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Water and Sewer

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HomeLive HereWater and Sewer

Drop of water, water ripple

 
 

The Municipality of Grey Highlands provides municipal water and sanitary sewer services within some of our settlements. Every homeowner is responsible for maintaining the water and sanitary lines from the street to inside your home.

If you require the water to be shut off to your home due to work being done, please contact the environmental services staff a minimum of 48 hours before the required shut off time.

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Notice - 2025 Water/Wastewater Rates 

Water and Wastewater Rate Study Update (Hemson Consultants) - September 25 2024 

Notice Regarding Final Billing - July 15 2024 

By-Law 2022-116 Water and Wastewater Rates 2023-2026 

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Water and Sewer Billing

Understanding your bill

Water Codes

 Code MWMR - Water metered residential

This code represents the amount of water used during the billing period. This is also where you can have control over your bill by reducing the amount of water used during the billing cycle. 

Current reading: 6663.00 – This is the reading that was either displayed on the read out on the side of our house, or picked up from the new style meter in your basement. 

Previous reading: 6647.00 – This is the reading that was inputted the previous time your water meter was read. 

Consumption: 16.00 CM – This is how much water you used in the billing period, measured in cubic meters. 1 cubic meter is equal to 1000 litres of water. If you had zero consumption, there was either an issue reading your meter or the meter may need to be replaced. 

Consumption 16.00@0.73000000 – This is your consumption in cubic meters at the current rate of water.

Code MWDC – WATER DELIVERY ¾” METER

This code identifies what size water meter you have, which indicates how you are charged. This is a shared cost between all water users to recover the fix costs associated with treating water and maintaining the water systems.

Sewer Codes

 Code MSMR – SEWER BI-MONTHLY

This code represents the amount of wastewater discharged during the billing cycle. 

Consumption 16 CM@0.41000000 – This is the consumption of water used in cubic meters that is discharged to the sanitary sewer at the current rate of sewer.

 Code MSDC – SEWER DELIVERY ¾” METER

This line represents the shared costs between all sewer users to recover the fixed costs associated with treating and maintaining the wastewater systems.

Frequently Asked Questions:

Q: What are some ways to reduce my consumption?

A: Installing low flow devices such as toilets or faucets; turning off the tap while you brush your teeth, wash dishes, etc.; high efficiency dishwasher and washing machine use less water; reduce shower time; and consider collecting rain water to use in the garden.

Q: What are some of the fix costs of water and wastewater delivery?

A: Hydro for the plants, regulatory sampling requirements, infrastructure upgrades, equipment maintenance, etc.

Q: Why are these fixed costs shared?

A: One of the main reasons this cost exists and is shared between all users is so that every building that has access to Municipal Drinking Water or Municipal Wastewater is sharing the costs associated with the service being provided. Some homes in the system are not used as a primary address, but they are still paying the same amount to have access to the systems.

Q: Does a house pay the same amount as a commercial building for water and wastewater delivery?

A: These fees are based on the water meter size, which is assigned a unit value. A house with a ¾” meter is assigned one unit 

Q: Why is wastewater billed using the amount of water consumption?

A: Water into the house is relatively equal to the amount of water leaving the house in the sanitary sewer. This would be water from toilets, showers, sinks, washing machines, etc. entering the sanitary sewer to be treated. 

 

Paying your utility bill
  • Pre-authorized utility payment plans

Sign up for one of our pre-authorized payment plans:

  1. Billed amount on the account on the due date of the utility billing
  2. Fixed Amount on the account on the last business day of the month

     To sign up, fill out the Pre-Authorized Utility Payment Plan form

  • At your Bank

Grey Highlands accepts payments through most banking institutions. Please register with your bank by using your account number located on your tax bill.

  • In Person

Payments are accepted at the Grey Highlands Municipal Office located at 206 Toronto Street South Markdale.

  • By credit card

Grey Highlands uses Paymentus to allow you to pay your tax and utility bills by credit card. Please note Paymentus charges an additional fee for this service (2.50% for tax bills and $5.95 per $250.00 for water bills).

  • By Mail

Payments can be mailed to:

Municipality of Grey Highlands

PO Box 409

Markdale ON N0C 1H0

Water and Sewer Rates

Water and wastewater rates by system - See schedule A

2021 water and wastewater rate study and financial plan

Drinking Water

Municipal Water Systems

Markdale water system - is a Class 1 Treatment and Class 1 distribution system. The system consists of three drilled wells and two pumping stations. Both pumping stations pump directly into the distribution system and elevated standpipe.

Kimberley-Amik-Talisman water system - is a Class 3 treatment and Class 1 distribution system. The system consists of two raw water springs and a conventional filtration packaged plant. A storage reservoir provides water via a pumped and a gravity water main.

The Municipality has a Drinking Water Quality Management System in place under the Safe Drinking Water Act, 2002. The Operational Plan will be made available for viewing upon request.

Find out more in the Waterworks By-law 2009-27.

