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Private Sewage Permits

Private sewage systems such as septic tanks, treatment fields, holding tanks and other onsite wastewater disposal systems, require permits before installation or alteration. This ensures they are designed and constructed safely and in compliance with the Alberta Private Sewage Systems Standard of Practice and the Safety Codes Act.

Before beginning construction, review the information on this page to ensure your project meets all requirements and that you have applied for the necessary permits.

eApply

When do you need a permit?

Private Sewage Permits must be obtained by a certified sewage installer licensed in the Province of Alberta and holding a City of Lethbridge business license.

You need a permit to:

Install a new private sewage disposal system (e.g., septic tank, treatment field, mound or open discharge)
Alter, extend, replace or add to an existing private sewage system
Change the system in a way that affects design, layout or capacity

You do not need a permit for:

Routine maintenance
Simple replacement of equipment of a similar type that does not modify the design of the system

How to apply?

You can apply online through eApply or in person at City Hall.

Your application should include:

Property address and applicant contact information
Description of work (new installation, extension, alteration)
Design details showing tank size, treatment type, field or mound layout and material specifications
Soil evaluation (if required by system design requirements)
Contractor license and certification details

Permit Fees

Residential: minimum permit fee of $110.00 plus applicable Safety Codes Council levy. Fees increase based on the total construction value.
Commercial: minimum permit fee of $110.00 plus applicable Safety Codes Council levy. Fees increase based on the total construction value.

Inspections

Inspections are required at key stages of construction, typical inspections would include:

Rough-in (before components are buried)
Final (after system completion)

You must schedule inspections at least one business day in advance. Please schedule using the eInspections portal.

FAQs

Do I need a permit to replace my septic tank?

Yes. If replacement alters the design or capacity of the existing system, a permit is required.

Who is allowed to install a private sewage system?

Systems must be installed by a certified private sewage installer with the appropriate competency and City business license.

Do private sewage permits expire?

Private sewage permits can expire, so it's important to plan your project in advance to avoid delays or cancellations.

Permits expire when:

Work has not started within 90 days of permit issuance
Work has been suspended or abandoned for 120 days after it was started

Permits can be closed if there is no entry arranged or permitted. Work covered by the permit must be completed within 365 days.