Part 8 - Sewage Systems

Section 8.1 General

8.1.1. Scope

8.1.1.1. Scope

(1)The scope of this Part shall be as described in Subsection 1.3.3. of Division A.

8.1.1.2. Definitions

(1)Except as provided in Sentence (2), words that appear in italics are defined in Article 1.4.1.2. of Division A and in the Building Code Act, 1992. (2) In this Part,

• Soil: in-situ, naturally occurring, unconsolidated mineral or organic material, at the earth's surface that is at least 100 mm thick and capable of supporting plant growth, and includes material compacted or cemented by soil forming processes, but does not include displaced materials such as gravel dumps, mine spoils, or like deposits.

8.1.2. Application

8.1.2.1. Classification of Systems

(1)All sewage systems shall be classed as one of the following:

(a)Class 1 — a chemical toilet, an incinerating toilet, a recirculating toilet, a self-contained portable toilet and all forms of privy including a portable privy, an earth pit privy, a pail privy, a privy vault and a composting toilet system,

(b)Class 2 — a greywater system,

(c)Class 3 — a cesspool,

(d)Class 4 — a leaching bed system, or

(e)Class 5 — a system that requires or uses a holding tank for the retention of hauled sewage at the site where it is produced prior to its collection by a hauled sewage system.

8.1.2.2. Operation and Maintenance

(1)Operation and maintenance of sewage systems shall comply with Section 8.9.

8.1.3. Limitations

8.1.3.1. Discharge

(1)Except as provided in Sentences (2) to (6), the sewage system shall be designed and constructed to receive only sanitary sewage of domestic origin. (See Note A-8.1.3.1.(1))

(2)Where laundry waste is not more than 20% of the total daily design sanitary sewage flow, it may discharge to a sewage system.

(3)Where industrial process waste water is treated to the contaminant levels found in domestic sanitary sewage, it may discharge to a leaching bed provided the treatment unit and sewage system are designed in accordance with good engineering practice. (See Note A-8.1.3.1.(3))

(4)Where kitchen waste water from a restaurant has passed through an operating grease interceptor, it may discharge to a leaching bed provided the sewage system has been designed in accordance with good engineering practice.

(5)Waste water from a kitchen equipped with a garbage grinder may be directed to the sewage system provided the system has been designed to accept such waste water.

(6)Water softener and iron filter discharge may be directed to the sewage system provided the system has been designed to accept such discharges.

(7)Storm sewage shall not be discharged into a sewage system.

(8)The interceptor required in Sentence (4) shall,

(a)have a minimum flow rate as required by Sentence 7.4.4.3.(8) using a 60 second drain down time, and

(b)conform to,

(i)CSA B481.1, “Testing and rating of grease interceptors using lard,” or

(ii)CSA B481.2, “Testing and rating of grease interceptors using oil.”

Section 8.2 Design Standards

8.2.1. General Requirements

8.2.1.1. Scope

(1)This Subsection applies to the design of sewage systems.

8.2.1.2. Site Evaluation

(1)A site evaluation shall be conducted on every site where a new or replacement sewage system is to be installed. (See Note A-8.2.1.2.(1))

(2)The percolation time shall be determined by,

(a)conducting percolation tests, or

(b)classifying the soil according to one of the following methods,

(i)the Unified Soil Classification System as described in MMAH Supplementary Standard SB-6, “Percolation Time and Soil Descriptions,” or

(ii)the Soil Texture Classification as described in Chapter 3 of USDA, “Soil Survey Manual.” (See Note A-8.2.1.2.(2))

(3)Where the percolation time is determined by a percolation test, there shall be a minimum of 3 locations selected, suitably spaced to accurately evaluate the leaching bed area, with the highest percolation time of the tests being used. (See Note A-8.2.1.2.(3))

8.2.1.3. Sewage System Design Flows

(1)For residential occupancies, the total daily design sanitary sewage flow shall be at least the value in Column 2 as determined from Table 8.2.1.3.-A. (See Note A-8.2.1.3.(1) and (2))

(a)Restaurant (not 24 hour), per seat 125

(i)with meals and laundry facilities, or, 200

(ii)without meal or laundry facilities, and 150

(b)Food service provided 36 Barber Shop/Beauty Salon - per service chair 650 Bowling Alleys (Food Service not included) - per lane 400 Churches and Similar Places of Worship - per seat

(c)Per member or patron 40 Day Care Facility per person (staff and children) 75 Dentist Office

(d)Paper service restaurant, per seat 60

(e)5 bedroom dwelling 2 500

(f)Bar and cocktail lounge, per seat 125

(g)Drive-in restaurant per parking space 60

(h)Take-out restaurant (no seating area)

(i)per 9.25 m² of floor area, and 190

(ii)per employee per 8 hour shift 75

(j)Food outlet

(i)excluding delicatessen, bakery and meat department, per 9.25 m² of floor space, 40

(ii)per 9.25 m² of delicatessen floor space, 190

(iii)per 9.25 m² of bakery floor space, 190

(iv)per 9.25 m² of meat department floor space, and 380

(v)per water closet 950 Hospitals - per bed

(2)Where multiple calculations of sanitary sewage volume is permitted, the calculation resulting in the highest flow shall be used in determining the design daily sanitary sewage flow.

(A)each 10 m² (or part of it) over 200 m² up to 400 m² (3), 100

(B)each 10 m² (or part of it) over 400 m² up to 600 m² (3), and 75

(C)each 10 m² (or part of it) over 600 m² (3), or 50

(iii)each fixture unit over 20 fixture units 50 Hotels and Motels (excluding bars and restaurants)

(a)Regular, per room 250

(b)Resort hotel, cottage, per person 500

(c)Self service laundry, add per machine 2 500 Work Camp/Construction Camp, semi-permanent per worker 250 Notes to Table 8.2.1.3.-A:

(3)(a) Per employee per 8 hour shift, or 75 (b) Per each 9.3 m² of floor space 75 Public Parks (a) With toilets only per person, or 20 (b) With bathhouse, showers, and toilets per person 50 Recreational Vehicle or Campground Park (a) Per site without water or sewer hook-up, or 275 (b) Per site with water and sewer hook-up 425 Schools - per student (a) Day school, 30 (b) With showers, 30 (c) With cafeteria, and 30 (d) Per non-teaching employee per 8 hour shift 50 Service Stations (no vehicle washing)

(a)Per site without water or sewer hook-up, or 275

(i)per fuel outlet (4), or 560

(ii)per vehicle served 20 Shopping Centre (excluding food and laundry) - per 1.0 m² of floor space 5 Stadiums, Race Tracks, Ball Parks - per seat 20 Stores

(b)With bathhouse, showers, and toilets per person 50 Recreational Vehicle or Campground Park

(c)Movie theatres per seat 15

(d)Per non-teaching employee per 8 hour shift 50 Service Stations (no vehicle washing)

(4)Where an occupancy is not listed in Table 8.2.1.3.-B, the highest of metered flow data from at least 3 similar establishments shall be acceptable for determining the total daily design sanitary sewage flow. Table 8.2.1.3.-A Residential Occupancy Forming Part of Sentence 8.2.1.3.(1) Residential Occupancy Volume, litres Apartments, Condominiums, Other Multi-family Dwellings - per person

8.2.1.4. Clearances (See Note A-8.2.1.4.)

(1)Unless it can be shown to be unnecessary, where the percolation time is 10 minutes or greater, the location of all components within a sewage system shall be in conformance with the clearances listed in Article 8.2.1.5. or 8.2.1.6.