Water quality survey

The public utilities staff have created a water quality survey to collect feedback from municipal water system users on their satisfaction of their water and service levels. Please take a moment to complete the survey.

Drinking water source protection
Visit the Drinking Water Source Protection website for information related to source water protection and to see if your property is within the vulnerable area.
Water meter replacement program

The Municipality of Grey Highlands will be undertaking a water meter replacement program to update the water meters for the Markdale and Kimberley-Amik-Talisman water system users.

The new Neptune meters will improve the efficiency of reading water meters through the installation of radio frequency meters. Once a new meter is installed, the need for municipal staff to enter homes/businesses or private property to obtain meter readings will be minimized. The new meters are more accurate, but the total volume on the bill will still be cubic meters and billed according to the current water rates. When a community reduces water use, it benefits everyone by preserving the resource and deferring the investment in water supply infrastructure.

To assist this program, we are asking property owners to contact Public Utilities Department to set up an appointment within ten business days of receiving this notice. The Municipality is legislated to maintain an accurate record of water consumption within the distribution system. There will be no cost associated with the new water meter.

 

Scheduling an appointment

Appointments can be made by calling 519-986-2811 ext. 246 or emailing enviro@greyhighlands.ca. Appointments are currently being scheduled Tuesday to Thursday from 9:00am to 2:00pm. If this is not possible, please advise a time that would be convenient for you.

The installation process will take approximately 60 minutes. This time includes time for the operator to setup; install the new meter and any cleanup. 

Prior to your appointment

The meter will be installed inside your house near the main shut-off valve where the water service line comes into your home or business, usually in the basement. We ask that you please ensure this space is clear and unobstructed for the installer.

An adult must be home during the entire installation appointment.

Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Do I have to participate in the water meter replacement program?

A: Yes, each property within the Markdale and Kimberley-Amik-Talisman water systems that currently receive water from the municipal drinking water system must allow access to the Public Utilities Department to replace the current water meter.

Q: Why are the water meters being replaced?

A: Water meters have a life span, just like any household appliance. The new meters are more accurate and reading the meters will become more efficient.

Q: Can I replace the meter myself?

A: No, the Municipality is supplying and installing all the water meters.

Q: Who do I call if I have a problem?

A: If you experience any problems with your water meter installation immediately following your appointment, please contact the Public Utilities Department at 519-986-4784.

Q: Are there any charges or fees that I will incur for the replacement of my water meter?

A: No, the Municipality is covering the cost for the water meter replacement program.

Q: What is required to prepare for the appointment?

A: Provide a clear and unobstructed access to the water meter. An adult (18 years or older) must be at the residence for the fill duration of the appointment.

Q: Will my water bill increase after replacing my water meter?

A: The new water meter will accurately record your water consumption. If your current water meter is not registering or under registering the amount of water you use, you may see an increase for the consumption. Otherwise, there shouldn’t be a change in your water bill.

Q: What if I am unable to schedule an appointment during the day?

A: We will make every effort to accommodate your schedule, please contact us and we will determine a time that works for us and you. 

Choosing tap water

It is safe

The Public Utilities department must meet strict requirements under Ontario’s Safe Drinking Water Act.

Water from the system is tested regularly for bacteria levels and tested for more than 70 chemicals. We also monitor our water quality 24/7 to make sure it is safe for you and your family. All of our sample results are available for anyone to review.

It costs less

To buy a case of 500 mL bottle of water, you will spend roughly $2.00 to $6.00. If you chose to use a 500 mL reusable water bottle instead, you could refill the same bottle 2000 times for only $1.20.

Don’t like the taste?

Grey Highlands uses chlorine to disinfect the water from harmful bacteria. Although we use a small amount, some people are still sensitive to the taste and smell of chlorine in drinking water. Here are some tips to help minimize the chlorine taste:

  • Refrigerate tap water a few hours before drinking, this allows chlorine to dissipate
  • Fill a water cooler jug, this allows chlorine to dissipate
  • Install a carbon filter on your faucet you fill a glass with
  • Add lemon or lime for a refreshing taste

A better choice for the environment

Drinking tap water is an environmentally responsible and sustainable practice. Choosing tap water prevents single-use plastic bottles from ending up in our landfill. Tap water saves the energy required to manufacture, transport and recycle single-use bottles.

Tap water is convenient

To help make drinking tap water the most convenient choice:

  • Remember to bring a reusable bottle with you
  • Keep a container filled at home or work
  • Have a glass by your bed if you get thirsty through the nights
  • Let kids choose their own reusable bottle with a fun pattern and a lid they can operate
  • Have a large container you can fill with water, ice and sliced citrus or cucumbers when hosting an event

Water Shut Off

If you require the water to be shut off to your home due to work being done, please contact the environmental services staff a minimum of 48 hours before the required shut off time. 

enviro@greyhighlands.ca. Please note, Fees applicable to as per rates by-law.

