Ministry dumps septic pump-out mandate
The province won’t be proceeding with a proposal to require property owners to pump out septic tanks every five years.
In a letter to Mayor Neil Driscoll, received at the May 23 Mapleton council meeting, municipal affairs minister Bill Mauro advised the ministry will not be implementing proposed requirements for regular inspections, pumping out of septic tanks and keeping maintenance records for septic tanks and treatment units.
In March, council supported a resolution from the United Townships of Head, Clara and Maria calling on Mauro to rescind the proposed changes to the building code.
In his letter, Mauro noted he considered input provided by municipalities and the public in making the decision.
“I have always felt that there are sufficient protections in place to mitigate against septic system failures,” Mauro stated.
“Since 1997, there has been a requirement for owners of septic tanks and treatment units to clean out their system when the working capacity is one-third full. This will continue ...”
He added, “I value the input of our municipal partners. I’ve heard from many of you on this issue and I thank you for your input.”
