Water & Sewer Services
The Water Systems Division is responsible for the treatment and distribution of the City’s drinking water. The water system consists of approximately 125 kilometres of water piping of various sizes, 2 pumping stations, an elevated storage tank, an underground reservoir and a direct filtration water treatment plant.
The City of Brockville’s Water Treatment Plant is located on the St. Lawrence River and serves the City of Brockville (population 22,000) and a portion of the Township of Elizabethtown-Kitley (population 350).
If you experience low water pressure, or fluctuations during use, there are a few reasons why this problem exists:
- There could be a leak on your service line.
- Your galvanized pipes could be corroded and restricting the flow.
- Your service line may not have the capacity to meet demands during peak usage.
- Due to the elevation of your location, you may have lower pressure than other areas.
- Appurtenances in your plumbing may be causing a restriction.
- The fluctuation may be caused by a high user nearby sporadically demanding high volumes of water, such as industry or an apartment complex.
Emergency Water Issue? Please call:
Weekdays between 7:00 am and 3:30 pm: 613-342-8772 x5510
After Hours: City Emergency After Hours Phone Line is operated by Fire Dispatch: 613-498-1261 x2504)
Water Meter Replacement
Water Meter Replacement Program 2025
We are starting a water meter replacement program, and about 10% of homeowners will have their meters replaced this year. If your home is scheduled for replacement in 2025, you will receive notice in advance from City staff.
What You Need to Know:
- No action needed unless you’ve received a notice that your meter is being replaced.
- If you’re available at the time of notice, you can choose to have the meter changed at that time. City staff will carry identification.
- If you need a specific appointment time, please contact us at watermeter@brockville.com. We’re happy to accommodate special scheduling needs.
Have Questions?
If you have any questions or need more information, please feel free to email us. We’re here to help!
For more details, including a list of frequently asked questions, please see the dropdown FAQ’s below.
Thank you for your cooperation!
Water Meter Replacement Program Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
- How will I be notified about my meter replacement?
A City of Brockville Representative will approach homeowners directly. If you are not home, you will receive a notification letter or door hanger with details about scheduling your meter replacement. The letter will include instructions on how to book an appointment if required. Contact watermeter@brockville.com - What are the benefits of replacing my water meter?
Modern Technology: The upgraded meters may support advanced metering infrastructure (AMI), allowing for remote readings and better leak detection. - Who is responsible for the cost of the new meter?
The cost of the meter and its installation is covered by the municipality as part of the water system improvement program. There is no direct cost to residents for replacement. - Do I need to be home during the replacement?
Yes, in most cases, the meter is located inside your property, and access is required. An adult (18 years or older) must be present during the service call. - How long will the replacement take?
The installation typically takes about 30 to 60 minutes, during which your water service may be temporarily interrupted. The installer will restore service as quickly as possible. - Who will perform the meter replacement?
Trained and authorized City staff will perform the work. All installers will carry identification, be travelling in a clearly identified City of Brockville vehicle and follow all necessary safety protocols. - Will my water bill increase after the new meter is installed?
No; but if you have any concerns regarding your bill, please contact customer service at 613-342-8772 extension 4001. - Is the new meter different from the old one?
Possibly. The new meter may use advanced technology, such as radio-frequency transmitters, to send readings automatically. This eliminates the need for manual meter readings. Most meters were changed in previous years that already now have this technology. - Is the new meter safe?
Yes, all meters used in the program meet safety standards and regulatory
requirements. If the new meter uses wireless technology, it emits very low levels of radio frequency comparable to other household devices. - What should I do to prepare for the replacement?
1. Clear the Area: Ensure the area around the water meter is accessible.
2. Pets and Safety: Secure pets and keep children away from the work area.
3. Communication: Follow any additional instructions provided in your notification. - Will my water quality be affected?
There may be brief discoloration after the replacement due to air or minor sediment. Simply run your cold water tap for a few minutes to clear any discoloration. - What if I have special needs or concerns?
Please contact our customer service at watermeter@brockville.com as soon as possible to discuss any accommodations or concerns.
For additional details, please email our contact for this project at watermeter@brockville.com
Wastewater Collection and Treatment (Wastewater Systems)
The Wastewater Systems Division is responsible for the collection and treatment of the City’s wastewater and sewage system. The system consists of approximately 113 kilometres of wastewater collection piping of various sizes, 12 pumping stations and the operation of the Wastewater Treatment Plant. In addition to maintaining the collection system and ensuring the wastewater treatment plant is operating within strict government regulations, wastewater staff are also responsible for enforcing the City’s Sewer Use Bylaw, abatement sampling and public education.
How can you help?
The public can do their part to help keep unwanted items out of the sanitary collection system to avoid costly repairs or blockages. Items like wipes, feminine hygiene products and fats, oils and grease should not be put down the toilets or drains.
Fat, Oil, Grease
Fats, Oils, and Grease include meats, sauces, gravies, salad dressings, deep fried dishes, dairy products, soups, chili, pastas, pastries, butter and margarine are foods that contain fats oil and grease.
As in your arteries, these fats, oils, and greases can clog the flow in your drains and sewers on your property and under the roadway. When grease is flushed down the drain and cools, it can stick to our sewer pipes and over time block the sewers completely. This can lead to raw wastewater backing up into your, or your neighbour’s, basement.
Put cooking oil in a container and dispose of in your garbage or through an approved waste oil recycler. Scrape food scraps into a container for compost or dispose of it in the garbage.
No Wipes in the Pipes
Do not flush objects down the toilet such as wipes, diapers, feminine hygiene products, or dental floss. Even products labeled as “flushable” cannot be flushed and can cause backups. Dispose of these items in your trash receptacle. Inform those who clean your house or business of the proper disposal methods for these items. Only human waste and toilet paper should go down the toilet.
Sump Pump Connections
Sump pumps should discharge to your yard, ditch, or storm sewer and not to the sanitary sewer. A sump pump that is connected to the sanitary sewer could result in it flooding with sewage and dirty water. Please make the right connection to protect your home and the municipal sanitary sewer system.
If you are unsure, or know you have an illegal sump pump or foundation drain connection, please contact a plumber to determine what options are available to you to alleviate the situation.
Emergency Sewage Backup? Please call:
Weekdays between 7:00 am and 3:30 pm: 613-342-8772 x8302
After Hours: City Emergency Phone Line at 613-498-1362 (the after hours line is operated by Fire Dispatch: 613-498-1261 x2504)
Water Billing
The Customer Service and Revenue Office is responsible for all aspects of water billing from meter reading to the issuance of the bills. They install, remove, and service water meters, and they also issue water certificates.
City of Brockville Water Rates can be found on the last page of the Water Rates Bylaw document.