Frequently Asked Questions

• What is a septic system?

  A septic system is generally made up of two parts: A Septic Tank
  A Leaching Field Your septic system stores and treats sewage / grey water from you home before it is released back into the local water table

• What is the cost of a new septic system?

  Approximately $5 000 - $7 000 for a basic system, add an additional $5 000 or more if imported fill is required.

• How much land is required for a septic system?

  Semi service lot (Water source is off site): 0.14 hectares or about 15 000 square feet Full service lot (Water source is on the lot): 0.2 hectares or about 20 000 square feet

• What size septic thank is required?

  A minimum of 500 gallons is required by standard, but only 600 gallons tanks are available locally. If the dwelling has over 3 bedrooms a larger tank will be needed.

• What is the separation distance between my well and septic system?

  The septic tank and absorption field must have a minimum separation distance of: 100 feet from a natural water source or dug well
  50 feet from a drilled well

• Can an ocean outfall be used in place of an absorption field?

  Ocean outfalls can be used if they are common in the area and soil conditions are unsuitable for an absorption field

• Can an ocean outfall be shared?

  An ocean outfall can be shared provided you have written consent from the other party, and your own septic tank per CSA standards

• What is the difference between the white and green pipe?

  The green pipe is road grade, it is used where there may be a load on the surface

• What is involved in the free site visit?

  The site visit is a primary evaluation of the property. At this point we determine if the property is suitable for a septic field and determine the optimal location for the septic field

• What does it cost for the design process?

  Charges start at $500 for testing and design, the client is responsible for the cost of the backhoe or excavator

• What information is required during the site visit?

  The following information is required for the site visit: Completed application to develop land
  Floor plan of the dwelling
  Property Dimensions

• When is a new septic system design required?

  A new septic system design is required when: Applying for Crown land
  Applying to develop land
  Requested by Service NL
  Requested by lenders or lawyers
  Replacing a failing system

• What can I do if I have a failing system but don't meet the requirements for a new system?

  We will work with Service NL to design a replacement system

• How long do I have to install the system once the design process is completed?

  Once the design is completed, you have two years to install it with a possible extension of an additional year (unless otherwise instructed by Service NL)

• When installing my septic system, where do I call for an inspection?

  Call Service NL five working days before the install. The septic system can not be back filled until the inspection is completed. Service NL can be reached at: 643-8651 or 643-8652

• When can I apply for an Electrical permit?

  An Electrical permit can be obtained once the sewer design is approved and an approval certificate is issued to the home owner

• Who is responsible to arrange a backhoe or excavator for the soil tests?

  The applicant is responsible for the cost of rental and arranging a contractor to be on site during the time of soil testing
  I will provide a list of contractors / equipment owners who would be available for hire

• Who submits the preliminary application to develop land?

  These can be filled out by the applicant and submitted to Service NL by the applicant. For a fee, I can act as your agent and submit the completed form along with all required documents to Service NL.

• How long does it take to have a sewer design completed and approved?

  After the site visit and testing of soil, approval is usually granted within two weeks

• What is protected roads?

  Protected Roads is a 400 meter easement from the Trans Canada Highway. If you are within this area a: Preliminary Application to Develop Land Must be completed and submitted to Service NL.

Exit FAQ