Provincial septic information for British Columbia
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Permits and regulations

British ColumbiaSeptic systems

British Columbia uses a filing system under the Sewerage System Regulation. An authorized person must file system information before construction and submit a certification after completion.

Reviewed June 17, 2026
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Key facts

Before work begins

Main ruleSewerage System Regulation, B.C. Reg. 326/2004
Approval authorityRegional health authority filings through an authorized person
General scopeHolding tanks, single-family and duplex systems, and onsite systems below 22,700 litres per day.
  • Hire an authorized person, such as a Registered Onsite Wastewater Practitioner or qualified professional.
  • Complete the health-authority filing before construction or a significant repair.
  • Keep the filed plans, maintenance plan and completion certification with the property records.

General approval path

General approval path

Contact an authorized person before excavation or system replacement.
Complete the site and soil assessment and confirm local zoning or building requirements.
Have the authorized person file plans and specifications with the regional health authority before construction.
After construction, obtain the maintenance plan, as-built information and letter of certification.
Important requirementThe provincial regulation requires the letter of certification to be filed within 30 days after construction is completed. A health-authority filing is not the same process as a municipal building permit, so local requirements still need confirmation.

This page provides general information. Confirm property-specific requirements with the local and provincial authority before work begins.

Official government sources

Official government sources

BC Onsite Sewage System Managementwww2.gov.bc.ca/gov/content/environment/waste-management/sewage/onsite-sewage-systems/onsite-sewage-system-management
BC Sewerage System Regulationwww.bclaws.gov.bc.ca/civix/document/id/complete/statreg/326_2004/
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