(2)Unless it can be shown to be unnecessary, where the percolation time is less than 10 minutes, the clearances listed in Articles 8.2.1.5. and 8.2.1.6. for wells, lakes, ponds, reservoirs, rivers, springs or streams shall be increased to compensate for the lower percolation time.

(3)No building shall be constructed closer to any part of a sewage system than the clearances listed in Article 8.2.1.5. or 8.2.1.6.

(4)If more than one sewage system is located on a lot or parcel of land, there shall be no overlap of any part of the systems.

8.2.1.5. Clearance Distances for Class 1, 2 and 3 Sewage Systems

(1)Except as provided in Sentences 8.2.1.4.(1) and (2), no Class 1, 2 or 3 sewage system shall have a horizontal distance of less than that permitted by Table 8.2.1.5.

8.2.1.6. Clearances for a Class 4 or 5 Sewage System

(1)Except as provided in Sentences 8.2.1.4.(1) and (2), a treatment unit shall not be located closer than the minimum horizontal distances set out in Table 8.2.1.6.-A. Table 8.2.1.6.-A Minimum Clearances for Treatment Units Forming Part of Sentence 8.2.1.6.(1)

(2)Except as provided in Sentences 8.2.1.4.(1) and (2), the centreline of a distribution pipe or leaching chamber shall not be located closer than the minimum horizontal distances set out in Table 8.2.1.6.-B and these distances shall be increased when required by Sentence 8.7.4.2.(11).

(3)Except as provided in Sentences 8.2.1.4.(1) and (2), a holding tank shall not be located closer than the minimum horizontal distances set out in Table 8.2.1.6.-C.

8.2.2. Treatment and Holding Tanks

8.2.2.1. Application

(1)This Subsection applies to any tank used in a sewage system for collecting, treating, holding or storing sanitary sewage.

8.2.2.2. Tanks

(1)A tank that is used as a treatment unit in a Class 4 sewage system or a holding tank in a Class 5 sewage system shall conform to the requirements of CSA B66, “Design, material, and manufacturing requirements for prefabricated septic tanks and sewage holding tanks.”

(2)Material standards, access and construction methods and practices for a tank used for other Classes of sewage systems shall conform to the requirements of CSA B66, “Design, material, and manufacturing requirements for prefabricated septic tanks and sewage holding tanks.”

(3)Sentence (2) does not apply to a tank that is an integral part of a prefabricated Class 1 sewage system.

(4)Access openings shall be located to facilitate the pumping of all compartments and the servicing of the inlet and outlet of each compartment not accessible by removal of the tank top or part of it.

(5)A tank shall not be covered by soil or leaching bed fill having a depth greater than the maximum depth of burial that the tank is designed to withstand.

(6)A tank shall be securely anchored when located in an area subject to flooding or where ground water levels may cause hydrostatic pressures.

8.2.2.3. Septic Tanks

(1)The minimum working capacity of a septic tank shall be the greater of 3 600 L and,

(a)in residential occupancies, twice the daily design sanitary sewage flow, or

(b)in non- residential occupancies, three times the daily design sanitary sewage flow.

(2)Every septic tank shall be constructed in such a manner that any sanitary sewage flowing through the tank will pass through at least 2 compartments.

(3)The working capacity of the compartments required in Sentence (2) shall be sized such that,

(a)the first compartment is at least 1.3 times the daily design sanitary sewage flow but in no case less than 2 400 L, and

(b)each subsequent compartment shall be at least 50% of the first compartment.

(4)Where multiple tanks are to be used to meet the requirements of Sentences (2) and (3), the tanks shall be connected in series such that,

(a)the first tank in the series shall have at least a capacity as calculated in Clause (3)(a), however at no time shall a tank having a working capacity of less than 3 600 L be used,

(b)all additional tanks after the first tank, excluding pump or dosing tanks shall have at least a working capacity equal to the volume required by Clause (3)(b),

(c)the pipe between the outlet of one tank and the inlet of the next tank in the series shall have a minimum slope of 2 percent,

(d)there shall be no partitions in the tank except where a partition is required to maintain the structural integrity of the tank, in which case openings within the partition shall be provided to allow the free movement of sanitary sewage throughout the tank, and

(e)all piping between tanks shall be continuous and shall be connected to the tank through the use of flexible watertight seals that will permit differential movement between the tanks.

(5)Partitions separating the septic tank into compartments shall extend at least 150 mm above the liquid level at the outlet, and there shall be one or more openings through or above the partition.

(6)The openings required between compartments referred to in Sentence (2) shall have a total cross-sectional area of at least three times the area of the inlet pipe and be located between the top and a level 150 mm above the liquid level at the outlet to provide for the free flow of air between compartments.

(7)Sanitary sewage shall pass from one compartment to another of the septic tank as follows:

(a)by means of a device similar to that described in CSA B66, “Design, Material, and Manufacturing Requirements for Prefabricated Septic Tanks and Sewage Holding Tanks” for outlet devices, or

(b)through two or more openings through the partition located in a horizontal line, and evenly spaced across the width of the partition, centred at approximately 40% of the liquid depth below the surface of the liquid, and having a total area of between three and five times that of the cross-sectional area of the inlet pipe.

(8)A septic tank shall be of such design and construction as will permit the collection and holding of sanitary sewage in it to a depth of not less than 1 000 mm, except that a depth of not less than 900 mm is permitted where the excavation is in rock, or to avoid rupture or displacement of the tank due to ground water pressure.

(9)Except as provided in Sentences (10) and (11), every septic tank shall be installed in such a manner that the access openings are located not more than 300 mm below the ground surface.

(10)Where the top of the septic tank is located more than 300 mm below the ground surface, it shall be equipped with risers that extend from the access opening of the septic tank to within 300 mm of the ground surface.

(11)Where risers are used they shall conform to the requirements of CSA B66, “Design, material, and manufacturing requirements for prefabricated septic tanks and sewage holding tanks,” and shall have adequate access openings to allow for regular maintenance of the septic tank.

8.2.2.4. Holding Tanks

(1)All holding tanks shall be of such design and construction as will allow the complete removal of solid matter that can be expected to settle in the holding tank through an apparatus or device suitable for allowing the contents of the holding tank to be removed from the holding tank.