Backflow Prevention Program

On May 17, 2023, Council approved By-law No. 2023-065 Backflow Prevention and Cross Connection Control to further safeguard the municipal drinking water system by preventing contamination from non-drinking water sources. Backflow events can significantly impact the water system and the environment by impacting water quality, posing a health risk to consumers, and causing service interruptions.
Grey Highlands has retained an external service provider (BSI) to administer the Backflow Prevention Program for the Backflow Prevention Device reports.
To submit a test report:
  • Ensure you are registered as a qualified contractor with BSI
    • Each tester must provide a OWWA License and Test Kit Calibration certificate
  • Submit Backflow Prevention Device test reports through BSI Portal
    • For a new assembly or previously unknown assembly, please reach out to the Municipality or BSI to register the device before completing the test report
  • BSI Customer Service Information: 
    - Phone: 604-492-0163
    - Email: backflow@bsionline.ca
    - Website: https://bsionline.ca

Sewer/Wastewater

Municipal Wastewater Systems

Markdale wastewater system - is a Class 2 treatment and Class 2 collection system. The system consists of mainly gravity sanitary sewers, two pumping stations, two lagoons and an effluent disposal system of eight rapid infiltration basins.

Amik-Talisman wastewater system - is a Class 1 treatment and Class 1 collection system. The system consists of gravity sanitary sewers, two lagoons and an effluent spray irrigation system.

Flesherton wastewater system - is a Class 3 treatment and Class 2 collection system. The system consists of gravity sanitary sewers, one pumping station, an extended aeration package plant and an effluent disposal system of sand filtration and UV treatment prior to discharge into the Boyne River.

Find out more information in the Sewer Use By-law 2012-25.

Sewer do's and don'ts 

To help mitigate a sewer backup, read our sewer do's and don'ts.

Reducing fats, oils and greases is another way to prevent sewer backup.

Wastewater Bypasses and Overflow Events

The Municipality is committed to protecting the natural environment and local waterways. As such, we are required by law to report sanitary bypasses and overflows events to the Spills Action Centre of the Ministry of Environment, Conservation and Parks, and to the Medical Officer of Health of the Grey Bruce Health Unit.
 
A sewage overflow occurs when the wastewater from the sanitary collection system overflows to the natural environmental or when there is a discharge of partially treated sewage from a wastewater treatment plant.
 
A sewage bypass occurs when sewage is diverted around one or more treatment processes within a sewage system.
 
A summary of any bypass and overflows are reported in the Annual Monitoring Reports for each system.

2024 – no events to report
2023 – no events to report
2022 – no events to report
2021 – no events to report
2020 – no events to report

Water and Wastewater

Water and Wastewater Servicing Master Plan
The Water and Wastewater Servicing Master Plan was prepared in 2017 and is available for review.
Annual Reports
View water and wastewater annual reports.
Locate Requests

If you are digging on your property, you are required to submit a locate request. Visit the Ontario One Call site to submit your locate request online, or call 1-800-400-2255.

Please note that the Municipality does not locate water and sewer lines past the property line. 

Water and sewer line repair coverage

 Property Line Diagram

As a property owner on the municipal water or sewer systems in Grey Highlands, you are responsible for repairs on the water and sewer lines that are between your home and the property line. The Municipality is responsible for maintenance and repairs of the municipal water or sewer pipes only up to the property line.

If a line requires repair or replacement on your property, it is your responsibility to pay for these repairs which can be costly, depending on the type of work.

To help prepare for the unexpected, the Municipality is advising all property owners on municipal water or sewer check their insurance companies to see if they offer coverage for water and sewer line protection.

Alternatively, there is an optional repair program which provides coverage to your outside lines, and in-home plumbing. The program is administered through Service Line Warranties of Canada and they provide coverage 24-hours a day, 365 days a year. https://www.slwofc.ca/

Bulk Water & Sewage Station

The bulk water station located at 75 Walker St allows customers to pay for large volumes of water. Payment can either be made by setting up an account or by debit/credit card payment while at the station. Bulk water is $5 per cubic meter.

To fill, customers must provide their own hose and need a 4” male camlock fitting.

Customers can apply for an account by completing the Bulk Fill Account Request Form.

Water Bottle Filling Station

The water bottle filling station is available from Victoria Day weekend to Thanksgiving weekend, free of charge for visitors to fill up a water bottle or water jug.

 

Sewage Dumping Station

The sewage dumping station is located at 75 Walker St. Access to the sewage dumping station is through debit/credit card payment. The gate will unlock, and users will have access to the compound to dump their black and grey water. There is also a hose bib available for users to connect their own hose. The dump station is $15.

 

More information can be found at connectgreyhighlands.ca/bulkwater
Report a problem
Please report any problems with your water or sewer service.  For after-hour emergencies, please call 519-986-4784.

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© 2023 Municipality of Grey Highlands |
Office Location:
206 Toronto Street South Unit 1, Markdale |
Mailing Address:
P.O. Box 409 Markdale, Ontario N0C 1H0

Office Hours:
Mon. to Fri. 8:30 am to 4:30 pm |
Toll Free: 1-888-342-4059 |
Fax: 519-986-3643 |
info@greyhighlands.ca

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