Sanitary Sewer

View Royal's Sewer Network

Beneath the streets, View Royal's sewer system is a vast network consisting of approximately 50 kilometres of pipeline and 17 pump stations which are electronically monitored on a continual basis. In addition to the Town managed system, there are also privately managed sewer grinder pumps on properties that are lower than the gravity sewer system. All sewage from View Royal flows through the Capital Regional District (CRD) sewage system through the Craigflower Pump Station at Shoreline Drive and then on to MacAulay Point in Esquimalt.

Inflow & Infiltration

Inflow and infiltration (I&I) occurs when storm water flows into the sanitary sewer system. This may occur through cracks in pipes (infiltration) or through a homeowner's storm drainage pipe being connected to the sanitary sewer system (inflow). This results in high sewer flows during storm events.

I&I is a serious issue! 

Because each component of the sewer system (pipe sizes, pump sizes and regional treatment facilities) has been specifically designed to handle the maximum flows, unanticipated changes to the flow through I&I consume sewer capacity needed for future expansion.

 

Major cost implications - adding capacity to the Municipal and Regional sewer systems is very expensive and can result in property tax increases for our residentsA few of the reasons why early detection of I&I is important include:

  • Negative effect of sewer overflows on the environment and sentitive ecosystems
  • Potential public health emergencies associated with sewer overflows into parks, streets or waterways

How does The Town detect instances of I&I?

The Town's I&I Program is designed to reduce the amount of storm water that is flowing into the sanitary sewer system through:

  • Smoke testing
  • Dye testing
  • Flow monitoring
  • Closed Circuit Television Inspections (CCTV)
  • Inspections

Once the Town determines the specific cause of each instance of I&I, remediation takes place.

I&I on Private Property

Studies have shown that a high percentage of instances of I&I originate from private properties - typically through leaking laterals, or cross-connections.  Occurences on private property are the responsibility of the property owner to identify and remediate. If you suspect that your property may be a source of I&I, speak with a plumber to determine the cause and next steps.

Sewer Connection Permit

If you require a sewer connection for your property, complete a Sewer Connection Permit Application Form.