The Cottager’sHandbookfor Manitoba Provincial Parks

ManitobaConservationParks & Natural Areas

THIRD EDITION

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I had rather be shut up in a very modest cottage,with my books, my family and a few old friends,dining on simple bacon, and letting the worldroll on as it liked, than to occupy the mostsplendid post which any human power can give.

Thomas Jefferson (1743–1826)

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Message from MinisterI am pleased to present the third edition of The Cottager’s Handbook which provides important information to ourcottagers.

The first edition was published in 1998 after consulting with cottage associations across the province. At that time,Manitoba Conservation amended the guidelines, policies and regulations dealing with cottage development. Mostmembers of associations favoured fewer regulations, but at the same time asked for reasonable limits on development.

Patterns of cottage use have changed substantially over the last decade or so. Increasingly, cottagers have requestedmore highly developed cottage lots. On average, people are also using their cottages more frequently and for a longertime during the year. Manitoba Conservation’s goal is to meet current needs, as well as future needs. With this in mind,it is important to ensure that cottage development takes place in harmony with the natural world. As the new Minister, Ilook forward to helping to strike a balance between development and protection within our parks.

Most policies and regulations are now summarized in this handbook. It emphasizes measures that will protect theenvironment in provincial parks, especially by making sure that private sewage-disposal systems meet the standardsnecessary to protect water quality in our lakes and rivers.

For your convenience, an electronic copy of this handbook and other useful cottage-related information may also befound at www.manitobaparks.com. I also encourage you to electronically contact my department with cottage-relatedquestions at parkdistricts@gov.mb.ca. I trust the information in this handbook will enhance the time you spend at yourcottage in one of our beautiful Provincial Parks.

Hon. Oscar LathlinMinister, Conservation

CONTENTSLeases and Permits .................................................. 4 Chief Place of Residence Levy................................ 6 Park District Service Fees ...................................... 7 Cottage-Based Businesses ....................................... 8 Garbage ................................................................... 9

Developing Your Lot Site Plan Permit ..................................................... 10 Lot Development Conditions ................................ 10 Tree Removal ........................................................ 12 Variances, Buffer Zones........................................ 13

Working near Water .............................................. 16 Building on Public Reserve ................................... 18 Use of Public Reserve in Front of Lake-front Cottages....................................... 19 Docks..................................................................... 19 Public Lanes .......................................................... 20 Privately Built Roads on Public Reserve................................................... 20 Docks for Back-tier and Remote Cottages................................................ 21 Boathouses for Back-tier and Remote Cottages in Whiteshell Provincial Park............................ 21

Grand Beach Provincial Park ............................ 22

Preparing Your Drawings - the Plot Plan....................................................... 25 Sample Plot Plan Form.......................................... 26 Building Permit Guide........................................... 27 Drawings to be Submitted with Permit Application............................................. 28

Planning & Installing a Sewage Disposal System ..................................................... 29 Special Locations................................................... 30 Definitions ............................................................. 30 Selecting a System................................................. 31 Alternatives to Water Carried Toilet Systems.............................................................. 31 Getting the Most out of your Septic System........................................................ 32 Sullage Pits .................................................... 33 Working on the System.................................. 34 Standards for Septic Tanks & Disposal Fields Serving Dwellings........................... 35

Fire Safety Check List ........................................... 36 Basic Fire Safety .......................................... 37 Subdivisions/District Offices....................... 40

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Leases and Permits LeasesA 21-year renewable lease in astandard format is available tovirtually all cottagers inprovincial parks. Besidesensuring tenure on your lot, alease may be helpful tocottagers who require a long-term loan or mortgage. A copyof a sample lease may be foundat www.manitobaparks.com.

Manitoba Conservationsuggests that you read yourlease to become familiar withyour rights and responsibilities.

Obtaining a New Lot

Any future cottager who obtainsan undeveloped cottage lot willbe issued a lease. The lease willspecify the time (usually 24months) in which the exterior ofthe cottage must be completed. The exterior is consideredcomplete when doors, windows,finished exterior siding, andshingles or other roofingmaterial have been installedLots where cottages have beendemolished, or otherwiseremoved must also complete anew cottage with a completeexterior within 24 months.Undeveloped lots cannot beassigned, except oncompassionate grounds (e.g. thedeath or severe disability of alessee).

Buying, Selling orTransferring Your Lot

When you sell or transfer yourlot, it is up to you, as thevendor, to initiate the process,or authorize your real estateagent or legal representative todo so. Lot sizes are generallyfixed and will not be changed.Lots smaller than 15,000 ft2

(1395 m2) may be enlargedunder some circumstances, atthe lot holder's expense. Underno circumstances will thefrontage of a lake-front lot beincreased beyond 100 ft. (30.5m).

To assign your cottage lease orpermit to someone else whobuys your cottage, you shouldobtain an assignment form froma Manitoba Conservation office.Complete the form and return itwith the applicable fee. Theoverall assignment process cantake up to about four weeks.

Before purchasing a cottage,wise buyers will verify:� that no serious drainage

problems exist;� that all structures, except

those permitted to be on thepublic reserve, are locatedwithin the boundaries of thelot, and that the lot has beenresurveyed;

� that any structures on thepublic reserve of a lake-front lot are within theprojected lot boundaries;and

� that all existing structureshave received all necessaryapprovals.

Surveying Lots

Manitoba Conservation will notbe responsible for finding, orverifying the true location of lotpins. When disputes occurbetween cottagers relating to lotboundaries, or the location ofbuildings and otherdevelopment relative toboundaries, ManitobaConservation will not addressthe problem until a legal surveyis supplied.

Changing or Adding aName to a Lease orPermit

Contact Parks and NaturalAreas Branch in Winnipeg oryour local ManitobaConservation district office. Therequired forms will be sent toyou, or go towww.manitobaparks.com.

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Changing from anAnnual Permit to a Lease

If you are currently beingannually issued an annualpermit to occupy your cottagelot, it is to your advantage toapply for a lease. The annualadministration fee charged topermit holders (except forunsurveyed lots in remotelocations) does not apply toleaseholders.

Obtain a lease application formfrom Parks and Natural AreasBranch. When you havecompleted the form, return it tothe Branch with the applicablefee. They will arrange aninspection, as described under“Lease Inspections.”

Renewing Your Lease

In all likelihood, you will wantto renew your lease after theoriginal term has expired. New21-year renewable leases arenow issued for renewals in allprovincial parks. 10-year leasesare still issued for lots in theFalcon Creek subdivision(formerly known as the FalconLake Staff Trailer Village).

Generally, Parks and NaturalAreas Branch notifies you sixmonths before your leaseexpires, but it is yourresponsibility to apply for a newlease. The Branch will inspectyour lot and mail you forms tobe completed.

Vacation Home Permits

Some cottagers owning cottageson unsurveyed lots in remoteareas are authorized to occupytheir lot by means of an annualpermit. The vast majority ofother cottagers have signed alease in order to occupy theirlot. An annual fee is charged tothose cottagers eligible for alease, who have not yet appliedfor one.

Lease and Permit Inspections

When you apply for a lease, your lot will be inspected to confirm that:� Your lot is free and clear of brush and flammable materials.� There appear to be no problems with your cottage and other buildings concerning allowable

development or condition of repair.� Your lot is well maintained and not run down, with materials stored in an orderly manner. The

accumulation or storage of building materials, machinery, boats, unlicenced vehicles, furnishings andsimilar articles is not allowed, unless approved by an Officer.

� Your sewage disposal system is working properly.

If your lot needs work, Manitoba Conservation will draw up a letter of commitment requiring you tocomplete the work within a specified time. You will need to return the letter, with your signature as thelot holder, before your lease application can be considered.

When your lot passes the inspection, a lease will be drawn up and sent to you for signature.

After you have signed and returned it, the Director of Parks and Natural Areas or his designate willendorse it.

The lease will be validated when you have paid the fees and signing is complete

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Chief Place ofResidence Levy

All cottagers must fill out aChief Place of ResidenceDeclaration Form. Thosecottagers maintaining a chiefplace of residence in a provincialpark are subject to an annual fee.This applies to privatelandowners, as well as to leaseand permit holders. It is thecottager’s responsibility to notifyManitoba Conservation, if theirstatus of using their cottage as achief place of residence changes.Many cottagers’ leases requirecottagers to obtain priorpermission of the Crown to usetheir cottage as a chief place ofresidence. Parks and NaturalAreas Branch considers theprocess of completing adeclaration form and paying therequired annual fee to be theequivalent of obtainingpermission.

In the past, people living inprovincial parks have not beencharged any education fees orassessed school taxes. Throughpayment of the Chief Place ofResidence Levy, people living inprovincial parks will help tooffset provincial education costs.

In order for the levy to apply:

You must live in a buildingsituated on Crown land orprivately owned land in aprovincial park in Manitoba.

The building is defined to beyour chief place of residence ifduring the year (April 1 - March31), it is where you, in the settledroutine of your life, regularly,normally or customarily reside.

Where the owner or occupier ofa building is a corporation, thebuilding is deemed to be thecorporation’s chief place ofresidence if, in the settled routineof his or her life, any shareholderof the corporation regularly,normally or customarily livesthere.

Where a building is the chiefplace of residence for more thanone person, only one levy ispayable.

If a question arises aboutwhether a building is someone’schief place of residence, theMinister of Conservation isresponsible for deciding thequestion. In making hisdecision, the Minister will takeinto account all relevant factors.The Minister may consider thefollowing (and other) factors:

1. the length of timespent at the building during theyear;

2. whether you have aresidence outside a provincialpark in Manitoba;3. whether you maintainManitoba hospital and medicalinsurance coverage;4. your residence forincome tax purposes;

5. the jurisdictionallocation of your personalproperty and social ties; and6. the residence of yourspouse and dependents.

Fires

Except for the period fromNovember 15 to April 1, youmust obtain a Burning Permitfrom your district office. Youare liable and responsible for anyfire originating on your premises,and must keep your lot free ofbrush and other debris that mayconstitute a fire hazard.

In wooded districts, ManitobaConservation is responsible forfighting forest fires, but has nocapability to fight structural fires.In some areas, a volunteer ormunicipal authority with fire-fighting responsibilities mayprovide additional services.

Find out who is responsible inyour area and post their phonenumbers, with other emergencynumbers, in a conspicuous placeas you would at home.

Flammable Materials.

You are responsible for storingflammable materials safely,based on regulations under TheEnvironment Act and other acts.

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Land Rental

An annual land rental fee ischarged to each leased orpermitted cottage. The fee iscurrently based upon the 1981appraised value of the cottager’s"raw land".

Manitoba Conservation will beconducting a pilot project to re-appraise the "raw land" ofcottage lots in selected smallsubdivisions in 2002, and willbe working towards re-appraising all lots after thattime.

Park DistrictsService FeesWhat services are included inthe Park Districts ServiceFees?� Water supply, sewage

disposal, garbage handlingand maintenance of roadsmaintained by ManitobaConservation.

� Emergency services,neighborhood watchprograms, docking facilitiesfor remote cottages andstreet lighting.

� Capital improvements,administrative and othercosts incurred in a parkdistrict.

You pay only for the servicesthat are available to you; if aservice is not available, you arenot charged for it. The new feesdo not include costs for suchservices as interpretiveprograms, problem wildlifecontrol, campground and day useprograms, wildfire detection andsuppression, and publicrecreational facilities.

Reviewing Park DistrictsCosts and Budgets

You have an opportunity toreview the level and cost ofservices provided to you on anannual basis. ManitobaConservation has establishedcommittees, composed of cottageassociation members andoperators, to review park districtservices and costs within largerdistricts.

