Water & Sewer
Both water and sewer services are available in the urban area of Powassan. This utility is charged to each user based on a flat rate for residential users and a metered rate for larger commercial users.
WATER: To ensure safe drinking water, the urban drinking water system operates under a Quality Management System as legislated under the Safe Drinking Water Act, 2002. Water quality is tested regularly, as required, and the results of this testing is reported annually and can be found here.
SEWER: Most homeowners may not realize they are responsible for the maintenance and repair of their house or sewer lateral (the pipeline between the municipal sewer main and the building).
Some of the most common causes of sewer backups are:
- aging sewer systems: older sewer lines and systems can contribute to increases in sanitary sewer backups, flooded basements, and overflows
- combined pipelines: some systems combine stormwater and raw sewage into the same pipeline, which means that during rain storms or spring melt, the systems are exposed to more volume than they can handle
- tree roots: small roots of trees and shrubs can make their way into sewer line cracks and service pipe joints - in this case, the cost of clean up may fall on the tree's owner
- sanitary main blockages: often blockages of this type occur slowly, and there are early indications of the problem - if you see seepage at the floor drains, call a licensed plumber to assess the situation
More information on common blockages can be found here.
If water is entering your basement rapidly, call the Municipality Public Works Department and report the problem immediately.
SEPTIC: Septic systems are privately owned and are not connected to municipal sewer lines. Therefore, the owner of a septic system is responsible for the care or maintenance of their system as well ensuring that it is in compliance with all rules and regulations. By taking proper care of your septic system, you will ensure that it remains effective and efficient for the life of the system while optimizing its longevity.
The following sites provide some helpful hints for operating and maintaining your septic system.
Septic Inspections and Permits
For inspections and permits, the North Bay-Mattawa Conservation Authority was designated under the Ontario Building Code (OBC-1997) to conduct inspections and issue sewage system permits across the Nipissing District and defined areas within the Parry Sound District. This includes the area surrounding Powassan.
In addition, building permits may be required from the Municipality of Powassan Building Department. To determine if you require a building permit contact the Chief Building Official at 705-724-2813 ext. 228