The Township of Selwyn owns the infrastructure for both the municipal water and wastewater (sewer) services available in Lakefield Ward and the Woodland Acres subdivision.

The Township of Selwyn is responsible for billing for water and sewer. The Township also maintains the day-to-day operations of these systems.

If you are located in Lakefield Ward or the Woodland Acres subdivision and are experiencing a technical issue with your water or sewer system, please contact the Township of Selwyn Public Works Department.

Lakefield Water System

Lakefield Water Treatment Plant provides safe, reliable drinking water to 1,100 homes and businesses in Lakefield. Staff operate and maintain a system that includes:

  • 22 km of water distribution pipe
  • 110 Fire Hydrants 
  • 3,650 m³ of water storage 

Lakefield Wastewater System

The Lakefield Wastewater Treatment Plant (Lagoon) receives effluent from approximately 1,100 homes and business in the Village of Lakefield, the water is reclaimed and returned back to the watershed.

  • 278 sanitary sewer structures
  • 20 km of sanitary sewer collection mains
  • 6 pumping stations 
Watering Restrictions

Each year we must ask you to observe lawn and garden watering restrictions in order to ensure there is enough water for everyone. We are authorized to add a $50 surcharge to the water bill of residents who choose not to comply.

Lakefield

From May 15 to September 15

  • Even-numbered addresses may water only on even-numbered days from 7-9 am and 6-10 pm.
  • Odd-numbered addresses may water only on odd-numbered days from 7-9 am and 6-10 pm.

For more information, call the Township of Selwyn Public Works Department at 705-292-9507 ext. 236.
Watermain Flushing Program

The Watermain Flushing Program aims to maintain drinking water quality and increase the capacity of the distribution system by cleaning the pipes.

This is done by forcing water through watermains at high speed and discharging it through hydrants, which are left open until the water runs clear. This fast-moving water flow scours and cleans out mineral deposits and sediment that have built up over time and settled at the bottom of the pipes.

Residents may experience a temporary discolouration of water while the watermain is being flushed. Any disruption should be short-lived.

Steps to Take During and After Flushing

During flushing

  • Do not turn on your taps or flush your toilets. This could draw sediment into the water pipes on your property, water meter, hot water tank and into water filters.
  • Turn off all time-delayed water systems, i.e. dishwashers, coffee markers, lawn sprinklers.
  • On average, flushing can take 30 minutes to two hours to complete.

Once flushing is complete

If you should notice iron-coloured water:

  • Turn on the cold water tap located nearest to your main water shut off valve.
  • Let the water run until it is clear, which may take up to 20-30 minutes.

Sump Pump Inspection Program

The Township of Selwyn's Sump Pump Inspection Program provides homeowners in the Village of Lakefield with the opportunity to schedule an inspection with a specialist to verify that the residential sump pump is appropriately connected to a drainage system and not to the sanitary sewage system.

The inspector will work with homeowners to ensure proper sump pump installation and provide recommended solutions for suitable connections, if required.

In addition to the inspection, there will be an opportunity to review best practices in water and wastewater with the inspector including:

  • A property walk around to ensure proper extension of downspouts away from the home's foundation
  • Discussing best practices for water conservation and the Township regulations on lawn watering 
  • Reviewing the clean-out location of the sanitary service within the home
  • Exploring the location of incoming water services and related turn off valves

To schedule an inspection, contact Alex Ernst, Supervisor - Water & Sewer at 705-292-9507 ext. 225 or email aernst@selwyntownship.ca. Please specify your full name, address and preferred inspection time.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
 What is a Residential Sump Pump?

A sump pump is a small pump installed in the lowest part of a basement or crawlspace. Usually, sump pumps are installed in specially constructed sump pits. Ground water flows into the sump pit through drains or by natural water migration through the soil. The sump pump's job is to pump the water out of the pit and away from the building so that the basement or crawlspace stays dry and to prevent it from flooding.
 What Happens During an Inspection?

An inspection for a typical home will usually be completed in less than one hour. The inspector will walk around the exterior of the house looking at the discharge points for downspouts and area drains, such as yard, patio, window well, driveway or stairwell drains. He will also look in basement areas or crawl spaces to identify the sump pump and its point of discharge. 
 How do I Prepare for an Inspection?
The only preparation needed for the inspection is to make sure that the sump pump is accessible for the inspector, please clear a path if needed.
 What is the Inspector Looking For?
The inspector is looking for improper connections to the sanitary sewer system. An improper connection is defined as a connection that allows for clear water to be discharged directly into the separate sanitary sewer system. Clear water should either be going to the storm sewer or be allowed to soak into the ground without entering the sanitary sewer.
 What Happens After the Inspection?
Depending on the result of the inspection, nothing may need to be done. If the inspector determines that there are improper connections and drainage, he will work with the home owner to provide a list of solutions. A second inspection may be booked if necessary. 
 How do I Book an Inspection?

To schedule an inspection, contact Alex Ernst, Supervisor - Water & Sewer at 705-292-9507 ext. 225 or by email here. Please specify your full name, address and preferred inspection time.

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