(2)A holding tank shall have a working capacity of not less than 9 000 L.

(3)Where two or more tanks are used to meet the requirement of Sentence (2), they shall be deemed to be one holding tank provided they are connected in such a manner as will allow the sanitary sewage contained in them to flow between the tanks.

(4)The working capacity of the tanks described in Sentence (3) shall not include any portion of any tank that cannot be completely drained due to the manner in which the connections are made.

Section 8.3 Class 1 Sewage Systems

8.3.1. General Requirements

8.3.1.1. Scope

(1)This Section applies to the construction of a Class 1 sewage system.

8.3.1.2. Application

(1)Except as provided in Sentence (2), a Class 1 sewage system shall be designed to receive only human body waste for disposal.

(2)Where the sewage system is specifically designed for the biological decomposition of non-waterborne biodegradable kitchen wastes or requires the addition of small quantities of plant matter to improve the decomposition of human body waste, it may receive such wastes in addition to human body waste.

(3)Where the sewage system is designed with a drain for the removal of excess liquid, then the sewage system shall drain to a Class 3, 4, or 5 sewage system.

8.3.2. Superstructure Requirements

8.3.2.1. Construction Requirements

(1)A privy as described in Subsections 8.3.3. to 8.3.5. shall be enclosed with a superstructure that,

(a)is constructed of strong durable weatherproof materials,

(b)has a solid floor supported by a sill constructed of treated timber, masonry or other material of at least equal strength and durability,

(c)is easily sanitized,

(d)unless it is equipped solely as a urinal, is equipped with one or more seats each having a cover and being supported by an enclosed bench or riser that is lined with an impervious material on all interior vertical surfaces,

(e)is equipped with a self-closing door,

(f)has one or more openings for purposes of ventilation, all of which are screened,

(g)has a ventilation duct that is screened at the top end and that extends from the underside of the bench or riser to a point above the roof of the superstructure, and

(h)shall not have any openings for the reception of human body waste, other than urinals and those constructed in accordance with Clause (1)(d).

8.3.3. Earth Pit Privy

8.3.3.1. Construction Requirements

(1)An earth pit privy shall be constructed in the following manner:

(a)the bottom of the pit shall be at least 900 mm above the high ground water table,

(b)the sides of the pit shall be reinforced so as to prevent their collapse,

(c)the pit shall be surrounded on all sides and on its bottom by not less than 600 mm of soil or leaching bed fill, and

(d)the soil or leaching bed fill around the base of the sides of the superstructure of the earth pit privy shall be raised or mounded to a height of at least 150 mm above ground level.

8.3.4. Privy Vaults and Pail Privy

8.3.4.1. Construction Requirements

(1)A privy vault or a pail privy shall be constructed in the following manner:

(a)the container or structure that is to be used for the holding or storage of sanitary sewage shall be watertight and made of a material that can be easily cleaned,

(b)the soil or leaching bed fill around the base of the sides of the superstructure shall be raised or mounded to a height of at least 150 mm above ground level, and

(c)the surface of the ground in the area of the privy vault or pail privy shall be so graded that surface drainage will be diverted away from the privy.

8.3.5. Portable Privy

8.3.5.1. Construction Requirements

(1)A portable privy shall be constructed in the following manner:

(a)the portable privy shall have a watertight receptacle that shall be suitable for the holding and storage of any sanitary sewage deposited in it,

(b)the receptacle for the holding and storage of sewage shall be designed and constructed in such a manner as to allow it to be easily emptied and cleaned, and

(c)the portable privy shall be constructed of such material and in such a manner that it can withstand the stresses to which it will be subjected during its transportation to and from sites where it is to be used and during loading and unloading from vehicles used for the transportation of the portable privy to and from sites where it is to be used.

Section 8.4 Class 2 Sewage Systems

8.4.1. General Requirements

8.4.1.1. Scope

(1)This Section applies to the construction of a Class 2 sewage system.

8.4.1.2. Application (See Note A-8.4.1.2.)

(1)A Class 2 sewage system shall be designed only for the treatment and disposal of greywater.

(2)The total daily design flow for a Class 2 sewage system shall be calculated based on the fixtures discharging to the system as follows:

(a)200 L per fixture unit where there is a supply of pressurized water, and

(b)125 L per fixture unit where there is no supply of pressurized water.

8.4.2. Design and Construction Requirements

8.4.2.1. Construction Requirements

(1)The bottom of the pit shall be at least 900 mm above the high ground water table.

(2)The pit shall be constructed in such a manner as to prevent the collapse of its sidewalls.

(3)Any material used to support or form the sidewalls of the pit shall be an open jointed material of a type that will permit leaching from the pit.

(4)The pit shall be provided with a tight, strong cover that shall remain over the pit except when it is necessary to remove it for purposes of adding greywater to or removing greywater from the pit or for purposes of maintenance of the pit.

(5)The earth around the perimeter of the pit shall be raised or mounded to a height of at least 150 mm above ground level.

(6)The surface of the ground in the area of the pit shall be so graded that surface drainage in the area will be diverted away from the pit.

(7)The pit shall be surrounded on all sides and on its bottom by at least 600 mm of soil having a percolation time of less than 50 minutes.

8.4.2.2. Maximum Sewage Flow

(1)A Class 2 sewage system shall not be constructed where the daily design greywater flow to the system exceeds 1 000 L/day.

8.4.2.3. Sizing

(1)A Class 2 sewage system shall be designed and constructed so that the loading rate to the side walls shall be not more than the value calculated using the formula,

Section 8.5 Class 3 Sewage Systems

8.5.1. General Requirements

8.5.1.1. Scope

(1)This Section applies to the construction of a Class 3 sewage system.

8.5.1.2. Application

(1)A Class 3 sewage system shall not be constructed where the daily design sanitary sewage flow to the system exceeds 1 000 L/day.

(2)A Class 3 sewage system shall be designed to receive only the contents of a Class 1 sewage system or effluent from a Class 1 sewage system for disposal.

8.5.2. Design and Construction Requirements

8.5.2.1. Construction Requirements

(1)The bottom of the cesspool shall be at least 900 mm above the high ground water table.

(2)The cesspool shall be constructed in such a manner as to prevent the collapse of its sidewalls.

(3)Any material used to support or form the sidewalls of the cesspool shall be an open jointed material of a type that will permit leaching from the cesspool.

(4)The cesspool shall be provided with a tight strong cover that shall remain over the cesspool except when it is necessary to remove it for the purposes of adding sanitary sewage to or removing sanitary sewage from the cesspool or for purposes of maintenance of the cesspool.

(5)Where the cesspool extends to the ground surface, the cover required in Sentence (4) shall be lockable.

(6)The soil or leaching bed fill around the perimeter of the cesspool shall be raised or mounded to a height of at least 150 mm above ground level.

