Water Sampling Stations Frequently Asked Questions

Previously, water samples were taken from approximately 130 public and privately-owned buildings (e.g. schools, community centres, etc.). Therefore, City staff were limited to collecting water samples from locations within the buildings' operating hours. To allow for more accessible and efficient water sampling, 145 new water sampling stations were installed on City property.

Vaughan’s drinking water is safe and the City exceeds sampling and testing requirements set by the Province of Ontario. To meet the requirements for water quality sampling based on the Safe Drinking Water Act, 2002, the City must complete a certain number of water samples to maintain quality and ensure the safety of the City’s drinking water. The sampling stations allow for operational control and flexibility in the collection of samples the City already collects.

The City worked with Cole Engineering Group Ltd. to undertake a study that determined the number of sampling stations required, as well as the target locations. The consultant also helped determine the type of sampling station that would best suit the City’s needs. The study included industry benchmarking to see what other municipalities have implemented and considered various factors, including water demands, population, public facilities and pipe materials.

The sampling stations are blue plastic cylinders that stand about four feet high (similar in size to a fire hydrant, but thinner). Here is an image of one that is currently in place:

The sampling stations do not impact you or your neighbourhood. They are installed on City-owned property. The sampling stations are just one more way the City is able to deliver on its continued commitment to providing citizens and businesses with safe, high quality drinking water.

No, the same sampling stations being installed are the same model in all locations.

The sampling stations will not impact your privacy as a homeowner or tenant.

The City is required to collect approximately 130 samples each month. Not every sampling station will be used each month, but occasionally more than one sample from a single station might be required.

There are no planned disruptions to your water service due to the installation of the water sampling station, and once complete, the sampling station will not impact your water service.

No, the sampling stations will be connected to the City’s watermains on your street, not your home. Homeowners and businesses are billed based on the property’s water meter, not the sampling stations.

There are no parking restrictions in front of or around water sampling stations.

Please report the location of the station to Access Vaughan at 905-832-2281.

No. The water sampling stations have always been planned as part of the City’s Environmental Services operational plan and have nothing to do with COVID-19.