Municipalité de Russell Township|Township Services|Water and Wastewater|Septic Tanks and Private Wells

Septic Tanks and Private Wells

Property owners are responsible for the installation, maintenance and repair of private wells and septic systems on their property.

Your Private Well

As a private well owner, it is your responsibility to understand how your well works and to maintain it properly. Regular care helps ensure your drinking water remains safe.

Test Your Well Water for Bacteria

The Eastern Ontario Health Unit (EOHU) offers free well water testing to private households that use well water for drinking.

The EOHU recommends testing your well water for coliform bacteria and E. coli:

Every 4 months (3 times a year)
If you suspect a waterborne illness
If you notice a change in colour, odour or taste

Visit the Eastern Ontario Health Unit website for more information.

Resources for Private Well Owners

Your Septic System

Understanding how your septic system works helps protect your health, your family and the environment. Property owners are responsible for all septic system maintenance and repairs.

Caring for Your Septic System

Step 1: Pump regularly

Have your septic tank pumped every 3 to 5 years

Step 2: Inspect often

Have your system inspected every 3 years
Clean and check the effluent filter annually
Keep records of all maintenance and inspections

Step 3: Pour and flush responsibly

Do not pour cooking oils, food waste, hazardous chemicals or harsh cleaning products down drains or toilets

For more information on your septic system, call South Nation Conservation Authority.

More Resources on Septic Tanks

The following resource provides information on legal requirements for wells, as well as guidance on water treatment and sampling:

Email the Infrastructure Department

Email(Required)

Name(Required)

Untitled(Required)

File

Max. file size: 256 MB.