(7)The surface of the ground in the area of the cesspool shall be graded such that surface drainage in the area will be diverted away from the cesspool.

(8)The cesspool shall be surrounded on all sides and on its bottom by at least 600 mm of soil or leaching bed fill, except the top where the cesspool extends to the surface of the ground.

Section 8.6 Class 4 Sewage Systems

8.6.1. General Requirements

8.6.1.1. Scope

(1)This Section applies to the construction of a Class 4 sewage system.

8.6.1.2. General Requirements

(1)The treatment unit shall be connected to a leaching bed constructed in accordance with the requirements of Section 8.7.

8.6.1.3. Pumps and Siphons

(1)Where the total length of distribution pipe or leaching chamber required is 150 m or more, the sewage system shall have at least one pump or a siphon contained in a dosing tank that may be a separate compartment within the tank structure, for distribution of the effluent.

(2)Where the total length of leaching chamber is 150 m or more, a distribution pipe shall be installed at the centreline of the leaching chamber and extend the total length of leaching chamber to allow for dosing of the effluent.

(3)Alternating siphons shall not be installed in a sewage system.

(4)Where 2 or more pumps are employed within a dosing tank, the pumps shall be designed such that the pumps alternate dosing, and dosing shall continue in the event that one pump fails.

(5)Where a pump or siphon is required, the pump or siphon shall be designed to discharge a dose of at least 75% of the internal volume of the distribution pipe within a time period not exceeding fifteen minutes.

(6)Where a pump or siphon is required, the pump or siphon shall be equipped with a device that shall produce an audible and visual alarm signal that indicates a high water level in the pump or siphon chamber.

8.6.2. Treatment Units

8.6.2.1. Septic Tank Systems

(1)An effluent filter shall be installed in the outlet flow path of every septic tank that discharges effluent to a leaching bed.

(2)The septic tank effluent filter required by Sentence (1) shall,

(a)conform to the requirements of NSF/ANSI 46, “Evaluation of Components and Devices Used in Wastewater Treatment Systems,”

(b)be sized to filter particles of 1.6 mm,

(c)have a minimum area of 550 cm 2, and

(d)be installed in accordance with the manufacturer’s recommendations.

(3)A secured access opening to allow for regular maintenance of the effluent filter shall be provided at the ground surface.

8.6.2.2. Other Treatment Units (See Note A-8.6.2.2.)

(1)Except as provided in Sentence (2), a treatment unit, other than a septic tank, shall be designed such that the effluent does not exceed, for the level of the treatment unit set out in Column 1 of Table 8.6.2.2., the maximum concentrations set out opposite it in Columns 2 and 3 of Table 8.6.2.2. Table 8.6.2.2. Other Treatment Unit Effluent Quality Criteria Forming Part of Sentences 8.6.2.2.(1) and (2)

(2)A treatment unit that is used in conjunction with a leaching bed constructed as a shallow buried trench, Type A dispersal bed or Type B dispersal bed shall be designed such that the effluent does not exceed the maximum concentrations set out opposite a Level IV treatment unit in Columns 2 and 3 of Table 8.6.2.2.

(3)All treatment units referred to in Sentences (1) and (2) that contain mechanical components shall be equipped with an audible and visual warning alarm so located to warn the occupants of the building served or the operator of the treatment unit of a malfunction in the operation of the treatment unit.

(4)All treatment units referred to in Sentences (1) and (2) shall permit the sampling of the effluent.

(5)A treatment unit is deemed to comply with Sentences (1) and (2) if it has been certified to CAN/BNQ 3680-600, “Onsite Residential Wastewater Treatment Technologies” using a temperature condition listed under option a) or b) of Clause 8.2.2. of that standard. (See Note A-8.6.2.2.(5))

(6)Every operator of a treatment unit shall obtain, from the manufacturer or distributor of the treatment unit, literature that describes the unit in detail and provides complete instructions regarding the operation, servicing, and maintenance requirements of the unit and its related components necessary to ensure the continued proper operation in accordance with the original design and specifications.

Section 8.7 Leaching Beds

8.7.1. General Requirements

8.7.1.1. Scope

(1)This Section applies to the construction of leaching beds.

8.7.1.2. Limitation on Installation

(1)The design and installation of a shallow buried trench, Type A dispersal bed or Type B dispersal bed shall be carried out by a person competent in this field of work.

8.7.2. Design and Construction Requirements

8.7.2.1. General Requirements

(1)A leaching bed shall not be located,

(a)in an area that has an average slope that exceeds one unit vertically to four units horizontally,

(b)in soil or leaching bed fill having a percolation time of,

(i)less than one minute, or greater than 125 minutes if constructed as a shallow buried trench, or

(ii)less than one minute, or greater than 50 minutes for all other leaching beds, or

(c)in or on an area that is subject to flooding that may be expected to cause damage to the leaching bed or impair the operation of the leaching bed.

(2)A leaching bed shall not be covered with any material having a hydraulic conductivity less than 0.01 m/day.

(3)The surface of the leaching bed shall be shaped to shed water and together with the side slopes of any raised portion, shall be protected against erosion in such a manner as to not inhibit the evaporation and transpiration of waters from the soil or leaching bed fill, and to not cause plugging of the distribution pipe.

(4)No part of a leaching bed shall be sloped steeper than 1 unit vertically to 4 units horizontally.

(5)A leaching bed shall be designed to be protected from compaction or any stress or pressure that may result in,

(a)the impairment or destruction of any pipe in the leaching bed, or

(b)the smearing of the soil or leaching bed fill.

8.7.2.2. Distribution Pipes within Leaching Beds

(1)Sentence (2) applies to the design and construction of a leaching bed with distribution pipes used within the leaching bed.

(2)The header line and distribution pipes within a leaching bed shall be designed and constructed so that they can be detected by,

(a)magnetic means,

(b)means of a 14 gauge TW solid copper light coloured plastic coated tracer wire, or

(c)other means of subsurface detection.

8.7.2.3. Leaching Chambers within Leaching Beds

(1)Leaching chambers are permitted for use in conjunction with an absorption trench, shallow buried trench, filter bed or Type A dispersal bed.

(2)Leaching chambers shall comply with the dimension requirements for either a Type I or Type II leaching chamber listed in Table 8.7.2.3.

(3)Leaching chambers shall conform to the requirements of IAPMO PS 63, “Plastic Leaching Chambers”.

(a)magnetic means,

(b)means of a 14 gauge TW solid copper light coloured plastic coated tracer wire,

(c)means of a 12 gauge copper clad steel light coloured plastic coated tracer wire, or

(d)other means of subsurface detection. Table 8.7.2.3. Leaching Chamber Dimensions Forming Part of Sentence 8.7.2.3.(2)

8.7.3. Absorption Trench Construction

8.7.3.1. Length of Distribution Pipe

(1)The total length of distribution pipe shall,

(a)not be less than 30 m when constructed as a shallow buried trench, or

(b)not be less than 40 m for any other absorption trench.

