The Iowa Department of Natural Resources (DNR) is offering $1 million in special funding to help small Iowa communities address asbestos hazards in vacant, deteriorating buildings.
The funding is available through the DNR’s Derelict Building Grant Program and is specifically designed for Iowa municipalities with populations of fewer than 5,000 residents.
Eligible properties must be locally owned commercial or public buildings that have been unoccupied for at least six months and meet local requirements for a derelict building. Properties listed on historic registers are not eligible for this special funding round.
The program will cover 100% of Certified Asbestos Inspection costs and 100% of asbestos abatement costs up to $10,000. For abatement expenses above $10,000, a 50% cost-share will apply.
Funding will be provided on a reimbursement basis after the project has been completed.
Applications must be submitted to the Iowa DNR by Friday, October 9, 2026. Communities selected for funding will have from December 1, 2026, through February 26, 2027, to complete their asbestos abatement projects.
Municipalities interested in applying or seeking assistance with the application process can contact Reid Bermel with the DNR Land Quality Bureau at 515-217-7230 or Reid.Bermel@dnr.iowa.gov.
Application materials and funding instructions are available through the Iowa DNR.
