Is a permit required to add a second sump pit in Orleans?

Yes, the City of Ottawa requires a building permit to install a sump pit and pump. The City's permit page lists "Plumbing - alterations, additions or extensions to a plumbing system" as requiring a permit, and its protective plumbing guidance states that a building permit is required to install protective plumbing devices, including sump pits and pumps, with floor plans and the device's location, type, make and model submitted with the application.

The permit fee for plumbing work is $117 per application under the City's 2026 fee schedule.

Because a sump pit involves plumbing connections, ask whether a licensed plumber does or signs off the plumbing portion of the work.

A second pit may also qualify for the City's protective plumbing rebate, which lists primary and secondary sump pumps; check ottawa.ca for the current terms, since the City lists the program as under review.

Ontario's Building Code sets out what a sump pit must be: at least 750 mm deep, at least 0.25 m² in area, with a cover that resists removal by children and is airtight (clause 9.14.5.2). Where gravity drainage is not practical, an automatic sump pump is required. The pump's discharge needs a union and a check valve in that order in the direction of flow, and the City advises discharging to the storm sewer or to the ground at least 1.2 m from the foundation.

A complete quote for this job should name the pit dimensions, the pump make and model, whether battery backup is included, who pulls the permit, who handles the plumbing connections.

Before you sign, ask the contractor to confirm in writing exactly who is responsible for obtaining the permit and scheduling the City inspection, since the rebate application depends on having both the permit and the inspection report in hand.