Due to changes in Toronto's Sewer Use Bylaw in June 2008, homeowners in Toronto can no longer empty untreated pool, hot tub and spa water into the sewer system.
Pool owners are now required to make sure that water levels of chlorine/bromine are below .01 mg/L, before water is allowed to enter the storm sewer. The City of Toronto suggests that the pool water be left uncovered for 2 weeks in order to let the chemicals dissipate before emptying the pool.
In addition, salt water from pools is no longer allowed to be released into the storm sewer system at all. This water must be released into the sanitary system instead - a connection to the sanitary sewer system should be made in order to empty the pool.
Water from pools, spas and hot tubs are not allowed in any way to reach a ravine or valley.
According to the city of Toronto, the changes in the bylaw have been made to protect our water system from the chlorine, salt and "copper-based algaecides" that are frequently in the water.
Image by Brad Knowles
