The Drinking Water State Revolving Fund (DWSRF) helps fund projects that protect public health and support safe drinking water. EPA provides federal funds to states, which administer their own programs and make assistance available to eligible water systems. For program details and links to state resources, visit the official EPA DWSRF page.
What it funds
DWSRF assistance can support drinking water infrastructure projects, including work to address lead in drinking water. EPA says the latest round of funding for states aims to reduce exposure to lead and accelerate progress in finding and removing lead service lines. The exact activities, project requirements, and funding terms available to an owner depend on the state program. Check the official program page and your state's DWSRF materials for current eligibility details.
Who applies
Eligible public water systems apply through the state that administers the program. The federal program also provides funding to states, Tribes, and territories. Owners should confirm with their state which kinds of water systems and projects qualify, how the state ranks applications, and what documents it requires. The EPA page links to basic information, eligibility, and application resources.
Award size and funding available
The official program page reports $7.2 billion in FY 2026 allotments for states, Tribes, and territories across the Clean Water State Revolving Fund and DWSRF. That total combines the two programs; it is not the DWSRF amount alone and does not indicate how much any individual owner can receive. Project awards and assistance terms vary by state and project. Check the official program page and state program materials for the DWSRF allotment, available funds, and award limits that apply to your project.
Cycle and current status
EPA's source page reports FY 2026 allotments from annual appropriations and the Infrastructure Investment and Jobs Act. It also describes a latest round of funding for states focused on reducing lead exposure. Check the official program page and your state's current DWSRF notice for the applicable cycle, deadlines, and status.
How consultants win the design work
Agencies apply for DWSRF assistance. Consultants may support an agency with planning, benefit-cost analysis, and grant writing where allowed, then compete for design and construction phase services. Agencies select consultants through qualifications-based selection (QBS), subject to applicable procurement rules and state requirements. Owners should confirm the procurement process and which consultant costs are eligible with the funding agency before starting work.
What owners should do now
- Contact the state DWSRF office and confirm your system and project's eligibility.
- Ask for the current application schedule, ranking criteria, and required materials.
- Gather project, planning, and financial information the state requests.
- Review consultant procurement requirements and confirm which services and costs are allowed before engaging a consultant.
Official program page: https://www.epa.gov/dwsrf. Check it for current notices of funding opportunity before advising a client.
