Program Information
Community Onsite Septic Inspection Program
On September 6th 2022 Council directed Staff to proceed with investigating the implementation of a Septic Maintenance and Inspection Program.
Council of the Township of Ashfield-Colborne-Wawanosh is committed to the preservation of the environment and natural resources of the area.
The objective of the program is to aid in keeping our lakes, rivers, streams and groundwater free from pollution caused by faulty septic systems and protect our drinking water sources. Septic systems that are improperly maintained, deteriorating or malfunctioning may have a negative impact on the groundwater, the surrounding water bodies and the environment. All septic systems in the Township will be inspected with septic systems on waterfront properties being first priority.
What is a Septic Maintenance Inspection Program?
Most properties within the Township function with private on-site systems which are regulated through the Ontario Building Code (OBC) which is enforced by the Township. It is through Part 8 of the OBC that the Township may initiate an inspection program.
The program includes a visual inspection of the property with respect to:
- Type and number of buildings on the property
- Type of system being used i.e.: privy, grey water or leaching bed
- Evidence of sewage effluent ponding, odour or unusually green or thick grass growing on or around the tile bed
- Surface water or ground water flows toward the sewage system
- Tree or vegetation growth on the tile bed
- Location of the septic system
A report will be sent to the property owner following the inspection indicating the results. If any actions are required or recommended, this will be noted in the report. Follow up inspections may be required.
Program Updates
