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Sewage system permits

Niagara Region regulates private sewage systems under Part 8 of the Ontario Building Code for all cities and towns in Niagara, except Wainfleet, West Lincoln and Welland.

Apply online through CityView

All sewage system permit applications are submitted through CityView. With a CityView account you can:

  • Apply online for a sewage system permit
  • Check the status of an application
  • Make payments
  • Request an inspection
  • Submit a complaint

Make sure all required documents are completed and ready to upload before submitting. Permit applications will not be processed until the required fee is paid. Incomplete applications will not be processed.

Register or apply through CityView

Permit application types

All sewage systems under 10,000 litres per day are regulated by the Ontario Building Code. Select the permit type that applies to your project.

A sewage system permit is needed for new construction or when replacing an existing sewage system.

The building code requires that sewage systems be designed and installed by licensed professionals qualified by the Ministry of Municipal Affairs and Housing.

Property owners may install sewage systems on their property. However, a permit is needed and detailed drawings will need to meet Building Code requirements.

All septic installations require onsite inspections by Niagara Region septic inspectors.

Required forms

The following form(s) must be included with your application:

Other information

  • New development on vacant lots may require a lot grading and drainage plan

Application fee: $1,200

Holding tanks are only permitted as per the Ontario Building Code for existing buildings where a Class 4 sewage system cannot be installed.

Holding tanks are NOT permitted for new construction, additions or expansions to dwellings.

Required forms

The following form(s) must be included with your application:

Application fee: $1,200

A tank replacement permit is needed for the replacement an existing septic tank.

Required forms

The following form(s) must be included with your application:

Application fee: $625

A tank decommissioning application is needed for the decommissioning or removal of an existing septic tank. This is usually completed before a demolition permit or service connection with the local municipality.

Required forms

The following form(s) must be included with your application:

  • Application for tank decommissioning (email an inspector for an application)
  • A detailed drawing
  • Septic tank pump out receipt

Application fee: $415

Special request applications are used to review a proposed building addition on a existing dwelling or an external building / amenity on the property.

The review determines what improvements to the existing sewage system are needed based on the proposal.

An upgrade to the sewage system to meet the requirements of the building code may be needed if the proposal includes:

  • Greater than 15 per cent of the existing living area
  • Bathroom(s)
  • Bedroom(s)

The review is also to confirm that the location of external buildings or amenities, such as garages, pools, sheds, etc. meet the minimum building code setbacks on the property and enough usable land remains to replace the sewage system in the future.

Required forms

The following form(s) must be included with your application:

  • Application for special requests (email an inspector for an application)
  • A site plan showing existing buildings, septic system and property lines
  • If an addition to a dwelling, floor plans

Other information

  • The septic tank lids must be exposed and loosened before the onsite inspection
  • Do not pump out the septic tank before our inspection
  • Permit review and issuances are cancelled after one year

Review fee: $415

Inspectors are requested to give information on the status of a premise involved in a real estate transaction.

Information may be requested on outstanding work orders or the status of the existing private sewage system.

Required forms

The following form must be included with your application:

Amount: $291.54 ($258 plus $33.54 tax)

Change in design details for system, location on site or flows for the design.

Amount: $200

Before you apply: if your property is within the Niagara Peninsula Conservation Authority jurisdiction or Niagara Escarpment Commission jurisdiction, you must obtain their approvals before your sewage system permit can be approved.

Installers and designers must be licensed and registered with the Ministry of Municipal Affairs and Housing. If the installer is completing the application, they are considered the applicant and authorized agent of the owner.