In smaller districts, meetings areheld with local cottageorganizations and businesses.They have reviewed costs fromprevious years, and budgets forthe coming year, paying specialattention to capital improvementprojects. In many cases projectshave been added, deleted oramended, based on advice thathas been received. However,some projects are necessary tomaintain minimum safety,environmental or park standards.

On February 1 each year,Manitoba Conservation sendsevery cottager an informationsheet showing in some detailhow the service fee for eachcottage or business is calculated.For further details, two financialstatements, the "Park DistrictsAnnual Summary of Costs" (theannual operating costs for eachpark district) and the ParkDistricts "Annual Budget"(which outlines the costsexpected for the coming year)are also available. You can pickup copies at local ManitobaConservation offices and at theoffices of Parks and NaturalAreas Branch.

Cottagers may then commentabout the level and cost of“municipal-like” services theyreceive. After all comments arereceived, the Minister reviewsthe budgets, including levelsand costs of services, andestablishes service fees for theyear.

Bills are sent annually to coverthe period from April 1 toMarch 31 the next year. Thesebills include a service fee, landrental fee and (in some cases) aChief Place of Residence Levyand fees for miscellaneousstructures on the public reservesuch as docks and boat houses.They are sent by October 1.Manitoba Conservation changedthe annual billing date fromMay 1 to October 1 severalyears ago.

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Cottage-BasedBusinesses

Businesses being run fromcottages are present within mostprovincial park cottagesubdivisions. A few businesseshave occasionally causedconflicts with nearby cottages.Generally, however, they havebeen welcomed by theirneighbours, and have providedvaluable services to fellowcottagers.

Manitoba Conservation nowrequires existing cottage-basedbusinesses to register, and hasestablished a process that futuresuch businesses must followbefore becoming established.All businesses that have notalready done so MUST submit aregistration form, available fromParks and Natural Areas Branch,to a Manitoba Conservationoffice. There is no registrationfee!

Anyone who receivesremuneration for providinggoods or services to others, andconducts some of the activitiesassociated with providing thosegoods and services at a vacationhome lot, is considered to berunning a business at thatvacation home lot, and mustregister.

Any cottager wishing to beginor register a business needs toobtain:

� the written support of thelocal cottage association,

� the written support of allimmediate neighbours whomay be impacted, and

� written authorization fromManitoba Conservation,through the local NaturalResource Officer.

The Director of Parks andNatural Areas Branch may thenauthorize the business to operate.

Cottage Insurance

Have you wondered about whatis a reasonable amount ofliability insurance to carry on theinsurance policy covering yourcottage? Manitoba Conservationhas seen some large liabilityclaims come forward in recentyears, and we advise cottagers toconsider a minimum of $2million of general liabilityinsurance. At the very least, youshould be carrying $1 million. Ifthe worst happens and someonesuffers a severe injury at yourcottage, by carrying sufficientliability insurance you will beprotected from the financialconsequences.

Any cottager signing a new leasewill find that the new standardcottager’s lease now requires aminimum of $1 million ofliability insurance. We stronglyrecommend you discuss yourinsurance requirements with alicensed insurance broker to

ensure you have adequateliability insurance for boats,snowmobiles or other equipmentyou may use at your cottage.

A Message fromManitoba Hydro

Manitoba Hydro has requested thata message should be passed along tocottagers about providing power topump houses and other structuresalong the lake shore. Thisespecially applies to back tiercottagers who may have lengthycables leading to their pump houses.

Some cottagers have installed thesecables using indoor wiring, simplylaid across the ground. TheManitoba electrical code requiresspecific outdoor wiring products tobe used, and they should generallybe buried and sufficiently protected,or otherwise made to comply withthe code. Cottagers should consulttheir local Manitoba Hydro office toobtain further information.

Inspectors may be conductinginspections in areas where improperinstallations may exist. Unsafeinstallation, especially near watercould easily result in a severeaccident, or even a fatality.Manitoba Hydro thanks you inadvance for your co-operation inthis matter.

Another note: Manitoba Hydroconducts hydro line maintenance atvarious times of the year that mayinvolve tree removal, pruning etc. toprotect hydro lines from falling treesor overgrown lines

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Garbage

The issue of garbage handling isbecoming more and moreimportant to cottagers! Servicefee increases may continuebecause of changes in garbagemanagement. But some of theseincreases could be reduced ifeveryone contributed to wisegarbage management.

RecyclingWhere recycling programs exist,take advantage of them. A largeproportion of the “raw” garbagenow produced could be recycled.When depositing your garbage ata disposal ground, separate it asinstructed at the site. If this isnot done, costly separation ofgarbage is often required.

Old Appliances, etc.Many cottagers have seen othersdisposing of old appliances,mattresses, furniture, etc. atgarbage cages. Derelict cars andold refrigerators have even beenleft at disposal grounds. Thecosts of dealing with such itemsare high and add to everyone’sfee. Collecting and transportingsuch garbage is expensive.

Scrap Metal, BrushTake your scrap metal and largepieces of debris to theappropriate garbage dump inyour area. It is also importantto take your brush to a local

brush dump. In some areas,cottagers have piled brush alonglocal roads or in other areasclose to cottages. ManitobaConservation must then haul itaway, and add the cost toservice fees. If necessary, askat your district office forinstructions on disposing ofsuch materials, and of domesticgarbage where centralcontainers are not provided.

New garbage standardsSome current disposal groundsno longer meet today’senvironmental standards.Manitoba Conservation hasestablished new transfer stationsand disposal grounds in someareas, and is in the process ofestablishing more in some otherareas. Garbage is in some caseshauled longer distances toapproved central disposalgrounds.

Transfer StationsNew transfer stations anddisposal grounds can cost morethan $100,000 to build, andsometimes require a full-timeoperator. Less garbage meansless hauling and tipping fees,which in turn means lowerservice fees for cottagers underthe Park Districts system. Pleasedo your share!

In districts where major changesin garbage handling may takeplace, Manitoba Conservationwill consult with representativesof cottagers and operators to

discuss the details of thechanges being considered.

“Tear-down”construction material.When an older cottage is torndown, or when an alteration toyour cottage produces a largeamount of mixed material, suchas asphalt, old lumber, drywall,concrete, etc., you must obtain aWork Permit that will specifyhow to handle and dispose of allthe old material. You are alsoresponsible for obtaining such apermit if you have hired acontractor to do the work foryou.

In some areas, you or yourcontractor may be limited as tothe amount of "tear-down"material that is allowed in thelocal transfer station or disposalgrounds. You may have toarrange for hauling and disposingof the material at an alternate siteoutside a provincial park.

Winter Roads, IceClearing

Anyone wishing to create awinter road, or otherwise clearsnow from an ice-coveredwaterbody must first obtain aWork permit from the localManitoba Conservation districtoffice.

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Site Plan PermitA Site Plan Permit, availablefrom Manitoba Conservation, isneeded to construct a newbuilding, alter or add to anexisting building or structure, orcreate a driveway or otherdevelopment in a provincialpark. You must also obtain aBuilding Permit fromManitoba Labour (see page 27).

Permit ExpiryAfter you obtain a Site PlanPermit, erection or constructionof a building, structure or workmust begin within six months ofthe date of the permit and becompleted within 12 months ofthat date. Authorization forconstruction expires after thosetime periods.

Special AreasSpecial development guidelinesapply to areas such as GrandBeach Provincial Park, theHecla Historic Village, and theFalcon Creek Subdivision(formerly known as the FalconLake Staff Trailer Village.(see page 16 & 17).

Note: all building areasreferred to in this handbook arecalculated using the outsidedimensions of the building plus,where eaves exceed a width of 2feet, that area under theexcessive portion of the eaves.

Lot DevelopmentConditionsOne Vacation HomeOnly one vacation home isallowed per lot (except theHecla Historic Village).

Minimum SizeThe minimum size for avacation home is 480 squarefeet (45 m2).

Guest HouseOne accessory building may beused as a guest house or forsleeping accommodations. Themaximum size (roofed area) ofsuch a building, including allsleeping, habitable and storagearea cannot exceed 480 ft2 (45m2), and can be on only onelevel. Open or screenedporches, or other attachedroofed areas are also includedin determining the size of aguest house, and count towardthe maximum allowed size.These guidelines also apply toguest houses built as secondstoreys of boat houses, garagesor other structures.

Buildings on Public ReserveWhere buildings are permittedon the public reserve, theaggregate maximum size of allthose buildings located on thepublic reserve area in front of alake front lot is 600 ft2 (56 m2)on one level.

"Footprint", MaximumDevelopmentThe maximum aggregate size(the “footprint”) of the vacationhome and all accessorybuildings on a lot, includingbuildings on the adjacent Crownreserve is 20 per cent of thetotal area of the lot, up to amaximum of 3,000 ft2 (278 m2)on one level. The maximumdevelopment on all levels,including the basement, mainfloor and second storey of themain cottage, and all floors ofany accessory buildings, is6,000 ft2 (557 m2).

Maximum Development forNorthern subdivisionsIn Paint Lake, Baker's Narrowsand Clearwater Lake ProvincialParks, the maximumdevelopment on all levels is9,000 ft2 (837 m2) for vacationhomes having both a basementand a second storey.

"Footprint" for "RusticSubdivisions"The maximum aggregate size(the "footprint") may be set atamounts lower than 3,000 ft2 fora few smaller more rusticcottage subdivisions, where alarge majority of cottage ownersrequest such a change. Lowermaximums are being consideredat publication time for MaxLake, Long Lake, Florence andNora Lakes, Beaver Creek, andZed Lake.

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Two StoreysTwo storeys are the maximumfor any part of a vacation homeor accessory building. No sundecks, towers, or othersignificant structures areallowed on the roof of a secondstorey.

Basements & Two StoreysEither a basement or a secondstorey, but not both, is allowedwhere site conditions aresuitable. Basements ANDsecond storeys are allowed inPaint Lake, Bakers Narrows,and Clearwater Lake ProvincialParks only.

Basements - DefinitionIn order for a storey of a cottageto be considered a basement, itmust not protrude more than anaverage of 3 ft. (91 cm) abovethe surrounding natural grade,and no part of it can protrudemore than 5 ft. (152 cm) abovethe natural grade at any givenpoint. If all of this storey has aceiling height less than 5½ feet(1.65 m), it is considered acrawl space, not a basement.

Two Storeys - DefinitionSimilarly, any area in a secondstorey with a ceiling heighthigher than 5 ½ feet (1.65 m)counts as developed area. Nomore than 480 ft2 (45 m2) of thesecond storey of a garage mayexceed 5 ½ feet (1.65 m) inheight.

DecksIf you are constructing a stand-alone deck or an accessorybuilding of less than 108 ft2 (10m2), you do not need a BuildingPermit from Manitoba Labour,but you must obtain a Site PlanPermit.

"Temporary" Structures"Temporary" structures made ofcanvas, fabric and other similarmaterial, often used as sheds orgarages, will only be permittedif all affected neighboursprovide written support toinstall such a structure.A Site Plan Permit is necessary.Manitoba Labour requires thatthe structural framing for thistype of structure must bemanufactured from non-combustible material such asmetal, and structures must bemanufactured and anchoredaccording to manufacturer'sspecifications. The size of thestructure is counted indetermining the maximumdevelopment allowed on a lot.No temporary structures largerthan 500 ft2 (46.5 m2) will bepermitted.

