Private Plumbing Protection Rebate
Markham pays rebates for flood protection in flood-prone areas, including Thornhill, Unionville and Markham Village. Environmental Services must approve the work before it starts.
| Work | Amount |
|---|---|
| Indoor backwater valve (sanitary or storm) | up to $1,750 |
| Outdoor backwater valve (sanitary or storm) | up to $2,000 |
| Weeping tile disconnection with sump pump | up to $5,000 |
| Weeping tile disconnection, gravity to storm | up to $3,000 |
| Sanitary or storm lateral reline or repair | up to $2,500 |
Get the building permit by April 30, 2027 and apply by July 31, 2027. Downspouts must be disconnected, and work the Building Code already requires isn't eligible. Program rules change; confirm with the official program before you book the work.
Bylaws & permits in Markham
- Fences: up to 1.2 metres in a front yard, and on a corner lot along the side street. Check By-law 277-97 for back-yard limits on your lot type.
- Your fence has to follow the slope of the land rather than step up to gain height.
Digging for fence posts, a deck or a pool anywhere in Ontario? Request a free Ontario One Call locate at least 5 business days ahead. It's the law.
Who fixes what
- Markham Waterworks runs local water and sewers: 905-477-5530.
- The City won't phone you about the rebate program. Hang up on anyone who calls claiming to be from it.
Power and gas
Alectra Utilities supplies power in Markham, so it handles the disconnect and reconnect for a 200-amp service upgrade. Enbridge Gas supplies natural gas.
Markham cost guides
Prices in the Markham area follow the GTA ranges in each guide.
Heating & cooling: Furnace · AC & heat pump · Water heater
Exterior: Roof · Windows & doors · Eavestroughs · Fence · Garage door
Basement & structure: Waterproofing · Foundation cracks · Insulation
Interior renovation: Kitchen · Bathroom · Flooring
Plumbing & electrical: Plumbing & drains · Panel & EV charger
Pools & hot tubs: Pool repair · Hot tub repair
Common questions
How much is Markham's basement flooding rebate?
Up to $1,750 for an indoor backwater valve, $2,000 outdoor, $5,000 for weeping tile disconnection with a sump pump, and $2,500 for lateral relining or repair.
Do I need approval before installing a backwater valve in Markham?
Yes. Environmental Services must pre-approve the work, and you need a building permit, by April 30, 2027 under the current program.
How high can a front yard fence be in Markham?
1.2 metres. The same limit applies along the side street of a corner lot.