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Installing an On-site Sewage Management System
Last modified: January 7, 2009 - 9:14 AM
On-site sewage management systems, such as septic tanks and aerated waste treatment systems are intended to enable residences and businesses in unsewered areas to dispose of wastewater in a way that does not threaten public health, damage the environment or impact on aquaculture industries.
There are a number of simple steps involved in the installation of an On-site Sewage Management system. It is important to remember that Council approval is required for any works involving the installation, alteration or construction of a wastewater treatment device or human waste storage facility.
This approval is NOT the same as the application for construction of a building - a separate application must be submitted specifically for the waste treatment system.
In some circumstances approval for the building will not be released until the wastewater application has been satisfactorily determined.
5 Simple Steps To Installing a System:
- Determine What System Is Suitable For Your Property: This will be determined by such factors as property size, soil type, climate, hydraulic load and specific environmental issues (if applicable). The installation of absorption trenches is now longer approved in Port Stephens. Contact Council if you are unsure which system is approved for your property.
- Contact Council: Contact Council to obtain the relevant documentation and any other helpful information. Documents required include:
- Application Form- Application for Approval to Install a Waste Treatment Device and Approval to Operate an On-Site Sewage Management System;
Septic Tank/Treatment Tank Specifications - NSW Health accredited;
- A Site Report– Site and Soil Assessment Report (available from council). In some circumstances a wastewater or geo-technical report will be required;
- Floor plans of any dwelling or building that will be connected to the waste treatment device;
- Site Plan of the property detailing buildings, tanks, boundaries, watercourses, dams and drains.
- Obtain A Quote For The Selected System: Is is recommended that at least three (3) quotes be obtained. Decide on the successful installer remembering that the lowest price is not always the best. Always consider other issues such as servicing ability, servicing costs, system reliability and warranty. A list of system installers, tank manufacturers and wastewater consultants is available for download from this site.
- Complete The Application Forms: Fill in the necessary forms and submit to Council with the prescribed fee and other associated documentation. When the Determination from Council is received granting approval contact the installer and advise that works can commence.
- Contact Council For Any Specified Inspections: Inspections will be required at various stages of the installation. Look in schedule 1 of the Notice of Determination for the inspections required. Give at least 48 hours notice when booking an inspection. When the system installation (including disposal area) has been completed contact Council for the final inspection. Occupation of a new dwelling is not permitted until a satisfactory final inspection has been performed.
Contact details
Environmental Health Officer
02 4980 0255 (ph)
02 4987 3612 (fax)
council@portstephens.nsw.gov.au
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