How Much is a Septic Permit in Ontario?
The cost of a septic permit in Ontario varies depending on the municipality or health unit, typically ranging from $500 to $1,200 for a new system. You might wonder, why such a wide range? Several factors, including local administrative policies and system types, contribute to this variation.
Typical Septic Permit Fees in Ontario
Here's a breakdown of typical fees in different regions:
| Region/Municipality | New Septic System Permit | Tank Only Replacement | Leaching Field/Repair | Decommission/Other |
|---|---|---|---|---|
|
Niagara Region |
$1200 | $625 | N/A | $625 (decommission) |
| Town of Amherstburg |
$995 |
$995 | $298 (repair) | $298 (decommission) |
| Thunder Bay District Health Unit | $1000 | $450 | $750 (field only) | N/A |
| Drummond/North Elmsley Township | $775 | See notes | See notes | See notes |
| Blue Mountains | $736 | Included |
$200 (leaching bed) | $350 (alteration) |
| Ontario-wide (general estimate) | $500-$1,000 | N/A | N/A | N/A |
Notes:
Advanced/Tertiary systems may incur higher fees, such as $2,500 in Thunder Bay.
Some areas might require a refundable indemnity deposit, like Amherstburg's $1,000 deposit.
Why Permit Costs Vary
Permit fees are established by local authorities (municipalities, health units) and reflect the administrative and inspection costs necessary to maintain public safety standards.
Factors influencing fees include:
Type of system: Conventional, advanced, or holding tank systems
Inspection requirements: Number and complexity of inspections
Local administrative expenses
What’s Included in the Septic Permit Fee
A septic permit typically covers:
Plan review: Compliance check against the Ontario Building Code requirements
Onsite inspections: Multiple visits to ensure proper installation
Administrative processing: Covers the cost of application handling and record-keeping
You might also wonder if additional fees are involved. Some regions require a refundable deposit to ensure the project site is restored correctly upon completion.
Action Steps for Homeowners
Are you planning to install a septic system? Here’s what you should do:
Reach out to your local municipality or health unit to learn the current fees and procedures, as they are subject to change.
Gather necessary documentation, like design drawings and site plans, as part of your submission process.
Plan your budget wisely. Installation costs can run between $10,000 and $30,000+, depending on the system's complexity and site specifics.
Examples by Region
Niagara Region: A new septic permit costs $1,200, with $625 for tank replacements.
Thunder Bay: Expect to pay $1,000 for a standard system, or $2,500 for advanced options.
Amherstburg: With a flat rate of $955, they also require a refundable deposit.
Blue Mountains: A new system or replacement is priced at $736, with $200 for leaching bed repairs.
Key Things to Remember
When planning your septic system installation in Ontario, expect fees to range between $500 and $1,200. Always confirm details with your local authority to ensure compliance with the most current regulations.
