It is mandatory for all property owners in Toronto to ensure their downspouts are disconnected from the City’s sewer system.
During heavy rain, the sewers can become overloaded, which can increase the risk of basement flooding and release of polluted rainwater into local waterways.
By disconnecting downspouts and directing stormwater onto the property instead, it can minimize the risk of sewer overloads.
It’s important that the work is done safely, properly and in accordance with the Property Standards Bylaw (see §629-20. Roofs and roof structures).
Before starting, consider these important guidelines:
Proper maintenance of your eavestroughs and downspouts is important to ensure they are working properly.
Once you are ready to disconnect, you can decide to do it yourself or hire a contractor:
Tips on disconnecting downspouts yourself
Seniors and persons with a disability may qualify for financial assistance to help with downspout disconnection.
There are a few instances where disconnecting your downspout is either hazardous or not technically feasible.
Before applying for an exemption, property owners should make every effort to disconnect their downspouts from the City’s sewer system by:
Property owner(s) are required to complete and submit the Mandatory Downspout Disconnection Exemption Application, which includes submission of a property sketch. A sample application and sample property sketch are provided for assistance.
Several factors will be considered in the review of an exemption application. They include, but are not limited to:
Applicants will be notified in writing of the decision to grant or deny an exemption for each connected downspout.
The General Manager reserves the right to revoke an exemption previously issued where any information provided is misleading or inaccurate, or when property and/or building conditions change. For example, the property’s landscaping is significantly modified or the roof is rebuilt.
For more information on the Mandatory Downspout Disconnection Program, contact 311.
Submit your completed application to:
City of Toronto
Mandatory Downspout Disconnection Program
PO Box 15266
STN BRM B
Toronto, ON M7Y 2W1