Private Dam Financial Assurance – Enrollment
🏛 Pennsylvania Department of Community & Economic Development
Can you apply?
This grant is for owners of regulated private dams in Pennsylvania. Applicants must be seeking financial assurance assistance to meet proof of financial responsibility requirements under the Dam Safety and Encroachments Act. Once the program fund reaches $1,500,000, eligible dam owners may also apply for low-interest loans. The program is administered jointly by the Department of Community and Economic Development and the Department of Environmental Protection.
This grant is for owners of regulated private dams in Pennsylvania. Applicants must be seeking financial assurance assistance to meet proof of financial responsibility requirements under the Dam Safety and Encroachments Act. Once the program fund reaches $1,500,000, eligible dam owners may also apply for low-interest loans. The program is administered jointly by the Department of Community and Economic Development and the Department of Environmental Protection.
Program description
The Private Dam Financial Assurance Program was established under the Private Dam Financial Assurance Program Act (PDFAP Act) to provide financial assurance assistance to owners of regulated private dams to meet proof of financial responsibility required under Section 11 of the Dam Safety and Encroachments Act. The PDFAP Act also has a provision to provide low interest loans to eligible dams once the fund has reached $1,500,000. The program is administered jointly by the Department of Community and Economic Development (DCED) and the Department of Environmental Protection (DEP).
Who can apply
Eligible applicants
Details
This grant is for owners of regulated private dams in Pennsylvania. Applicants must be seeking financial assurance assistance to meet proof of financial responsibility requirements under the Dam Safety and Encroachments Act. Once the program fund reaches $1,500,000, eligible dam owners may also apply for low-interest loans. The program is administered jointly by the Department of Community and Economic Development and the Department of Environmental Protection.
How to apply
Application links
Required documents
- Proof of dam ownership or authorization to apply
- Documentation of regulated status under Dam Safety and Encroachments Act
- Evidence of Section 11 financial responsibility requirements
- Cost estimate or budget for financial assurance needs
- Project narrative describing the dam and financial assurance purpose
FAQ
Who can apply for this grant?
Private dam owners in Pennsylvania who are regulated under the Dam Safety and Encroachments Act. Your dam must require proof of financial responsibility under Section 11 of that Act.
What type of financial assistance is available?
The program provides financial assurance assistance to help meet proof of financial responsibility requirements. Low-interest loans become available once the fund reaches $1,500,000.
Is there a cost-sharing requirement?
No, cost sharing is not required for this program.
How much funding can I receive?
Award amounts are not specified in the program description. Contact DCED or DEP for typical funding levels for eligible projects.
What is the application deadline?
The deadline listed is December 31, 2035. Confirm the current deadline with the administering agencies before applying.
💡 Tips for applicants
- Contact DCED and DEP early to confirm current deadlines and program availability. Program details may change as the fund grows.
- Gather all documentation proving your dam's regulated status and current financial responsibility requirements under the Act.
- Clarify whether your application seeks financial assurance assistance or a low-interest loan, as eligibility may differ.
- Request a pre-application consultation with program staff to understand what your dam specifically needs.
- Document the costs of maintaining financial responsibility compliance to support your funding request.
⚠️ Common mistakes
Applying without confirming your dam meets the Act's regulatory definition. Not providing clear documentation of Section 11 financial responsibility requirements. Misunderstanding whether to apply for assurance assistance or loans.
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