BlastingOnly in exceptionalcircumstances will blastingusing explosives be permitted tosubstantially modify buildingsites on cottage lots. Cottagersare expected to design cottagesand other developments thatconform to the topography oftheir lot.

Hot Tubs/Jacuzzis/HydroSpasYou may have a hot tub orJacuzzi/hydro spa of maximumeight-person capacity. If waterdepth exceeds 24 in. (60 cm),Manitoba Labour requires theinstallation to comply with Part10 of the Manitoba BuildingCode.Also permitted are children’swading pools with a diameternot greater than 8 ft. (2.5 m)and a water depth not greaterthan 24 in. (60 cm).Lot holders/property ownersassume all risks and liabilitiesfor installing, maintaining andoperating these facilities.Note that waste water from hottubs, Jacuzzis and hydro spasmust be disposed of in anapproved manner.

Swimming PoolsSwimming pools are notpermitted.“Swimming pool” means anartificially constructed basinlined with concrete, fibreglass,vinyl or like material thatpersons can swim, wade or divein, with a water depth greaterthan 24 inches (60 centimetres).

Satellite Dishes and TelevisionAntennasSatellite dishes and televisionantennas must be placed wherethey will have the least impacton the natural environment andyour neighbours.

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Modular Homes, RTM'sModular homes may bepermitted if they are placed on afoundation that complies withthe Manitoba Building Code (seepage 27). They must also bedesigned to resemble atraditional residence whenfinished, rather than a mobilehome.

Ready-to-move (RTM) homesmay also be permitted, providedthey can be moved to a vacationhome lot without excessiveremoval of trees and othervegetation. A Site Plan Permitand a Building Permit arenecessary

Remote Wood Heating UnitsWood-fired (or pellet) heatingunits or boilers, located awayfrom the main residence, withunderground piping to transmitheat to a residence, have becomepopular in some rural areas inrecent years.

These units often produce anexcess of smoke from lowchimneys, and can adverselyaffect neighbours. They are notpermitted in provincial parkcottage subdivisions.

Mobile Homes, Vehicles onLotsYou must not occupy, park orerect on your lot any mobilehome, travel trailer or othermovable piece of equipment foruse as a vacation home or otheraccommodation, except on theBower Lake mobile home lotsand in the Falcon Creeksubdivision. Unregisteredvehicles may not be stored on avacation home lot.

"Grandfathering"Many developments in oldercottage subdivisions do notconform to today's guidelines. Inmany cases these developmentspre-dated the existence ofpublished guidelines.

At the discretion of ManitobaConservation, non-conformingdevelopments that pre-date 1996may be allowed to remain. Thisis reviewed on a case-by-casebasis where the developmentcreates significant problems forneighbours.

Insecticides/HerbicidesYou must have a permit to usechemicals for controlling insectsor vegetation (other thandomestic products for small-scale household or garden use).

Commercial insecticide orherbicide applicators also need apermit. Permits are availablefrom the Director of Parks andNatural Areas Branch.

Tree Removal

Removing Trees from YourLotYou may remove trees on yourlot without first obtaining a SitePlan Permit. However, in somedistricts, a Work Permit isnecessary from your localdistrict office. In any case, youshould be considerate of yourneighbours before removingany trees, other than dead treesfrom buffer zones around theedge of your lot.Note: you may not use the sidebuffer zones on your lot forstorage of vehicles, or any otheritems

Removing Trees from thePublic ReserveYou must obtain a permit fromyour Manitoba Conservationdistrict office if you want toremove trees that are not onyour lot, but are on the publicreserve, or have any otherconcerns.

Trees Used for CommercialPurposesYou must obtain the necessarypermits from your localManitoba Conservation districtoffice before having treesremoved from your lot, if thewood will be used forcommercial purposes.

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Variances

If an owner or occupier of a lotapplies, Manitoba Conservationmay vary any of therequirements for cottagedevelopment.

Some of the maximumdevelopment sizes listed in thispublication may be increased by5% if you have the writtensupport of your neighbours.

The Minister may appointpersons to act as an advisorycommittee with respect tovariances and issues pertainingto cottage development.

The Whiteshell Advisory Boardhas been appointed to act as anadvisory committee for mattersrelating to cottaging in theWhiteshell. The Board is askedto consider matters dealingwith development related tocottage lots, whereinterpretation of the existingguidelines is not clear-cut.

Buffer Zones &Variances For BufferZones

Buffer strips are important toprovide privacy on your cottagelot and to minimize thedisturbance that one neighbourmight cause another.

The following informationsummarizes how variances willbe issued for construction ordevelopment in buffer zones oncottage lots and on publicreserve areas in front of lake-front cottage lots in provincialparks, except in Grand BeachProvincial Park and the HeclaHistoric Village Area.

Construction or developmentincludes buildings, structures,and any permanent developmentsuch as decks or docks, forwhich Site Plan Permits andBuilding Permits are normallyissued. Driveways are alsoincluded, although the onlypermit normally needed is aWork Permit from the localdistrict office.

Building eaves that are no morethan 2 feet wide are notconsidered when determiningwhether construction is locatedwithin a buffer, or on the publicreserve behind, or in front of alot. Any portion of an eavegreater than 2 feet in width isconsidered. Similarly, onlyconcrete footings that projectmore than 1 foot above gradelevel or more than 2 feet past theoutside wall are considered.Development does not includewood-piles or other obviouslynon-permanent features, forwhich permits are normally notnecessary.

On lots that are at least 90 feetwide, buffer zones are defined tobe 15 feet wide on each side ofthe lot. On lots less than 90 feetwide, side buffer zones are 10feet wide. Buffer zones on thefront and back of cottage lots are15 feet wide. No construction orpermanent development ispermitted within buffer zonesunless a variance is obtained asoutlined below.

Side BuffersFor lots at least 90 feet wide, thelocal Natural Resource Officermay grant a variance on-site to alot holder, to reduce the sidebuffer from 15 feet to no lessthan 10 feet. No formal varianceform is usually necessary, and nofee is necessary. On lots lessthan 90 feet wide, there are noprovisions for the local officer toreduce the side buffer on-site.

For a side buffer to be reducedfrom 10 feet to no less than 5feet, a lot holder must formallyapply for a variance, and mustpay the fee, currently set at $50(+ $3.50 GST). The lot holdermust obtain the written supportof the local officer and theimmediate neighbour on theaffected side.

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Where the lot is adjacent to aparcel of crown reserve,permission must still be obtainedif the reserve is a relativelynarrow public area or lane (lessthan 20 feet wide), or if thenearest neighbour could, in theopinion of the local officer, beaffected by the proposed newdevelopment.

If there are no nearby neighbourson that side, then only thepermission of the local officerneed be obtained. Variances toreduce a side buffer to less than10 feet will not be issued where aneighbouring lot is vacant andavailable to the general public.

Manitoba Conservation will notconsider reducing a side bufferto less than 5 feet without a lotholder first obtaining arecommendation to do so from alocal variance committee. Nodevelopment will be consideredon adjacent lots or on the publicreserve on either side of the lot.

Front and Rear BuffersFor lake-front lots, the front ofthe lot and the front buffer isgenerally considered to be thebuffer on that end of the lotfacing the lake. For back tierlots, the front buffer is generallyconsidered to be that end of thelot facing the access or blockroad.

Natural Resource Officers willnormally grant on-site variancesto reduce front, rear or sidebuffers from 15 feet to no lessthan 10 feet. Front and rearbuffers may be reduced to 0 feet(no buffer) by formally applyingfor a variance (and paying the$50 + $3.50 fee) and obtainingthe written support of bothneighbours and any otheraffected parties.

A variance, and neighbours' andother affected parties' writtensupport, is also necessary forconstruction of decks (whetheror not they may be attached tothe cottage) on the public reservein front of lake front lots.

When dealing with front buffers,other affected parties mayinclude other lake front lotholders who are visuallyimpacted; when dealing with rearbuffers, other affected partiesmay include any back tier lotholders who may be nearby.

Where, in the opinion of thelocal officer, neighbours are notimpacted, written support of theneighbours may be waived fordevelopment in front or rearbuffers, or for decks on thepublic reserve.

With the exception of specificstructures which are allowed tobe built on the public reserve infront of lake-front cottages(docks, boat houses, pumphouses, decks and stairs,gazebos, small sheds) nodevelopment will be allowed on

the public reserve in front of orto the rear of a lot. However,driveways will be allowed whereauthorized by a Work Permitissued by the local officer.

Where lot holders propose tobuild a garage with the doorsfacing the access or block road inthe buffer adjacent to the road,the garage doors should be builtno closer than 15 feet to the roadsurface, regardless of where inthe buffer the garage may belocated. This stipulation willreduce problems associated withentering roadways from thegarage, opening garage doorsclose to the road, and parkingvehicles close to the road.

In addition, rear buffers will notbe reduced to 0 feet where lotlines are very close to the accessor block road. As a general rule,structures or other developmentshould not be located closer than10 feet to a road.

Multiple VariancesWhen an application is receivedto obtain variances for more thanone buffer at a time, eachvariance will be consideredseparately and independently.For example, no additionalconditions or fees will berequired if a lot holdersimultaneously applies forvariances in the side and frontbuffer at the same time.

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Only one $50 (+$3.50 GST) feewill be required if the lot holderapplies for the multiple variancesat one time and no additionalinspections are required by thelocal officer.

MiscellaneousThe above guidelines for bufferzones and variances applyequally to development on thepublic reserve in front of lake-front lots, using the projectedside lot lines.

Where the projected lot lines arenot parallel and approximatelyperpendicular to the lake shore,the local Natural ResourceOfficer will make a case-by-casejudgement to best apply theguidelines.

Similarly, where unusual lotconfigurations make the aboveguidelines difficult to apply,officers will make case-by casejudgements to best apply theguidelines.

Exceptions to all of theseguidelines will not normally begranted, and in any event will notbe considered, without a lotholder first obtaining a writtenrecommendation of support froma local variance committee.

You may wish to use thefollowing sample letter if youapply for a variance, and needthe support of your neighbours:

LETTER OF SUPPORTApplicant: Please have your neighbour(s) complete this Letter of Support and attach it to yourvariance application for your proposed building and/or reduction of a buffer strip:

I/We ___________________________________________________of Block _______ Lot _______

Plan ____________ Lake____________________________ have no concerns regarding the proposed

construction located at Block _________ Lot __________ Lake ______________________________

Please provide a brief description of the proposed work (e.g. construction of boathouse 5 feet from the

lot line, oversized total development on the lot is 3100 ft2, etc.):

__________________________________________________________________________________

SIGNATURE(S) ________________________________

__________________________________

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Working nearWater (including buildingdocks and boat houses)

As a cottage owner you shouldhave received information in thepast from the Government ofCanada, Department of Fisheriesand Oceans. In order tosafeguard and protect fishhabitat, this agency wishes toreview any applications foractivities in any provincial parkthat may occur below the normalhigh water mark of a waterbody.

Cottagers and others inprovincial parks who plan tobuild or renovate a boat-house,dock or other structure, or whowant to make changes to theirshoreline, such as adding fill,cobble, rip-rap, etc., will stillneed a Work Permit, and a SitePlan Permit for new constructionfrom Manitoba Conservation.

Manitoba Conservation willonly issue permits whensatisfied that conditionsacceptable to the Department ofFisheries and Oceans have beenmet.

Shoreline Changes

Lakefront lot holders are notpermitted to do work, includingminor work, on the shoreline toadd fill or rip-rap, createbeaches or storage basins forboats, etc. unless approvals arefirst obtained from Fisheries &Oceans, Canada. If approval isobtained, you must then obtaina Work Permit from yourManitoba Conservation districtoffice before you conduct suchwork.

