Sewage Systems and Building Permits
As of January 1, 2021, KFL&A Public Health will no longer be responsible for implementation of Part 8 of the Ontario Building Code (On-site Sewage Systems), this responsibility will be delegated to the nine municipalities which make up Kingston, Frontenac, and Lennox and Addington. Efforts are currently under way to ensure this transfer results in minimal issues for individuals seeking building permits.
Individuals applying for a permit or seeking an inspection of work, are reminded that no inspections will take place after November 13, 2020. Weather permitting, requests for permits, or inspections will be dealt with on a case by case basis.
Rural properties within the KFL&A area are usually serviced by a private onsite sewage treatment system. Across Ontario, onsite sewage systems are regulated under the Ministry of Municipal Affairs and Housing's Ontario Building Code. Within our region, KFL&A Public Health has the principle authority for the approval of onsite sewage systems.
New building lots to be serviced by an onsite sewage system
A permit is required to construct an onsite sewage system, except for Class 1 Sewage Systems (e.g. outhouses and privies). Your municipality will require an application for Permit to Construct or Demolish to be completed and submitted to KFL&A Public Health for both review and approval. A septic permit must be obtained before a building permit can be issued.
Applicable fees must accompany all applications:
Class 2 sewage system (greywater pit) |
Fee$950 Application instructionsStep 1
Step 2
Step 3
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Class 3 sewage system (cesspool) |
Fee$950 Application instructionsStep 1
Step 2Complete the Application Permit to Install, Upgrade, Replace, or Enlarge Sewage System (PDF) and save to your computer. You will need to upload this to your online payment form in step 3. When printing, please ensure the "scale, fit to page" option is turned OFF. Step 3
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Class 4 sewage system (septic system) |
Fee$950 Application instructionsStep 1
Step 2Complete the Application Permit to Install, Upgrade, Replace, or Enlarge Sewage System (PDF) and save to your computer. You will need to upload this to your online payment form in step 3. When printing, please ensure the "scale, fit to page" option is turned OFF. Step 3
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Class 5 sewage system (holding tank) |
Fee$950 Application instructionsStep 1
Step 2Complete the Application Permit to Install, Upgrade, Replace, or Enlarge Sewage System (PDF) and save to your computer. You will need to upload this to your online payment form in step 3. When printing, please ensure the "scale, fit to page" option is turned OFF. Step 3
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Building lots currently serviced by an onsite sewage system
Before any changes can be made to an existing residence (e.g., adding plumbing fixtures or changing the use of current fixtures) or to the building lot (e.g., installing a swimming pool or garage) your municipality will require an Application for Review of Performance Level of Existing Onsite Sewage System to be submitted to KFL&A Public Health. Upon receiving the application, a public health inspector will review the application to ensure the proposed changes will not affect the sewage treatment system.
Applicable fees must accompany all applications:
Review of performance level for renovations or building additions |
Fee$500 Application instructionsStep 1Complete the Application for Review of Performance Level of Existing On-site Sewage System (PDF), and save to your computer. You will need to upload this to your online payment form in step 3. When printing, please ensure the "scale, fit to page" option is turned OFF. Step 2
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Review of performance level for adding a pool, shed, or garage |
Fee$250 Application instructionsStep 1Complete the Application for Review of Performance Level of Existing On-Site Sewage System (PDF), and save to your computer. You will need to upload this to your online payment form in step 3. When printing, please ensure the "scale, fit to page" option is turned OFF. Step 2
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Septic tank, installation only |
Fee$750 Application instructionsStep 1
Step 2Complete the Application Permit to Install, Upgrade, Replace, or Enlarge Sewage System (PDF) and save to your computer. You will need to upload this to your online payment form in step 3. When printing, please ensure the "scale, fit to page" option is turned OFF. Step 3
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Sewage system search |
Fee$150 (if you are applying for a Review of Performance Level of Existing Onsite Sewage, this fee is included). KFL&A Public Health will conduct a search to locate all records related to the construction and operation of a sewage system for an indicated property. Note: property owner must provide permission to release their personal information. Application instructionsStep 1Complete the Sewage System Search Application (PDF), and save to your computer. You will need to upload this to your online payment form in step 2. When printing, please ensure the "scale, fit to page" option is turned OFF. Step 2
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Record Search (for non-septic related searches) |
Fee$150 KFL&A Public Health will conduct a search to locate all records related to the operation of a premises for an indicated property. Note: property owner must provide permission to release their personal information. Application instructionsStep 1Print and complete the Record Search Application (PDF) and save to your computer. You will need to upload this to your online payment form in step 2. When printing, please ensure the "scale, fit to page" option is turned OFF. Step 2
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Minor variances and land severances
Minor variance and zoning by-law amendment applications |
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KFL&A Public Health works with local municipalities to review applications for minor variances and zoning by-law amendments for properties with onsite sewage systems. Contact KFL&A Public Health for more information.
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Land severances |
| KFL&A Public Health works with local municipalities to review and assess land severance applications. The review is to ensure the proposed severed lot will be able to accommodate a conventional on-site sewage treatment system. The review will also ensure the proposal will not affect any existing onsite sewage systems. Contact KFL&A Public Health for more information. |
Sewage system frequently asked questions
Licenced sewage installers in KFL&A |
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How long does it take to get a building permit for a sewage system? |
| The Ontario Building Code requires that a permit be issued within 10 business days upon receipt of a complete application. If a permit cannot be issued within 10 business days, written notice will be sent to the applicant indicating why the permit cannot be issued. Inclement weather can cause a delay in a permit being issued. |
Can weather conditions affect the construction of an onsite sewage system? |
| Yes. Installing sewage systems in cold temperatures or extremely wet conditions can damage soils, reducing the ability of sewage effluent to move through the soil. The construction of sewage systems in the winter is discouraged. |
How long is the permit valid for? |
| A permit is valid for one year from the issue date. The permit can be renewed annually for a fee. Once the sewage system has been installed and inspected by KFL&A Public Health, a permit to use the system will be issued. |
Can permits be transferred to others? |
| Permits are not transferable. |
Can I install my own sewage system? |
| To design and construct a sewage system properly, thorough knowledge of the Ontario Building Code is required, as well as heavy equipment. It is recommended that you contract the services of a licensed sewage system contractor to design and install your sewage system. |
Where can I get information on an existing sewage system? |
| You can apply to KFL&A Public Health for a search of records to determine if there is information on file for the sewage system. There is a fee for this service. Records are not available for systems installed before 1969. |
What should I do if my sewage system malfunctions? |
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Signs that a sewage system is malfunctioning include:
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Who should I call if my sewage system starts to malfunction or if I have concerns? |
| Contact a licensed sewage system pumper or contractor for guidance. You may need a permit to have the system repaired. Contact KFL&A Public Health for more information. |
How often should my septic tank be pumped out? |
| A septic tank should be pumped every three to five years. If your septic tank has an effluent filter, it should be checked and cleaned annually. |
Do I need to put additives in my septic tank to help it work? |
| No. Septic tanks are designed to promote the breakdown of waste without the need for additives. |