Irish Septic Tank Grants Explained – Updated for 2023 with Maps

Septic Tank Grants for 2023 Explained

There are 3 different types of septic tanks grant schemes in Ireland, all providing grant aid up to €5,000. The criteria for each septic tank grant are different as outlined below. It must be noted that each of the 3 grants - because of their cumbersome design - are out of reach of the vast majority of homeowners. Below is an outline of the septic tank grants available in Ireland.

The Main Points:

Before we look in detail at the types of grants available – let’s first look at what is required to qualify.

To qualify for a septic tank grant you must:

1. 
   Be in a designated area under the High-Status Objective Catchment Area 2018 to 2021. - See map below - Green areas are eligible to apply for a grant.

OR

2. Be in an Area for Action in accordance with the River Basin Management Plan 2018-2021 and receive a letter of grant eligibility from LAWPRO.

OR

3. Had your septic tank inspected by your local authority under the National Inspection Plan and subsequently being issued with an advisory notice.

AND

1. Have registered your septic tank with ProtectOurWater.ie BEFORE the 1st of February 2013.

AND

1. Submit a valid design and proposal for approval - (Completed by Sepcon as part of the overall package)

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Unfortunately, by it's design - the septic tank grant system in Ireland is out of reach to almost all homeowners who require assistance to upgrade their septic tank.

Why?

The eligibility criteria - as set out on this page, makes it practically impossible for 99.5% homeowners who have a polluting septic tank to obtain a grant in Ireland. The grant system is designed to be highly restrictive by not allowing homeowners with a failing/polluting sewage system to take their own initiative to remediate their issue and receive a grant.

What’s the chances of getting a septic tank grant?

By the nature of the grant design - it is more of a lottery than an actual grant – breaking down the numbers, you have a 2500 / 1 or a 0.5% chance annually of getting a septic tank grant in Ireland!

Why is the septic tank grant system not open to those who actually need it?

The grant system is designed to portray that there is a sufficient mechanism in place to satisfy EU water quality legislation – basically, by giving out less than 220 grants per year in a country with just over 500,000 domestic septic systems. The grant system fulfils the governments legal obligations under the relevant EU water quality directives, but it does absolutely nothing for typical homeowners with failing and polluting sewage systems looking for grant assistance.

Will the septic tank grant system become less of a farce?

The current grant system has been in place since 2012 with no indication of opening it to homeowners with failing or polluting systems needing to take action, so unfortunately, it doesn't appear that it's going to improve any time soon.

Can I still check if I am one of the lucky ones that can get a grant?

Yes, absolutely. If you wish to confirm your grant eligibility, Sepcon will happily ascertain if you can receive a grant and assist in the application process to help ensure a smooth and stress-free process. The grant assessment service is provided at no charge. You can also contact your local authority directly to confirm your eligibility.