Sewage Disposal

As of May 31, 2005, the provincial Sewerage System Regulation came into effect. Under this new regulation, only authorized persons may do work on a system which involves design, construction, repair or maintenance. Homeowners and contractors not authorized under the regulation are not permitted to carry out these activities. For more information, please visit www.qp.gov.bc.ca/statreg/reg/H/Health/326_2004.htm

Frequently asked questions

Can I put in my own sewerage system?

No, the new regulation no longer permits homeowners to install their own system.  You need to have an authorized person complete the planning and installation of your sewerage system.

How do I find someone that is qualified to plan and install a system?

You can find the name of a registered practitioner for your area by checking the Applied Science Technologists and Technicians of British Columbia (ASTTBC) website at owrp.asttbc.org - click on the ASTTBC Registrant List.  When you contact someone from this list, please be sure to check whether they have any restrictions on what kind of work they are authorized to do. For example, a practitioner may have the installation qualification but not one in planning. 

Professionals can also design and oversee the installation of a sewerage system provided:

• They have education or experience and training in soil analysis and sewerage system construction and maintenance, and
• They are registered as a fully trained and practicing member of a professional association that is statutorily recognized in BC and has, as its mandate, the regulation of persons engaged in matters such as supervision of sewerage system construction and maintenance.

For a list of professionals visit: http://www.apeg.bc.ca/members/sewerageprolist.html

What criteria are used to determine the type of system that is installed?

Section 5 of the Standard Practice Manual 'Determination of Treatment and Disposal Requirements' gives good information on what a planner or a professional looks at when deciding which system is appropriate. You can view this manual at www.healthservices.gov.bc.ca/protect/sewage.html

Will I need to meet the new regulation and standards if my existing system needs repairs?

Yes.  After May 31, 2005, any repairs carried out on a sewerage system must be completed by an authorized person and be consistent with standard practice.

Can I use a holding tank in place of installing a sewerage system?

No.  A professional must first assess a property and determine that the property is incapable of supporting any type of system, including connection to a public sewer, before a holding tank can be considered for approval by Northern Health.  Even then, local government in your respective area must have a bylaw that addresses the maintenance issues associated with a holding tank before approval can be granted. 

Contact us across the Northern Health Region for more information.