Onsite Wastewater Systems
Onsite waste water systems are installed in areas that are not serviced by SA water sewer schemes, with all household waste water (grey and black) connected to an approved septic tank which carries out a primary treatment of waste water. The safe collection, treatment and disposal or reuse of wastewater is necessary to safeguard the health of the community and protect the environment.
Wastewater from showers, baths, hand basins, kitchen sinks and washing machines is referred to as grey water. Black water is referred to as water containing human waste.
Onsite waste water systems consist of:
- septic tanks connected to a soakage trench
- septic tanks connected to a communal effluent disposal system referred to as a Community Waste Water Management Scheme (CWMS)
- on site aerobic waste water systems pre-treating water for onsite reuse
- residential and commercial grease arrestors
The installation of any onsite waste water system, alteration to an existing on-site waste water system, connection to the CWMS requires an application with fees paid and approval issued by Council before work commences. Council will undertake inspections of systems during the installation stages and will displayed in your approval conditions. The installation/alteration of an onsite waste water system and associated plumbing and drainage work must be carried out by licensed tradespersons.
Applying for an onsite waste water system (excluding CWMS) requires a site and soil assessment by a waste water engineer with a report forming part of the application submitted to Council. The report confirms that the site and soil is suitable for long term effluent disposal, specifying the soakage / irrigation system required.
It is important to do your research before choosing a system and ensuring you are aware of setback distances from buildings and property boundaries. Please be mindful of these if you are planning further development to avoid issues. Further information on setback distances can be found in Appendix B of the SA Onsite Wastewater Code.