It is necessary to contact the Township Building Department when installing a septic system in order to apply for a permit, retain the permit, and then have the system inspected once it is completed. When investigating a sewage/septic system, the permission granting authority that you need to deal with is dependent on the size of project in question.

In the case of a single residence, the Township is the permission granting authority. Other project, particularly those with larger flows, may require an approval from the Ministry of environment.


When planning the location of a septic system please keep in mind the following:

1.    The leaching bed should not be located in the same area as present or planned parking areas, patios, tennis courts and/or decks. The extra weight may compress the pipes and/or soil, and limit oxygen from moving through the soil and/fill.

2.    The planting of trees and shrubs should be avoided on the leaching bed as the roots may obstruct the perforated pipes and the shade may limit the evapotranspiration

3.    Any direct rainwater runoff from building roofs, patios and driveways should not flow towards the leaching bed as it may generate a system overload.

To improve the operation of a septic system the following maintenance tips should be taken into consideration:

1.   Make sure that your septic system is inspected at least every two years by a qualified inspector.

2.   Have your septic tank pumped out at least every three to five years.

3.   Limit any watering of grass on the leaching bed area; the extra flow of water will limit the bed's capability of absorbing wastewater from your house.

In any case that you are installing, replacing or repairing a septic system please contact the Building Department to ensure that all requirements are met.