Septic Systems

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.

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

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.

Related Information

Apply for a Septic Permit Learn About Septic System Care and Maintenance Learn About Conservation Authority Approvals

Building & Development

Building Permit Inspection Request Building By-Law 2018-53 Development Charges Sign Permits & Variances Drinking Water Source Protection Additional Dwelling Units (ADUs) Site Plan Control Growth Community Improvement Plan Patio Licensing Residential Rental Housing Licensing (RRHL) By-law Short-Term Rental (STR) Licensing Pre-Consultation Consolidated Linear Infrastructure Environmental Compliance Approval (CLI ECA) Plan & Profiles, City Maps and Diagrams Building Permits Planning Applications Provincial Reporting Data Trout Lake Development Guide Site Plan Control Agreements Setback Requirements Accessory Buildings and Structures Shoreline Alterations Vegetative Buffer Zones Landscaping and Site Changes Septic Systems Minor Variances Building Permits