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Septic and Sewage Systems

Effective January 1, 2024, the Township of Elizabethtown-Kitley now offers sewage system management program services through the Building Department, including the processing of applications, issuance of permits, inspections, responding to inquiries, complaints and issuing orders. 

New applications and inquiries for sewage systems located in the Township should be directed to building staff at building@ektwp.ca or 613-345-7480 ext. 218. 


Submitting a Complete Application:

Complete applications must be submitted to the Building Department at the Main Administrative Office, 6544 New Dublin Road.

Complete applications can be submitted:

  • In person during business hours to the Main Office at 6544 New Dublin Rd, Addison, ON, K0E 1A0 (Monday to Friday, 8:30am - 4:00pm);
  • By email to building@ektwp.ca or;
  • By mail to 6544 New Dublin Rd, Addison, ON, K0E 1A0

You can also complete an online building or septic/sewage system application through our Electronic Building Permit Application Portal.

To view the full list of septic/sewage system applications and forms please see the Building Applications and Forms page.

NOTE: If the sewage system application is for a vacant lot, we will require a separate completed Dwelling Application to be submitted at the same time.


Signs your system is not working properly:

  • You detect a sewer odour
  • There is effluent pond on top of the leaching bed
  • Toilets, sinks or other drains are slow to drain or are backing up


What to do when you suspect a problem:

  • Contact a licensed professional and have the system inspected
  • After inspection it may be necessary to have a licensed hauler pump out the tank
  • If the system has "failed" it may be necessary to replace all or part of the system which will require a septic/sewage system permit
  • Contact the Building Department to obtain necessary permits — if the tank is near water there many also be a need for Conservation Authority permits

Dos:

  • Do keep accurate records of maintenance, pump outs and service calls
  • Do keep a system diagram for reference
  • Do repair leaky plumbing fixtures
  • Do replace old toilets with low-flush models
  • Do ensure safety screens have been properly installed.
  • Do install an effluent filter in your septic tank to protect your leaching bed and ensure compliance with the Ontario Building Code
  • Do keep the access lids easily accessible and securely fastened
  • Do ensure that your home insurance policy includes a sewage back-up rider
  • Do ensure that the leaching bed has adequate erosion control post installation (grass)
  • Do ensure all contractors know the location of your leaching bed and that any final landscaping does not impact the bed

Don'ts:

  • Don’t allow vehicles to drive over or park on the leaching bed
  • Don’t build skating rinks or above ground pools on it
  • Don’t dig without knowing the location of your sewage system
  • Don’t plant any trees or shrubs on or near the bed their roots can clog pipes
  • Don’t drain downspouts, sump pumps, etc. down or near the tanks or leaching bed
  • Don’t build over the tank or leaching bed with a hard surface such as asphalt, brick or patio stones
  • Don’t excessively water the lawn/install automatic lawn sprinklers over the leaching bed
  • Don’t use a garbage disposal/garburator

Information sourced from the Ontario Onsite Wastewater Association.

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