Responsibility for Household Septic Systems
In rural areas, many homes do not have connections to municipal sewer lines (public infrastructure). Homeowners rely on their own household septic systems to treat and discharge their wastewater on their own property. It is the Homeowners responsibility to ensure that their septic systems are properly maintained.
Septic tank installation and inspection records are maintained by the Thunder Bay District Health Unit.
Several Septic Pumping Contractors service the Greenstone area. Maintenance tips are provided in the links below.
LIMITED SEPTIC WASTE DISPOSAL SITES
Septic Pumping Contractors that service the Greenstone area either have their own Ministry-approved septic disposal site or haul septic waste outside of Greenstone to an approved disposal site. Contractors may coordinate service for multiple properties when planning a service trip to Greenstone.
The Municipality is not allowed to accept raw septic waste at any of its sewage disposal sites. The Municipality must follow the conditions of the provincial permits (Environmental Compliance Approvals) issued to the Municipality for the operation of its disposal sites.
The Municipality is seeking to address the construction of septic drying beds as part of the Waste Management Strategy underway to explore the development of a new landfill site to service Greenstone.
We encourage residents and business owners to BOOK SERVICE APPOINTMENTS well in advance to arrange for pumping.
What Makes Up a Sewage (Septic) System?
A septic system is made up of three basic components which provide primary treatment to your household wastewater:
- A septic tank
- A tile field or bed
- Soil cover
How large should my septic tank be?
In the province of Ontario, the capacity of a household septic system is intended to accommodate twice the daily design flow of your home. This allows your wastewater to be retained long enough to allow the settling out of solids and liquids, encouraging treatment and microbiological activity. This is the same for businesses.
How often should I pump my septic system?
To keep your system functional and operating in its intended manner, your septic tank will require intermittent pumping (depending on your usage) in order to remove excessive accumulated sludge and solids. As per the Ontario Building Code, this is identified when your sludge (not waste water) measurements reach one-third of the working capacity (or liquid depth) of your receiving chamber. (Refer to the links below for diagrams.) In most cases, it is recommended that this occurs every 3-5 years, depending on use, size and condition of your septic tank. Pumping too frequently can also be a problem. When you pump your septic tank too often, it can disrupt the delicate balance of bacteria and enzymes that break down the solid waste in the tank.
SEPTIC PUMPING GRANT PROGRAM
The Municipality offers rural residents a grant for septic tank maintenance. Qualifying residential properties may receive a grant of up to $200.00 once every three calendar years. View the Septic Pumping Grant Program Policy and Application Form for details.
Applications are also available at the Municipal Administration Office and all Ward Offices. Supporting documentation (proof of service by a contractor)
Resources
Tips for Sewage Treatment System - FAQs | Thunder Bay District Health Unit (tbdhu.com)
Ontario Onsite Wastewater Association (OOWA)
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