London sewer connection bylaws and fees

This guide explains the sewer connection fees, permit process and municipal requirements for properties in London, Ontario. It summarizes who enforces connection rules, how to apply for a sanitary or storm sewer connection, which departments to contact, and what to expect for inspections and appeals. Where exact fees or penalty amounts are not published on the cited City pages, this article notes that and points to the official sources for forms and contacts to confirm current figures.

Overview of sewer connections

Properties in London connect to either the sanitary or storm sewer system according to municipal design and bylaw requirements. Connection work often requires coordination between the property owner, a licensed plumber or contractor, and City engineering or building services. Many projects also require a building permit or a sewer connection permit and must meet City standards for materials, backflow prevention and inspection.

Typical process for a sewer connection

• Contact the City to confirm whether a permit is required and which sewer (sanitary or storm) serves the property; see City bylaws and guidance pages City bylaws^[1].
• Engage a licensed plumber or contractor to prepare the connection plan and submit any required permit applications to Building or Development Engineering Building Permits^[2].
• Schedule an inspection with City staff for the tap or lateral installation and any required backfill or reinstatement work.
• Pay applicable connection fees, inspection fees and any municipal administrative charges as directed by the City.

Fees and how they are determined

The City charges fees for connections, inspections and administrative services; however, specific fee amounts or tables are not consistently published on the general guidance pages cited here and must be confirmed with City staff or the fee schedule linked by the City. See the City service pages for fee schedules and how to pay.

Penalties & Enforcement

The City enforces sewer connection standards through its municipal bylaws, Building Division and By-law Enforcement units. The enforcement regime covers unauthorized connections, improper discharges, work without permits and failure to comply with inspection or remediation orders.

• Fine amounts: not specified on the cited pages; consult City bylaws or the Building/By-law pages for current fine schedules Water and Wastewater^[3].
• Escalation: ranges for first, repeat or continuing offences are not specified on the cited pages.
• Non-monetary sanctions: the City may issue orders to halt work, require remediation or seek court orders; specifics are set out in the controlling bylaw text or order letters.
• Enforcer and inspection pathway: complaints and inspections are handled by City Building Services and By-law Enforcement; contact details and complaint forms are on City pages.
• Appeals and reviews: the City or bylaw will set appeal routes and time limits; if not listed on the cited pages, those time limits are not specified on the cited page.

Applications & Forms

Permit and application names, submission methods and fees vary by the work type. The City publishes building permit applications and guidance on the Building Permits page, including how to submit plans and who to contact for fees and scheduling.
If no specific connection form is shown on a guidance page, contact Building Services or Development Engineering for the exact form and fee amount.

Common violations

• Connecting without a permit or approval.
• Use of improper materials or failure to meet City standards.
• Failure to schedule or pass required inspections.
• Unauthorized cross-connections between storm and sanitary systems.

Action steps

• Contact Building Services to confirm permit needs and submit plans.
• Prepare and submit the permit application with contractor details and drawings.
• Request the fee schedule from the City and pay required fees before work begins.
• Arrange inspections and correct any deficiencies promptly to avoid orders or fines.

FAQ

Do I need a permit to connect to the sewer?

Most connections require a permit or approval from Building Services or Development Engineering; confirm with the City before starting work.

How much are the sewer connection fees?

Specific fee amounts are not consistently published on the general guidance pages cited here; contact the City fee schedule or Building Services to obtain current fees.

Who inspects sewer connections?

City inspectors from Building Services or Development Engineering perform inspections; the contractor typically books inspections through City channels.

How-To

1. Confirm whether the property connects to sanitary or storm sewer and whether a permit is required by contacting Building Services.
2. Hire a licensed contractor and prepare drawings and specifications for submission.
3. Submit the permit application and pay fees; obtain written approval before starting work.
4. Complete the connection work to City standards and schedule inspections.
5. Resolve any deficiencies noted by inspectors and obtain final sign-off.

Key Takeaways

• Always confirm permit requirements with the City before starting sewer work.
• Fees and fines may apply; check the City fee schedule or contact Building Services for exact amounts.

Help and Support / Resources

• City of London - City bylaws
• City of London - Building Permits
• City of London - Water and Wastewater
• City of London - By-law Enforcement

1. [1] City of London - City bylaws
2. [2] City of London - Building Permits
3. [3] City of London - Water and Wastewater