Septic Design

Septic Design Services in Ontario

A septic system treats wastewater on properties that do not connect to a municipal sewer. Therefore, the design must suit the building, the land, and the expected sewage flow.

Elmid Design Inc. provides septic design services for residential and commercial properties across Ontario. In addition, our team prepares drawings and design details for permit review.

When May You Need a Septic Design?

A new or updated septic design may be needed when a property cannot connect to a municipal sewer. However, the exact requirements depend on the site, building, and local approval authority.

For example, you may need a septic design for:

• A new house or building
• A home addition
• A change in building use
• An increase in bedrooms or plumbing fixtures
• A failed or damaged septic system
• A replacement septic system
• An upgrade to an existing system
• A rural or waterfront property
• A residential or commercial development

First, our team reviews the proposed work and available property information. Then, we can explain which design documents may be required.

What Affects Septic System Design?

Every property has different site conditions. Therefore, a septic system must match the needs and limits of the lot.

Important design factors may include:

• The expected daily sewage flow
• The number of bedrooms
• The proposed use of the building
• Soil type and soil test results
• Groundwater conditions
• Bedrock depth
• Property size and shape
• Existing ground slopes
• Nearby wells and water bodies
• Buildings and property boundaries
• Existing and proposed drainage
• Access for future service and care

In addition, the approval authority may request more information based on the location and scope of the project.

Our Septic Design Process

Review the Property

First, we review the property address, building plans, survey, and proposed use. We also check the information available for the existing septic system, if one is present.

Review the Site Conditions

Next, we consider the soil, lot size, ground slope, water table, and nearby site features. A site visit or soil test may also be needed.

Prepare the Septic Design

Then, our team prepares the proposed septic system layout and design details. We also coordinate the system with the building, property lines, well, driveway, grading, and other site features.

Support the Permit Review

Finally, the design can form part of the permit submission. The reviewing authority may send comments or request more details. When needed, Elmid Design Inc. can update its drawings within the agreed scope of work.

Types of Septic Systems

The right system depends on the property and site conditions. For this reason, the final system type should follow a full project review.

Conventional Septic Systems

A conventional system often includes a septic tank and a leaching bed. It may work well when the lot has enough space and suitable soil conditions.

Raised or Filter Beds

Some properties have poor soil, shallow bedrock, or a high water table. Therefore, the design may need a raised or filter bed with suitable imported material.

Shallow Buried Trench Systems

A shallow buried trench system may suit some properties with limited space or difficult ground conditions. However, it may require pumps, treatment units, and more regular care.

Advanced Treatment Systems

Some sites may need an advanced treatment unit before wastewater enters the final distribution area. The selected system must suit the property and meet the applicable approval needs.

What We Need to Start

The required information depends on the project. However, the following items can help our team begin:

• The property address
• A description of the proposed work
• A recent survey, if available
• Building and floor plans
• The proposed number of bedrooms
• Existing septic records, if available
• Well and water-source information
• Soil or site test results
• Previous permits or review comments
• Photos of the property

First, send us the documents you already have. Then, our team can identify any missing information.

Septic Design for New and Existing Properties

Elmid Design Inc. prepares designs for new septic systems, replacement systems, and upgrades to existing systems. We also work on new homes, additions, rural properties, and other projects that may increase sewage flow.

However, a design cannot rely on building size alone. Soil, water, slopes, lot limits, and nearby site features can also affect the final layout.

Septic Design Services Across Ontario

We provide septic design services for properties in the GTA and other parts of Ontario. For example, our service area may include York, Durham, Peel, Halton, Simcoe, Kawartha Lakes, Peterborough, and nearby regions.

Still, each area may use a different approval office or review process. Therefore, we prepare each project based on its location and current submission needs.

Frequently Asked Questions

How Much Does a Septic Design Cost?

The cost depends on the property, building use, sewage flow, site conditions, and required tests. Therefore, we review the project information before providing a quote.

Do I Need a Soil Test?

Many septic projects need soil and site information before the system can be designed. However, the exact testing needs depend on the property and approval authority.

How Long Does Septic Design Take?

The design time depends on the project and the available information. In addition, site testing and permit review may affect the overall schedule.

Can Elmid Design Inc. Replace or Install the Septic System?

No. Elmid Design Inc. provides engineering design, drawings, and permit support. We do not provide excavation, installation, pumping, repair, or construction work.

Who Approves a Septic System?

The reviewing authority depends on the property location. It may be a municipality, health unit, or another local authority. Therefore, property owners should confirm the correct approval office for their site.

Discuss Your Septic Design Project

Do you need a septic design for a new building, addition, replacement, or permit application? Contact Elmid Design Inc. and tell us about your property. Then, our team can review the available information and explain the next steps.