Toronto Water
Downspout disconnection is …mandatory
Disconnecting your downspouts from the City's sewer system is now mandatory across Toronto. The bylaw comes into effect in three phases. Property owners in the Phase 1 area are required to disconnect by November 20, 2011. Find out when the downspouts on your property need to be disconnected.
Headlines
Join us at Lowe's to learn more about do-it-yourself downspout disconnection
Come to Lowe's Etobicoke-North store on June 22 to learn more about the City's Mandatory Downspout Disconnection program and how to disconnect your own downspout(s).
Event details
Lowe's, Etobicoke – North, 48 Lowe’s Place
June 22
10 a.m. – 3 p.m.
The bylaw comes into effect in three phases. Property owners in the Phase 2 area are required to disconnect by December 3, 2013 — find out what phase you are in using this interactive map.
Protect your basement from flooding
Together we can stop heavy rainfall, melting snow and runoff from ending up in your basement. At the City, we’re doing our part by continually updating and maintaining Toronto’s complex underground pipes, sewers and catch basins. Here are some tips to help you flood-proof your home.
Downspout Disconnection Rates: Field Assessment
Toronto Water will be conducting field assessments this summer to assess the rate of downspout disconnection on a sample of residential properties across the City. The researchers will assess the level of disconnection in front yards from the curb side and approach property owners to request access to the property in order to survey of the level of disconnection on the entire property. The researchers will be able to provide program information and exemption applications. Get more information on the Mandatory Downspout Disconnection program.
Coxwell Sanitary Trunk Sewer bypass now in operation
The Coxwell Sanitary Trunk Sewer bypass is now in service. The completion of this phase of the project means that one of the most critical sanitary trunk sewers in Toronto is now structurally and operationally sound. Learn more.
Be cautious of high-pressure sales tactics
The City does not support or partner with any private company in delivering the Mandatory Downspout Disconnection Program or the Basement Flooding Protection Subsidy Program.
Please visit our program pages for information on the Mandatory Downspout Disconnection Program and the Basement Flooding Protection Subsidy Program.
These programs are run by the City of Toronto. Please consult only information provided by the City of Toronto on these programs. If you have any questions about these or any City program, please call 311.
Watermain Flushing Program
Toronto Water's Watermain Flushing Program aims to maintain the high quality of the city's water and increase the capacity of the water system. Flushing operations are scheduled for the North York and Toronto/East York districts and will take place from May to October 2012. Learn more about the program and where it's currently operating here.
T.O. INview: New mapping tool shows planned capital construction in City
T.O. INview will allow users to identify the location, and other important details, of capital projects across Toronto that are planned to be constructed in 2012.
Two water service programs cancelled
At its October 25, 2011 meeting, Toronto City Council cancelled two programs: the Voluntary Downspout Disconnection Program and the Drain Grant Program - the grant assistance program for replacement of damaged private sanitary or storm drain pipes that have been infiltrated by the roots of a City-owned tree.
Wet Weather Flow Master Plan and Basement Flooding Protection Update (including the Don River and Central Waterfront Project)
A staff report with recommendations concerning the Don River and Central Waterfront Project was approved by City Council on September 21, 2011. The Environmental Study Report (ESR) for the Don River and Central Waterfront Class EA was placed on the public record for a 45-day review period starting on August 10, 2012 and ending on September 24, 2012. Learn more at toronto.ca/water/stormwater
It may not be possible to disconnect all downspouts on your property ....
When seeking the professional advice and services of a City-licensed contractor to disconnect your downspouts, take steps to ensure the job gets done properly and safely. It may not be possible to disconnect all downspouts on your property. If so, you can apply to the City for an exemption from the bylaw. See the sample exemption application.
Kipling, Commissioners counters close, services centralized
Effective Tuesday, October 11, 2011, Toronto Water's customer service counters at 545 Commissioners Street and 435 Kipling Ave. will close. Applications and fees will no longer be accepted at these locations for:
- Water and Sewer Service Connections
- Hydrant Permits
- Water Service Connection Upgrades
Services for these programs have been centralized and relocated to:
- North York Civic Centre, 5100 Yonge Street, 2nd floor - Toronto Water, 8:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m., Monday to Friday.
The facts about door-to-door water testing
An important reminder to all residents: Toronto Water does not conduct door-to-door sales of any kind and does not sell, market or endorse any products.
Looking for a specific program or service?
Toronto Water offers a number of customer programs and services in several categories. Find out where to get further information on each.
How to make a complaint
Toronto Water has a set of policies and procedures for receiving and handling complaints from homeowners and citizens dissatisfied with service, actions or lack of action by Toronto Water staff or current service standards. See Complaint Form (PDF).
Toronto Water Fees
Toronto Water provides a number of services to Toronto residents. Fees for our services are included in your water bill.
If you are approached to pay for any Toronto Water service, other than through your water bill, please report the incident to 311@toronto.ca or call 311 immediately.
Call 311
To report spills, illegal dumping to sewers and waterways, basement flooding, water main breaks, blocked sewers and other water-related emergencies.
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