Village of Estero

Septic to Sewer

Septic to Sewer2025-05-13T16:49:17-04:00

The Village of Estero is actively advancing its septic-to-sewer conversion initiative to enhance public health and environmental quality. This project involves transitioning properties from septic systems to centralized sewer services, particularly in flood-prone areas.

Environmental and Public Health Benefits

Septic systems, especially in areas susceptible to flooding, pose risks of contaminating groundwater and nearby water bodies like the Estero River. By connecting properties to the Lee County Utilities sanitary sewer system, the Village aims to mitigate these risks, thereby improving water quality and reducing health hazards associated with septic system failures.

Community Impact

The conversion project is expected to provide long-term benefits to residents by enhancing the reliability of wastewater management and reducing the potential for environmental contamination. Additionally, this initiative supports the Village’s broader goals of sustainable development and environmental stewardship.

Background

In the summer of 2019, the Estero Village Council approved a Florida Gulf Coast University (FGCU) research project to help identify the source of bacteria in the Estero River. The study tested for human waste, nitrogen compounds, and bacteria, and was recently completed and presented to the public.

The Village of Estero also contracted with Banks Engineering, a Southwest Florida firm, to study the feasibility of converting septic systems to sewer. This study was presented to the Village Council in the summer of 2020.

The Village Council has now engaged Wood & Curran to act as Program manager for the project, with the primary task being public engagement. The purpose of this webpage is to provide information on the project and opportunities to give the Village feedback.

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