Septic System Rebate
< Return to Rebates Status: The 2025 SepticSmart Rebate Program is accepting applications.
To date, this program has contributed more than $400,000 to maintain septic systems in the RDN.
PDF Information and Application Forms
Online Application Forms
Rebate Amount
A maintenance rebate will cover 75 percent of eligible expenses, to a maximum amount:
- Up to $100 to install an Effluent Filter
- Up to $200 to install or replace a Distribution Box
- Up to $400 to install Risers
A $700 repair/replacement rebate is also available to repair or replace an ageing system. Repairs must have a value of over $10,000. This rebate cannot be combined with a rebate for the distribution box, riser or effluent filter.
Eligibility
Note: New construction and tank pump-outs are not eligible for a rebate.
Work must meet all of the following to be eligible for a rebate:
- Identified as Eligible Work below.
- Located on a property in the RDN that has not previously received a similar rebate.
- Performed in the previous year.
- Conducted on pre-existing systems (not for original installation).
- Performed by an "Authorized Person" explained in Step 2, below.
Eligible Work:
| Maximum Rebate | Eligible Work |
| $100 | Effluent Filter Installation Effluent filters can prolong the life of your system by keeping solids out of the distribution field. Newer systems may already have an effluent filter. Older systems may be retrofitted to add a filter. Important note: effluent filters must be cleaned regularly. |
| $200 | Distribution Box Installation or Replacement A properly functioning distribution box will maximize the effective lifespan of the drainfield by distributing effluent evenly to each line and preventing any one line from overload. Overloaded distribution lines may lead to a system malfunction. |
| $400 | Riser Installation Risers provide surface access to buried components. If you have risers, you have little to no digging to do hereafter, making future pumping and maintenance much easier. |
| OR | |
| $700 |
Repair or Replace an Aging System |
How to Apply
STEP 1: Submit Pre-approval Application Form
Online Application Form
Rebate funds are limited. You may apply for pre-approval before work is done. Once pre-approved, the RDN will reserve funds for eligible work for up to 90 days. You may request an extension to your pre-approval date but funds may be reallocated to another applicant if the pre-approval period expires.
Submit your pre-approval application online or by:
Email: rcu [at] rdn.bc.ca (rcu[at]rdn[dot]bc[dot]ca)
Mail or in person: Wastewater Services, 6300 Hammond Bay Road, Nanaimo, BC, V9T 6N2
STEP 2: Hire an Authorized Person to Perform Qualifying Work
Confirm that contractors meet the definition of an Authorized Person before hiring services.
An Authorized Person is a Registered Onsite Wastewater Practitioner (registered through ASTTBC) or a Professional Engineer or Professional Geoscientist (registered through EGBC).
To find a Registered Onsite Wastewater Practitioner:
- Visit the ASTTBC Website
- Follow instructions for "HOW TO SEARCH" and filter "Sub-class" for "ROWP"
To find a Professional in your area contact:
- Visit the EGBC Website
- Scroll down to find Professionals on "Vancouver Island"
STEP 3: Pay Invoice & Submit Your Claim
Online Application Form
Claims must be received before your pre-approval expires and no later than December 31, 2025. Late claims may not be processed.
Include with your claim:
- Rebate Claim Form
- Copy of an invoice detailing eligible work
- Proof of payment
Submit your claim online or by:
Email: rcu [at] rdn.bc.ca (rcu[at]rdn[dot]bc[dot]ca)
Mail or in person: Wastewater Services, 6300 Hammond Bay Road, Nanaimo, B.C., V9T 6N2
Allow six weeks for payment.