Septic System Replacement in Ontario: Options, Permits, and Timeline

If you’re replacing a failing system in the Ottawa Valley, you’ll need a properly designed and installed septic system. Many homeowners aren’t sure what to expect when it comes to septic options, septic permits, or how long the septic replacement or septic installation process takes. Here’s a clear guide to help you plan.

Septic Installation

Step 1: Septic System Design & Permit

Before installation begins, Ontario building code requires a septic design and septic permit.

Septic Design: A Septic designer or engineer will assess your property, soil type, and water table to create a plan that meets Ontario Building Code requirements. There are several types of septic systems available—whether treatment-based or conventional—and we will review all suitable options with you.

Septic Permit: The Septic Design will be submitted through your local conservation authority or health unit (e.g., Ottawa Septic System Office, RVCA, MRSSO, etc.) in order to obtain a Septic Permit.

This step ensures your septic system is safe, legal, and built to last.

Step 2: Excavation & Installation

Once the septic permit is approved, the septic installation can begin. The process usually includes:

1. Excavating the site for the septic tank and leaching bed (i.e. septic bed)

2. Placing the septic tank (concrete or plastic)

3. Installing distribution pipes or chambers in the drain field

4. Backfilling, grading, and restoring the site

Step 3: Inspection

Before you can use your system, the local authority must inspect the septic installation. This ensures it matches the approved design and Ontario Building Code standards.

Step 4: Final Hookup & Use

Once approved, your septic system is ready to use. From there, it safely manages wastewater year-round with minimal and standard maintenance (pumping every 3–5 years).

Typical Timeline

Septic Design & permit approval: 2–6 weeks, depending on the municipality

Excavation & installation: 3–7 days, depending on property conditions (i.e. size of house, soil type, etc.)

Inspection & final approval: Completed by a City of Ottawa inspector (or other municipally septic inspector) as soon as possible once the septic installation is completed, before the final backfill.

On average, you should plan for 1–2 months total from start to finish.

Tips for Homeowners

1. Engage a trusted septic installer like Foster Civil Contracting, so you can finalize the Septic Design and apply for permits early, especially in spring/summer when municipalities get busy.

2. Choose an experienced contractor familiar with local soil and regulations.

3. Keep records of your septic system design for future reference.

   
   

Ready to Install a Septic System?

At Foster Civil Contracting, we handle septic installations from start to finish, including design, permits, and installation. We’ll guide you through the entire process so you don’t have to worry about the details.

Contact us today through our website, email or call for a free consultation and detailed quote for your septic project. We proudly serve the Ottawa area, the Ottawa Valley, and everywhere in between.