Sewage Systems
The Township of The Archipelago is responsible for administering and enforcing the provisions of Part 8 of the Ontario Building Code for on-site sewage systems within The Archipelago and in the geographic Townships of Blair, Brown, Harrison, Henvey, Mowat and Wallbridge.
Building permits are required to construct the following sewage systems:
- Class 2 greywater pits
- Class 3 cesspools
- Class 4 leaching beds, filter beds, shallow buried trench, Type A and B dispersal beds
- Class 5 holding tanks
The building permit application can be found here.
Permit fees can be found in our building by-law.
Note: No permit is required to construct a Class 1 system (outhouse, compost toilet). You are required to meet the minimum construction standards and setbacks indicated in the Ontario Building Code and manufacturer's specifications. In addition, a Class 2 system would be required for a handwashing sink.
Sewage System Maintenance
Installing a new Class 4 septic system, especially on water access properties, comes with a high price tag. Routine maintenance can greatly increase the life expectancy of your system, which in turn, will save you money. A properly maintained system limits the potential for environmental damages often associated with failed septic systems. It is up to you, the owner of this system, to ensure it is maintained and functioning as intended.
Please take the time to read through the Septic Smart publication. It will provide you with some general information about standard Class 4 sewage systems, including some dos and don'ts, and maintenance tips.
If you have installed a secondary treatment unit, or a tertiary treatment unit, you should refer to that particular system's operation and maintenance requirements.
Reviewing Your Current Sewage System
Do you currently have a sewage system on your property? Here is a self-evaluation quiz you can take to determine if you are doing your part for environmental protection.
Permit fees can be found in our building by-law.
Note: No permit is required to construct a Class 1 system (outhouse, compost toilet). You are required to meet the minimum construction standards and setbacks indicated in the Ontario Building Code and manufacturer's specifications. In addition, a Class 2 system would be required for a handwashing sink.
Sewage System Maintenance
Installing a new Class 4 septic system, especially on water access properties, comes with a high price tag. Routine maintenance can greatly increase the life expectancy of your system, which in turn, will save you money. A properly maintained system limits the potential for environmental damages often associated with failed septic systems. It is up to you, the owner of this system, to ensure it is maintained and functioning as intended.
Please take the time to read through the Septic Smart publication. It will provide you with some general information about standard Class 4 sewage systems, including some dos and don'ts, and maintenance tips.
If you have installed a secondary treatment unit, or a tertiary treatment unit, you should refer to that particular system's operation and maintenance requirements.
Reviewing Your Current Sewage System
Do you currently have a sewage system on your property? Here is a self-evaluation quiz you can take to determine if you are doing your part for environmental protection.
The Township of The Archipelago has launched a FREE voluntary septic screening program! Visit our septics page for information on the 'You be the Judge Program'