(2)Except as provided in Sentences (1), (3), and (4) every leaching bed constructed by means of absorption trenches shall have a total length of distribution pipe not less than the value determined by the formula,

(3)Except as provided in Sentence (1), where a leaching bed receives effluent from a Level II, Level III or Level IV treatment unit as described in Table 8.6.2.2., the leaching bed may have a total length of distribution pipe not less than the value determined by the formula,

(4)Except as provided in Sentence (1), where the leaching bed is constructed as a shallow buried trench, the total length of the distribution pipe shall not be less than the value determined by Table 8.7.3.1. Table 8.7.3.1. Length of Distribution Pipe in Shallow Buried Trench Forming Part of Sentence 8.7.3.1.(4)

(T)of Soil, min Length of Distribution Pipe, m 1 < T ≤ 20 Q/75 20 < T ≤ 50 Q/50 50 < T < 125 Q/30 where, Q = the total daily design sanitary sewage flow in litres, and T = the design percolation time.

8.7.3.2. Length of Leaching Chamber

(1)The total length of leaching chamber shall,

(a)not be less than 30 m when constructed as a shallow buried trench, or

(b)not be less than 40 m for any other absorption trench.

(2)Except as provided in Sentences (1) and (3), the total length of leaching chamber shall not be less than the value determined by the formula, L = QT/200, for a Type I leaching chamber, or L = QT/300, for a Type II leaching chamber, where, L = total length of leaching chamber in metres, Q = the total daily design sanitary sewage flow in litres, and T = the design percolation time.

(3)When a treatment unit described in Article 8.6.2.2. is used in conjunction with a leaching chamber, the total length of leaching chamber shall not be less than the value determined by the formula, L = QT/300 where, L = total length of leaching chamber in metres, Q = the total daily design sanitary sewage flow in litres, and T = the design percolation time.

(4)Except as provided in Sentence (1), where the leaching bed is constructed as a shallow buried trench, the total length of leaching chamber shall not be less than the value determined by Table 8.7.3.2.

(T)of Soil, min Length of Leaching Chamber, m 1 < T ≤ 20 Q/75 20 < T ≤ 50 Q/50 50 < T < 125 Q/30

8.7.3.3. Absorption Trenches

(1)Except as provided in Sentence (2), absorption trenches shall be,

(a)approximately the same length and not more than 30 m in length,

(b)not less than 500 mm and not more than 1 000 mm in width,

(c)not less than 600 mm and not more than 900 mm in depth,

(d)centred not less than,

(i)1 600 mm apart where used in conjunction with,

(A)a distribution pipe,

(B)a Type I leaching chamber, or

(C)a Type II leaching chamber constructed in leaching bed fill, or

(ii)2 400 mm apart where used in conjunction with a Type II leaching chamber, other than a Type II leaching chamber constructed in leaching bed fill,

(e)located so that the bottom of the absorption trench is not less than 900 mm above the high ground water table, rock or soil with a percolation time of more than 50 minutes, and

(f)backfilled, after the installation of the distribution pipe or leaching chamber with leaching bed fill, so as to ensure that after the leaching bed fill settles, the surface of the leaching bed will not form any depressions.

(2)Absorption trenches constructed as a shallow buried trench shall be,

(a)approximately the same length and not more than 30 m in length,

(b)not less than 300 mm and not more than 600 mm in width,

(c)not less than 300 mm and not more than 600 mm in depth,

(d)centred not less than 2 000 mm apart,

(e)not less than 900 mm at all points on the bottom of the absorption trench above the high ground water table or rock, and

(f)backfilled, after the installation of the distribution pipe with leaching bed fill, so as to ensure that after the leaching bed fill settles, the surface of the leaching bed will not form any depressions.

8.7.3.4. Distribution Pipe

(1)Except for a shallow buried trench, the distribution pipe used in the construction of a leaching bed shall be,

(a)not less than 3 in. trade size for gravity flow systems,

(b)installed with a uniform downward slope from the inlet with a drop of not less than 30 mm and not more than 50 mm for each 10 m of distribution pipe for gravity flow systems, and

(c)installed within a layer of stone conforming to Sentence (5).

(2)Prior to backfilling, the stone layer required by Clause (1)(c) shall be protected in such a manner so as to prevent soil or leaching bed fill from entering the stone by completely covering it with,

(a)untreated building paper, or

(b)a permeable geo-textile fabric.

(3)Every pressurized distribution pipe shall be self-draining so as to prevent freezing of its contents.

(4)Every pressurized distribution pipe shall,

(a)be not less than 1 in. trade size, and

(b)have orifices of at least 3 mm in diameter, spaced equally along the length of the pipe to provide even distribution of the effluent.

(5)The stone layer required by Clause (1)(c) shall,

(a)be comprised of washed septic stone, free of fine material, with gradation conforming to Table 8.7.3.4.,

(b)be not less than 500 mm in width,

(c)extend not less than 150 mm below the distribution pipe, and

(d)extend not less than 50 mm above the distribution pipe.

(6)This Article does not apply to a distribution pipe within a leaching chamber. Table 8.7.3.4. Gradation of Septic Stone Forming Part of Sentences 8.7.3.4.(5) and 8.7.8.2.(6)

8.7.3.5. Leaching Chamber

(1)Prior to backfilling, the leaching chamber shall be,

(a)installed level over the length of the absorption trench,

(b)securely connected together, section to section,

(c)free of structural damage, uncut and used full length,

(d)equipped with end caps installed on both ends,

(e)equipped with an integrated splash plate at the inlet end of each line of leaching chamber, to prevent soil scouring, and

(f)protected in such a manner so as to prevent soil or leaching bed fill from entering the leaching chamber.

(2)Except for a shallow buried trench, the distribution pipe within a leaching chamber shall be not less than 3 in. trade size for dosed systems.

(3)Every pressurized distribution pipe within a leaching chamber shall,

(a)extend over the entire length of the leaching chamber,

(b)be not less than 1½ in. trade size,

(c)have orifices of at least 6 mm in diameter, spaced equally along the length of the pipe to provide even distribution of the effluent,

(d)be supported,

(e)be self-draining so as to prevent freezing of its contents, and

(f)have cleanouts installed at the downstream end of each line of leaching chamber to allow for servicing of the system.

