A municipal drain is basically a drainage system used to improve the drainage on agricultural land and to remove excess water collected on other properties. The Drainage Act allows property owners to have such drainage systems constructed and maintained.
If a landowner is having concerns with excess water on their property or need to improve the drainage on their agricultural land they should contact the Township of Wilmot to discuss the matter with the Drainage Superintendent. He will discuss the matter with you, visit the property and provide you with the best options to improve your drainage.
If the Drainage Superintendent suggests you move forward with a municipal drain, you will need to file a Petition for Drainage with the Director of Clerk's Services, the Superintendent will assist you.
If you already have a municipal drain which needs repair, maintenance or improvement then the Drainage Superintendent will need to be contacted as well, he will assess the situation and advise accordingly.
Residents often have questions about the municipal drain process, which can be a long process with many steps. The Ontario Ministry of Food, Agriculture and Rural Affairs (OMAFRA) has many fact sheets about municipal drains to assist land owners.
Sometimes when a municipal drain is being proposed other landowners have an objection to it or to the portion they are required to pay. OMAFRA has information on the different Drainage Act Appeals that may be available to you.
Many farm properties in Ontario, including the Township of Wilmot, have tile drains. It is a very common practice with many benefits. The Tile Drainage Act provides for loans to agricultural property owners to help finance these projects. OMAFRA has prepared a Fact Sheet about the Tile Loan Program. Tile Loan Application Forms are also available through OMAFRA or at the Township Office.
Contacts