SEWAGE SYSTEM PROGRAM

As of May 1, 2026, the Township of Armour will be responsible for issuing permits and enforcement of septic system provisions, including conducting inspections and issuing orders for remedial actions where necessary for all properties within the Township.


The Township of Armour’s Sewage System (Septic) program is designed to protect the environment and people’s health and safety by regulating and ensuring compliance with the Ontario Building Code (OBC) Part 8 regarding the installation and maintenance of private on-site sewage systems within the Township.

If your residential, seasonal or commercial property will be using an on-site sewage system, the OBC requires you to obtain a permit.


You may need an on-site sewage system permit if you are:

  • building a new home or cottage
  • building an addition with additional bedrooms and/or adding plumbing fixtures (talk to an inspector for specifications)
  • installing an outhouse, leaching (grey water) pit or holding tank
  • replacing the bed or tank of your existing on-site sewage system
  • demolishing an on-site sewage system
  • building or expanding a commercial/industrial facility with a daily design flow of less than 10,000 litres per day (systems larger than 10,000 litres/day in design capacity and communal (off-lot) sewage systems are regulated by the Ministry of Environment, Conservation and Parks under the Ontario Water Resources Act.) 

How to Submit Your Application

Timelines

Upon the Township of Armour’s Building Department receiving a correct and complete application for an On-site Sewage System Permit, the Building Inspector will, within seven working days, visit the site, review the proposal and make a recommendation. The overall timeline within which a permit is issued or refused by the Township of Armour is 10 working days, as defined in the Ontario Building Code, 2.4.1.1.B.(3).


Appeals

If a permit is refused, and you can’t resolve the problems with the Township of Armour, you have several avenues of appeal. If the problem relates to technical requirements set out in the Building Code, you may apply to the Building Code Commission. If it is refused by the Commission, an appeal can be made to the Superior Court of Justice.