Onsite Waste Management
Council is required to prepare an On Site Sewage Management Strategy(PDF, 217KB) for its Local Government Area.
The On-site Sewage Management Strategy outlines an inspection regime for all septic tank systems in the Local Government Area based on a number of risk factors (e.g. land size, availability of water, location in drinking water catchment).
Council's Environmental Health Officers will be progressively implementing the On-site Sewage Management Strategy. Fees for these inspections will apply as per Council's Management Plan.
When do I need approval?
An approval is required whenever:
- a new system is installed; or
- alterations are made to an existing system. This includes new and altered plumbing and drainage works.
- ongoing approval to operate an OSSMS is required.
What is the process for new systems or alterations?
Your application should be supported by:
- a Geotechnical report
- a site specific plan indicating the type and location of the system
These documents should be attached to your completed application form.
You will also need to obtain a copy of the current NSW Health Accreditation available from NSW Health.
Once an approval of installation is issued, work may commence. As Council is responsible for ensuring the installation the proposed system is in accordance with the specifications and the geotechnical report a number of mandatory inspections are required at certain stages of the installation process.
At completion a final inspection will be conducted and an Approval to Operate will be issued. The Approval to Operate gives an approval period of 2 years for a new or modified system. The owner of the system must apply to renew the Approval to Operate prior to it’s expiry. Council will send letter to owners to remind them of this requirement when an on-site sewage management system is due to expire. Once an application to renew the Approval to Operate is received and the relevant fees paid, Council's Environmental Health Officers will complete an inspection to ensure the system is working efficiently.
The Online Waste Management Guide booklet(PDF, 1MB) shows how to manage your wastewater treatment system safely.