SOURCE WATER PROTECTION 
AND SEPTIC SYSTEMS

Volume 21, April 8, 2015
If you live in a rural area, waste from your home is likely treated in a private on-site septic system.

Septic systems are considered potential threats to our drinking water sources because of the possibility of leaching of contaminants like chemicals and bacteria into ground or surface water.

A well-maintained and properly functioning septic system can provide a safe, reliable way of treating your household waste-water. However, it must be responsibly operated and maintained if it is to work well and safely. 

Maintaining your septic system protects you against costly system failure and also protects your family's health, nearby water sources and the environment.
 
WHAT CAN YOU DO TO PROTECT WATER IF YOU HAVE A SEPTIC SYSTEM?
Mother and child filling a glass of water at the kitchen sink There are steps you can take that will protect your investment, your family and nearby drinking water sources. 
  • Have your septic tank pumped every 3 to 5 years. Keep a record of your pump-out so you will know when to do it again.
  • Know the location of your septic tank and bed and protect them from damage. Don't drive over them or construct anything on top.
  • Keep trees and shrubs away from your septic system as roots may interfere with its function.
  • Do a surface inspection of your septic system at least once a year to ensure that there are no soggy areas or 'break-outs' of sewage on the surface of the ground.
  • Be aware of what you put down the drain. Avoid using harsh cleaning products and putting grease or food down your drain.
  • Dispose of toxic items at your municipality's household hazardous waste collection. Do not pour paint, pesticides or toxic chemicals down your drain.
  • Conserve water and spread your water use out during the week. Do not overload or clog your septic system by doing multiple loads of laundry in one day.
  • More...
Maintaining your septic system is like looking after other important parts of your home, such as your roof or windows. It really pays off!

SEPTIC INSPECTIONS IN THE QUINTE REGION
A man pumping out septic tank through a large hose.
Septic tank pump-outs every 3 to 5 years can protect you from costly system failure and help to protect drinking water sources.

The Ontario Building Code and the Quinte Region Source Protection Plan require that septic systems are inspected every five years in areas where the operation of a septic system is identified as a significant threat to the municipal water source.

The inspections will be conducted by municipal officials in vulnerable areas close to the municipal water sources of: 

  • Town of Picton, 
  • Hamlet of Point Anne in the City of Belleville,
  • Peats Point subdivision in Prince Edward County, and the
  • Villages of Madoc, Deloro, Tweed and Ameliasburgh. 

Inspections will also occur in Madoc Township where septic systems could affect the Village of Madoc wells.

 
Inspections may be as simple as a visual check conducted during a walk-around of the septic tank and septic bed locations, along with a review of the written records related to the system, such as the date of the last pump-out. If a risk or malfunction is identified then a more comprehensive inspection will be required and may include a septic tank pump out, digging to check performance of the septic bed and in some cases, even the replacement of the septic system.  
 
MORE ON SEPTIC SYSTEMS AND DRINKING WATER
Drinking Water Threats from Sewage in the Quinte Region
Understanding Your Home's Septic System
More about protecting water sources in the Quinte Region...

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