Some communities run their sewer systems under available capacity, often reducing affordability. With an understanding of available sewer capacity, municipalities may consider expanding the area (and in turn the number of homes) required to connect to sewer infrastructure. This is typically based on a designated distance (or buffer area) from the main public sanitary sewer line and can include waivers for grandfathered homes with functioning septic systems. Municipalities can also propose cost-sharing approaches with landowners for building new connections. 

Similarly, there are grandfathered homes with septic systems within sewered areas that are not be functioning optimally. Municipalities might investigate (with RPC assistance) financial assistance for landowners with septic systems switching to public sewer, as done by the City of Vancouver, Washington with their Sewer Connection Incentive Program.