Septic Systems

The Municipality of Trent Lakes began receiving all new applications on April 1, 2024 for systems that are new builds, alterations or being re-inspected.

Peterborough Public Health will continue services for open and outstanding permits until November 17, 2024 before transferring any remaining files to the Municipality of Trent Lakes. These open permits may be revoked so it is in your best interest to have the permits closed by Peterborough Public Health Inspectors prior to November 17, 2024.

Septic System Construction

Trent Lakes has created an information package which contains the application, proposal, and declaration forms as well as the knowledge of how to complete them. It also includes the list of fees and charges, site plan detail requirements and expectations for site visits that will be required.

The application, proposal and declaration must be completed in full before being submitted to Trent Lakes.

Septic permit applications are to be made at the Municipality prior to or in conjunction with permit applications for new dwellings, additions/renovations, as well as replacements so that they can be processed in tandem with building permit applications.

Septic System Alterations

If any alterations are required to an existing septic system this form must be completed in full and submitted to Trent Lakes.

Septic Re-inspections

Sewage system re-inspections help to ensure that waste is properly treated and not negatively impacting the environment. The program is a proactive step in ensuring safe drinking water, protecting our ecosystems and keeping our lakes clean and healthy. Poorly designed, installed or maintained systems can have serious environmental and health impacts.

Mandatory Re-inspection: In the Mandatory Maintenance Re-Inspection Program set out under the Ontario Building Code, the principal authority is required to conduct inspections of on-site sewage systems that are or could become a significant drinking water threat. These systems are located in certain “vulnerable areas” identified in source protection plans (http://trentsourceprotection.on.ca) prepared under the Clean Water Act.

Locally, the Trent Conservation Coalition Source Protection Committee has identified vulnerable areas on maps in the Trent Assessment Report which is part of the Trent Source Protection Plan. In Trent Lakes, the subdivisions of Alpine Village and Buckhorn Lake Estates are the affected properties that require mandatory re-inspection every five years.

Resources for Property Owners

Are you looking for a qualified professional to design, install, or service your septic system, or assist with your permit application? If so, you can consult the Ontario Onsite Wastewater Association (OOWA) Directory of Professionals to locate service providers in your area to assist you.

Click here to learn about the process of approvals and permitting for septic systems.

Here is a Homeowner’s Guide to a Healthy Sewage (Septic) System, that you can save on your phone or print out and post at your home or cottage.

OOWA’s website also includes property owner resources including: how a septic system works, guidance when buying or selling a rural property, and information about septic tank additives.

If you are looking for a copy of previous records related to your Septic System, please call 705-738-3800 ext. 233. There is a $35 fee for a File Search. Known records begin in 1976, and there is no guarantee that one will be located for your property.

Additional Resources

Septic System Users – Ontario Ministry of Environment
Septic Smart
Homeowner's Guide to a Healthy Sewage (Septic) System - Ontario Onsite Wastewater Association
Ontario Building Code – Ministry of Municipal Affairs and Housing
Land Severances – County of Peterborough
Otonabee Region Conservation Authority
Crowe Valley Conservation Authority
Kawartha Conservation
Ontario Onsite Wastewater Association
Ontario Association of Sewage industry Services