Funding trigger
Does EPA SRF funding trigger Davis-Bacon prevailing wage?
Yes. Construction of treatment works and drinking-water infrastructure assisted by the Clean Water or Drinking Water State Revolving Funds is subject to Davis-Bacon prevailing wages.
Short answer
Yes. Construction of treatment works and drinking-water infrastructure assisted by the Clean Water or Drinking Water State Revolving Funds is subject to Davis-Bacon prevailing wages.
How the requirement attaches
Congress has applied Davis-Bacon to SRF-assisted construction through the Clean Water Act, the Safe Drinking Water Act amendments, and annual appropriations, so laborers and mechanics must be paid the DOL prevailing wage for the locality.
Bid-file implication
Use the incorporated wage determination and keep certified payroll — SRF loans still carry Davis-Bacon even though the borrower is a local utility.
Guardrail
Screening only—not a coverage determination, tax opinion, or legal advice. Confirm the program-specific rules, exceptions, contract clauses, incorporated wage determination, and any separate federal, state, or local requirements before bidding, paying workers, filing payroll reports, or claiming a tax benefit.
FAQ
Frequently asked questions
Does EPA SRF funding require Davis-Bacon prevailing wages?
Yes. Construction of treatment works and drinking-water infrastructure assisted by the Clean Water or Drinking Water State Revolving Funds is subject to Davis-Bacon prevailing wages.
What happens when both federal and state prevailing wage apply?
Both regimes may impose requirements, but the answer is jurisdiction- and contract-specific. Compare the incorporated federal determination with the applicable state schedule, then verify classifications, fringes, overtime, apprentices, dates, exemptions, and contract clauses with the awarding agency or qualified adviser.
Do I still need certified payroll?
Covered DBRA contractors and subcontractors generally must submit weekly certified payroll showing the classifications and rates paid. Confirm the reporting clause in the specific contract.
Official sources