Households generate wastewater that can harm public health and the environment. It must be properly managed. Wastewater is generated by toilets, kitchens, bathrooms and laundries. All onsite wastewater treatment systems are septic systems for the purposes of the code.
WHEN DO YOU NEED AN ONSITE WASTEWATER TREATMENT SYSTEM?
When you are considering buying a block of land or building on a block, check with City West Water to find out if the property is serviced by sewers. If not you require an onsite waste water treatment (septic) system.
The EPA require Council to pay particular attention to sites with area, below 10,000 sq meters. Area's of 4,000 sq meters and below will have difficulty gaining an approval.
Council approval for wastewater treatment systems is governed by the Environment Protection Act 1970. The Act states that the local Council must issue two permits for the system and may only allow systems that the EPA have issued certificates of approval for. You require:-
- A "permit to install" a septic tank prior to any work being conducted on the septic tank system and prior to the issue of your building permit and
- A :"Certificate approving use" of the septic tank prior to use of any part of the septic tank system and prior to the issue of your building certificate of occupancy.
NB Make your application for the septic system before the building permits to avoid complications and delays.
For further information regarding Septic Systems, contact the Environmental Health Unit on 9742 0738.