Brevard County Approves $6,000 Incentive to Help Homeowners Replace Aging Septic Systems Near Indian River Lagoon
By Space Coast Daily // December 23, 2025
septic systems located near sensitive waterways such as the Indian River Lagoon must be upgraded by 2030
BREVARD COUNTY, FLORIDA — In a renewed effort to curb pollution flowing into the Indian River Lagoon, Brevard County commissioners have approved a financial incentive to help homeowners replace outdated septic systems that contribute excess nitrogen to the fragile waterway.
The program offers at least $6,000 per household for residents who upgrade their existing septic tanks to newer, nitrogen-reducing systems.
County officials say aging septic infrastructure has been a significant source of nutrient pollution for decades, fueling harmful algae blooms and accelerating the loss of seagrass throughout the lagoon.
Under Florida law, septic systems located near sensitive waterways such as the Indian River Lagoon must be upgraded by 2030 to technology that significantly reduces nitrogen discharge.
County leaders say the incentive is designed to ease the financial burden on homeowners while accelerating environmental restoration.
They report that approximately $100 million has been invested in projects including dredging, muck removal, and other lagoon cleanup efforts across Brevard County.
Residents will soon have an opportunity to weigh in on whether the lagoon sales tax should be renewed for another decade. Public workshops are scheduled for Monday, January 5, at Titusville City Hall and Monday, January 12, at Palm Bay City Hall. Both meetings are set to begin at 5 p.m.
County leaders say public input will play a key role as they balance environmental recovery goals with the financial realities facing waterfront homeowners who live closest to the lagoon—and its long-running challenges.
