Septic Systems
Having problems with your septic system?
- Is liquid sewage from your septic system surfacing in your yard?
- Is sewage backing up, or does your bathtub drain slowly?
Help is on the way!
Winona County now has funding to assist with the cost to repair/replace septic systems that are failing to protect groundwater or imminent threats to public health. These funds are available for residential household septic systems as well as commercial properties.
Click on the applications below to learn more about available funding.
SSTS Upgrade Commercial Grant Application 2022-2025
SSTS Upgrade Residential Grant Application
MPCA Spring 2020 Bulletin
The Minnesota Pollution Control Agency (MPCA) put out a Bulletin for Subsurface Sewage Treatment System professionals and inspectors regarding COVID-19. The information is also useful for rural property owners to know and may be found online.
Subsurface Sewage Treatment System Program
Most homes and businesses in municipalities discharge their sewage to publicly owned sewage treatment plants. In rural areas, sewage is treated "onsite" utilizing septic tanks and soil treatment areas. These systems are called Subsurface Sewage Treatment Systems (SSTS). In either case, it is extremely important that sewage be treated properly to ensure safe drinking water and safe water recreation, and so that the public is not exposed to health risks from sewage.
Winona County Planning Department through the Zoning Ordinance and authority from the Minnesota Pollution Control Agency regulates the design, permitting, installations, and inspections of Subsurface Sewage Treatment Systems (SSTS).
Loans from AgBMP Program
Agricultural Best Management Practices (AgBMP) Loan Program provides loans to upgrade ISTS systems on rural properties. These loans are available from certain banks within the county. For details on rates and bank information, call Brein Maki Winona County Soil and Water Conservation District at 507-523-2173.