Sewage System Maintenance Inspection Program (SSMIP)

About the program

In Ontario, the Building Code requires all private sewage systems to be properly maintained to protect public health and local water quality. To support this provincial requirement, the Township of Lake of Bays runs a sewage system maintenance inspection program.

Waterfront and near-water properties with private sewage systems that have a daily flow under 10,000 litres must be inspected every 10 years. Systems that pose a greater risk to the environment or public health are prioritized and receive more detailed inspections.

Many sewage systems in Ontario are aging, and municipalities across the province are introducing inspection programs to help protect local water quality and identify problems before they turn into major issues.

This page explains who needs an inspection, what happens during an inspection, and how you can get ready.

Why septic care matters

Keeping your septic system healthy protects your family, your drinking water, and the lakes we all share. Visit our septic systems page to learn why septic system care matters, the daily habits that protect your system, and the signs that mean it needs attention.

Learn about septic care

Who it applies to

Waterfront and near water properties with a private sewage system under 10,000 litres per day.

Inspection frequency

Every 10 years, counted from your last inspection under this program.

Starting area

Medium and High hazard waterfront and near-water properties in the Franklin ward

Purpose

Protect lakes, groundwater, and public health

Risk Categories

We group septic systems into three hazard levels based on location, age, and available permit history. This helps us decide what type of inspection is needed.

Low Hazard

Criteria:

Properties that are not on the waterfront or near water.
Septic system is less than 15 years old.

What this means for you: Your property is not on our inspection schedule at this time.

Medium Hazard

Criteria: Waterfront and near water properties, with systems that are 15 to 30 years old.

What this means for you: A non‑invasive, above‑ground inspection, including:

Visual checks
Site conditions
Basic measurements

High Hazard

Criteria: Waterfront or near‑water properties with systems more than 30 years old, or where no septic permit is on file.

What this means for you: A more detailed inspection is required.

Before your inspection:

The property owner must uncover both septic tank lids
A 3rd party inspector will complete the inspection
A fee will apply

How we are organizing inspections

The Township is currently reviewing all private septic systems to place each property into a risk category. Township staff will be prioritizing high and medium hazard waterfront and near-water properties because these systems are closest to lakes and rivers and have the greatest impact on water quality.

Property owners will be notified confirming that they are on the inspection list for the season. This notice lets you know that Township staff will be conducting inspections on your property at some point during the summer inspection window.

FAQ

Is my property on the inspection list?

Staff are prioritizing waterfront and near‑water properties first because these systems pose the highest environmental risk. If your property is identified as high-hazard, you will receive a notice before the inspection takes place.

Some septic inspections are also triggered when a property applies for certain approvals or licences. For example, if you apply for a short‑term rental licence, a building permit, or another approval that increases occupancy or wastewater use, the Township may require a septic inspection to confirm the system can safely support the proposed use.

I own a rural property. What can I expect?

Rural properties that are not on the waterfront or near water are not on the inspection schedule at this time.

How much will this cost?

There is no fee for medium hazard inspections. High hazard inspections are expected to cost between $400 and $600. The final amount will be confirmed once a third party contractor is retained to complete high hazard inspections.

How do I prepare for my inspection?

You will receive a notice before your inspection with your date and instructions. General preparation includes:

Do not pump your septic tank prior to the inspection
Expose both tank lids if you are in the high‑hazard category
Ensure the area around your tank and bed is accessible
Gather any available records (permits, pump‑outs, service agreements)

What is the notification process?

Properties selected for inspection will receive a notice confirming that they are on the inspection list for the season. For medium hazard properties, this notice means Township staff will complete the inspection during the summer inspection window. High hazard properties will be required to schedule an inspection date directly with the contracted inspection company.

Some medium hazard inspections may occur without notice, depending on the type of inspection and site conditions.

What happens if my system fails the inspection?

Many issues can be corrected with repairs or maintenance, not full replacement.

Can I opt out of the inspection?

No. Inspections are required under the Township’s Property Standards By law 2026-041 and Building Department Policy BL 2.1. Property owners must allow septic inspections and refusing an inspection is a violation and may result in a fine.