Commercial Water & Waste Water

The Region of Waterloo works closely with industrial, commercial and institutional sectors to provide programs and resources for protecting and conserving our water, one of our most important resources.

	Reporting spills If a spill occurs, it is important action is taken to ensure public safety and environmental protection. Immediately notify: Region of Waterloo's Spill Line at: 519-650-8260 (weekdays 8:30 a.m. - 4:30 p.m.) or 519-650-8200 (after hours and weekends) Ministry of the Environment (MOE): Spills Action Centre (SAC) at 1-800-268-6060 anytime When you call, you need to provide: Name of company or individual responsible Location of spill Name and phone number of person reporting spill Time of spill Type and quantity of material discharged and any associated hazards Status, including corrective action being taken to control the spill
	Pollution prevention Spills can pose a direct health threat. They also have the potential to damage the environment and contaminate our sources of drinking water. It is important companies handling hazardous chemicals understand the steps required to prevent spills and the actions to take in the event of a spill. To help them, the Region offers a Spills Workshop. Download: Region of Waterloo Spills Prevention & Response poster (PDF) Disposing of hazardous waste.
	Water conservation Water Efficient Technology Program (W.E.T.): Reducing your water and associated energy use becomes easier with our W.E.T. Program. Services include free replacement of showerheads and valves with water-efficient product, cash rebates and on-site water audits and recommendations.
	Water Conservation Bylaw 07-069 (and amendments): in effect between the months of May 31 and September 30 of each year. This bylaw limits outdoor water activities to specific days and times based on the property address.
	Salt management Managing the amount of rock salt used on sidewalks, parking lots and roadways is an important part of protecting drinking water and the environment. The Smart About Salt program certifies private contractors, property managers and businesses that use best practices for salt management. The goal is to reduce the use of salt while ensuring public safety. Download: Smart about Salt print advertisement (PDF)
	Rural water quality Farmers understand the importance of a healthy environment for crop and livestock production. However, traditional farming methods may jeopardize water quality. The Rural Water Quality Program provides farmers with financial assistance to improve and protect water quality. It is administered by the Grand River Conservation Authority.
	Use of sanitary and storm sewers The Sewer Use bylaw 90-001 regulates and controls the discharge of water and wastewater into the sanitary and/or storm sewer distribution system. To help protect the environment and water quality, proper disposal of materials including pharmaceuticals, paints and chemicals is important. Proper disposal prevents potentially harmful materials from entering the waste water distribution system or waste water treatment plant operation, and ultimately the Grand River. Environmental records search - phase 1 requests A completed form and payment of $150 for each property address request is required. Click here for Environmental Records Search Application Form with instructions.