PIPE

Low Income Assistance for Sewer, Water and Septic Systems

The Bernalillo County Wastewater Ordinance requires property owners whose property line is within 200 feet of available sewer lines to connect within one year of sewer becoming available.  Partners in Improving and Protecting the Environment (PIPE) is a program developed by Bernalillo County that provides financial assistance to help qualifying individuals connect to sewer, water or replace failing septic systems in areas where sewer is not available.

What does PIPE pay for?

The PIPE program covers plumbing costs for connecting to municipal water and sewer lines and abandonment of your septic tank.  The PIPE Program  will pay for replacement of the septic system if sewer is not available.  The PIPE Program may provide up to $4,300 in assistance.

Do you qualify for the PIPE program?

Qualification for the PIPE program is based on the number of persons residing in your household and the total combined incomes of all persons in the household.  Income includes all taxable an non-taxable income -- wages, social security, disability, pensions, retirement income, self-employment and business income, rental income, etcetera.  You must own the property and have resided in the house for the past year and the Total Full Value of your home may not exceed $173,500. (Note: Income limits are based on HUD Guidelines that are revised each year.)

                                  Number of Persons               Income Limit

1......................................$33,300/year
2......................................$38,100/year
3......................................$42,850/year
4......................................$47,600/year
5......................................$51,400/year
6......................................$55,200/year
7......................................$59,000/year
8......................................$62,850/year

What should you bring to fill out an application?

• Proof that you own the property (tax bill or notice of value).
• Proof that you have resided in the house at least 1 year (a bill or statement dated one year ago with your name and address).
• Proof of household income (yearly federal tax forms - 1040 etc.).
• Birth dates and social security numbers of all household members.

 Where should you go to fill out an application?

Applications can be filled out in person at the Bernaillo County Infrastructure Planning and Geo-Resources Department, located at 2400 Broadway SE.  The office is open Monday through Friday, 8:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m.

If you have any additional questions, please contact Bernalillo County Public Works at 848-1524.