading “quick connect” opportunities to adjacent gravity or force main sewer.
As a first step in the project, surveyors and technicians will be in roadways near your area in the coming weeks to gather information needed to design and construct wastewater collection pipelines. The surveyors will be locating the septic tank and sewer laterals on your property to help with designing a plan that minimizes the amount of piping needed to connect you to the system.
Utility engineers will design the sewer plan around the existing properties, utilities, and landscaping. This process takes about 18 months. Once the sewer project is designed and permits received, a contractor will be selected for construction through a competitive bidding process. Construction is estimated to take 10 to 18 months depending on the size of the project.
The Save Our Indian River Lagoon Project Plan is applying for state and federal grants to provide financial assistance to property owners for eligible expenses related to the decommissioning of existing septic systems and connection to central sewer and include design, permits, inspections, materials, equipment, contract labor, and connection fees.
The ongoing monthly sewer cost is based on average monthly water consumption. Brevard County sewer rates are listed on their website.
Contact your local utility to determine whether a sewer connection is available. Below are the contact numbers for each utility:
Brevard County Utilities customers may contact Tammy Hurley at (321) 633-2094.