The Septic System Reimbursement program aim to meet nutrient load reduction targets by pumping out 20% of the County’s septic systems annually to meet the County's Watershed Implementation Plan (WIP) nutrient pollution reduction goals. Pumping of septic systems is recommended to maintain the effectiveness and longevity of the system and provides a reduction of nutrient leaching over time. 

Charles County residents with a septic system are eligible once every 3 years for reimbursement of a system pump-out. Residents must complete the online application below and provide a copy of the contractor’s receipt. Contractor must be a licensed septage hauler.

Applications will be verified and processed within 12 weeks of receipt. A reimbursement check will be mailed to the address provided in the application. Applications must be received within six (6) months of the pump-out.  

Septic System Reimbursement Rates

Maximum reimbursement: $100 per system

Effective January 1, 2026, reimbursements will only be issued for septic pump-outs performed by septage haulers approved by the Charles County Health Department.

Residents are encouraged to review the Approved Haulers List before scheduling a pump-out.

The Septic Riser Installation Reimbursement Program encourages property owners with existing septic systems to have tank risers installed when their septic system is pumped out. This reimbursement can be applied for at the same time as your reimbursement for a Septic System Pump Out.

Applicants must provide proof of purchase and installation by a hauler or contractor, or proof of purchase for risers independently installed with their application. 

Reimbursements for a riser are limited to one (1) per property and applications must be received within six (6) months of riser installation.  

Reimbursement Rate for Septic Riser Installation

$100 per system

The Charles County Health Department has a grant to locally administer the Bay Restoration Fund (BRF) Program. The BRF is a State-supported program that provides funding to replace conventional septic tanks with nitrogen-reducing units or funding for sewer connections of existing dwellings where public sewer is available.

For low-income households, BRF funding can be used to replace a failing septic system. The program’s purpose is to reduce the amount of harmful nutrients, such as nitrogen, that septic systems discharge into the Chesapeake Bay and its tributaries. Please call 301-609-6792 for more information.

Bay Restoration Fund Grant Information

Bay Restoration Fund Application

Application Checklist (non-Priority Funded Areas (PFA))
Application Checklist (Priority Funded Areas (PFA))

Maryland Department of Planning - Priority Funding Area Interactive Map

 

The University of Maryland, Extension Office hosts monthly webinars on various water quality related topics.

For more information or to register, visit the University of Maryland Extension Wednesday Water Webinars page.