Sanitary Sewer Overflow Sign Installation Initiative

In December, York Region will install signs at all 20 existing sanitary sewer overflow points across the Region. This is part of a new province-wide requirement from the Ministry of the Environment, Conservation and Parks to clearly identify overflow points and inform the public about potential health and safety risks during rare overflow events.

Sanitary sewer overflows are controlled release points used only during rare emergencies, such as extreme weather. These points prevent sewage backing up into homes and onto roads and minimize environmental impacts.

About the project

• Overflow points are not new and have been part of the wastewater system for many years
• Signs must be installed at existing sanitary sewer overflow points by January 1, 2026
• This initiative supports the Region’s commitment to protecting the environment and keeping residents safe  
• This work will not disrupt services or daily activities  
• York Region staff installing signs will be identified by their safety vests

Overflow events are extremely rare

• In the rare event of an overflow, avoid contact with affected water as it may contain harmful levels of bacteria that can make you sick
• The water in your home—such as tap water, showers and toilets—remains safe to use
• York Region continuously monitors and is aware of an overflow immediately and follows a well-established response process to protect public health and the environment  

Residents are always encouraged to report an overflow to York Region:

• Phone: 1-877-464-9675 (dial 711 with a TTY device) Monday to Friday, 7 a.m. to 7 p.m. and weekends and holidays, 8:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m.
• Email: @email
• Online: york.ca/ReportAProblem (after hours)

Questions? 

Contact York Region 
1-877-464-9675 (dial 711 with a TTY device) 
@email