Sewerage systems and subdivision

If your home or building is not connected to a municipal sewer system, you need a safe way to manage wastewater. This is often done with an onsite sewerage system, also called a septic system.

Installing or changing a system

If you plan to build, change or repair a sewerage system, you may need to work with an Authorized Person (AP). An AP is a qualified professional or Registered Onsite Wastewater Practitioner (ROWP).

• Before work begins: Your AP must submit the required plans and documents to the health authority.
• After construction: Your AP must submit a Letter of Certification within 30 days. The letter confirms the system was built according to required standards and must be submitted before the system is used.
• Ongoing care: Follow your system’s maintenance plan to help prevent problems and costly repairs.

Learn more about the Sewerage System Regulation.

Find a qualified professional

• Find a Registered Onsite Wastewater Practitioner (ROWP)
• Find a professional who works with sewerage systems

If a sewerage system cannot be installed

A sewage holding tank may be an option for some properties.

• Holding Tank Application
• Holding Tank Construction Guidelines

Planning to subdivide a property? 

When a subdivision application is referred to Island Health, an Environmental Health Officer assesses whether the proposed lots can support onsite sewage disposal.

Island Health provides comments to the local approving officer using subdivision standards (PDF). We may also provide advice on water, wastewater and healthy community planning.

Get help or request records

Concerned about a sewerage system?

If you notice sewage pooling on the ground or are concerned about a possible health or safety risk, contact your local Health Protection office. You can also submit an environmental public health concern online.

Keep people and pets away from pooled sewage.

Need records for a property?

Island Health may have records about a property's sewerage system, but records may not be available for older systems. Complete the Request for Release of Information form (PDF). The fee is $50 per property.

Installing, repairing or changing a system

Do I need a qualified professional to install or repair a system?

An Authorized Person must be involved in the required design, filing and construction or supervision. Some homeowners may do construction themselves under an AP’s supervision. Contact an AP before starting work to understand what is required.

What documents are needed before construction?

Your AP submits the required forms, plans and site information to the health authority. Other documents may be needed depending on your property and project.

When can I use a new system?

The required Letter of Certification must be submitted to the health authority before the system is used. Your AP should also provide you with system plans and a maintenance plan.

Do minor repairs need filing documents?

Some minor repairs do not require new filing documents, but larger repairs or changes may. Ask your AP what is needed before work begins.

Could renovations or a change in building use affect my system?

Yes. Adding bedrooms, increasing occupancy or changing a business can increase the amount or strength of wastewater. Ask an AP or your local Environmental Health Officer if your system can handle the change.

Can I install a composting toilet?

Composting toilets are also considered sewerage systems. An AP must be involved in the required design, documentation and installation or supervision. See the B.C. composting toilet and greywater manual.

Maintaining a system

How can I tell if my system is failing?

Warning signs include slow-draining sinks, showers or tubs, or sewage pooling on the ground. Pooled sewage may look grey and smell unpleasant.

Keep people and pets away and contact an AP promptly. If sewage may be affecting drinking water or creating a health hazard, contact your local Health Protection office.

How do I repair a failing system?

Contact an AP to assess the problem and arrange the required repairs. Do not attempt repairs without the required professional involvement.

Should I use septic tank additives?

Additives are not generally recommended because they have no proven benefit and may harm your system. Follow your maintenance plan and ask an AP if you have concerns.

Buying a property with a sewerage system

What should I check before buying?

Consider hiring an AP to assess the system and explain its condition, maintenance needs and potential repair or replacement costs. Tell them about any plans to renovate, add bedrooms or use the property for a business.

You can also request available records from Island Health and ask the current owner for records of repairs and maintenance.

How can I find out where the system is located?

Island Health may have records, especially for newer systems. You can also ask the previous owner or local building inspection department. If records are unavailable, an AP may be able to locate the system and identify its parts.

Greywater and landscaping

Can I use greywater to flush toilets or water my garden?

Greywater use must meet applicable building and sewerage requirements. A properly designed system is needed to protect drinking water and public health. Check with your local building inspection authority and an AP before making changes. Greywater used for irrigation must not be discharged directly onto the ground.

Can I grow vegetables over my sewerage system?

This is not recommended. Crops may be contaminated, and plant roots can damage the system. Grass is generally a better choice over the distribution field. Keep large roots away from the system.

Can I install underground sprinklers over the system?

Water lines should not be installed over the distribution field because they can add excess water and create a risk of drinking water contamination. Ask an AP about the requirements for your property.

Have a concern or complaint?

Authorized Persons are responsible for designing sewerage systems that meet required standards. Island Health checks that required documents are submitted.

Concerned about a failing system? Contact your local Health Protection office.

Have a complaint about an Authorized Person? Contact Engineers and Geoscientists BC or ASTTBC.

More information

• B.C. onsite sewage systems
• Sewerage System Standard Practice Manual
• Maintaining an onsite sewage system
• Capital Regional District: Septic systems
• Property owners’ sewerage process brochure