Septic System Replacement Program
The Missoula County Septic System Replacement Program helps eligible low- and moderate-income homeowners outside city limits replace failing septic systems at no cost to the homeowner.
The program provides:
- Financial assistance to replace a failing septic system
- Technical assistance throughout the replacement process
- Help addressing plumbing problems that may be contributing to septic system failure
The program is funded through Community Development Block Grant (CDBG) funds from the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD). Applications are open now. Read the eligibility criteria below and if you qualify, click here to download the application and submit it.
Eligibility Criteria
Homeowners must:
- Meet annual HUD income limits of 80% or less of area median income (see table below)
- Provide income verification
- Own and use the single-family home as primary residence
- Intend to reside in home for at least five years*
- Maintain homeowner’s insurance on the property
The home must:
- Meet the threshold of a failing septic system
- Be on a permanent foundation
- Be outside the City of Missoula limits and within Missoula County
- Be outside a floodplain**
*Homeowner will sign a five-year deed restriction; should the home no longer serve as the primary residence of the grant recipient within those five years, the grant must be paid back in full.
**Exceptions may apply
Household Income Limits by Household Size
June 1, 2026 to May 30, 2027
|
One person |
Two people |
Three people |
Four people |
Five people |
Six people |
Seven people |
Eight people |
|
$60,700 |
$69,350 |
$78,000 |
$86,650 |
$93,600 |
$100,550 |
$107,450 |
$114,400 |
Income limits are determined by HUD and change every year.
How It Works
- Homeowner submits application for a septic system replacement. Missoula County staff verify eligibility.
- Homeowner contacts Missoula Public Health for a septic assessment by calling 405-258-4755.
- MPH identifies needed septic and plumbing repairs. Homeowner works with Missoula County Grants and Community Resources staff to coordinate radon testing.
- In order to receive a grant through this program, the homeowner must schedule a radon test with the County's contracted radon professional to determine if radon present is above the federal allowable levels of 4pCi/L.
- If radon is found to exceed the allowable levels, mitigation is required as part of the project.
- All costs associated with testing and mitigation (if required) will be covered by the grant.
- Homeowner and Missoula County determine the scope of work. Homeowner obtains three quotes for septic system replacement and three quotes for plumbing repairs.
- Homeowner shares quotes with Missoula County. Missoula County finalizes the scope of work and budget.
- Missoula County submits complete application to the Montana Department of Commerce for approval.
- Homeowner and Missoula County sign and agreement, and homeowner signs a deed restrictions. Construction may begin.
Our program is committed to providing fair, respectful and equitable access to services. In the event your project is deemed ineligible, and you disagree with the decision, you have a right to file a grievance with Missoula County and have your concern reviewed promptly and impartially. You may file a grievance using any of the following methods:
• Submit a written complaint (email or letter, not to exceed one page)
• Speak with a staff member who can document the grievance on your behalf
Grievances should include:
• Client name and contact information
• Response to denial of project or project request
• Any supporting information or documentation
Timeframe for submission:
Grievances should be submitted within 10 days of the denial. Exceptions may be made for extenuating circumstances.
Review Process
• All grievances will be acknowledged within 10 business days.
• A designated staff member or supervisor who was not directly involved will review the grievance.
• The review may include gathering additional information, speaking with involved parties and examining relevant policies.
• A written decision will be provided within 15 business days of acknowledgment of the grievance.
Resolution
Possible outcomes may include:
• Reconsideration or approval of the requested project
• Clarification of program policies
• If a written decision is not issued within 15 business days, the grievance is deemed denied and you may initiate an appeal.
Appeal Process
If you are not satisfied with the outcome, within 10 business days of receiving the decision you may submit an appeal in writing to this office. The office will issue a receipt of acknowledgement of the
appeal. Within 15 business days of acknowledgement of the appeal a final decision will be issued by Melissa Gordon, Director, Grants & Community Resources Department.
Confidentiality and Non-retaliation
All grievances will be handled confidentially to the extent possible. You will not face retaliation for filing a grievance in good faith. No abusive, offensive or threatening behavior towards Missoula County employees or its partner organizations will be tolerated. Missoula County reserves the right to report any such behavior to the appropriate authorities.
Accessibility
Assistance will be provided to clients who need help filing a grievance, including language support or accommodations for disabilities.
Grievances and appeals may be directed to :
Missoula County
Grants and Community Resources
Mailing: 200 West Broadway
Physical: 131 E. Main St.
Missoula, MT 59802