At a Glance
Do I need a permit?
Most septic system projects require permits and approvals before work begins.
Who issues septic permits?
The North Bay-Mattawa Conservation Authority (NBMCA) is responsible for septic permits in this area.
Will I need Site Plan Approval?
Often. Development and redevelopment within the Trout Lake Influence Area typically requires Site Plan Approval.
Pump-out requirements
- Permanent residences: every 3 years
- Seasonal properties occupied less than 12 weeks per year: every 5 years
Not sure where to start?
Contact the NBMCA before planning a new septic system, replacement system, or building addition.
What this means
A septic system is a private sewage disposal system that treats wastewater on your property. A typical septic system includes a septic tank, where solids settle, and a tile bed, where wastewater is filtered through soil. A properly designed, installed, and maintained septic system helps protect groundwater, surface water, and the long-term health of Trout Lake.
All septic systems in Ontario are regulated under the Ontario Building Code.
New Septic Systems within the Trout Lake Influence Area are required to be successful at retaining a minimum of 90% phosphorus. Property owners will be required to place a security to ensure a newly installed system is achieving this criteria.
When do septic requirements and permits apply?
You should review septic system requirements and contact the North Bay-Mattawa Conservation Authority if any of the following apply to your project.
Building something new
- building a new home or cottage
- installing a new septic system
Expanding an existing home or cottage
- adding bedrooms
- adding plumbing fixtures
- constructing an addition that may affect sewage capacity
Replacing or repairing a septic system
- replacing a septic tank
- replacing a tile bed
- installing a holding tank
- installing an outhouse
- demolishing an existing septic system
Maintaining an existing septic system
- arranging a required pump-out
- planning long-term maintenance of your septic system
Phosphorus Removing and/or Tertiary Treatment System
Phosphorus or Tertiary Treatment Septic Systems are required for new and vacant lots of records, and existing developed properties looking to expand the current septic system and the system cannot meet the 32m setback, to support an addition to the existing dwelling/cottage.
The proposed phosphorus removing septic system must be designed by a qualified designer to ensure the proposed system will achieve 90% phosphorus removal.
Property owners proposing phosphorus removal will be required to pay a security and demonstrate for a minimum of 4 years that the system is achieving 90% phosphorus removal. If a system is not achieving 90% phosphorus removal, the system will deemed to have failed and the property owner will be required to implement additional measures to enhance the system for the purpose of phosphorus removal.
When a septic system has failed or is required to be replaced and the system is not being enlarged, then an enhanced septic system is encouraged, but not mandatory.
Important Requirements
Setbacks
In North Bay, septic systems must generally be located at least 32 metres from the water's edge. In East Ferris, septic systems must generally be located at least 60 metres from the water's edge.
If a replacement or expanded septic system cannot meet current zoning requirements, additional planning approvals such as a Minor Variance may be required.
Site evaluations
Before a septic system can be installed, replaced, enlarged, or altered, the property must be evaluated to determine whether the proposed system is suitable for the site and meets Ontario Building Code requirements.
Contact the North Bay-Mattawa Conservation Authority early in the planning process to discuss site evaluation requirements for your project.
Pump-outs
Municipal by-laws require regular pump-outs:
- Permanent residences: every 3 years
- Seasonal properties occupied less than 12 weeks per year: every 5 years
Proper maintenance helps extend the life of the system and protect lake water quality.
Good septic practices
To help your septic system perform properly and last longer:
- conserve water
- arrange regular pump-outs
- avoid pouring toxic substances, solvents, bleach, or strong cleaning products into the system
- never dispose of grease or garbage through drains
- know the location of your septic system
- keep heavy equipment, structures, and deep-rooted vegetation away from septic components
If space permits, some property owners may choose to install a larger septic system than currently required to accommodate future additions and potentially improve system performance.
In some situations, enhanced treatment systems or phosphorus-reduction technologies may be recommended to further protect Trout Lake.
Before you begin
Before installing or replacing a septic system:
✔ Contact the North Bay-Mattawa Conservation Authority
✔ Confirm setback requirements for your municipality
✔ Plan septic placement early in the design process
✔ Consider how the system fits with Site Plan Control requirements
Need help?
For questions about septic systems and permits, contact:
- North Bay-Mattawa Conservation Authority 705-474-5420
- City of North Bay Building Services 705-474-0400 Ext. 2401 or zoning@northbay.ca
- Municipality of East Ferris Planning Department 705-752-2740
Definition
A septic system is a private sewage disposal system designed to settle solids in a septic tank and distribute remaining wastewater through a tile bed system.
Site evaluation
The Ontario Building Code requires a preliminary site evaluation before the construction, installation, enlargement, or alteration of a septic system.
Within the Trout Lake Influence Area, it is recommended that septic feasibility be reviewed early in the Site Plan Control process to ensure appropriate placement and compliance with setbacks.
Legal Non-Complying Systems
Existing legal septic systems may benefit from legal non-complying status. Expansions or changes may require compliance with current zoning standards or a Minor Variance application.
Phosphorus Reduction Measures
Property owners are encouraged to consider septic system designs and treatment approaches that help reduce phosphorus entering Trout Lake, including:
- mineral-rich soils within septic systems
- tertiary treatment systems
- phosphorus-removing technologies
Additional guidance may be provided in future resources.