ss-programbug-plainSeptic systems play a crucial role in treating wastewater for homeowners in our region, particularly where public sewers aren’t an option due to cost or availability. These systems, also known as onsite wastewater treatment systems, manage household wastewater right where it's generated.

When functioning properly, septic systems are both environmentally friendly and cost-effective. However, if they malfunction, they can pose significant environmental and health risks to our community.

September 16-20, 2024 is Septic Awareness Week

The CRD and Western Canada Onsite Wastewater Management Association are promoting proper operation and maintenance of onsite wastewater systems.  Learn more  

Septic Awareness Quiz Giveaway:

Follow us on Facebook or Instagram and comment on the CRD’s Septic Savvy quiz contest post from September 9-29, for a chance to receive a $50 gift card to the hardware store of your choice.

Septic Savvy Giveaway Rules

Learn more about your Septic System this fall by registering for one of the following webinars/workshops:

Sept 17, 7-9 pm, Septic Sense Webinar, organized by WCOWMA-BC
Click here to register via Zoom

Sept 19, 7-9 pm, Septic Sense Webinar, organized by WCOWMA-BC
Click here to register via Zoom

Sept 24, 7-9:30 pm, CRD Septic Savvy in person at the Highlands Community Center

Sept 25, 2-4:30 pm, CRD Septic Savvy in person at the Vancouver Island Regional Library, North Saanich/Sidney Branch

Sept 26, 7-9 pm, CRD Septic Savvy Webinar for Salt Spring and Southern Gulf Islands
Click here to register via Zoom

Curious about getting a septic inspection? 

Watch our video to learn about the process and hear from a septic inspector as well as a homeowner:

Be Septic Savvy: Protect, Inspect, Maintain. 

  • Protect your system by paying attention to what does down the drain, as well as what goes over-top the sensitive drain field.
  • Inspect your system. If you don’t know where your system components are located or if you don’t have a maintenance plan, an inspection is a good place to start.
  • Maintain your system by having regular visits by an authorized person who will check the components and report on the operation and condition of the system.

Printable Septic Savvy Household Information Kit (available for pick up at most municipal halls and libraries)

Video Clips

For more information on the care and maintenance of residential septic systems view the following video clips for homeowners.

Household Practices

Bylaw 3479

Residents in Colwood, Langford, Saanich, and View Royal  have specific regulations through Bylaw 3479, based on the type septic system they have (Type 1 or Type 2/3).  

Residents regulated under Bylaw 3479 are eligible for an inspection with costs shared by the CRD. There is limited funding and a limited number of spots available. Learn more:

Island Health (VIHA)

The health authority holds records of septic system installation and repairs, investigates septic complaints, and enforces orders for repairs if there is a health hazard in the community (raw sewage being exposed).

Applied Science Technologists & Technicians of BC (ASTTBC)

Certifies Registered Onsite Wastewater Practitioners (ROWP) who can plan, install, maintain or inspect a septic system in BC.

Ministry of Health

MoH is responsible for administering the Sewerage System Regulation (SSR), pursuant to the Public Health Act, which governs the design, construction, and maintenance of onsite sewage systems in BC.