Sewage System Approvals in Rideau Lakes Township MOST FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS
(FAQ)
Q - Does the law require that I apply for a permit to review my existing tank system if I want to add on to my house or cottage?
A - Yes, the Regulation governing the performance level of your existing sewage is included in the Ontario Building Code.
Q - How do I know if my system needs upgrading or replacement?
A - Any addition to a building that may affect the performance of your sewage system must be reviewed and/or approved before you go ahead.
The review/approval takes into account where the addition is going and will it physically be too close to the sewage system. Increased living space which relate to additional bedrooms, increased floor space and plumbing fixtures is also taken into consideration.
Q - If I have a permit for my current system, will I need it to upgrade/replace my system?
A - An existing permit is helpful in determining the current size of your system and to determine to what degree your system might need to be upgraded.
Q - If I do not have a permit and my sewage system is old, what do I do?
A - In order to determine if your system is large enough for the proposed addition you may have to dig up part of the bed and tank. (A experience licensed sewage installer can usually determine the location and size of the bed with a minimal amount of digging.) This procedure will also give you the opportunity to examine the state of the distribution piping and soil in and around the bed.
Q - If I need to, would it be possible to enlarge my current sewage system?
A - Often it is recommended that the old septic tank be removed and replaced with one that meets minimum Code requirements. Leaching beds may be adequate depending on the type of soil used and the total length of or original distribution piping installed.
Frequently older beds do not have a permit and have been installed in poor soils and therefore may not be suitable for simple expansion. In this case a new bed is usually required or recommended.
Q - Are sewage records available at the Township office?
A - Yes and no, the Township has records for sewage systems dating back to January 1999. All permits issued prior to that date can be obtained Leeds, Grenville and Lanark District Health Unit.
Q - If I do have to upgrade, how long do I have to complete the work?
A - Once a permit is issued the applicant has 12 months to complete the work. You must contact the Township should you not be able to stay within this time frame.
Q - Do I get a Certificate if the work is completed?
A - Yes, if you were required to upgrade the septic system, upon final inspection a Certificate of Completion will be issued to the applicant. A copy of the Certificate is also sent to the installer.
Q - What if my existing system needs to be completely upgraded to comply with the proposed changes or additions?
A - In the case where a new septic system is required, it is recommended that a licensed sewage installer be contacted. The installer will help fill out the technical part of the application and will arrange for the preliminary inspection (to construct) your septic system. Any changes to the Ontario Building Code or the Township’s Zoning By-law will come into effect at this time.
Q - Does this mean I should hire a licensed installer right away?
A - The homeowner can complete the application but it is recommended that a licensed installer fill out the technical portion of the application.
Q - Do I need septic clearance to obtain a building permit?
A - Yes, a septic review and/or permit must be obtained in order to obtain your building permit.
Township of Rideau Lakes, 1439 County Road 8, Delta, ON, K0E 1G0
email: info@twprideaulakes.on.ca
For general inquiries, administration, planning, public works, parks & rec, and fire department: Tel: 613-928-2251 or 1-800-928-2250 - Fax: 613-928-3097
For the tax office: Tel: 613-928-2896 or 1-866-677-4577
