Signs that your septic system may be failing include:

• A bad smell
• An unpleasant-looking liquid in the leaching bed
• Spongy spots and sewage on or near the leaching bed
• Slow moving or backed-up drains in your home
• More lush vegetation over the septic bed
• Broken or disconnected pipes

Not all warning signs are visible above ground – an inspection of the tank is necessary to be certain.

Step 1: Pump regularly

• Ensure you inspect your system regularly. It is required to get your septic tank or treatment unit pumped when the sludge and scum layer occupy one-third of the working capacity of the tank (OBC Div B 8.9.3.4).

Step 2: Inspect often

• Regular inspections help prevent problems. Keep accurate records of your septic maintenance and have your effluent filter checked and cleaned every year.

Step 3: Pour and flush responsibly

• FOG’s – known as fats, oils, and grease can be very harmful to your septic system. Don't flush cooking oils, food waste, hazardous chemicals, and harsh cleaning products.

On December 11th, 2023, Council passed By-law 2023-116 to register, regulate and govern Short-Term Rentals in the Township of Georgian Bay.

https://www.gbtownship.ca/en/business-and-development/short-term-rentals.aspx

Short term rental hosts who are on a septic system must ensure that their septic system can accommodate the occupancy of their rental. It is also crucial that hosts maintain their on-site sewage system to ensure it is always function as intended.

Tips for Hosts:

• Inspect your sewage system annually and get it pumped when needed.
• Educate renters on a responsible flush. Don’t flush fats, oils, and grease.
• Create a physical barrier so renters don’t drive over your sewage system.
• Only rent to the number of occupants your sewage system is designed for.
• Fix leaky faucets.
• Maintain the effluent filter. If you don’t know – contact a professional. 

Tips for Renters

• FOG’s – Fats, Oils, and grease can be harmful to a septic system.
• Limit the use of water while at the cottage.
• Hygiene products and chemical cleaners should not enter the septic system.
• Flush only toilet paper
• Minimize laundry and dishwasher loads.
• Never drive over a septic bed.

Under the Ontario Building Code, the Township has a requirement to complete

mandatory septic inspections. These mandatory inspections are to be completed within

1 kilometer from a municipal water intake supply known as an "IPZ" (Intake Protection

Zone). The Township has Intake Protection Zones located within the communities of

Port Severn and Mactier. The Township is required to complete a sewage

system inspection every 5 years for any system located within the IPZ.

The Ontario Building Code provides the Township with powers to conduct a

discretionary septic re-inspection program to ensure on-site sewage systems are functioning in

a safe and proper manner. The septic re-inspection program is aimed at waterfront properties (both by road access and water) to help protect Township lakes and waterways.

Township staff utilize annual water quality reporting identifying areas with increased water quality concerns, such as E. coli and Phosphorous, to determine properties for inspections. 

 2023 Septic Re-inspection Year-end Report

 2024 Septic Re-inspection Year-end Report