Manure Storage in Ontario
Proper manure storage is a critical component of any livestock operation in Ontario. Whether you're building new storage or expanding existing facilities, there are specific regulatory requirements you need to meet under O. Reg. 267/03.
Types of Manure Storage
Concrete liquid manure storage (tanks, pits)
Earthen liquid manure storage (lined lagoons)
Covered solid manure storage
Uncovered solid manure storage with runoff collection
Temporary field storage (seasonal, with restrictions)
Setbacks from Wells
Manure storage facilities must maintain minimum distances from wells to protect groundwater quality. The required setback distance depends on the type of well and the type of storage facility.
Well Setbacks Are Critical
Wells include both your own and your neighbours' wells. Both drilled and dug wells have setback requirements, but dug wells typically require greater distances. Municipal wells have the most stringent requirements.
Storage Capacity Requirements
Under Ontario regulations, most livestock operations need enough manure storage capacity to hold at least 240 days of manure production. This ensures that manure is not applied to frozen or saturated ground.
When Approvals Are Triggered
Constructing new manure storage of any type
Expanding existing manure storage capacity
Changing the type of manure storage system
Increasing livestock numbers that require additional storage
Any change that affects nutrient storage on your property
Why Storage Capacity Must Match Your Operation
Your manure storage capacity must be sized to handle the full volume of manure your operation produces. Under Ontario regulations, most phased-in operations require a minimum of 240 days of storage. If your barn expansion increases livestock numbers, your existing storage may no longer be sufficient — and building additional storage will be required before your NMS can be approved.
Why Temporary Storage Is Not Always Enough
While temporary field storage (TFS) can be used for solid manure under specific conditions, it is not a substitute for permanent storage. TFS has strict siting and timing requirements and is not permitted for liquid manure. Relying on TFS instead of building proper storage can delay your approvals and create environmental risks.
Runoff and Washwater Risks
Runoff from barnyards and washwater from milking parlours and livestock housing must be managed as part of your nutrient management strategy. Uncontrolled runoff can carry nutrients directly into watercourses, tile drains, and neighbouring properties. Your NMS must demonstrate how all sources of runoff and washwater are captured and managed.
Plan Storage Setbacks
Can I Build a Barn Here?
Check whether a proposed barn location may be constrained by MDS, setbacks, or nearby land uses.
Use the Advanced Preliminary MDS Screening Tool
Estimate detailed MDS-related setback planning for livestock barns and manure storage.
Manure Storage Requirements FAQs
How much manure storage do I need?
Can I store all manure in the barn?
When does manure storage trigger an NMS?
Does liquid manure storage need different planning than solid manure?
Can GNF be applied to any field?
Can I use temporary field storage instead of permanent storage?
Does winter affect manure storage requirements?
Can I spread manure whenever storage is full?
Do I need an engineer for manure storage?
Can I use an existing manure storage?