8.7.4. Fill Based Absorption Trenches

8.7.4.1. Loading Requirements

(1)The area described in Sentence 8.7.4.2.(1) shall be designed such that the loading rate does not exceed, for soil having a percolation time set out in Column 1 of Table 8.7.4.1., the maximum value set out opposite it in Column 2 of Table 8.7.4.1. Table 8.7.4.1. Loading Rates for Fill Based Absorption Trenches and Filter Beds Forming Part of Sentences 8.7.4.1.(1) and 8.7.5.2.(2)

(T)of Soil, min Loading Rates, (L/m² )/day 1 < T ≤ 20 10 20 < T ≤ 35 8 35 < T ≤ 50 6 T > 50 4 Column 1 2

8.7.4.2. Construction Requirements

(1)Except for a shallow buried trench, a leaching bed comprised of absorption trenches may be constructed in leaching bed fill, if unsaturated soil or leaching bed fill complying with Subclause 8.7.2.1.(1)(b)(ii) extends,

(a)to a depth of at least 250 mm over the area covered by the leaching bed fill, and

(b)for at least 15 m beyond the centrelines of the outer distribution pipes or leaching chambers in any direction in which the effluent entering the soil or leaching bed fill will move horizontally.

(2)If the unsaturated soil or leaching bed fill described in Sentence (1) has a percolation time greater than 15 minutes, any additional leaching bed fill added to it to form the leaching bed shall have a percolation time not less than 75% of the percolation time of the unsaturated soil or leaching bed fill to which it is added.

(3)Leaching bed fill that does not meet the requirements of Sentence (2) may be used to form the leaching bed if,

(a)the distance from the bottom of the absorption trench to the underlying soil is not less than 900 mm, or

(b)where the distance from the bottom of the absorption trench to the underlying soil is less than 900 mm, the percolation time of the least permeable soil or leaching bed fill within 900 mm from the bottom of the absorption trench is used to calculate the length of the distribution pipe under Article 8.7.3.1. or the leaching chamber under Article 8.7.3.2.

(4)Sentence (2) does not apply to any leaching bed fill added as backfill above the stone layer in which the distribution pipe is located.

(5)All leaching bed fill added shall be stabilized against erosion.

(6)The site to which the leaching bed fill is added shall be generally clear of vegetation.

(7)The leaching bed fill that is added shall be compacted in layers in such a manner as to avoid uneven settlement of the distribution pipes or leaching chambers.

(8)Any distribution boxes, header lines, absorption trenches, distribution pipes or leaching chambers shall be installed only after the leaching bed fill has been compacted in accordance with Sentence (7).

(9)Except as provided in Sentence (10), the sides of the added leaching bed fill shall be sloped to ensure stability, but shall not be steeper than one unit vertically to four units horizontally.

(10)The side slope of the leaching bed fill may be increased up to one unit vertically to three units horizontally if measures are taken to prevent erosion and ensure stability of the leaching bed fill.

(11)The distances set out in Column 2 of Table 8.2.1.6.B. shall be increased by twice the height that the leaching bed is raised above the original grade.

8.7.5. Filter Beds

8.7.5.1. Application

(1)The total daily design sanitary sewage flow shall not exceed,

(a)5 000 L where the treatment unit is a septic tank, or

(b)10 000 L where the treatment unit is a Level II, Level III or Level IV treatment unit as described in Table 8.6.2.2.

8.7.5.2. Loading Requirements

(1)The effective area of the surface of the filter medium in each filter bed shall be at least 10 m² and not more than 50 m².

(2)The area described in Sentence 8.7.4.2.(1) shall be designed such that the loading rate does not exceed, for soil having a percolation time set out in Column 1 of Table 8.7.4.1., the maximum value set out opposite it in Column 2 of Table 8.7.4.1.

(3)Except as provided in Sentence (5), where the total daily design sanitary sewage flow does not exceed 3 000 L, the effective area shall be such that the loading on the surface of the filter medium does not exceed 75 L/m² per day.

(4)Except as provided in Sentence (5), where the total daily design sanitary sewage flow exceeds 3 000 L,

(a)the effective area shall be such that the loading on the surface of the filter medium does not exceed 50 L/m² per day, and

(b)the leaching bed shall be comprised of more than one filter bed, each of similar size and adjacent to each other.

(5)Where a Level II, Level III or Level IV treatment unit as described in Table 8.6.2.2. is used in conjunction with a filter bed, the effective area shall be such that the loading on the surface of the filter medium does not exceed 100 L/m² per day.

8.7.5.3. Construction Requirements

(1)Sentences 8.7.4.2.(1), (2) and (4) to (11) apply to the construction of a filter bed.

(2)The lines of distribution pipes or leaching chambers shall be evenly spaced over the surface of the filter medium to which the sanitary sewage is applied, with a maximum spacing between the centrelines of the distribution pipes or leaching chambers in accordance with Table 8.7.5.3.

(3)The filter medium shall have a minimum depth of 750 mm below the stone layer or bottom of the leaching chambers and shall be clean sand comprised of particles ranging in size between the limits of,

(a)an effective size of 0.25 mm with a uniformity coefficient not less than 3.5,

(b)an effective size of 2.5 mm with a uniformity coefficient not greater than 1.5, and

(c)having a uniformity coefficient not greater than 4.5.

(4)The filter medium shall be unsaturated for its entire depth.

(5)Where there is more than one filter bed in a leaching bed, the filter beds shall be separated by at least 5 m between the distribution pipes or leaching chambers of the filter beds.

(6)The base of the filter medium shall extend to a thickness of at least 250 mm over an area meeting the requirements of the following formula:

(7)The stone layer or bottom of the leaching chambers shall be not less than 900 mm above the high ground water table, rock or soil with a percolation time of more than 50 minutes. (See Note A-8.7.5.3.(6) and (7))

8.7.6. Shallow Buried Trench

8.7.6.1. Construction Requirements (See Note A-8.7.6.1.)

(1)The treatment unit used in conjunction with a leaching bed constructed as a shallow buried trench shall provide an effluent quality that does not exceed the maximum concentrations set out opposite a Level IV treatment unit in Columns 2 and 3 of Table 8.6.2.2.

(2)The effluent shall be distributed through a pressurized distribution system having a pressure head of not less than 600 mm when measured to the most distant point from the pump.

(3)The pump chamber shall be sized to provide sufficient storage volume so that the effluent is evenly dosed on an hourly basis over a 24-hour period.

(4)A shallow buried trench shall not be constructed unless the soil or leaching bed fill is sufficiently dry to resist compaction and smearing during excavation.

(5)Every chamber or leaching chamber shall be as wide as the shallow buried trench in which it is contained, and the cross-sectional height of the chamber or leaching chamber at its centre point shall not be less than half the width of the trench.

(6)Every chamber or leaching chamber shall contain only one pressurized distribution pipe.

8.7.7. Type A Dispersal Beds

8.7.7.1. Construction Requirements

(1)The treatment unit used in conjunction with a leaching bed constructed as a Type A dispersal bed shall provide an effluent quality that does not exceed the maximum concentrations set out opposite a Level IV treatment unit in Columns 2 and 3 of Table 8.6.2.2.

