The bylaws related sewers deal with appropriate water use and drainage in and around your property. For more details please refer to the
Drainage Bylaw 37M2005 as well as theWastewater Bylaw 14M2012 which contain an overview of these regulations. Original copy of the bylaws are available at the City Clerk's office.
For more information about bylaws related to sewers you may also view the following 
Drainage and hazardous materials andFall clean-up videos, or read theGood Neighbour Practices References Guide and theYard and Perimeter Maintenance guide.
An overview of bylaws related to sewers
Prohibited material
It is an offence to allow any prohibited material into the Storm Drainage System. Examples of prohibited materials include: soil, waste, animal waste, cooking oils, greases, gasoline, motor oil, solvents, paint, cement, sawdust, yard waste, pesticides, biomedical waste, hazardous waste, soaps, odorous materials, detergents and water from hot tubs.
Directing storm drainage
Downspouts and eaves troughs must not terminate within 2 meters of a surface drainage facility (unless located in a side yard) or a street, which includes alleys and lanes. Further information regarding directing of downspouts can be found in theCommunity Standards Bylaw 5M2004.
Surface drainage facilities
It is a requirement to keep surface drainage facilities on private property (known as "Overland Drainage Right-of-Way" (ODRW) including swales and catch basins/drains) clear of any soil, silt, yard waste or any other matter that may obstruct, restrict or prevent the flow of water. Buildings or structures cannot be constructed or placed on or over the surface drainage facility. If a fence must be built over the facility, there must be at least 6 inches of clearance between the facility and the bottom of the fence.
Use of storm drainage
The use of any storm drainage for activities such as construction or irrigation purposes is prohibited without the written consent of the Director of Resources.
Fines for violations of these regulations range between $300 and $3,000 for the first offence.
Filing a complaint
To report a bylaw violation please choose one of the following options:
