Failing to follow the Sewer By-Law could result in a fine
As summer comes to an end, it is time to start preparing for the cooler months ahead. If you have a pool, it is important to drain it properly.
It is against City of Winnipeg’s Sewer By-Law to drain pool water into a manhole, onto a neighbouring property, sidewalk, or into a waterway, such as retention ponds or creeks.
Before you drain your pool, let it sit for at least one week without adding chemicals. This allows the chlorine in the water to break down to a less harmful level.
You can then drain your pool into your home’s wastewater sewer (not the sump pit), or onto your lawn. The water must remain on your property until it evaporates or soaks into the ground. Be sure to drain it slowly so that it is absorbed and does not pond.
To drain pool water onto a street, into a ditch, or in a sewer drain, you or your pool service provider must have a Wastewater Discharge Licence. The licence is valid for one year and there is a fee to apply. You must follow the terms and conditions outlined on the licence to comply with the by-law.
The process is slightly different if you have a salt water pool. These have high levels of sodium chloride that can harm the storm sewer. The salt water cannot be drained into the sewer drain. Instead, drain it into your wastewater sewer, onto your lawn, or hire a licensed wastewater hauler to remove it.
Failing to follow the Sewer By-Law could result in a violation notice and fine. If you have any questions, please contact 311.
