the Sanitary sewer overhead assistance program

Fox Metro WRD is excited to introduce the Sanitary Sewer Overhead Assistance Program (SOAP), offering financial aid to homeowners who want to protect their homes from heavy rain-induced flooding. Eligible homeowners may qualify for a cost sharing reimbursement of up to $5,000 for the installation of an overhead sewer system. This is designed to prevent backups by elevating the existing sewer system. Some modified overhead sewer designs may also qualify.

Sewer Backup Emergencies

If you are experiencing a sewer backup, it’s important to contact the correct authority as quickly as possible. Click here for emergency contact information for the communities served by Fox Metro.

Emergency Contacts

Checklist

To qualify for SOAP, residents must meet the following criteria:

1. Reside in the Fox Metro WRD service area, own the residence, and have either a partial or full basement.

2. Disconnect any perimeter drain tiles or other stormwater sources from the sanitary sewer.

3. Install a sump pit and sump pump as part of the program.

4. Complete the forms in the application packet.

5. Fulfill all requirements outlined in the application packet.

For Residents Located in Incorporated Areas

We recommend that all residents in incorporated areas participate in the program. Most service communities offer a 50% cost share. After full approval and program closeout, Fox Metro will verify participation and reimburse up to 15% of the cost.

For Residents Located in Unincorporated Areas (Boulder Hill, Blackberry Heights, etc.)

Fox Metro realizes that residents in unincorporated areas are not eligible for municipal programs. Fox Metro is offering up to a 65% cost share with a maximum reimbursement of $5,000 to help meet the needs of these residents.

Permit Forms

SOAP FAQs

How do I know if I should participate?

Homeowners with previous basement backups are strongly encouraged to consider the SOAP. It’s a great way to protect your home from damage, get peace of mind during storms, and receive financial assistance with a vital improvement!

Video link: Understanding Basement Backups
Video link: Sewer System Identification

Why is Fox Metro WRD offering this program?

Our goal is to protect the health, safety, and welfare of our rate payers by conveying wastewater away from homes to be safely treated here at the wastewater treatment plant. Sewage in a resident’s basement is unhealthy and a big mess, to say the least! Disconnecting stormwater sources from the sanitary sewer also helps us gain capacity in the pipes and reduces the likelihood of basement backups.

How is this program funded?

We are primarily using customer late fees to fund the program. We want to put these funds back to good use by helping the community.

Is this a loan program? Do I have to pay the money back?

This is a grant program. It does not need to be paid back. Consult professional advice on tax implications.

My basement has already been retrofitted — am I eligible for reimbursement?

No. All applications must have an approved permit prior to the work being conducted in order to receive subsequent reimbursement.

For More Information

Please read over the application linked above. Should you have further questions, please contact our Engineering Department at 630-301-6882 or submittals@foxmetro.org