Sewage Facilities Program (SFP)

The Sewage Facilities Program is administered by the Pennsylvania Department of Community and Economic Development (DCED) through the Commonwealth Financing Authority (CFA). Rooted in Act 13 of 2012, which established the Marcellus Legacy Fund, this program directs financial support towards projects in compliance with the Pennsylvania Sewage Facilities Act (Act 537 of 1966). The program serves to strengthen statewide planning initiatives that ensure effective and sustainable sewage management across Pennsylvania’s municipalities and regions. The primary focus is on advancing planning-level activities related to sewage facilities in alignment with environmental, health, and safety standards. The grant supports a range of applicants, including municipalities (such as counties, boroughs, and townships), councils of governments, tax-exempt environmental or educational organizations, accredited higher education institutions, recognized watershed organizations, and for-profit businesses not involved in natural gas production. This diverse eligibility criteria reflect the program’s commitment to supporting both public and private sector initiatives that contribute to the responsible planning and future development of sewage infrastructure throughout the state. Eligible projects must pertain to the preparation or revision of official sewage facilities plans under Act 537. Grant funds may be used for planning activities required by the Act and related administrative expenses, including advertising, legal, audit, and staff costs—although such administrative expenses must not exceed 2% of the total grant. Ineligible uses include public relations, lobbying, legal disputes, interest on loans, and any costs incurred before formal grant approval. The maximum grant amount available per project is $100,000, and each applicant must contribute matching funds equal to at least 50% of the total project cost. Verification of this match is required at the time of application submission. To apply, applicants must complete and submit the PA DCED’s Electronic Single Application for Assistance online at grants.pa.gov. A number of supplemental documents are required, including an approved Task/Activity Report (per 25 Pa Code §71.21), a project narrative detailing location and usage, financial commitment letters, recent financial statements, and a governing resolution (for public entities). A $100 non-refundable application fee must also be paid electronically as part of the submission process. Applications are accepted annually from February 1 through May 31. Submissions must be fully completed and received by May 31 to be considered. The CFA evaluates applications based on project cost, strategic relevance, and overall impact. If selected, awardees will receive an electronic grant agreement and commitment letter. Applicants must electronically sign and return the grant agreement within 45 days of receipt. Reimbursement is available for eligible costs incurred within the designated performance period specified in the grant agreement. Disbursements occur no more frequently than every 30 days upon certified expense submission and may require verification through canceled checks or bank statements. All grant recipients must comply with Pennsylvania’s Prevailing Wage Act, maintain accurate records, and adhere to applicable bidding regulations. The program also enforces nondiscrimination clauses in alignment with Pennsylvania Human Relations Act and federal laws. Program-related inquiries should be directed to the CFA Programs Division within the Office of Business Finance and Workforce Development at DCED via email (ra-dcedsitedvpt@pa.gov) or phone (717-787-6245). The program is recurring and typically follows an annual cycle, offering ongoing opportunities for local governments and partners to strengthen sewage management infrastructure across the Commonwealth of Pennsylvania.