San Diego County has streamlined the process, but timing is everything. You must follow these steps in order to qualify:

1. Check Your Eligibility: Your property must be in an unincorporated area of San Diego County. (If you’re within city limits or on federal/tribal land, you won't be eligible). You can use the County’s interactive map to verify your address.

2. Watch the Educational Video: The County requires you to watch an 8-minute video on septic system components and troubleshooting. It’s a small time investment that helps prevent major repair bills later!

3. Apply for Pre-Approval (CRITICAL): You must receive a pre-approval email from the County before you call us to pump. The County will not issue rebates for services performed before you have that confirmation in hand.

4. Schedule Your Pumping: Once pre-approved, you have 60 days to get your tank pumped.

5. Submit Your Receipt: Send your paid invoice back to the County within that 60-day window, and they’ll mail you a $100 check.

Why Pumping Matters (Beyond the $100)

While a hundred bucks is a great perk, the real value of pumping is the thousands of dollars you save in the long run.

1. Protect Your Drain Field: When a tank gets too full, solid waste can escape into your drain field. This leads to clogs that can cause sewage to back up into your home or bubble up in your yard. Replacing a drain field can cost $10,000 to $20,000—making a routine pump-out the best insurance policy you can buy.
2. Safeguard San Diego’s Water: San Diego's Watershed Protection Program sponsors this rebate because failing septic systems are a major source of water pollution. Regular maintenance prevents nitrogen and harmful bacteria from reaching our local creeks, lakes, and beaches.
3. Boost Property Value: If you ever plan to sell your home, a well-documented maintenance history is a huge selling point. Buyers want to see that the "quiet hero" of the house—the septic system—has been cared for.

Is It Time for a Pump?

Most experts recommend pumping every 3 to 5 years, depending on your household size. If you notice slow drains, gurgling pipes, or unusually lush, green patches of grass over your tank, don't wait for the rebate—call us immediately.

Pro Tip: San Diego County allows you to apply for this rebate once every 3 years. If it’s been a while since your last service, now is the perfect time to reset your maintenance clock.

Ready to Schedule?

At USA Septic, we’ve been serving San Diego with honest, reliable service for years. We are familiar with the County's requirements and can provide the professional invoice you need to secure your rebate.

Get your pre-approval from the County first, then give us a call at (760) 217-5754 to get on the schedule!