Groynes &Breakwaters

No further construction orrepairs of groynes orbreakwaters, whether made ofnatural or man-made materialwill be allowed in front ofvacation home lots in provincialparks.

Aquatic VegetationControl.

Any use of chemicals or otherproducts to control water plantsmust first be approved byManitoba Conservation,Environment Division. Pleasecontact your local environmentofficer.

Submerged HeatExchangers

Technology has recentlybecome available to submergeheat exchange piping in a waterbody, and cool or heat a nearbyresidence. The piping is filledwith a variety of media.If the piping is not a navigation,swimming, or other safetyhazard, and if the medium usedis not a water quality hazard, apermit may be issued to installsuch devices. Permission mayalso be required from Fisheriesand Oceans, Canada.

Nature never wears a meanappearance. Neither does thewisest man extort her secret, andlose his curiosity by finding outall her perfection. Nature neverbecame a toy to a wise spirit.Ralph Waldo Emerson (1803–1882)

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Wells

If you plan to install a well,choose a location where waterquality will not be affected.Install it away from yoursewage disposal system and yourneighbours, a marsh, a drainageroute-and even the lake. Wellsare not permitted in subdivisionswhere a central water system ispresent.

See the Sewage Disposal sectionof this booklet for requireddistances from sewage disposalsystems. Note that to install awell, you must obtain a specialpermit and approval of thelocation from your ManitobaConservation district office.

Water Lines

If you are a back-tier cottager,and propose to run water linesfrom the lake to your cottage lotacross the public reserve or roadright-of- way, you must obtain aspecial permit and approval ofthe location from yourManitoba Conservation districtoffice.

Swim Platforms

You must obtain a permit beforeinstalling a swim platform infront of your cottage. Onlyqualified lake-front cottagersmay obtain such a permit. A"swim platform" means anystructure, not attached to theshore, placed in the water.

The final approving authority forswimming platforms is theCanadian Coast Guard, Fisheriesand Oceans Canada. Beforeseeking Canadian Coast Guardapproval, cottagers within aprovincial park must first applyfor a Crown Land Permit fromManitoba Conservation.Anyone wanting to install or re-install a swimming platformmust complete such anapplication, and a site plandescribing the location and sizeof the swimming platform.

Swimming platforms can be apotential hazard to boaters, andcan also lead to water-basedaccidents for children or otherswimmers. Permits forswimming platforms require aminimum of $2 million ofgeneral liability insurance.Please contact Parks and NaturalAreas Branch or your localManitoba Conservation districtor regional office for moreinformation.

Sewage InstallationPermits

An installation permit andregistration with ManitobaConservation, EnvironmentDivision are required before anywork is carried out on a privatesewage disposal system.Application forms are availableat Parks and Natural AreasBranch in Winnipeg, or at yourlocal Manitoba Conservationdistrict office. See “Planningand Installing a SewageDisposal System” for furtherinformation.

Cottage Addresses

Manitoba Conservation stronglyrecommends displaying youraddress (a lot and block numberin most cases) at your cottage,This can be very important if anemergency services vehicle istrying to find your cottage.Posting an address also makes itmuch easier for service staffand other visitors to find yourcottage location.

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Building onPublic Reserve

Allowable structuresOn lakefront lots, the followingaccessory buildings are allowedon the public reserve: a boat-house, storage shed, pump-house, sauna, gazebo or roofedboat slip.

Maximum DevelopmentThe aggregate floor area of allbuildings located on the publicreserve in front of your lotcannot exceed 600 ft2 (56 m2)on one level. Docks, decks andsecond storeys are not includedin this calculation.Note: these structures on thepublic reserve are generallysubject to an annual fee.

Building LocationAccessory buildings on thepublic reserve must be locatedwithin the projected lot lines onthe public reserve area in frontof your lot (or the areadesignated by ManitobaConservation for someirregularly shaped lots).

Boathouse RoofsYou can use the roof of a flat-roofed single-storey boathouseas a completely open sundeckwith a perimeter protectiveguard, provided your cottage lotis designated lakefront.

However, you must apply for avariance and obtain the supportof your neighbours for such asundeck.

Hecla/GrindstoneNo accessory buildings, exceptgazebos and pump-houses, areallowed on the public reserve inHecla/Grindstone ProvincialPark. Further restrictions applyin the Hecla Historic Village.Boathouses are not allowed inHecla/ Grindstone ProvincialPark.

Two Storey BoathousesIn Whiteshell and Moose LakeProvincial Parks, in somecircumstances you may build asecond storey on a boathouse.Any habitable space cannotexceed 480 ft2 (45 m2). In orderto do this, you must obtain theapproval of your neighbours inwriting and apply for avariance. The second storey isnot included in the 600 ft2 (56m2) maximum developmentallowed on the public reserve.

No Boathouse PlumbingNo plumbing fixtures andsewage disposal facilities arepermitted in a boathouse. Nohabitable space may exist on thepublic reserve, except as asecond storey on a boat-house,as outlined above.

Boathouses for Back-tierCottagesIf you have a back-tier cottage,you can build a boathouse onlyin a location designated as aspecial area for boathouses,such as a boathouse channel, ifa site is available and you meetthe criteria.

Boathouses for Lake-frontCottageIf you have a remote orlakefront cottage, you maybuild a boathouse only on yourlot or on the public reserve infront of your lot.

Docks for Back-tier, RemoteCottagesIf you have a back-tier orremote cottage, you may be ableto construct a dock in adesignated area. In somedistricts, you may have to shareyour dock with another back-tier cottager or a group of back-tier cottagers. These docks orany other structure belonging toa back tier cottager must displaythe block and lot number of theowner.

Site Plan Permit NeededA Site Plan Permit is necessaryto construct any of these publicreserve structures.

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Use of the PublicReserve in Frontof Lake-frontCottagesIn general, the public reserve infront of a lakefront cottage isrecognized as being primarilyfor the use of the cottage owner,but:

Rectangular LotsIn the case of approximatelyrectangular lots, where one sideof the lot is approximatelyparallel to the lake shore, thepublic reserve on which thecottager has primary use is thatarea enclosed by projecting thelot lines to intersect the shore.

Non-Rectangular LotsFor non-rectangular lots, thelength of lake shore to whichthe cottager has primary usegenerally shall not exceed thewidth of the lot.

Converging Lot LinesFor non-rectangular lots wherethe lot lines converge to providelittle or no shoreline for theprimary use of the cottager, orwhere only one lot lineintersects the shore, site-specificinterpretation of the primary-use area will be made byManitoba Conservation staff.

Guidelines for UseWhere an area is recognized asbeing primarily for the use of alakefront cottager, the followingguidelines apply:

1. Other people may walkacross the area while reasonablyand conveniently on their wayto another destination.2. Boats may land on thearea only under unusual oremergency circumstances.3. Other people may notsunbathe, fish, loiter, etc.4. Only the lakefrontcottager may be permitted toconstruct any infrastructure(docks, boathouses, pump-houses, etc.) on that part of thepublic reserve.

DocksBefore you install a dock infront of your cottage, or on anyother site where a dock may beallowed, you must first contactManitoba Conservation toobtain the necessary permitsand have the location approved.

The same applies if you areconstructing waterfrontdecking, or replacing orenlarging a dock. But you canmake repairs to the decking, orsurface of a dock withoutapproval - provided the repairsdo not change the size orlocation of the dock.

Although detailed constructionplans are not required for docks,your plans must show:� location of the dock in

relation to your side bufferstrips

� width, length and other keydimensions

� general constructionfeatures (e.g., wooddecking, and stringerssupported on rock- filledtimber cribbing).

You are fully responsible forthe structural adequacy andsafety of the dock.

If you have a back-tier orremote cottage, the location ofyour dock is subject to the samerestrictions as the location of aboathouse.

Only wooden pole docks areallowed in the Hecla Village.Only wooden pole docks andother removable docks areallowed elsewhere on HeclaIsland. Written support must beobtained from affectedneighbours if the removabledock can be viewed from theneighbour's lot.

Dock sites are subject to annualrental fees.

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Public LanesIn general, the onlydevelopment allowed on publiclanes that currently existbetween adjacent cottage lotswill be the construction ofminor structures such as pumphouses, under the authority of aSite Plan Permit.In the past, docks, boathousesor other such larger structuresbuilt in these areas have led tomany conflicts betweencottagers.

Privately BuiltRoads on PublicReserveAn owner or occupier of Crownland within a provincial parkwho wishes to build andmaintain a private road onCrown reserve (other than shortdriveways leading to a singlecottage) shall:

ApplicationComplete an application forpermit and a plot planindicating the exact location ofthe proposed road.

Work PermitUpon approval, obtain a WorkPermit from the local ManitobaConservation district office.

TimingIndicate the timing of theproposed construction and theconstruction methods to be usedon the road.

Other Park UsersNot allow the road to adverselyaffect other park users.

Appeals by OthersIf the proposed roadconstruction may affect otherpark users in the immediatevicinity, inform those peoplepotentially affected of theproposal and provide anopportunity to appeal thedecision. This appeal may beheard by a board appointed bythe Minister. The Minister orhis designate will make the finaldecision.

Road AgreementIf the applicant is more than onecottager, submit a RoadAgreement at the time ofapplication, signed by allmembers of the group, and thename of a contact person.(Manitoba Conservationassumes no responsibility forliability associated with aprivately built road.)

GatesOnly in special circumstancesand only with writtenpermission, in the form of acontract or Road Agreementsigned by the Crown, may thepermittee of a private road placea gate on the road or otherwise

prevent use of the road by thegeneral public.

Other TrafficUnder normal circumstances,other traffic and other cottagersmay use a privately built roadacross Crown land, and nocompensation will be providedto the former road users andbuilders.

LicenceNote: a licence issued byManitoba Conservation,Environment Division may benecessary in order to construct aroad.

Boathousesprohibited insome areasBoathouses and similarbuildings are not permitted onthe public reserve inHecla/Grindstone andClearwater Provincial Parks.Allowable lake-front buildingdevelopment for a lake shore lotis limited to one pump-house orequipment storage shed with afloor area of no more than 64 ft2

(5.9 m2).

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Docks for Back-tierand Remote Cottages

CriteriaIf you have a back-tier orremote cottage, you may bepermitted to build a dock in adesignated area. In somedistricts, you may have to shareyour dock with another back-tier cottage or a group of back-tier cottagers. Wheneverpossible, existing docks will beallowed to remain.

ConditionsAll existing docks permitted toback-tier or remote cottagesmust be part of the sale of thecottage or be forfeited.Applicants must be theowner/occupier of a lot on thesame lake for which they areapplying for a permit.

Only one permit (slip) will bepermitted per cottage. If thereis not sufficient Crown reservein a particular area to permitindividual dock sites, any newapplications meeting the criteriawill be required to share anexisting site.

Every cottager maintaining aboat slip at a shared dock sitemust apply and pay annual fees.One person per shared dock isto be appointed as a contactperson. The contact person is toensure that the structure andappearance of the dock areproperly maintained and kept ina safe condition.

The contact person is to supplyManitoba Conservation,annually, a list of all slipholders at their shared dock site.

Manitoba Conservation maydetermine the length andspecific location of the dock.The dock should be removed asmuch as practical fromprojected lines of nearby lots.

A boat slip must be part of thesale of the cottage with whichthe slip is associated, or beforfeited.

