Clarifying Septic System Management

In response to a story in the local news (https://tricitiesdispatch.com/annmore-wastewater-warning/), the Village has been receiving questions about the violations related to the wastewater treatment plant (communal septic system) serving Crystal Creek Estates in Anmore.

First and foremost: the Village does not have any jurisdiction over septic system management. This means that when there are problems with a septic system, the Village does not have any direct involvement, or any say in what needs to be done to address issues. All inspections and compliance measures are determined between the property owner, the company managing the septic system (if applicable), the BC provincial government (specifically the Ministry of Environment and Parks) and the Fraser Health Authority.

This also means we do not have any information about the Crystal Creek septic system, and we were not advised directly about any issues.

In response to questions about the 12 environmental violations reported in the news, we have reached out to the BC Ministry of Environment to request information about the status of these violations and potential ramifications. The Ministry sent the Village a copy of the warning letter that was issued as a result of the onsite inspection; however, the Village is not involved in how these violations will be addressed as this is managed by the provincial government. For more information, we encourage residents to contact the provincial government at ServiceBC@gov.bc.ca or call the Ministry of Environment and Parks regional office at 604-582-5200.

Unfortunately, the confusion and misunderstandings about who is responsible for regulating septic systems, and the incorrect details about the Village’s role, are due in part to inaccurate information posted on Anmore Alternative related to the Anmore Green Estates septic system issues and eventual transition to a sewer connection. There are multiple errors and inaccuracies in these posts, and if you would like more information about what took place and the steps Anmore Council took to facilitate the provincial government requirements while also protecting Anmore residents from additional tax impacts, please contact the Village directly at village.hall@anmore.com.