Small Drinking Water Systems

If you are a new system that has not been assessed by the health unit, you need to complete the Small Drinking Water System Identification form [PDF] and return it to us before supplying drinking water to users of the system. Contact us and we will explain your obligations under Ontario Regulation (O. Reg.) 319/08: Small Drinking Water Systems and the Health Protection and Promotion Act.

Seasonal or reopening after shut down

Any existing Small Drinking Water System owner or operator who wishes to supply water to the system users after there has been a shutdown (has not been supplying water to users) of more than 60 days, must notify the Medical Officer of Health of the intent to begin to supply water.

• Download and complete the Notification of Intent to Supply Water to Users Form [PDF].

We will arrange an inspection and review all information you need to know, including:

• Taking a drinking water sample
• Water testing (get and understand your results)
• Choosing a licensed laboratory in Ontario
• Completing the Notice of Adverse Test Results and Issue Resolution form [PDF]
• Protecting your well water

HPPH is required to conduct routine inspections and risk assessments of Small Drinking Water Systems:

• at least every two years for those classified as high risk, and
• at least every four years for those classified as moderate, low risk or posted

Every year a Small Drinking Water Systems Notification Memo will be mailed to you. This memo is to be filled out annually or when any owner or operator information about your water system has changed.

If your system is due for an inspection, there will be a “Due for Inspection” colour card attached to the memo, outlining how to prepare for an on-site inspection. Once the Small Drinking Water Systems Notification Memo form is returned, a public health inspector will follow-up with you to schedule your inspection.

You must take corrective action.

Adverse test results are when you are notified by the lab or by HPPH that Total Coliforms (TC) and, or E. coli (EC) or other parameters were found in a water sample taken from your Small Drinking Water System.

Ontario O. Reg. 319/08 states that you must report adverse water test results to HPPH immediately.