You must submit an applicationfor permit, a site plan and asketch indicating how the dockwill be constructed to Parks andNatural Areas Branch inWinnipeg. The local NaturalResources Officer will do a site-location approval before anypermit is issued.

A dock must be constructed onsite within one year of the dateof the permit. These docks orany other structure belonging toa back tier cottager must displaythe block and lot number of thepermittee.

All rights to occupy a dock sitewill be cancelled if the holderfails to comply with this policyor any applicable Acts andregulations, or if the site wasobtained by misrepresentationof any facts.

Boathouses for Back-tier and RemoteCottages

CriteriaNo new sites, other than inapproved boathouse channels,will be allocated for back-tieror remote cottagers to constructa boathouse. All existingboathouses will be allowed toremain.

ConditionsAll existing boathousespermitted to back-tier or remotecottages must be part of the saleof the cottage or be forfeited.

If you have a back-tier cottage,you may be able to build aboathouse in a locationdesignated as a special area forboathouses, such as a boathousechannel, if a site is available.

If you have a remote cottage,you may build a boathouse onlyon your lot or on the publicreserve in front of your lot.

Every boathouse site is to beidentified with the permittee’slot and block number.

The permittee is to ensure thatthe structure and appearance ofthe boathouse are maintainedand kept in a safe condition.

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Grand Beach Provincial ParkThe guidelines for Grand Beach have been amended to establish acceptable maximum exterior dimensions forcottages in Grand Beach, allowing cottagers to have one and a half storey cottages with a usable upper level.Some limitations on exterior cottage size are necessary to recognize the relatively small lot sizes, the highdensity nature of the Grand Beach cottage subdivision, and the population increase that will result in the sub-division from the construction of larger cottages.

1. Minimum vacation home size/2 exit doors:The minimum allowable floor area of a vacation home at Grand Beach is 320 ft2 (29.7 m2). At least two exitdoors out of the cottage at different locations are recommended.

2. Maximum building coverage:The total floor area of a vacation home (single-storey or 1 ½-storey units), including all roofed porches and lofts(but not including un-roofed decks and patios), may be 30 per cent of the total area of the lot to a maximumof 922 ft2 (85.7 m2) (this applies only to lots with a gross area of 3,075 ft2 (285.7 m2) or more).

30' x 75' lot - 30% of 2,250 ft2 = 675 ft2 (62.7 m2)33' x 75' lot - 30% of 2,475 ft2 = 742 ft2 (68.9m2)38' x 75' lot - 30% of 2,850 ft2 = 855 ft2 (79.4 m2)41' x 75' lot - 30% of 3,075 ft2 = 922 ft2 (85.7 m2)33' x 100' lot - maximum size = 922 ft2 (85.7 m2)

Furthermore:(a) The outside stud line (i.e., the outer edge of exterior 2 x 4 wall framing) or outer edge of a deck or loftplatform shall be used in calculating total floor area.(b) All ground areas covered by a roof shall be included in floor area calculations, except for normal eaves

and overhangs up to 2 ft. (61 cm) wide.

3. Outbuildings:The maximum outbuilding coverage per lot is 80 ft2 (7.4 m2) and is limited to one single storey storage shed,with the maximum side-wall height not exceeding 8 ft. (2.4 m) above existing grade level. This accessorybuilding is not used in calculating the maximum aggregate size of development on the lot. However, thisallotment cannot be used to increase the allowable vacation home size. Two-level outbuildings are notpermitted. The provision of a toilet and washroom facilities as part of the storage shed is permissible if all otherrequirements, including those under The Environment Act, are met.

4. Patios:Patio and deck sizes are no longer restricted (provided they are not roofed).

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Grand Beach Provincial Park (continued)5. 1½-storey units(a) The maximum allowable height of the main floor, measured from the top of the main floor to the top of the

floor of the second storey is 10 feet (3.05 m).(b) The maximum allowable height of the second floor, if present, measured from the top of the second floor to

the exterior peak of the roof is 12 feet (3.66 m).(c) The maximum allowable roof pitch is 12:12. At least 2 opposing sides of the roof must be “pitched”, and

the base of the pitched roof sides must be immediately next to the second storey floor joists.(d) A maximum of 2 dormers are allowed, each with a maximum exterior width of 7 feet (2.13 m).

Note: No maximum square footage exists for the interior size of the second storey of a 1½ storey vacationhome, provided the exterior size of the building conforms to the specifications listed above.

For complex designs, where the application of these guidelines is not clear-cut, case by case interpretations willbe made by Manitoba Conservation so as to be consistent with the intent and principles of these guidelines. Theoverall cottage volume of a complex design should not exceed that usually allowed by the above guidelines.

6. Crawl spaces and basements(a) The maximum allowable crawl space (pony wall) height from the average existing natural grade level to the

bottom of the main floor joists is 3 feet (.91 m), or 4 feet (1.22 m) to the top of the joists.(b) No basements may be built, or excavation may take place, except minimal excavation on sloped sites where

the volume of built-up material is at least equal to the volume of excavated material; or in situations wherethe original height of the grade is restored with alternate material (e.g. if top soil and organic material isremoved beneath the building).

(c) Installation of sump pumps will normally not be allowed and will require special approval if they are neededin unusual circumstances.

7. Fences(a) Fences must be located no closer than 12 ft. (3.7 m) from the surveyed front lot line.(b) The maximum allowable fence height in front of or beside a cottage is 4 feet (1.22 m).(c) The maximum allowable fence height allowed on the side of a lot behind a cottage, or along the back of a

lot is 6 feet (1.83 m).

8. Cottage location and side-yard limitations:(a) All development, including decks, landings, stairs, roof overhangs, etc., shall be within lot boundariesand as set out below.

(b) When a cottage is placed on a lot, it must be aligned visually with the rest of the cottages on the street inquestion, and must be within the range of 18-25 ft. (5.5-7.6 m) from the front lot line, unless otherwise specifiedby Manitoba Conservation. Any variation owing to natural features or existing circumstances shall be at thediscretion of the Director of Parks and Natural Areas Branch.

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Grand Beach Provincial Park (continued)8. Cottage location and side-yard limitations (continued):(c) Decks must be located no closer than 12 ft. (3.7 m) from the surveyed front lot line.

(d) A new cottage or cottage addition shall be located so that no exterior sidewall is closer than 4 ft. (1.2 m)to the adjacent side lot line of a neighbouring lot. This is in keeping with fire safety measures as specified in theManitoba Building Code.

9. Sidewall window and screened area limitations:(a) Manitoba Building Code requirements that apply to new construction regulate the allowable totalwindow and screened opening area in a cottage sidewall according to the distance of the sidewall from theadjacent side lot line of a neighbouring lot. This distance is referred to below as the “side yard width.”

(b) The total area of windows and screened openings in a cottage sidewall that faces an adjacentneighbouring lot should not exceed the areas outlined in the following table. The maximum allowable totalareas of windows and screened opening are expressed as percentages of the total areas of the sidewalls in whichthe openings occur.

(c) Side yard width - 4 ft. (1.2 m) 8% of total sidewall areaSide yard width - 5 ft. (1.5 m) 9% of total sidewall areaSide yard width - 6 ft. (1.8 m)11% of total sidewall areaSide yard width - 7 ft. (2.1 m)13% of total sidewall areaSide yard width - 8 ft. (2.4 m)17% of total sidewall areaSide yard width - 9 ft. (2.7 m)21% of total sidewall areaSide yard width - 10 ft. (3.0 m)25% of total sidewall area

Note: As a general guide in calculating window and adjacent sidewall areas for common cottage designs:I. window measurements are taken from the inside of the window frames (i.e., inside of jamb/sill)II. sidewall length measurements is the total outside length of the wall, and sidewall height

measurement is from the bottom of the exterior wall (ground level if crawl spaces is sheathed) tothe finished ceiling height inside.

(d) The lot holder is responsible for ensuring that construction meets these requirements.

Hecla Historic Village AreaSpecial design guidelines for this area can be found in a separate publication, the “Hecla HistoricLands Design Guidelines”, that is available from Parks and Natural Areas Branch offices in Winnipeg.

Falcon Creek Subdivision (formerly known as the Falcon Staff Trailer Village)Special guidelines also apply to the Falcon Creek Subdivision, and are available from Parks andNatural Areas Branch offices in Winnipeg.

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Preparing Your Drawings - The Plot Plan

Before constructing a newbuilding or adding to anexisting one, you need:� two copies of a signed and

dated plot plan (the plotplan form shown on thefollowing page is availablefrom ManitobaConservation for thispurpose),

� three copies of yourbuilding plans,

� a Building Permitapplication form fromManitoba Labour.

�

A Site Plan Permit can then beissued to you.

Plot plans

The main purpose of a plot planis to show the size of theproposed new construction andits position on the lot, includingdistance from the surveyed lotboundaries, and its relationshipto existing development.

Your plot plan must show your lot and adjacent shorelinereserve (if applicable), as wellas:

All existing buildings.

Your plot plan should show allexisting buildings, includingstructures on the public reservealong the shoreline. Label thebuildings and structures, andshow how far they are fromyour side, front and rear lotboundaries. Indicate anybuildings to be demolished aspart of a redevelopment project.

Proposed new construction.

Label and give dimensions ofany proposed new construction,and show how far it is fromyour side, front and rear lotlines. Be sure to indicate if anyof the existing buildings or newconstruction have a basement orsecond storey.

Sewage disposal facilities.

Label any existing or proposedsewage disposal facilities. Showhow far they are from the lotlines and buildings. See“Planning and Installing aSewage Disposal System” forfurther details.

Other lot developmentfeatures.

Show other lot developmentfeatures pertinent to yourproposal, such as driveways,drainage channels, trees, wellsand large rock outcrops.

Signature and date.

You or your contractor mustsign and date the plot plan aspart of the location agreementincluded in the Site Plan Permitapplication. It acknowledgesyour commitment andresponsibility to build at thelocation shown on the plot plan.

Nature, to be commanded, must be obeyed. Francis Bacon (1561–1626)

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Sample Site Plan Permit Application Form

February 2004 Page 1

Replaces pages 27 to 32 of "The Cottager's Handbook for Manitoba ProvincialParks", Third Edition, distributed by Manitoba Conservation

Planning and Installing an Onsite Wastewater Management System

� All systems must conform to The Provincial Parks Act, The Environment Act and associatedregulations.

� Holding tanks or approved alternative onsite wastewater management systems will be required wherethe existing system is not functioning according to set standards and regulations.

� Where vacation home upgrading significantly increases overall wastewater generation, the systemmust be replaced by an approved system as specified in Manitoba Regulation 83/2003, OnsiteWastewater Management Systems Regulation.

� All onsite wastewater management systems are subject to random inspections.� Registration with Manitoba Conservation, Environmental Programs, is required before any work is

carried out on an onsite wastewater management system. Registration forms are available at yourlocal Manitoba Conservation district office.

What method of onsite wastewater management can you use? When are holding tanks mandatory? Whatsize of septic tank or disposal field do you need? When and how can you utilize a greywater pit? Thissection covers these and other questions you may have about planning and installing an onsitewastewater management system or upgrading your existing one. It applies to all cottages throughout theprovincial park system.

To check whether your system is subject to special requirements, see Specific Locations.

Environmental Protection

If your present system is not causing any environmental or public health problems, you don’t have tochange it. If your system has failed or is defective, you must repair it or replace it with an approvedsystem that meets the requirements of the current regulation.You may also have to change the system if:� more wastewater is generated as a result of cottage upgrading;� you switch from seasonal to permanent residence; or� your system was inadequate to begin with.

