Septic Systems in the CRD
Are you the owner of a septic system?
If
so, you are in good company. There are approximately 27,000 septic systems
in the capital region and that number increases annually by more than
500 new installations.
Your septic system can provide effective, long term wastewater treatment, right in your backyard. If your system is working properly, it is an environmentally friendly and economically sound treatment option.
Information for Homeowners
The CRD offers free workshops for residents on how to care for your septic system. For a schedule of upcoming workshops, visit our workshop page. A household information kit and video clips on maintenance of your system are also available.
New Provincial Regulations
On May 31, 2005, the province introduced the new sewerage system regulation. The regulation applies to site assessments and the installation and maintenance of all types of onsite wastewater systems, including septic systems for single family homes.
What This Means to You
As of May 31, 2005 only an Authorized Person can carry out repair, installation and site assessments on septic systems.
Registered practitioners have completed an education and training program approved by the BC Onsite Sewage Association (BCOSSA). They are then registered with the Applied Science Technologists & Technicians of British Columbia (ASTTBC).
The ASTTBC maintains a list of Authorized Persons - for a list of practitioners in your area visit their website or call 604.585.2788 (local 236).
Authorized Persons providing onsite wastewater / septic system services are required to file site plans, installation reports and a maintenance plan with health authorities.
Buying a house with a well and septic system?
Canada Mortgage and Housing Corporation (CMHC) has put together a checklist of questions to ask and points to consider when purchasing a house with a well and septic system.
- Canada Mortgage and Housing Corporation (scroll down on the CMHC page to get to septic systems).
