Connecting to the Langford Sewer System
Where is the best location for my new sewer service connection and how do I select it?
Remember to plan your connection carefully; you will not be able to use your plumbing system during the connection and testing of the service connection.
Is it mandatory to connect to the Langford sewer system?
Should your current disposal system not function as intended or cause or contribute to a health hazard, and Langford sewers are available fronting your property, you will be required to connect as ordered by the Island Health Authority.
City Council is preparing a bylaw that will require all properties that have a sewer main available for connection be required to connect by the end of 2019. All properties that receive a sewer main after the date of the bylaw shall be required to connect either by the end of 2019 or within one year of the sewer main being available for connection, whichever is later.
When and who will determine the route that sewer connections must take to reach the main line sewer?
Property owners are consulted during construction of mainline sewers in order to select a suitable location for each individual sewer service with the goal of minimizing cost and disruption to the property. It will be up to the property owner and his/her contractor to determine the on-site details.
Will each property be connected individually or can properties connect in pairs?
Individually, however, it may be desirable in some instances to utilize a common trench. Common trench installation may require the property owners to provide a private easement. Such an easement would require filing with BC Land Titles office.
Who is responsible for the sewer works on my property?
Work on private property (other than municipal easements) will be the owner’s responsibility. Conversely, private residents cannot work within the municipal road right-of-way. Any sewer works within the municipal road right-of-way must be completed by West Shore Environmental Services forces.
Can property owners seek their own contractors to install the sewer connections?
Yes. All on-site works are the responsibility of the homeowner. You are encouraged to solicit prices from various plumbing contractors to ensure you get a fair price. Ensure the plumber/contractor has a valid business license to work in the City of Langford.
West Shore Environmental Services can provide a list of capable contractors if requested.
What is the minimum pipe size for a sewer connection?
A typical residential home can be serviced by gravity with a 100mm (4") diameter service. Duplexes or multi-family units may require 150mm (6”) diameter connections.
Low pressure sewer services are typically 40mm (1-1/2”) or 50mm (2”) in diameter.
What are the steps for connecting to the sewer system?
Choose a qualified plumbing contractor to connect your house to the service provided at your property line. You might consider organizing your neighbors to engage one contractor for your block which may result in a cost saving.
Complete a sewer application at West Shore Environmental Services and pay the appropriate fees (see also “What are the costs for connection to the sewer system” and “What are my payment options”) after which West Shore Environmental Services will issue a Sewer Authorization form.
With the Sewer Authorization in hand, you or your contractor can obtain a plumbing permit from the City of Langford for a nominal fee of approximately $50.00, not including any damage deposit.
After your contractor completes the connection, the connection will be inspected by the City of Langford. All on-site works are to be constructed to the BC Plumbing Code and any applicable bylaws or regulations.
For those requiring pumps, see also “Low Pressure Sewer Systems and Grinder Pumps”.
What happens to my existing septic tank?
Once your sewer is connected to the Langford sewer system, the City of Langford bylaws require that your existing septic tank be decommissioned within 30 days of connection.
Why do I have to decommission my septic tank?
City bylaws require that all septic tanks be decommissioned in conjunction with connection to the Langford sewer system.
Capital Regional District Bylaw #2922 - CRD Sewer Use Bylaw prohibits the discharge of septage into the CRD sewer system. Since the City discharges directly to the CRD system, their bylaw has jurisdiction within Langford.
What is involved in decommissioning my septic tank?
Your septic tank and/or treatment plant must be pumped out and the contents disposed of in a lawful manner; a receipt for pump-out may be required.
The bottom of the septic tank/treatment plant is to be removed or broken-out and the tank filled with compacted sand or gravel.
What are the on-site costs for connection to the sewer system?
We encourage residents to obtain several quotes to ensure a fair price. The on-site costs will vary from property to property; most homes should be able to connect at an approximate cost of $2,500 to $5,000.
Those homes with extensive landscaping and a long service trench will most likely be more expensive. Other cost factors include rock blasting, pavement and concrete driveway or sidewalk restoration.
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