Special Locations If your cottage is in one of the locations listed below, special conditions apply to your onsite wastewatermanagement system.

� Grand Beach Provincial Park and Hecla North Shore – wastewater disposal fields and greywaterpits are not permitted.

� Hecla/Grindstone Provincial Park – wastewater disposal fields are not permitted (except for the 5-acre (2.1 ha) lots in and around the Hecla Village area).

� Falcon Lake Block D and K Plan 8208, Falcon Creek subdivision – your cottage must beconnected to the municipal piped system.

� Clearwater Lake Park, Paint Lake Park, Bakers Narrows Park and Bower Lake within TurtleMountain Park – wastewater disposal fields are not permitted in these locations, which aredesignated “sensitive areas” under the Regulation, unless approved by the director.

Definitions

aerobic treatment unit – a watertight receptacle in which wastewater is brought into contact with air tocause aerobic digestion of the sewage (note: these units must conform to NSF Standard 40 for IndividualAerobic Wastewater Treatment Plants and bear a valid stamp or mark indicating certification)

February 2004 Page 2

composting toilet system – a self-contained system which employs the process of biologicaldegradation, in which organic material is converted into a compost-like substance through the action ofmicro-organisms (note: these systems must conform to NSF Standard 41 for WastewaterRecycling/Reuse and Water Conservation Devices and bear a valid stamp or mark indicating certification)

disposal field – a system of pipes laid in a shallow excavation or trench filled with graded stone or asystem of wastewater effluent chambers laid in a shallow excavation or trench where either pipe orchamber system is covered with topsoil for the treatment and disposal of wastewater effluent

graded stone – durable, insoluble, decay-resistant and washed rock or stone ranging in diameter fromone to 7.6 cm (0.4 to 3")

greywater – liquid waste from a dwelling or other building produced by bathing, laundering, or foodpreparation activities or from drainage associated with these sources and specifically excluding sewageand septage

greywater pit – an excavation filled with graded stone and covered with topsoil for the disposal ofgreywater (note: can only be used for a building not served by a water system under pressure)

holding tank - a watertight receptacle designed to retain sewage, wastewater, greywater or wastewatereffluent (note: these units must conform to CSA B66-00 for Prefabricated Septic Tanks and SewageHolding Tanks and bear a valid stamp or mark indicating certification)

low water use closet – a toilet that uses less than 5 L (1 gal.) of water for each flush

onsite wastewater management system – all or part of a treatment system, holding system ormanagement system for sewage, wastewater, greywater, wastewater effluent or septage, including, butnot limited to: aerobic treatment unit, composting toilet system, disposal field, greywater pit, holding tankor septic tank

pail privy – an outdoor toilet facility in which the sewage receptacle consists of a removable container

percolation test – a method of measuring the rate at which liquids pass through the soil, generallydetermined by digging holes and measuring the rate at which water in these holes is absorbed by the soil

pit privy – an outdoor toilet facility in which the sewage receptacle consists of an excavation in theground

sensitive area - any of the areas set out in schedule H of MR 83/2003

septic tank – a watertight receptacle for the primary treatment of wastewater and the digestion of sludge(note: these units must conform to CSA B66-00 for Prefabricated Septic Tanks and Sewage HoldingTanks and bear a valid stamp or mark indicating certification)

sewage – fecal or urinary waste and other human body and toilet waste

vault privy – an outdoor toilet facility in which the sewage receptacle consists of a watertight receptacledesigned to retain sewage

wastewater – either greywater or sewage or both

wastewater effluent - wastewater after it has undergone at least one form of physical, chemical orbiological treatment

water course – a natural or man-made channel or basin which holds water or through which water flows,including a river, stream, creek, run, rivulet, ditch, lake, pond, slough, reservoir or an intermittent wastercourse

February 2004 Page 3

Selecting A System

Whether you are upgrading an old system or starting from scratch, selection of your system depends onsite conditions and the type of facilities at your cottage.

Eight methods – you may use any of eight wastewater disposal methods approved by theOnsite Wastewater Management Systems Regulation.

The following eight methods are designed to ensure that wastewater will not pollute park lands and water.

1. pit, pail, or vault privy and greywater pit may be acceptable if no pressurized water system is present

2. low water use closet, septic tank (minimum of 680 L or 150 gal.) and disposal field for toilet wastesonly, in conjunction with a greywater disposal field

3. low water use closet and holding tank (minimum of 3,400 L or 750 gal.) for all wastes

4. full size system (regular toilet) septic tank (minimum of or 2590 L or 575 gal.) and disposal field

5. holding tank for all sewage and greywater (minimum size 4,500 L or 1,000 gal.)

6. combination holding tank for all sewage and a disposal field for greywater 7. aerobic treatment unit and disposal field (25% reduction in size of disposal field is allowed) 8. non-water carried toilet system, such as composting or incineration, and greywater pit if no

pressurized water system

The septic tank and disposal field method may not be a workable solution for your lot due to setbackdistances from buildings, wells, watercourses, embankments and property lines. Also poor soil conditionscan eliminate the disposal field option.

See Special Locations earlier in this section to determine if you are subject to special restrictions.

Holding tanks – in some situations a holding tank may be the best solution for handling wastewater.Holding tanks are mandatory for all sewage and greywater if your lot is accessible by road and if any ofthe following conditions apply:� your lot is in an area that has been designated a sensitive area by MR 83/2003; and� site evaluation determines a disposal field cannot meet the requirements of Schedule A or B in MR

83/2003

Alternatives to Water Carried Toilet Systems

There are a number of alternatives to standard flush toilets. The use of composting toilets, chemicaltoilets and privies are permitted in certain areas, however these alternatives have some limitations. Besure to research your alternative to make sure this type of system will be suitable for your needs.

Composting Toilets - allow organic material to decompose in the presence of air. When fullycomposted, the residue material is an inoffensive, earth-like substance that can be used for fertilizer.

Chemical Toilets – often a bucket with a seat. The chemical part is a small amount of solution pouredinto the bucket before use. Waste from chemical toilets must be emptied into a common or public seweror an approved facility.

February 2004 Page 4

Outside Toilet Facilities - outside toilet facilities are permitted, as long as the outside toilet facility is ofsound construction, weatherproof, fly proof, vented, sanitary and in good repair. Outdoor toilet facilitiesinclude pit, vault, and pail privies.

Pit Privies must be at least:� 6 m (20 ft) from a habitable building;� 15 m (50 ft) to drilled water well;� 30 m (100 ft) to a spring or water well other than water well described above;� 30 m (100 ft) to the normal high water level of a watercourse;� 3 m (10 ft) to any property boundary; or� 1 m (3.25 ft) from the bottom of the pit to the bedrock or normal high water table.

Vault and Pail Privies must be at least:� 6 m (20 ft) from a habitable building;� 3 m (10 ft) to any property boundary;� 8 m (26 ft) to a well; or� 15 m (50 ft) to the normal high water level of a watercourse.

Getting the most out of your Onsite Wastewater Management System

A septic tank and disposal field is an efficient system if it is properly installed and maintained regularly.

Septic Tank Maintenance

The septic tank is designed to dispose of all wastewater from the home, however there are some pointsto keep in mind to reduce potential problems.

� Wise water management is necessary. All septic systems have limitations and water conservationshould be practiced.

� Do not discharge water from weeping tiles and water conditioners into the disposal system. Theadditional water may overtax the system.

� Do not use excessive quantities of bleaching and cleaning compounds. These may reduce theeffectiveness of the digestion chamber by destroying bacteria.

� Inspect and have the tank pumped out regularly. Unless absolutely necessary, do not clean the tankduring the winter months.

� There should be no need to use starters, bacterial feeds, or cleaners. All the bacteria needed tooperate the tank are already contained in the sewage entering the system.

Disposal Field Maintenance

Some things to keep in mind for improved operation of your disposal field:

� Keep all traffic off the disposal field.

� Insulate the tank, field and lines with a blanket of straw about 30 cm deep, especially in the first winterof operation.

� Remove large deciduous trees near the field as their roots may block proper drainage.

� Do not plant trees or locate playground equipment, sheds, or other structures on the disposal field.

� Investigate any signs of saturation or leakage and reduce water usage to allow the field to dry out.

February 2004 Page 5

Remember: It is an offence to discharge sewage, greywater or wastewater effluent into or onto groundexcept in compliance with the Regulation. If your disposal field is failing you should take action toremediate the situation or you may face prosecution.

GREYWATER DISPOSAL

Greywater is all domestic wastewater from a dwelling and includes bathing, laundering, or foodpreparation activities and specifically excludes sewage or septage.

A greywater field can be constructed in conjunction with the use of a holding tank providing that all thesoil conditions and setback requirements can be met. (refer to set back distances for disposal fields). Theholding tank is used for the collection of the sewage and the greywater field is used to dispose of thegreywater. In certain instances when disposing greywater from a permanent home it may be necessary toinstall a septic tank to intercept solids and provide limited primary treatment to prevent clogging of thefield. In some cases a greywater treatment tank (340 L/75 gal) may be of sufficient size to provideadequate pre-treatment. The type of tank or pretreatment required will be dependent upon the volume ofwastewater generated and whether the dwelling is used seasonally or permanently.

A greywater field must be constructed to the same design criteria and to at least 75% of the size of astandard disposal field for that location.

Greywater Pits

Greywater pits are only permitted where a building is not serviced by water under pressure.

A greywater pit is nothing more than a covered hole in the ground filled with stone. It is used to collectsmall amounts of greywater and disperse it into the surrounding soil.

Greywater pits should not be: � under the building;� closer than 15 m (50 ft) to a drilled water well equipped with a casing to a depth of not less than 6 m

(20 ft) below ground level;� closer than 30 m (100 ft) to a spring or water well;� closer than 30 m (100 ft) to the normal high water level of a watercourse;� unless otherwise approved closer than 3 m (10 ft) to any property boundary; or� in an area were the soil depth, measured from the bottom of the pit, is less than 1 m (3.25 ft) from the

bottom of the pit to bedrock or normal high water table.

Working on the System

Whether you want to renovate, repair, expand your system or install a new one, you will need to getseveral preliminaries out of the way. This includes completing paperwork, marking boundaries,conducting percolation tests, and arranging inspections before you start any pick and shovel work on thesystem.

You cannot begin installation until you have completed and submitted the Manitoba Conservationapplication to register form. If your proposed system is not approved, you are welcome to discussalternatives with the inspecting officer.

In special circumstances, you may require the services of a professional engineer. ManitobaConservation will advise you.

Here is a typical sequence of activities:

February 2004 Page 6

The Form

Obtain the application to register form from Manitoba Conservation.

You and/or your contractor must complete the following work before the form is submitted.� Mark the corners of your lot with coloured ribbon or stakes.� Mark any property boundaries that are close to the proposed onsite wastewater management system.

This is critical, as property boundary setback distances must be met.� Stake out the area you propose to use for your system – holding tank, greywater disposal field or

septic field.You and /or your contractor can now complete the form and return it to Manitoba Conservation. Whenyour form is received, it will be reviewed to determine if the proposed system meets all regulatoryrequirements. An inspection may be arranged to confirm that the location of your system is consistentwith your plot plan. You do not have to be present for the inspection.

Holding Tanks

If you are installing a holding tank, you must send Manitoba Conservation your completed application toregister form. Manitoba Conservation will check the location of your holding tank.

If the location and your proposed installation meet the requirements of the regulation, you or yourcontractor will be given authorization to proceed with the installation of your holding tank.

Contact you’re inspecting Officer at least 48 hours in advance of installing the tank to obtain authorizationto proceed.

