As we know, the Ontario Building Code (OBC) implemented changes to the requirements for Treatment Units as outlined in Article 8.6.2.2. which took effect January 1, 2017.  These changes included the removal of Supplementary Standard SB-5 for Approved Treatment Units, and a new reference to the CAN/BNQ 3680-600 standard for certification of treatment units.

In the code change proposals, records of public consultation, and statements previously made by Ministry of Municipal Affairs (MMA) staff and Minister over the last several years, it was very clear that the intent was to make certification to CAN/BNQ 3680-600 mandatory for all treatment units in Ontario, as the new minimum standard. The emphasis was for treatment units that are to be used with smaller final polishing and dispersal options including Shallow Buried Trenches, Type A and Type B Dispersal Beds, or reduced size Filter Beds and Absorption Trenches to be tested rigorously in a cold climate for 12 continuous months with realistic stress conditions.  Read more →

On Friday, February 23rd, OOWA submitted a Request for Review to the Environmental Commissioner of Ontario in collaboration with the Federation of Ontario Cottagers’ Associations. The Environmental Commissioner of Ontario (ECO) is an independent officer of the provincial legislature who reports to the government and to the public on progress regarding a number of environmental issues. Under the Environmental Bill of Rights (EBR), individual citizens, organizations and corporations can ask the Ontario government for a new environmental policy, act or regulation, or for changes to existing ones.

OOWA’s and FOCA’s joint submission to the ECO requests that the Ministry of Municipal Affairs review the efficacy of the provisions in the Building Code that deal with Maintenance and Management of onsite sewage systems (Reg 332/12, Building Code, Division B, Part 8, Section 8.9 -Operation and Maintenance).  In addition, the submission also requests that the Ministry of Environment and Climate Change consider the need for new provisions and/or Regulation under the Ontario Water Resources Act to govern the operation and maintenance of onsite septic systems.  Read more →