Is coal tar sealer banned in Ottawa or are there any City of Ottawa restrictions?

Coal tar sealer is not specifically banned by the City of Ottawa, but its use has declined significantly due to environmental and health concerns, and some contractors avoid it entirely.

Coal tar emulsion sealers contain polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons (PAHs), which are considered potential carcinogens and environmental contaminants. While Ottawa hasn't enacted a municipal ban like some U.S. jurisdictions, the product faces increasing scrutiny. Many professional paving contractors in Ottawa have voluntarily switched to asphalt emulsion sealers as their standard offering due to liability concerns and environmental considerations.

Environmental and runoff considerations are particularly relevant in Ottawa given our proximity to the Ottawa River and numerous waterways. Coal tar sealer runoff can contaminate stormwater systems and waterways with PAHs. The City of Ottawa's stormwater management bylaws require that contractors prevent contamination of storm sewers, which makes some contractors hesitant to use coal tar products near catch basins or in areas with direct drainage to municipal systems.

Provincial regulations under Ontario's Environmental Protection Act could potentially restrict PAH-containing products in the future, though no specific ban exists currently. The federal government has also been reviewing PAH-containing consumer products under the Canadian Environmental Protection Act.

Practical implications for Ottawa homeowners: Most reputable driveway sealing contractors in Ottawa now default to asphalt emulsion sealers, which provide excellent protection for our freeze-thaw climate without the environmental concerns. Asphalt emulsion sealers have improved significantly in recent years and offer comparable durability to coal tar products when applied properly. They're also easier to work with in Ottawa's variable spring and fall temperatures.

If you're considering sealcoating your asphalt driveway, focus on finding a contractor who uses quality asphalt emulsion sealer and applies it under proper conditions (above 15°C, no rain for 24-48 hours). The application technique and timing matter more than the specific sealer chemistry for protecting your driveway through Ottawa's harsh winters.

When hiring a contractor, ask specifically what type of sealer they use and why. Professional contractors should be able to explain their product choice and provide manufacturer specifications. Most Ottawa paving professionals have moved to asphalt emulsion products as their standard recommendation.

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