The City of St. Petersburg has launched a new initiative to address aging sewer infrastructure, offering free inspections and replacements of private sewer lateral pipes for eligible homeowners. The program, backed by a $500,000 fund, aims to improve neighborhood infrastructure, protect homes from damage, and reduce city-wide sewage treatment costs.

Announced on June 30, 2025, the sewer lateral rebate program targets approximately 32,000 properties in the city that may qualify based on factors such as property age, elevation, and sewer system flow monitoring data. According to St. Petersburg Public Works, leaky private sewer lines contribute to infiltration during storms, which can lead to manhole overflows, backups, and costly damage to homes and infrastructure.

In Phase 1 of the program, the city will cover the full cost of replacing leaky sewer lines for eligible homeowners. This initiative is part of a broader effort to enhance the resilience of St. Petersburg’s sewer system, especially after recent hurricanes exposed vulnerabilities in the city’s infrastructure. The program not only aims to safeguard individual properties but also to lower the overall burden on the city’s wastewater treatment facilities.

City officials encourage residents to take advantage of the free inspections to determine eligibility. For more information or to apply, homeowners can contact St. Petersburg Public Works or visit the city’s official website.

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