Does Toronto require downspout disconnection?

Yes, Toronto requires downspout disconnection from the city's combined sewer system, and this has been mandatory for most residential properties since 2011 under the City of Toronto's Downspout Disconnection Program.

The bylaw (Toronto Municipal Code Chapter 681) requires homeowners to disconnect their roof downspouts from the underground sewer system and redirect rainwater to flow onto their lawn, garden, or other permeable surface on their property. The goal is to reduce the volume of stormwater entering the combined sewer system during heavy rain events — which is a significant cause of basement flooding and sewer backups across the city.

What disconnection actually involves is cutting the downspout above where it connects to the underground pipe, capping the underground pipe, and adding an elbow and extension to direct water away from your foundation. The water must discharge at least 1.8 metres (6 feet) from your home's foundation and must stay on your own property — you can't redirect flow onto a neighbour's yard or the sidewalk. Many homeowners also add a rain barrel at this point, which is a great way to capture water for garden use.

There are some exceptions. Properties where disconnection would cause drainage problems — such as lots with very little permeable surface, homes on a slope where water would flow toward the foundation, or properties with certain soil conditions — may qualify for an exemption. If you believe your property qualifies, you'll need to contact the City to have it assessed.

In terms of cost, if you're doing it yourself it's a straightforward DIY job — typically under $50 in materials (elbow fitting, extension pipe, cap). If you hire a contractor, expect to pay $150–$400 per downspout depending on complexity and access. Most homes have 2–4 downspouts.

One important note: while the city ran a free disconnection program for several years (where city crews would do the work at no cost), that program has largely wound down in most areas. You're now generally responsible for completing the disconnection yourself or hiring someone to do it.

Non-compliance can result in fines, and more practically, an improperly connected downspout can contribute to the exact basement flooding you're trying to avoid. If you've recently purchased an older Toronto home, it's worth checking whether your downspouts are still connected — many pre-2011 homes had them tied directly into the weeping tile or sewer line.

For next steps, confirm your property's status through the City of Toronto at toronto.ca or call 311. If you need a plumber or drainage contractor to handle the work or assess your grading, browse licensed professionals in the Toronto Construction Network directory.

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