The City of North Vancouver will be conducting vapour and smoke testing in select blocks in the east end of the City on October 15 and 16, 2025. The test is to detect potential leaks in the sanitary sewer system and identify areas of future repair.
The test involves injecting harmless, odorless smoke into the sewers and observing the escape of the smoke from the system.
Testing will take place in the following areas:
- 200–300 Block East 8th Street
- 200–300 Block East Keith Road
- 200–400 Block East 9th Street
- 300–500 Block East 10th Street
- 300–500 Block East 11th Street
- 400–500 Block East 12th Street
- 400–500 Block East 13th Street
- 1100 Block Ridgeway Avenue
- 1100–1200 Block West Grand Boulevard
- 1100–1300 Block Moody Avenue
Residents in these blocks may notice smoke or vapour escaping through maintenance hole covers, rooftop pipes, or other area drains during the testing period.
Purpose of the Testing
The test helps identify cracks and unintended piped connections that may require attention and future maintenance. The cracks, leaks and faulty connections may allow rainwater to enter underground pipe networks and because the sanitary sewer system is only designed to handle wastewater, the addition of rainwater may cause collection system issues.
What to Expect
The testing involves injecting harmless, odourless smoke into the sewer system and observing where it escapes. The smoke is non-toxic, non-staining, and safe for people, pets, and plants.
Residents should not be alarmed if they see smoke in outdoor areas, such as maintenance holes or vent pipes.
For more information about the smoke testing, please contact the City of North Vancouver’s Engineering team at eng@cnv.org