Why is my property included in this program? |
Your property has a private on-site sewage system and is within 100 metres of Lake Simcoe or other lakes, ponds, rivers or streams in the Lake Simcoe watershed and your private on-site sewage system was installed before January 1, 2016. |
Who do I contact if I do not think my property should be included in the program? |
Your township office determines which properties are to be inspected and provides the Health Department with that information. Any questions or concerns about your property being included in the program must be addressed by the Townships. |
What is the fee? How do I pay the fee? |
All questions about the inspection fees are addressed by the township office where your property is located. The Health Department is not involved in the fees.
|
Why do I need a site plan? |
A site plan is required because the inspector needs to know the location of all parts of the private on-site sewage system and the well on the property to conduct an inspection.
|
How do I locate my sewage system? |
How to locate your private sewage disposal system
|
What does the inspection include? |
It is a visual inspection of the ground surface. No part of the private on-site sewage system will have to be dug up and we do not need to enter your home. The inspector may require a second inspection if there are any signs that the private on-site sewage system is not working properly. |
What are signs that the private on-site sewage system is not working properly? |
- Wet spots, depressions or soggy ground area on the leaching bed
- Sewage odours present in the area of the septic tank and/or leaching bed
|
When will the inspection take place? |
Inspections will be done between late May and the end of August and only during the Health Department’s regular business hours which are Monday to Friday, 8:30am to 4:30pm.
|
Do I need to be present for the inspection? |
No, it is not necessary for you to be present for the inspection. |
How do I know if my property has been inspected and the result of the inspection? |
Property owners will be sent a letter telling them if their system satisfactory or is not working properly.
|
What happens if my private on-site sewage system is determined to be not working properly (unsafe)? |
A public health inspector may issue an Order to Comply under the Ontario Building Code if it is determined that the private on-site sewage system is not working properly. The property owner is responsible for making sure that the proper steps are taken to ensure their private on-site sewage system is working properly. This includes getting the correct permits and covering the costs.
|
Where can I find more information about the Maintenance Inspection Program? |
The package sent by mail contains background information that outlines the program and contains details about the inspection process.
|