Criteria:
- Not on waterfront, or
- System is less than 15 years old
What this means for you: Your property is not on our inspection schedule at this time.
Septic System Maintenance Inspection Program
About the program
The Township of Lake of Bays requires all properties with a private septic system (daily flow under 10,000 litres) to complete a septic maintenance inspection every 10 years. In addition to routine inspections, the Township also identifies and inspects properties where a system failure could pose a greater risk to the environment or public health.
While the Ontario Building Code has long required proper maintenance of private sewage systems, many systems in Ontario are aging. Municipalities across the province are now implementing structured inspection programs to protect water quality and address risks proactively.
This page explains who needs an inspection, what to expect, and how to prepare.
Learn how septic systems affect your lake
Keeping your septic system healthy protects your family, your drinking water, and the lakes we all share. Visit our Septic Care and Best Practices page to learn how your system works, what can go wrong, and how to prevent costly failures.
Who it applies to
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
High-hazard waterfront properties
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.
Criteria:
- Waterfront property, and
- System is 15 to 30 years old
What this means for you: A non‑invasive, above‑ground inspection, including:
- Visual checks
- Site conditions
- Basic measurements
Criteria:
- Waterfront property and system is more than 30 years old, or
- No septic permit found
What this means for you: A more detailed inspection is required.
Before your inspection:
- The property owner must uncover both septic tank lids
- A contractor 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‑hazard waterfront 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.
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.
Inspection fees are listed in the Fees and Charges By‑law. Most systems do not require full replacement. Inspectors focus on identifying issues early so repairs remain manageable. Most remediation cases are minor.
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 for at least two weeks before 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. This notice lets you know that Township staff will be conducting inspections on your property at some point during the summer.
Some inspections may occur unannounced, depending on the type of inspection and site conditions.
What happens if my system fails the inspection?
Most issues can be corrected with repairs or maintenance, not full replacement.
Can I opt out of the inspection?
No. Inspections are required under the Building Code Act and the Ontario Building Code, which mandate regular maintenance of private sewage systems.
Contact Us
Building Department
Township of Lake of Bays
Phone: (705) 635-2272 ext. 1226
Toll-free: 1-877-566-0005
Email us
