The Ontario Building Code | Dry Wells
9.14.5.3. Dry Wells
(1) Dry wells are permitted to be used only when located in areas where the natural groundwater level is below the bottom of the dry well.
(2) Dry wells shall be not less than 5 m from the building foundation and located so that drainage is away from the building.
9.14.6. Surface Drainage
In Plain Language
Dry wells, an alternative drainage disposal method that lets water percolate into the surrounding soil, must meet the requirements set out in this article.
This is a plain-language summary of the 2012/2017 Ontario Building Code text above, for general understanding only and not a substitute for the Code. Always confirm current requirements against the 2024 edition (O.Reg. 163/24) or a qualified professional before construction.