When working correctly, your septic system is a safe and reliable way of treating household waste and wastewater. But just like other parts of your home, septic systems need maintenance, repair and eventual replacement. Failing or improperly maintained septic systems can be a risk to your health, the environment and your property value.
All wells are regulated by the Ministry of Environment. Click here for further information about your well.
Caring for your septic system
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Get your septic system pumped every 3 to 5 years.
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Regular inspections every three years helps prevent problems. Keep records of your septic maintenance and get your septic tank filter checked and cleaned every year.
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Don't pour down the drain cooking oils, food waste, chemicals, and harsh cleaning products.
More information
| Septic smart |
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Septic Smart! is a program provided by the Ontario Ministry of Agriculture, Food and Rural Affairs (OMAFRA). This program helps homeowners to understand how a private on-site septic system works. It provides information on to take care of septic systems and how to spot problems.
Septic Smart! is a brochure for understanding your home's septic system. |
| Public Health Grey Bruce |
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The Health Unit provides water sampling services to homeowners. Water sample bottles may be picked up at Town Hall (315 George Street Wiarton) and are dropped off at the Wiarton Hospital (369 Mary Street, Wiarton) or at the Public Health Unit (101 17th St E, Owen Sound).
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| Well aware |
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Well Aware is a project of Green Communities Canada. It encourages residents to protect their wells and our common groundwater supplies. Their publications and resources provide homeowners with information on water quality, common problems experienced by homeowners and maintenance requirements for private wells. There may be charges for well testing for those who use the Well Aware testing packages.
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| Canada mortgage and housing (CMHC) |
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CMHC provides guidelines for people purchasing a home and to people who have owned a home for many years and require help with repairs. Their publications provide information on the different types of wells and septic systems, protection methods, inspection checklists and health indicators. |
| Ontario rural wastewater centre |
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This organization is gives education and resources in order to help with septic system care. Their brochure on septic systems gives good information for homeowners. For more information, visit the Ontario Rural Wastewater Centre website. Your Septic System: Protecting Your Investment and the Environment |
Septic re-inspection program
Through our septic re-inspection program, Town building inspectors visit properties to look for evidence of a failing septic system. We'll notify you by letter before we visit your property for a non-invasive site inspection. If any failure is found at the time of inspection, the property owner will be notified.
Septic permits
Learn about septic permits and fees on our building permits page.
