City council announces new water and sewer service connection bylaws. (file photo/meadowlakeNOW Staff)

By Elliott Knopp

Water Service Bylaws

City council announces new water and sewer service connection bylaws

Feb 10, 2021 | 5:46 PM

Meadow Lake city council has agreed to several bylaw changes resulting in the city being more involved in water and sewer service work on private property.

Documents from the city state the former bylaws allowed the city to oversee all aspects of work on water and sewer services, except on any portions between the home and the property line. While the city doesn’t see this as an issue, city officials have noted some private projects required additional work that resulted in damage to public assets, including sidewalks and water lines.

Mayor Merlin Seymour said there have been discussions in the past regarding these projects and how the city could resolve any of these issues.

“We just want to make sure that everything is being done properly because ultimately, it’s tied into the system and it can affect everyone,” Seymour said. “Moving forward, [it’s about] safety and making sure that the rules are followed.”

Amendments to the bylaw mean city officials will implement a new system to approve licensing for contractors to work on water and sewer services within the city. The new conditions for licensing will require contractors to provide proof of commercial liability insurance and workers’ compensation compliance. There will not be any additional licensing costs, but a business licence must be held if required by the Business Licence Bylaw.

Made in Saskatchewan

Find My Plus One: The Canadian App for Getting Out and Living Your Best Life

Mar 09, 2026

Riderville

Ask Not for Whom the Ed Hervey Tampering Window Opens!

Feb 02, 2026

Seniors Scene

New Year - New Habits

Feb 02, 2026

Contractors will be required to have a sworn declaration to abide by health and safety regulations and any installation standards set out by any provincial and municipal regulations. The city may revoke the licence if any work is not completed to standard as the city will only grant a licence if they believe the contractor has the knowledge and equipment necessary to properly complete the project.

The bylaw also includes the opportunity for homeowners to work out an agreement with the city to cover the cost of a service line replacement upfront under a multi-year payment plan agreement.

City documents also noted any repairs not covered by insurance could run high in cost and result in the homeowner not being able to afford the repair. A similar program in Saskatoon only applies to homeowners with lead service connections to encourage the removal of lead pipes. Officials stated while there aren’t any lead water pipes in the system, having a program specific to Meadow Lake could have value in these situations.

The City of Meadow Lake is expected to send out notices to all contractors who have worked on the city’s water and sewer system. The notices will advise them of the changes and request feedback on the new bylaw.

—

Elliott.Knopp@jpbg.ca

On Twitter: @ElliottKnopp