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The first of its kind in Washington, Tacoma’s Residential Sewer Conservation Loan Program covers up to 90% of the costs for side sewer repair or replacement with loan amounts range from $1,000 to $25,000 and offer an interest rate 2% below the prime rate (with a minimum of 4%). The loan is secured by a lien on the project property.

What is a Side Sewer?

A side sewer, also called a lateral sewer or private connection, transports wastewater from a property’s toilets and drains to the City’s main sewer line, which then directs it to a wastewater treatment plant. Most sewer problems occur in the side sewer, which is the homeowner’s responsibility to maintain and repair. Learn more about maintaining, repairing, and permitting your side sewer.

Program Eligibility

To qualify for the loan:

  • Your home must be within Tacoma city limits and served by the Environmental Services Department (check your utility bill for confirmation).
  • You must have good credit with Tacoma Public Utilities and a qualifying FICO score.
  • The repair or replacement must be for an existing residential structure.
  • New construction or completed projects are not eligible. You must apply for the loan before the repair or replacement is finished.

Loan disbursement will occur after the project is completed and verified by the Environmental Services Department.

1. Review Your Project

Determine the project cost and loan amount.

2. Start the Process

Download the Application and Credit Release Form. Complete the forms, ensuring all required information is provided.

3. Send your completed application to:

Sewer Conservation Loan Program
c/o Environmental Services Dept.
2201 Portland Avenue, Building P-1
Tacoma, WA 98421

For more details, view the fact sheet or contact Stephanie Seivert Wilson at (253) 502-2255.

 

Additional Assistance

You may also be eligible for financial help to replace a leaking water service line through the Tacoma Water Grant and Loan Program.

Payment Questions?

For existing loan customers:

  • Pay-off requests
  • Requests to increase monthly payment amounts
  • Requests to reduce payments to the minimum

Email the Treasury Department at loans@tacoma.gov.

Contact

Stephanie Seivert Wilson
Business Services Analyst, Environmental Services