The Township of Algonquin Highlands has recently implemented a Sewage System Maintenance Inspection Program (SSMIP) for its residents to help preserve and protect surface water and groundwater quality, in accordance with By-Law No. 2026-41.

The program will consist of inspecting all properties within the Township serviced by one or more on-site sewage systems up to 10,000l/day in accordance with the Ontario Building Code (O. Reg.163/24). All existing on-site sewage systems regulated by the Ontario Building Code will be inspected for malfunction, deterioration, misuse, and overall compliance with Part 8.9 of the Ontario Building Code. The program will identify any operation and maintenance issues that could pose possible risk to human and environmental health.

The Septic Maintenance Inspection Program is based on the Discretionary Inspection guidelines provided by the Ministry of Municipal Affairs and Housing and in conjunction with the requests of the Township of Algonquin Highlands.

Class 1, 2, 3, 4, and 5 sewage systems, as defined by the Ontario Building Code:

Class 1: Earth Pit Privy, Privy Vault, Outhouse
Class 2: Greywater System
Class 3: Cesspool
Class 4: Septic Tank and Leaching Bed System (Including Tertiary Systems)
Class 5: Holding Tank

The program will be administered by Township staff, with inspections scheduled to begin in June of 2026 for properties with Roll Numbers beginning with 4621-001.

For more information, please email septic@algonquinhighlands.ca or call 705-489-2379, Ext. 371.

Understanding Your Home's Waste Water System

Program Details

When will the sewage system maintenance inspections occur?

Inspections will occur yearly between June 1 and October 31.

Preparing for Inspections

Owners are required to uncover (unbury) tank lids, which includes septic tanks, pumping chambers, Class 3 cesspool and Class 5 holding tanks. Please note a septic tank will have two lids - please uncover both.

Relevant system paperwork such as the most recent system pump-out, maintenance agreements and haulage agreements for Class 5 holding tanks can be included.

What to Expect

A qualified inspector will visit the property during the scheduled week to conduct the inspection(s). The inspector will perform a visual assessment of the septic system and surrounding property and note any visible signs of malfunction. Key indicators include evidence of cracked tank lids, tank spalling, damaged or missing baffles and structures located on the leaching bed.

Other observations such as sewage effluent ponding or odour, erosion of septic bed side slopes, surface water or groundwater flow toward the system, and unusually green or thick grass over the tile bed will be documented at the time of inspection.

Do I have to pump my septic tank before the inspection?

No, the septic tank is required to be at operational levels at the time of the inspection.

What if I have a system I no longer use?

All Classes of septic systems must be inspected if they are still in a state that they could possibly be used; this can include an old outhouse being used as a storage shed, or a septic tank that still has plumbing connecting the system to the building and is not decommissioned.

Rescheduling Requests

Property owners will be notified via postal mail of their assigned upcoming inspection date. We understand that these dates may pose a conflict for some people and will do our best to be accommodating with these changes. Please contact septic@algonquinhighlands.ca or 705-489-2379, Ext. 371.

Are inspections required for short term rentals?

Yes, septic maintenance inspections will be conducted for short term rentals properties.

Inspection Schedule

This is a perpetual maintenance program with expected inspection intervals approximately every 5 years.

Third Party Inspections

Third party inspection certificates will be accepted in lieu of a Township-provided septic inspection. Please note these must be on forms approved by the Minister of the Ministry of Municipal Affairs and Housing.

Please note the following qualifications to confirm:

Licence or certificate holders under the Architects Act

Licence holders under the Professional Engineers Act

BCIN-qualified designers with Ministry of Municipal Affairs and Housing Part 8 Sewage

Fees

There are no fees associated with the initial inspection. If a system is not prepared, there will be a re-inspection fee of $150.00.

Vacant Land

If your property has been identified as vacant, please contact the Township if any of the sewage systems described above are installed on the subject property.

Sewage System Maintenance Tips

Proper system maintenance is crucial to extend the lifespan of a septic system and protect the environment. 

Avoid planting deep-rooted vegetation or trees within 10 feet (3 meters) of the leaching bed to prevent root intrusion into pipes.

Pump the septic tank every three to five years, depending on usage, to prevent sludge buildup.

Do not use sink garburators or dispose of grease, oils, solvents, paints, food waste, or non-biodegradable items like baby wipes and sanitary products into the system.

Refrain from introducing harsh chemicals, bleaches, degreasers, septic system additives, or pharmaceuticals into the system; and

Do not park vehicles, trailers, or equipment on the tile bed, as this can cause compaction and damage.

According to the Ontario Onsite Wastewater Association, septic systems and can last for upwards of 20 years. As leaching beds are not made to last forever, if your sewage system is reaching 20 years of age, you should begin to prepare for a replacement system.

Additional Resources

Septic System 101 - Poop Talk #2

This informative video from the the Coalition of Haliburton Property Owners Associations explains the direct connection between better septic health and better lake health.