(2)A Type A dispersal bed shall be backfilled with leaching bed fill so as to ensure that, after the leaching bed fill settles, the surface of the leaching bed will not form any depressions.

(3)The combined thickness of the sand layer and the stone layer if utilized of a Type A dispersal bed shall not be less than 500 mm.

(4)Except as provided in Sentence (5), the sand layer shall,

(a)be comprised of sand that has,

(i)a percolation time of at least 6 and not more than 10 min, and

(ii)not more than 5% fines passing through a 0.074 mm (No. 200) sieve,

(b)have a minimum thickness of 300 mm, and

(c)have an area that is not less than the lesser of,

(i)the area of the stone layer determined in accordance with Sentence (6) or, if leaching chambers are used, the area over which the leaching chambers are spaced determined in accordance with Sentence (7), and

(ii)the value determined by the formula,

(5)Where the underlying soil has a percolation time of more than 15 min, the sand layer referred to in Sentence (4) shall,

(a)extend to at least 15 m beyond the perimeter of the treatment unit, or the centrelines of the outer distribution pipes or leaching chambers if utilized, in any direction in which the effluent entering the soil or leaching bed fill will move horizontally, and

(b)have an area that is not less than the value determined by the formula,

(6)Where a stone layer is used, the stone layer shall,

(a)the Type A dispersal bed shall be rectangular in shape with the long dimension parallel to the site contours, and

(b)have a minimum thickness of 200 mm,

(i)be evenly spaced over the area calculated in Subclause (iv), with a maximum distance of 200 mm between the exterior edges of the lines of leaching chamber,

(ii)75, if the total daily design sanitary sewage flow does not exceed 3 000 litres, and Q = the total daily design sanitary sewage flow in litres. (8) Leaching bed fill with a percolation time not exceeding 15 min may be used to satisfy the vertical separation requirements of Clause (6)(d) or Subclause (7)(b)(iii), provided that the leaching bed fill conforms to the requirements specified in Sentence (5) regardless of the percolation time of the underlying soil. (9) Where a stone layer is used, the effluent shall be evenly distributed within the stone layer to within 600 mm of the perimeter of the stone layer. (See Note A-8.7.7.1.(9)) (10) Where leaching chambers are used, the effluent shall be evenly distributed within the area over which the leaching chambers are spaced to within 600 mm of the perimeter of that area. (11) The stone layer or area over which the leaching chambers are spaced shall not be located closer than the minimum horizontal distances set out in Table 8.2.1.6.B. and these distances shall be increased when required by Sentence 8.7.4.2.(11).

(iii)be constructed such that the bottom of the leaching chambers is at least 600 mm above the high ground water table, rock or soil with a percolation time of 1 min or less or greater than 50 min, and

(iv)have a minimum area not less than the value determined by the formula, A = Q/B where, A = the area over which the leaching chambers are spaced, in square metres, B = the following amount,

(c)be protected in the manner described in Sentence 8.7.3.4.(2), and

(d)be constructed such that the bottom of the stone layer is at least 600 mm above the high ground water table, rock or soil with a percolation time of 1 min or less or greater than 50 min.

(e)have a minimum area not less than the value determined by the formula, A = Q/B where, A = the area of the stone layer in square metres, B = the following amount,

(i)50, if the total daily design sanitary sewage flow exceeds 3 000 litres, or

(ii)75, if the total daily design sanitary sewage flow does not exceed 3 000 litres, and Q = the total daily design sanitary sewage flow in litres. (7) Where leaching chambers are used,

8.7.8. Type B Dispersal Beds

8.7.8.1. General Requirements

(1)Except as provided in Sentence (2) and Sentence 8.7.8.2.(2), a Type B dispersal bed shall conform to the requirements of Article 8.7.2.1.

(2)A Type B dispersal bed shall not be located in an area that has an average slope that exceeds one unit vertically to seven units horizontally.

8.7.8.2. Construction Requirements

(1)The treatment unit used in conjunction with a leaching bed constructed as a Type B dispersal bed shall provide an effluent quality that does not exceed the maximum concentrations set out opposite a Level IV treatment unit in Columns 2 and 3 of Table 8.6.2.2.

(2)A Type B dispersal bed shall be,

(a)rectangular in shape with the long dimension parallel to the site contours,

(b)not more than 1 000 mm in depth measured from the bottom of the stone layer to the finished grade when installed in soil with a percolation time that exceeds 15 min, and

(c)backfilled with leaching bed fill so as to ensure that, after the leaching bed fill settles, the surface of the leaching bed will not form any depressions.

(3)The bottom of the stone layer shall be at least 600 mm above the high ground water table, rock or soil with a percolation time greater than 50 min.

(4)The effluent shall be distributed over the Type B dispersal bed through a pressurized distribution system having a pressure head of not less than 600 mm when measured to the most distant point from the pump.

(5)The distribution pipes shall,

(a)be self-draining so as to prevent freezing of their contents, and

(b)have orifices of at least 3 mm in diameter, spaced equally along the length of the pipes.

(6)The stone layer containing the distribution pipes shall,

(a)be comprised of washed septic stone, free of fine material, with gradation conforming to Table 8.7.3.4.,

(b)extend not less than 250 mm below the distribution pipe, and

(c)extend not less than 50 mm above the distribution pipe.

(7)The distribution pipes shall be spaced not more than 1.2 m apart with the outermost pipe spaced not more than 600 mm from the edge of the bed.

(8)The pump chamber shall be sized to provide sufficient storage volume so that the effluent is evenly dosed on an hourly basis over a 24-hour period.

(9)When there is more than one Type B dispersal bed in a leaching bed, the Type B dispersal beds shall be separated by at least 5 m measured from the edge of the stone layers.

(10)A Type B dispersal bed shall not be located closer than the minimum horizontal distances set out in Table 8.2.1.6.B. and these distances shall be increased when required by Sentence 8.7.4.2.(11).

8.7.8.3. Design Requirements (See Note A-8.7.8.3.)

(1)The area of a Type B dispersal bed shall not be less than the minimum area determined in accordance with Clause (2)(a) or (b).

(2)For the purposes of Sentence (1), the minimum area is either of the following,

(a)the area calculated based on the loading rates for Type 2 effluent set out in the Column headed “Type 2” found in Table 2-8 of the BCMOH, “Sewerage System Standard Practice Manual,” or

(b)the value determined by the formula,

(3)The linear loading rates of the underlying soil shall not be greater than,

(a)the linear loading rates set out in Table 2-11 of BCMOH, “Sewerage System Standard Practice Manual,” where the area of the Type B dispersal bed is determined in accordance with Clause (2)(a), or

(b)the following linear loading rate, where the area of the Type B dispersal bed is determined in accordance with Clause (2)(b),

(i)40 L/m, for soil having a percolation time equal to or greater than 24 min, or

(ii)50 L/m, for soil having a percolation time less than 24 min.

(4)The width of a Type B dispersal bed shall not exceed 4 m.

