Background
Santa Rosa County, with Pace Water System (PWS) as one of four sub-recipients, received grant funding to implement a Septic-to-Sewer Conversion Program focused on improving water quality in East Bay, Pensacola Bay, and Blackwater Bay. This program will reduce nutrient and fecal contamination by decommissioning up to 900 residential septic systems and connecting those homes to centralized wastewater collection and treatment systems. By eliminating significant sources of wastewater pollution, the program will help reduce pollutants entering local waterways and support healthier conditions for seagrass, fish, shellfish populations, and recreational use.
This opportunity was made possible through funding from the Florida Trustee Implementation Group (FL TIG) through the Natural Resources Damage Assessment Deepwater Horizon settlement (FDEP Agreement No. DH022). Implementation of this project represents a significant step toward restoration and protection of local waters and aligns with ongoing state and federal efforts to reduce pollution, improve surface water quality, and restore degraded aquatic habitats and marine resources.
Protecting Public Health and the Environment
Many homes in the PWS service area still rely on private septic systems. While septic systems are permitted where central sewer is not available, Florida law requires wastewater systems to protect groundwater, surface waters, bays, and estuaries. Aging or improperly functioning septic tanks can release nutrients and bacteria into nearby waterways, creating risks to public health and the environment. Connecting homes to central sewer service is one of the most effective ways to reduce this pollution. Private septic systems may continue to be used, if they function properly and central sewer service has not been extended to the area.
Remaining on a septic system means continuing full responsibility for maintenance, repairs, and compliance with health and environmental regulations.
Minimal Cost and Disruption
Through this grant-funded program, eligible homeowners who enroll by October 1 will be connected to the PWS sewer system and have their existing septic system abandoned by licensed professionals, all for a one-time deposit of $50. PWS is coordinating this effort to minimize disruption to homeowners' property and daily routine during construction. Customers’ water and sewer services will not experience interruption to convert from septic system to the PWS sewer system.
Why Participate?
Participation provides access to modern, reliable wastewater infrastructure that benefits both our customers and the environment. Participation is optional, but there are a few things to keep in mind:
- Under Florida Statutes §§ 381.0065 and 381.00655, once PWS sewer service is available, homeowners will be required to connect within 365 days of receiving notice of sewer availability.
- Choosing not to participate during the grant period means higher costs later when connection becomes necessary.
- If a septic system fails or is found non-compliant after sewer service is available, corrective action including connection to the PWS system will be required within a set timeframe.
If you choose to sign up, the $50 deposit will be added to your monthly water bill upon connection, along with a base monthly sewer charge of $43.40 for the first 2,000 gallons. An explanation of PWS sewer rates can be found under the Customer Service tab, and the terms of the usage agreement can be found under the Forms & Reports tab of our website.
During construction, reclaimed water service is also being installed for irrigation use. This optional service is provided at a base monthly charge of $13.50 for up to 30,000 gallons, starting upon connection. This option offers additional savings to those customers who currently use potable water for irrigation.
How Do I Sign Up?
To enroll in the Septic-to-Sewer Conversion Program, complete this form: Santa Rosa County/Pace Water System Septic-to-Sewer Grant Program – Fill out form
If you have questions about how these improvements may affect your property, please contact Lesley Leonard, P.E., Assistant Manager, at lleonard@pacewater.org. A link will be provided on this page during the sign-up period.
The deadline to sign up is October 1, 2026. The physical connection to the PWS sewer system will be made after the sewer infrastructure is installed, cleared, and placed into service.
