SEPTIC RE-INSPECTION PROGRAM
For Frequently asked questions please click HERE
For Schedule for Inspection Zones please click HERE
The Township of Algonquin Highlands has recently implemented a Septic Re-Inspection Program for its residents. WSP Canada Inc.(WSP), as a third party consultant, is administrating the Septic Re-Inspection Program on behalf of the Township of Algonquin Highlands (the Township) and started conducting inspections in the spring of 2018.
The Septic Re-Inspection Program is a discretionary program that has been initiated by the Township of Algonquin Highlands to help preserve and protect surface water and groundwater quality. The program will include inspections of all properties within the Township serviced by one or more on-site sewage systems in accordance with the amended Ontario Building Code (O. Reg.332/12). 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 in order to identify any operation and maintenance issues that could pose possible risk to human and environmental health.
WSP has developed the Septic Re-Inspection Program based on the re-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, must be inspected by WSP under the Program. Listed below are various classes of sewage systems that require an inspection:
— Class 1: Chemical/Composting Toilet, Portable Privy, Earth Pit Privy, Pail Privy, Privy Vault, Outhouse
— Class 2: Greywater System
— Class 3: Cesspool
— Class 4: Septic Tank and Leaching Bed System (including those with advanced treatment systems)
— Class 5: Holding Tank
Please note that if you do not have a septic system on your property, or have had a system installed and inspected by the Township within five (5) years of your target inspection year, it is your responsibility to notify WSP of this information in order to remove your property from the list of inspection properties. WSP will confirm this information with the Township of Algonquin Highlands.
The approximately 4,500 inspections will be completed within five (5) years (2018-2022, inclusive), and have been subdivided into four (4) main inspection zones. Each property owner will receive an information package in the spring of their inspection year to detail how and when to contact WSP to arrange for a preferred inspection date and time. The information package will also include an overview of what to expect during the inspection process and a questionnaire about your septic system that you are recommended to fill out and return to WSP prior to, or during, the inspection.
Each inspection will take approximately one (1) hour to complete and it is mandatory that the property owner, or a representative over the age of 18, be present during the inspection process. It will also be required for the property owner to ensure that the septic tank lid(s) are exposed prior to the arrival of the Inspector. An inspection report will be completed by the inspector on site during the re-inspection. A copy of the report will be provided to the property owner and a copy will be retained for Township records. Certificate letters will be mailed to those properties that do not require remedial action(s). Properties that have improperly functioning systems will receive a remedial action letter outlining the deficiencies and documenting the required actions and timelines for corrective measures.
Property owners will be invoiced directly by the Township following completion of the inspection report. The cost for the inspection will be $179.11. Complete details of the program and fees can be found in By-law 2018-109 posted in the documents section below.
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PUBLIC INFORMATION SESSIONS
Septic Re-Inspection Program Information Sessions, or "Septic Social", were held on August 26, 2017, May 20, 2018, May 18, 2019 and May 4, 2021. These sessions provide an introduction to the WSP project team and further information regarding the purpose of the inspections, the scheduling of inspections, and an overview of the inspection process itself.
FOR MORE INFORMATION
By Phone:
Monday – Friday 8:00 am to 5:00 pm
1-705-489-2379
By Email:
info@algonquinhighlands.ca
By Mail:
Township of Algonquin Highlands
1123 North Shore Road
Algonquin Highlands, ON K0M 1J1
Attn: Building Department
Documents
By-law 2018-109 Sewage (Septic) System Re-Inspection ProgramInspection Zones - Schedule for inspections
Sample Letter to Property owner - booking your inspection
Sample Questionnaire for Inspections
Septic Systems Quick Reference Guide