Section 8.8 Class 5 Sewage Systems

8.8.1. Application

8.8.1.1. Prohibited Installation

(1)Except as provided in Article 8.8.1.2., a Class 5 sewage system shall not be installed.

8.8.1.2. Acceptable Installation

(1)A Class 5 sewage system may be installed in the following circumstances:

(a)where the proposed use of the sewage system is for a temporary operation, excluding seasonal recreational use, not exceeding 12 months in duration,

(b)to remedy an unsafe sewage system where the remediation of the unsafe condition by the installation of a Class 4 sewage system is impracticable,

(c)to upgrade a sewage system serving an existing building, where upgrading through the use of a Class 4 sewage system is not possible due to lot size, site slope or clearance limitations, or

(d)as an interim measure for a lot or parcel of land until municipal sewers are available, provided that the municipality undertakes to ensure the continued operation of an approved hauled sewage system until the municipal sewers are available.

(2)Where a Class 5 sewage system is installed, a written agreement for the disposal of sanitary sewage from the sewage system shall be entered into with a hauled sewage system operator.

8.8.2. General Requirements

8.8.2.1. Construction Requirements

(1)All Class 5 sewage systems shall be equipped with a device that shall produce an audible and visual warning alarm so located to warn that the sewage system is nearing capacity.

(2)The device required in Sentence (1) shall be designed to provide suitable advance warning to the building occupants considering,

(a)the total daily design sanitary sewage flow,

(b)the location of the Class 5 sewage system, and

(c)the response time of the hauled sewage system contractor.

(3)Except as provided in Sentence (4), all holding tanks shall be provided with a vent that,

(a)is not less than 3 in. trade size,

(b)terminates at least,

(i)300 mm above finished grade with a vent cap, or

(ii)600 mm above finished grade with a vent cap when the holding tank is located in an area subject to flooding, and

(c)terminates at least 3.5 m away from any air inlet, window, or door.

(4)A vent from a holding tank may connect into the venting system of the building served by the holding tank provided that,

(a)the vent is not less than 3 in. trade size, and

(b)the installation of the vent shall conform to the requirements in Part 7.

8.8.2.2. Sizing of Holding Tanks

(1)All holding tanks used in residential dwellings shall have a minimum 7 day holding capacity based on the total daily design sanitary sewage flow.

Section 8.9 Operation and Maintenance

8.9.1. General

8.9.1.1. Scope

(1)This Section applies to the operation and maintenance of all sewage systems.

8.9.1.2. General Requirements for Operation and Maintenance

(1)Every sewage system shall be operated and maintained so that,

(a)the sewage system or any part of it shall not emit, discharge or deposit sanitary sewage or effluent onto the surface of the ground,

(b)sanitary sewage or effluent shall not emit, discharge, seep, leak or otherwise escape from the sewage system or any part of it other than from a place or part of the sewage system where the system is designed or intended to discharge the sanitary sewage or effluent, and

(c)except as provided in Sentence (2), sanitary sewage or effluent shall not emit, discharge, seep, leak or otherwise escape from the sewage system or any part of it into a piped water supply, well water supply, a watercourse, ground water or surface water.

(2)Clause (1)(c) does not apply to the use of a sewage system designed and operated such that properly treated effluent is discharged into soil.

8.9.2. Operation

8.9.2.1. Scope

(1)The requirements of this Subsection are in addition to the requirements of Subsection 8.9.1.

8.9.2.2. General

(1)Every sewage system shall be operated in accordance with,

(a)the basis on which the construction and use of the sewage system was approved or required under the Act or predecessor legislation, as the case may be, and

(b)the requirements of the manufacturer of the sewage system.

8.9.2.3. Class 4 Sewage Systems

(1)Every Class 4 sewage system shall be operated in accordance with the literature required by Sentence 8.6.2.2.(6).

(2)No person shall operate a treatment unit other than a septic tank unless the person has entered into an agreement whereby servicing and maintenance of the treatment unit and its related components will be carried out by a person who,

(a)possesses a copy of the literature required by Sentence 8.6.2.2.(6), and

(b)is authorized by the manufacturer to service and maintain that type of treatment unit.

(3)The person authorized by the manufacturer to service and maintain the treatment unit and who has entered into the agreement referred to in Sentence (2) with the person operating the treatment unit shall notify the chief building official if,

(a)the agreement is terminated, or

(b)access for service and maintenance of the treatment unit is denied by the person operating the treatment unit.

8.9.2.4. Sampling of Treatment Units

(1)Every person operating a treatment unit that is used in conjunction with a leaching bed constructed as a shallow buried trench, Type A dispersal bed or Type B dispersal bed shall,

(a)initially, once during the first 12 months after the sewage system was put into use, and

(b)carry out the sampling required by Clause (1)(a) in accordance with the methods described in the APHA/AWWA/WEF, “Standard Methods for the Examination of Water and Wastewater,” and

(c)promptly submit the results of the sampling required by Clause (a) to the chief building official. (2) Except as provided in Sentence (4), the sampling required by Sentence (1) shall be conducted,

(4)If the results of the sampling required by Sentence (1) do not comply with Sentence (3), the person operating the treatment unit shall,

(a)resample the effluent in accordance with Clauses (1)(a) and

(b)promptly submit the results of the resampling required by Clause (a) to the chief building official.

8.9.2.5. Class 5 Sewage Systems

(1)Every Class 5 sewage system shall be operated in accordance with the agreement referred to in Sentence 8.8.1.2.(2).

(2)No Class 5 sewage system shall be operated once it is filled with sanitary sewage until such time as the sanitary sewage is removed from the sewage system.

8.9.3. Maintenance

8.9.3.1. Scope

(1)The requirements of this Subsection are in addition to the requirements of Subsection 8.9.1.

8.9.3.2. General

(1)Every sewage system shall be maintained so that,

(a)the construction of the sewage system remains in accordance with,

(i)the basis on which the construction and use of the sewage system was approved or required under the Act or predecessor legislation, as the case may be, and

(ii)the requirements of the manufacturer of the sewage system, and

(b)all components of the sewage system function in their intended manner.

(2)The land in the vicinity of a sewage system shall be maintained in a condition that will not cause damage to, or impair the functioning of, the sewage system.

8.9.3.3. Interceptors

(1)Every grease interceptor referred to in Article 8.1.3.1. shall be maintained in accordance with CSA B481.4, “Maintenance of grease interceptors.”

8.9.3.4. Class 4 Sewage Systems

(1)Septic tanks and other treatment units shall be cleaned whenever sludge and scum occupy one-third of the working capacity of the tank.

8.9.3.5. Pressurized Distribution Systems

(1)The pressure head at the furthest point from the pump in all distribution pipes shall be checked for compliance with Articles 8.7.6.1. and 8.7.8.2. and the design specification at least every 36 months.