Pit, Pail or Vault Privy

If you are installing any of these facilities you are not required to fill out a registration form. However, youmust ensure your privy meets the appropriate setback distances.

Septic Tanks and Disposal Fields

If you are proposing to install a septic tank and disposal field or a greywater disposal field you mustdetermine the following:� ensure that your property is of sufficient size to accommodate the septic tank and disposal field� determine the type and absorption properties of soil in the proposed location of the disposal field� determine the size of field required

If the size of your lot is sufficient and the location proves satisfactory, you may be required to conduct asoils analysis or percolation test. The soils analysis/percolation test will assist in determining thesuitability of the soil to absorb the wastewater effluent and will determine the type and size of disposalfield to be installed. Soils analysis must be done by an accredited laboratory. The percolation test mustbe done in accordance with Schedule D of MR 83/2003. It is advisable to have a certified installer orengineer conduct the percolation test, as proper tools are required.

Based on the findings from the soils analysis or percolation test, your contractor can determine the typeand size of disposal field required.

Complete and forward the application to register form to Manitoba Conservation.

If the location and your proposed installation meet the requirements of the regulation, you or yourcontractor will be given authorization to proceed with the installation of your septic tank and disposal field.

Contact your inspecting Officer at least 48 hours in advance of installing the system to arrange for aninspection and authorization to cover.

February 2004 Page 7

SSTTAANNDDAARRDDSS FFOORROONNSSIITTEE WWAASSTTEEWWAATTEERR MMAANNAAGGEEMMEENNTT SSYYSSTTEEMMSS

SEPTIC TANKS must:

1. Bear a valid stamp or mark indicating CSA certification

2. Be constructed of concrete, fiberglass, polyethylene or other approved material

3. Have at least two compartments, each with a minimum capacity, as follows:1st compartment 140% of total daily sewage flow or 2250 L (500 gal), whichever is greater2nd compartment 20% of total daily sewage flow or 340 L (75 gal), whichever is greater

4. Be a minimum of:1 m (3.25 ft) from building3 m (10 ft) from property boundary8 m (26 ft) from well15 m (50 ft) from water course, excluding a ditch8 m (26 ft) from cut or embankment3 m (10 ft) from swimming pool3 m (10 ft) from water cistern

Where low water use closets are used, septic tanks must:

1. Have a minimum working capacity of 680 litres (150 gallons)

2. Be increased in capacity by 30% for each low water use closet in excess of one

3. Only receive sewage from low water use closets.

TRENCH-TYPE FIELDS - PERFORATED PIPE:

1. Depth of soil between the field base and the bedrock or normal high water table must be 1 m (3.25 ft)or greater

2. Soil percolation rate must be between 47.2 min/cm (120 min/inch) and 24 sec/cm (1 min/inch)

3. Must be a minimum of:6 m (20 ft) from building without basement or cellar11 m (36 ft) from building with basement or cellar30 m (100 ft) from water course, excluding a ditch15 m (50 ft) from cut or embankment8 m (26 ft) from swimming pool8 m (26 ft) from water service pipe15 m (50 ft) from drilled well30 m (100 ft) from other well or spring8 m (26 ft) from property boundary 3 m (10 ft) from property boundary where low water use closets are used.

TRENCH-TYPE FIELDS - EFFLUENT CHAMBERS:

1. Depth of soil between the field base and the bedrock or normal high water table must be 1 m (3.25 ft)or greater

2. Soil percolation rate must be between 47.2 min/cm (120 min/inch) and 24 sec/cm (1 min/inch)

February 2004 Page 8

3. Must be a minimum of:6 m (20 ft) from building without basement or cellar11 m (36ft) from building with basement or cellar30 m (100 ft) from water course, excluding a ditch15 m (50 ft) from cut or embankment8 m (26 ft) from swimming pool8 m (26 ft) from water service pipe15 m (50 ft) from drilled well30 m (100 ft) from other well or spring8 m (26 ft) from property boundary 3 m (10 ft) from property boundary where low water use closets are used.

TOTAL AREA FIELDS:

1. Depth of soil between the field base and the bedrock or normal high water table must be 1 m (3.25 ft)or greater

2. Soil percolation rate must be between 23.6 min/cm (60 min/inch) and 24 sec/cm (1 min/inch)

3. Perforated distribution pipe must be equally distributed over the total area of the field

4. Must be a minimum of:6 m (20 ft) from building without basement or cellar11 m (36 ft) from building with basement or cellar30 m (100 ft) from water course, excluding a ditch15 m (50 ft) from cut or embankment8 m (26 ft) from swimming pool8 m (26 ft) from water service pipe15 m (50 ft) from drilled well30 m (100 ft) from other well or spring8 m (26 ft) from property boundary 3 m (10 ft) from property boundary where low water use closets are used.

HOLDING TANKS must:

1. Bear a valid stamp or mark indicating CSA certification

2. Be constructed of concrete, fiberglass, polyethylene or other approved material

3. Have a minimum total capacity of 4545 litres (1000 gallons) or 3400 litres (750 gallons) if all the waterclosets in a building are low water use closets.

4. Be a minimum of:1 m (3.25 ft) from building 3 m (10 ft) from property boundary8 m (26 ft) from well15 m (50 ft) from watercourse, excluding a ditch8 m (26 ft) from cut or embankment3 m (10 ft) from swimming pool3 m (10 ft) from water cistern

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Sullage Pits

A sullage pit is nothing morethan a covered hole in theground, filled with stones. It isused to collect small amounts ofgrey water and disperse it intothe surrounding soil.

You are allowed only onesullage pit on your lot - if yoursituation qualifies for its use.No part of it can be locatedinside a buffer strip.

Sullage pits can handle waterfrom sinks, baths and showers.

They are not meant to handlewater from clothes washers, hottubs, jacuzzis, hydro spas, orchildren’s wading pools. Thelarge amounts of water fromthese sources could cause thepit to overflow and defeat itspurpose.

Sullage pits are designed todispose of waste-water that isfree of solids and thus does notrequire septic-tank treatment.

If you have a septic tank andfield that serve a full sizesystem (4 fixtures), you cannotuse a sullage pit.

Sullage pits are to be usedduring the open water seasononly. Absorption is blocked inwinter when the ground isfrozen.

They are suitable wherequantities of grey water are low- less than 50 gallons a day.

For example, you might be ableto use one to serve a cottagewith four occupants, a kitchensink, and one hand-basin. Asecond example would be acottage with two occupants, ashower, kitchen sink, and onehand-basin.

The size of the pit depends onthe type of soil. The minimumallowed depth is 2 feet; themaximum allowed depth is 4feet:

For example, for a standardthree bedroom cottage:� on sand with gravel, a 64 ft3

pit is necessary (e.g.: 4 ft x4 ft x 4 ft or 5.7 ft x 5.7 ft x2 ft);

� on silty sand to clayey silt, a144 ft3 pit is necessary;

� on clay, a 324 ft3 pit isnecessary.

Certain types of clay may beimpervious and not suitable fora sullage pit.

To get the most out of a sullagepit, keep waste particles fromgoing down the drain. They canclog the pit, reducing theinfiltration rate.

You cannot install a sullage pitunder a building. It must be atleast 10 feet (3 metres) fromany building and the lot line.The space between the buildingand the pit should beunobstructed.

A sullage pit should be at least:50 feet (15 metres) from thenearest well� 100 feet (30 metres) from

the nearest spring or shallowwell

� 100 feet (30 metres) fromthe nearest watercourse.

Your site must have a layer ofsuitable soil (see illustration)and cover a large enough area tomeet setback requirements forthe safe disposal of sullage. Thesoil must be deep enough sothat the bottom of the pit sits atleast 1 metre (3 feet) above thewater table or bedrock.

The best soil is sandy. It fallsinto clods that crumble easily.Soil that is dense, hard and dry,dull gray, or mottled is apt to benonabsorbent. Inspect the soilon your lot by turning up spadesfull at several locations. Whenyou have found a site that seemssuitable, dig a test hole andarrange for an inspectionthrough Parks and NaturalAreas Branch.

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Working on theSystemWhether you want to renovate,repair, or expand your system, orinstall a new one, you will need toget several preliminaries out of theway - completing paperwork,marking boundaries, digging testholes, arranging inspections -before you start any pick andshovel work on the system.You cannot begin installation untilyou have an Installation Permitfrom Manitoba Conservation. Ifyour proposed system doesn’t passan inspection, you are welcome todiscuss alternatives with theinspecting officer.In special circumstances, you mayrequire the services of aprofessional engineer. ManitobaConservation will advise you.Here is a typical sequence ofactivities:

The Forms.Obtain the following forms fromManitoba Conservation:� Application for Installation� Manitoba Conservation,

Environment DivisionRegistration Form

These forms are available fromManitoba Conservation districtoffices and Parks and NaturalAreas Branch in Winnipeg.

Complete the following workbefore you submit the forms.� Mark the corners of your lot

with coloured ribbon or stakes.� Mark any property boundaries

that are close to the proposedsewage system. This is critical.The Natural Resource Officerwill check to make sure all setbacks have been met.

� Stake out the area you proposeto use for your system - septicfield, sullage pit, holding tank.

Complete the forms and returnthem to the Manitoba Conservationdistrict office or Parks & NaturalAreas Branch in Winnipeg. Whenyour forms are received, aninspection will be arranged toinspect your lot to confirm that thelocation of your system agreeswith your plot plan. You don’thave to be on-site for theinspection.

Holding Tanks.

If you are installing a holding tank,you must send ManitobaConservation your completedApplication for Installation andManitoba Conservation,Environment Division Registrationforms. Manitoba Conservation willcheck the location of your holdingtank.If the location and your proposedinstallation meet the requirementsof the Environment Act, you willbe issued an Installation permitand an Acknowledging Receipt forthe Manitoba Conservation,Environment Division RegistrationForm for a Private SewageDisposal System.

Check with your InspectingOfficer before you go ahead andinstall the tank. That’s all there isto it.

Pit, Pail, or Vault Privy.

Complete the Application forInstallation form and return it toManitoba Conservation. Staff willcheck the location. If it issatisfactory, you will receive anInstallation Permit.

Septic Tanks, Fields, and SullagePits.

If you are proposing to install anyof these facilities, makearrangements with ManitobaConservation to check thelocation(s) you have selected foryour facilities.If the location proves satisfactory,you can go ahead and dig testholes.For a septic field, dig two testholes in the proposed field, about20 feet (6.1 m) apart, to a depth of6 feet (1.8 m) or bedrock or thewater table.For a sullage pit, dig one hole inthe area for the pit to a depth of 7feet (2.1 m) or to bedrock or thewater table. Holes can be dug witha post-hole auger or similar tool.Once you have dug the test holes,make arrangements with ManitobaConservation for an inspection.(Flag or cover the holes to makesure someone doesn’t fall intothem.)

Manitoba Conservation willinspect the holes to make sure thatthere is enough overburden - soil,sand, gravel above bedrock, or thewater table - to accommodate thesystem you are proposing toinstall. They will also establish thesoil type which determines the sizeof the septic field or sullage pit.

If soil conditions and site locationare acceptable - or can be madeacceptable - complete and forwardthe necessary forms to ManitobaConservation.

