Onsite wastewater management systems
If you reside on a property which is not connected to a sewer system, your property will require an onsite wastewater management system (OWMS). An OWMS is commonly referred to as septic or a septic tank system. An OWMS treats all of the wastewater generated from the dwelling and disposes or re-uses the treated wastewater onsite, within the property boundaries. There are a number of different types of OWMS available. To choose a system that is right for you and your property you will need to discuss this with a licenced plumber and ensure that the system is approved by the EPA. A list of approved OWMS and the appropriate conditions can be found on the EPA website.
All OWMS must comply with the EPA Code of Practice for Onsite Wastewater Management and the Australian Standards for on-site domestic wastewater management AS/NZS 1547:2012.
Whichever system you choose, you may be required to conduct a Land Capability Assessment (LCA) to determine the quality of the soil, percolation rate and management of the septic system. LCA’s are required for subdivisions and blocks on steeply sloping land, coastal areas and soils with heavy clay. If you are unsure of whether an LCA is required, please contact Council’s Environmental Health Unit prior to submitting your application.
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