What a Prince Edward County septic compliance letter actually looks like

Prince Edward County's STR bylaw requires a septic system verification for any rural property on a private system. Hosts get tripped up because the County does not issue the letter — a licensed septic contractor does, and the letter has to follow a specific format the County will accept.

Who issues it

• Any contractor holding a current OBC Part 8 licence (Sewage Systems Installer or Inspector). The County publishes a list but does not endorse one.
• The big three around PEC are Quinte Septic, County Pumping, and Bay of Quinte Sewage Services. Lead time in May–July is 4–6 weeks. Book in February if you can.

What the inspection covers

• Tank capacity vs. maximum occupancy. PEC uses 350 L/person/day. A 1,500 L tank caps you at roughly 4 guests; a 2,250 L tank caps you at 6.
• Tank condition: baffles intact, no cracks, sludge depth under 1/3 of liquid depth.
• Tile bed: no surfacing effluent, no compaction, no parking or hot tubs over the bed.
• Pump-out within the last 3 years (you will pay for one during the visit if you have not).

What the letter must say (for the County to accept it)

1. Property address and roll number.
2. Tank capacity in litres.
3. Recommended maximum daily occupancy based on capacity.
4. Statement that the system is "in good working order and adequate for the proposed short-term rental use."
5. Contractor name, OBC licence number, signature, date.

If the letter omits the recommended occupancy line, the County clerk will bounce it. Ask the contractor up front to include it.

Cost and timeline

• Inspection: $250–$400.
• Pump-out (almost always required at first visit): $350–$500.
• Total turnaround from booking to County-accepted letter: 5–8 weeks in peak season.

Renewal

The letter is valid for 5 years OR until your maximum occupancy changes, whichever comes first. If you add a bedroom or hot tub, you need a new letter.