SEWAGE AND SEPTIC SYSTEMS

Sudbury East Building and By-law Services regulates and ensures compliance with the Ontario Building Code (OBC) regarding the installation and maintenance of private onsite sewage systems and is designated under the OBC to conduct inspections and issue sewage system permits within the Sudbury East Municipalities of French River, Killarney, Markstay-Warren and St.-Charles.

  • We offer additional planning services to both municipalities and individuals with regards to the OBC’s Part 8 requirements for suitability of sites.

  • Inspectors also review Planning Act applications, and review the septic-related implications for severance and zoning applications.

  • Permit applications can be obtained by contacting us and are also available online.

Caring for your septic system

Your sewage system requires careful attention to its design, construction, and maintenance.

Pump out your septic tank at least once every two to three years. By properly maintaining and caring for your sewage system you are helping to protect lakes, rivers, and streams, as well as ground water, which are vital resources to us all.

Complaint investigations

Sewage and septic inspectors investigate all reported complaints regarding malfunctioning septic systems. When a malfunctioning system is confirmed, an order may be issued under Part 8 of the Ontario Building Code.

If you have a report of an illegal or malfunctioning septic system please please click here submit a complaint.‍

Sewage Permit Applications

CLASSIFICATIONS OF SEWAGE SYSTEMS

  • A sewage system used for the disposal of human body wastes (no added water) and includes all forms of privy or outhouse. A permit is not required for the construction of a Class 1 sewage system and, as such, a person is exempt from the permit process. However, they still require proper installation according to the Ontario Building Code.

  • A leaching pit used for disposal of grey water, (sink, tub, shower, and laundry waste). A permit is required to install this type of septic system with specifications of a Class 2 system.

  • A sewage system, cesspool is used for the disposal of human body wastes such as waste from a composting toilet or privy. A permit is required to install this type of septic system.

  • A sewage system which consists of a treatment unit (generally a septic tank) and a leaching bed system. A permit is required to install this type of septic system.

  • A sewage system using a holding tank for the retention of on-site sewage and must be emptied by a licensed sewage hauler. A permit is required to install this type of septic system.

    Please note: Class 5 sewage systems are only allowed under certain circumstances, where a Class 4 sewage system is not appropriate due to lot limitations.