Can You Switch From Septic to Sewer?

By Melanie Dawn

April 16, 2025

If you’ve always lived in an area of your city that uses septic systems, you may be confused if you get a letter informing you of a new sewer line. In some cases, you can choose whether you want to convert septic to sewer, while some municipalities will require it.

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Switching from septic to sewer is a fairly simple process, yet it’s a big decision that can increase the value of your home and add convenience.

How Hard Is It Switching From Septic to Sewer?

So, can you switch from septic to sewer? The processes may vary depending on how far your septic tank is from the city sewer lines, what the local regulations are and your septic tank's condition. Typically, it takes a few days to complete but only disrupts your service for several hours. Most of the time is spent pulling permits and doing excavation.

Why Might Someone Want or Need to Make the Switch?

There are several reasons a homeowner might want to convert from a septic system to sewer.

System Failure

If you have an older septic tank and the system backs up frequently or appears to be failing, it can be expensive to fix. A septic to sewer conversion can save money and eliminate the need to pump your tank.

Less Maintenance

A septic tank should be pumped every 3 to 5 years, depending on how many people are in the household or how often the system is used. Public sewer systems are maintained by your local water department and require monthly fees, but you save money on repairs.

Environmental Concerns

Switching from septic to sewer is a plus if you're concerned about the environment. A failing septic tank can be a biohazard for you and your neighbors. If the tank discharges directly into the groundwater or a local drain field, it can impact local water quality and spread diseases such as hepatitis. Sewer systems are generally more effective at treating wastewater, which is better for the environment.

Home Renovations

If you plan on adding a room to your home or having more people stay with you, it can strain an existing septic system. Staying on a septic system may require a tank upgrade. Switching to a local sewer system may make more sense.

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What Is the Process of Switching From Septic to Sewer?

Converting septic to sewer requires a licensed plumber. Start with recommendations from family and friends and check local reviews. Be sure to get several estimates and weigh the pros and cons before making your final decision. There are a few steps your plumber will take:

Obtain the Necessary Permits

Plumbers understand local codes and compliance issues. Before getting started, your plumber will obtain the necessary permits.

Excavation and Connection

A trench has to be dug from your house to the main sewer line and new pipes installed to carry wastewater from your home to the city’s sewer system. The total cost of installation is approximately $1,600 to $7,200 (CAD 2,250 to CAD 10,127), depending on how close the nearest sewer line is.

Decommissioning Your Septic Tank

Most municipalities require you to decommission your septic system when connecting your home to a main sewer line. The existing tank is pumped or filled with sand or gravel or crushed. You may need to remove the tank and fill the hole with dirt.

Final Inspection

Most cities require a final inspection to ensure the job is up to code. In the event of noncompliance, you'll have to make costly repairs, so it’s important to hire an experienced and reliable plumber to get the job done.

Vice Versa: Can You Switch From Sewer to Septic?

Switching from a sewer system to a septic tank is not as common, but it’s not impossible. However, you can run into problems when you try to start the process. Your local code enforcement may try to discourage you from switching from the local sewer system to a septic tank. The process is rare and not practical due to the benefits you receive when connected to the city sewer system.

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