Ottawa Rural Clean Water Program

Who is eligible?

• Farm operations located in the City of Ottawa
• Rural landowners within the rural boundaries of Ottawa
• Owners of properties in Ottawa undergoing well decommissioning or septic projects
• Non-profit organizations implementing demonstration or educational projects

Who is not eligible

• Companies with projects that have already begun before applying for funding (retroactive funding is not available).
• Businesses located outside the City of Ottawa or outside the designated rural or eligible urban boundaries.
• Applicants who have already received more than $25,000 in funding from the Ottawa Rural Clean Water Program between 2021 and 2025.

Eligible expenses

• Materials and supplies essential for the approved project.
• Contract labour and professional fees directly related to project completion.
• Permits and application fees required for the project.
• Reasonable in-kind contributions for applicant’s labour (up to $20/hr) and equipment use (up to $50/hr) for project purposes.

Eligible geographic areas

• Rural areas within the City of Ottawa
• Properties within the City of Ottawa urban boundary (for agricultural, well decommissioning, and septic projects)

• Approved projects must be completed and required paperwork submitted within 12 months from approval, or by December 31, 2025, whichever comes first.
• Applicants will receive an ORCWP sign to install on their property following project approval.
• There is an appeals process if funding is denied, requiring a written request and attendance at a review committee meeting.
• Program representatives may request to visit completed projects for up to five years following completion, with prior arrangement.