March 2025 Update: Septic Grant Program Funding Update

Due to ongoing funding uncertainties, grant availability is subject to change. Please contact us directly for the most current information regarding our Septic Grant Program and to obtain an application

Septic System Repair Grants:
Protect Your Home & Our Waterways

A properly functioning septic system is crucial for a healthy home and a clean environment. A failing system can create costly repairs and pose serious risks to your family's health and local waterways. The Banklick Watershed Council offers grants to help eligible homeowners in Kenton and Boone Counties, Kentucky, repair their septic systems. These grants can cover up to 90% of repair costs, with a maximum award of $8,000.

Do You Qualify?
  • Own a single-family home within the Banklick Creek drainage area. 
    (if you are not sure, you can enter your address here to determine your watershed)
  • Be experiencing an active septic system problem.
Please note:  Commercial and rental properties not eligible.  Homeowners offered connection to recent sewer extension projects are also ineligible for future assistance.


How to Apply:
  1.  Contact us to see if grant funding is available.  Use our Contact Us page and be sure to include you address so we can make sure you are in the Banklick Watershed.
  2. Complete and submit the application form: Return your completed application to admin[at]banklick.org.
  3. Schedule a Site Evaluation: A $300 site evaluation from the NKY Health Department is required to check the soils on your property.  Be sure to mention you're applying for a Banklick Grant!  This will ensure they provide the additional ranking form needed.
  4. Get quotes from qualified septic installers: Obtain bids from at least two certified septic installers in your area.
  5. Submit the completed application package: Send your site evaluation, ranking form, and quotes to the Watershed Council. Your application will be reviewed by our Board for funding.

Important Notes:
  • Priority is given to systems closest to creeks and low-income households.
  • Our grant program is dependent upon the availability of funding.  If all our funding has been used or is unavailable, please still inquire and we will put you on our waitlist.

Types of Septic Repairs Covered:
  • Replacement of Failing Septic Systems: We can help replace malfunctioning septic systems.
  • Elimination of Straight Pipes: If your property has straight pipes, which discharge wastewater directly onto the ground, we can help address this serious environmental issue.
  • Sewer Connections: We can assist with connecting your home to an existing public sewer line, provided it's adjacent to your property.

Have questions? We're here to help! Contact the Banklick Watershed Council for assistance with our septic program.
Picture
Shaded Region Eligible for Financial Assistance (Click to Enlarge)

Resources

Homeowners are responsible for maintaining septic systems.  Proper maintenance requires regular pump-outs and inspection to avoid costly repairs.  For more information on maintaining your system:
Septic Smart- Homeowners Guide
Kentucky Homeowners Guide to Septic Systems
This program, funded by a grant from the US Environmental Protection Agency through Kentucky Division of Water, focuses on water quality improvements in the Banklick Creek Watershed. To be eligible for grants, homeowners must reside within the Banklick Creek Watershed in Kenton or Boone Counties.