In order to build a new or relocate an existing sewage system, you will need to obtain permits as required by the Ontario Building Code and the Provincial Parks and Conservation Reserves Act (PPCRA). Permits related to the building code are obtained through the applicable septic authority, and permits related to the PPCRA are obtained through the Ministry (Ontario Parks).
For an outhouse or a composting toilet, a permit is required from the Ministry but not the applicable septic authority. Although a permit from the applicable authority is not required for an outhouse, the outhouse MUST be built to the standards found in section 8.3 of Division B of the Ontario Building Code. For information related to the construction or placement of an outhouse, see the North-Bay Mattawa Conservation Authority Information Sheet for Class 1 Sewage Systems (outhouses).
For all other septic systems a permit is required from both the Ministry and the applicable septic authority.
The Ministry's role in approving permits for septic systems is limited to ensuring that the systems are located within the cottage lot boundaries and are set back the minimum distance from the water’s edge as required by the Algonquin Provincial Park Management Plan (as amended). The Ministry will not, however, issue a permit until an authorization is provided by the applicable septic authority (when required).