35

STANDARDS FOR SEPTIC TANKS AND DISPOSAL FIELDS SERVING DWELLINGSSCHEDULE A (Clause 9(a)

(from Manitoba Regulation 95/88R)*

SEPTIC TANKSSeptic tanks servicing dwellings shall

(a) be watertight;(b) have at least two compartments;(c) be of concrete or fibreglass construction or

other approved materials;(d) if prefabricated, shall bear a valid stamp or

mark indicating certification by TheCanadian Standards Association (StandardB66 or latest revised edition);

(e) have access holes extending to or above theground surface;

(f) have childproof covers;(g) be set back at least the distance indicated,

from the following:(i) Building 1.0 m(ii) Property Boundary 3.0 m(iii) Wells 8.0 m(iv) Surface Water 15.0 m(v) Cut or Embankment 8.0 m(vi) Swimming Pool 3.0 m(vii)Cistern 3.0 m(h) have a minimum working capacity of (i) 2,250 litres for a sedimentation

chamber; and(ii) 340 litres for a control chamber

DISPOSAL FIELDS

Disposal fields servicing dwellings shall(a) not be located in areas where the depth of

available overburden is less than 1 m fromthe base of the field to bedrock or high watertable;

(b) be set back at least the distance indicated asmeasured to the nearest part of the disposalfield that receives the sewage effluent, fromthe following:(i) Building - no basement or cellar 6 m(ii) Building with basement or cellar 11 m(iii) Surface Water 30 m(iv) Cut or Embankment 15 m(v) Swimming Pool 8 m(vi) Water Service Pipes 8 m(vii)Well (drilled and cased to a min. of 6 m

below ground level) 15 m(viii)Other Wells and Springs 30 m(ix) Property Boundary 8 m

(c) where trench-type disposal fields are used, have dimensions as follows:(i) Minimum trench width 40 cm(ii) Minimum trench depth 60 cm(iii) Maximum trench depth 90 cm(iv) Minimum diameter of the perforated

pipe 10 cm(v) Minimum thickness of graded media

above perforated pipe 5 cm(vi) Minimum thickness of graded media

below perforated pipe 25 cm(vii)Minimum distance between trenches

(pipe to pipe) 2 m(viii)Maximum length of each pipe lateral

18 m(ix) Minimum height of soil cover over

graded media 30 cm(d) where trench fields are used, have

distribution pipe of the following minimumlengths:Sand with Gravel 55 mSilty Sand to Clayey Silt 70 mClay 80 mThe length of distribution pipe shall beincreased by 10% for each bedroomexceeding three.

(e) where total area fields are used, dimensions as follows:(i) Minimum diameter of the perforated

pipe 10 cm(ii) Thickness is graded media below

perforated pipe 45 cm to 50 cm(iii) Minimum thickness of media

above perforated pipe 15 cm(iv) Minimum total length of perforated pipe

18 m(v) Minimum thickness of soil cover

over media 30 cm(vi) Maximum depth of excavation 1 m

(f) where total area fields are used, have a minimum volume of graded media asfollows:Sand with Gravel 30 m3

Silty Sand to Clayey Silt 40 m3

Clay 60 m3

The volume of graded media shall be increased by 10% for each bedroom exceeding four..

36

37

Cottage & Country Fire Safety�Checklist / Safety Precautions

� Build home on most levelportion of lot.� Fire resistant materials shouldbe used for exteriors and roofs.� Avoid cedar shakes andshingles or treat them with fireretardant.� Screen eaves, attic and flooropenings to avoid accumulationof flammable material.� Screen the chimney and stovepipe.� Remove site preparationdebris.

� Do exterior home inspection atleast once a year efore summer.� Reduce surrounding wildfirefuels, such as rotting logs,branches, brush and otherflammable materials to a distanceof three metres from cottage.� Remove highly flammableplants immediately beside thehouse, especially on the down-side or side most exposed toprevailing winds.� Remove nearby heavy groundvegetation and stumps.� Remove overhanging treelimbs to a height of 1.5 metresfrom the ground.� Space and thin coniferous treesso they are not within two metresof each other.� When planting trees utilizedeciduous or broad leaf trees asthey are less flammable thanconiferous species.

� Maintain a fuel-free areaaround home. A large green lawnis ideal.� Clean any moss and needlesfrom roof and gutters.� Clean chimneys and stovepipes, check their screens.� Do not stack firewood againstthe house.� Keep storage areas clean andtidy, never allow rags ornewspapers to accumulate.� Store all flammable fuels inclearly marked CSA approvedcontainers in a common areaaway from the cottage.� Any fire pits, barbeques orsmoke houses should be placedon bare mineral soil or rock atleast three metres from anybuildings or trees.

� Develop control plans withfamily and neighbours.� Establish a neighbourhood firecache.� Have adequately placed watersupply.� Have a fully pressurized fireextinguisher in an accessiblelocation.� Pre-connect garden hose withnozzle and sprinkler system toaccess all structural exteriors,including the roof.� For a non-pressured watersystem have a large barrel ofwater and 10-litre pail.� Know all escape routes in yourarea.� Identify existing areas where ahelicopter could land in the event

of an emergency. (i.e. beach,parking lot, intersections,roadways, etc.)

� Develop a standard evacuationroute everyone knows.� Establish an alert system alarm.(boat horn or whistle)� Have an agreed upon meetingpoint for family members wherethey can be accounted for.� Ensure all family membersknow the location of the localR.C.M.P. and ConservationOffice.� Review your prizedpossessions in advance andconsider storage in safety depositboxes.� Have a list of items toevacuate. (important personalpapers, photo albums, etc.)� Turn off all gas, and non-essential power. (i.e. maintainpower to water pump.)� If you have an independentwell, turn the sprinkler system onbefore leaving.� If you have a neighbourhood orsub-division sprinkler system,ensure that it is properlymaintained and placed to allowConservation staff to quicklyhook it up to an independentwater source.

HOME CONSTRUCTION �

EXISTING HOME PROTECTION �

WILDFIRE SAFETY PRECAUTIONS �

EVACUATION PLANS �

38

BASIC FIRE SAFETY

39

Were you Wondering About…Drinking Water. Drinking untreated water from a lake or a hand well is not safe. Despite the fact that the water mayappear clear, it could contain disease-causing microorganisms. Before drinking lake water or water from hand wells thewater must be disinfected. This can be accomplished by bringing the water to a rolling boil or adding non-scentedhousehold bleach to the water at a rate of 5 ml (1 teaspoon) to 5 litres (1 gallon) and letting it stand for 10 minutes prior touse. Alternatively, seek an alternate drinking water supply such as bottled water or treated water from a public watersupply system. If your cottage is serviced by a private well, the well water should be tested at least once per year for microbiologicalcontamination. The provincial Department of Health will pay 70% of the analytical costs associated with the annual test .You may contact your local Manitoba Conservation Office in Winnipeg, Brandon, Virden, Steinbach, The Pas, Thompsonor Selkirk for information on pricing and testing procedures.

Manitoba Conservation Web-site. The Manitoba Conservation (Parks & Natural Areas) web-site can be found atwww.manitobaparks.com. You will find there an up-to-date copy of this publication, "The Cottager's Handbook", a copyof the standard 21-year lease issued to cottagers, a list of cottage lots that may be available from Manitoba Conservation,and a variety of forms related to cottage administration (lease assignment, variance application forms, etc.). A variety ofother parks-related information about maps, news about up-coming events, camping, our reservation service, is alsoavailable, as well as information about Travel Manitoba, fisheries and wildlife management, water management, andmore. If you wish to electronically contact Manitoba Conservation with a question about cottaging, please address yourenquiry to parkdistricts@gov.mb.ca.

Problem Wildlife. If beavers are causing problems at your cottage by removing too many trees, placing chicken wire orother metal material around the base of trees will usually deter them.To help prevent problems with bears, never leave garbage, dog food, or food of any kind outdoors or in places wherebears can reach it. Manitoba Conservation does not recommend feeding birds or animals from April to October as suchactivity frequently attracts bears and nuisance animals. Your co-operation in removing these attractants when requested todo so by a Natural Resource Officer is appreciated, and will be beneficial to the long term health of our wildlifepopulations. Report any problems about bears, beavers or other wildlife problems to your local Manitoba Conservationdistrict office.

Green IdeasHere are some ideas that we can all apply to safeguard the environment in the park - for ourselves, our childrenand their children.� Follow the three R’s of environmental protection: REDUCE, REUSE and RECYCLE.� Limit your use of throwaway containers such as plastic soft-drink bottles and foam packaging.� Return recyclable products such as cans, bottles and paper to recycling depots.� Protect your lake by ensuring that your sewage and refuse are disposed of properly.� Where possible, use recycled paper products.� Avoid buying aerosol containers for any use, as many still contain CFCs.� Use soaps, shampoos and laundry detergents marked 100 per cent phosphate-free, or use biodegradable

products.� Minimize the use of lawn and garden fertilizers which can speed up weed and algae growth (eutrophication) of

your lake, and of pesticides and herbicides which damage other flora and fauna.� Remember that some of your household garbage, such as pesticides, paint strippers, solvents, stains, used oil,

batteries, bleach and many household cleaners, may be hazardous waste. Dispose of this type of garbage at atoxic waste depot, not at garbage cages, in the park dump or down your drain.

� Do not litter or dispose of any garbage or other items into water bodies.

40

Subdivisions/District Offices

If you need information about your lot dealing with such topics as lot boundaries, public reserve area, concernsabout your neighbours, garbage, roads, problem wildlife, enforcement, brush disposal, wildfires, firewood, etc.,please contact one of the Manitoba Conservation district offices listed below.

If you need information about matters relating to your lease, permit, fees, invoices, variances, Site Plan Permits,or Building Permits, please contact the Parks and Natural Areas Branch in Winnipeg at 945-4383, 945-6772, or945-8872 (toll-free at 1-800-282-8069).

For sewage system information only, call the Water Quality Program, West Hawk Lake, at 1-204-349-2247.

Cottage Park Cottage Park Cottage Park Location Office Location Office Location Office

Eastern Region

Barren Lake Falcon LakeFalcon Lake (204) 349-2201

Caddy Lake West Hawk LakeFlorence Lake (204) 349-2245Hunt LakeNason LakeNora LakeStar LakeToniataWest Hawk Lake

Brereton Lake RennieGreen Lake (204) 369-5246Jessica LakeRed Rock LakeWhite LakeBig Whiteshell Lake

Barrier Bay Seven SistersBetula Lake (204) 348-2203Dorothy LakeEleanor LakeGeorge LakeNutimik LakeOtter Falls

Pointe du Bois Lac du BonnetBird Lake (204) 345-1400Davidson LakeFlanders LakeBooster LakePoplar Bay (Lac du Bonnet)

Wallace Lake BissettBeresford Lake (204) 277-5212Long Lake

Moose Lake Sprague(204) 437-2348

Central Region

Grand Beach Grand Beach(204) 754-5040

Hecla Island RivertonBeaver Creek (204) 378-2945Black’s PointSouth BeachNorth CliffsIsland View North & South

Western Region

Childs Lake Roblin(204) 937-2181

Wellman Lake Swan RiverGlad Lake (204) 734-3429

Singush Lake Grandview

East Blue Lake (204) 546-2701

Max Lake BoissevainBower Lake (204) 534-7204

Northeastern Region

Paint Lake Thompson(204) 677-6640

Burge Lake Lynn LakeZed Lake (204) 356-2413

Northwestern Region

Clearwater Lake The Pas(204) 627-8287

Bakers Narrows Flin FlonPark (204) 687-1640Athapapuskow Lake

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ManitobaConservationParks andNatural Areas

I knew, by the smoke that so gracefully curl’dAbove the green elms, that a cottage was near;And I said, “If there’s peace to be found in the world,A heart that was humble might hope for it here.

Thomas Moore (1779–1852)