Domestic Waste Water Management

If you live on a property that does not have a connection to sewer, the wastewater generated from your household must be treated on your property. This is often done through the use of a septic tank system.

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. 

When do you need an on-site wastewater treatment system?

When first looking at either buying or building on a block of land, it is advisable to check with City West Water  if the property is serviced by sewer. If no sewer connection is available you require an onsite waste water treatment (septic) system.

Please note: Particular attention needs to be applied to sites with an area below 10,000 sq meters.  Area's of 4,000 sq meters and below will have difficulty gaining an approval.

The Environment Protection Act 1970 states that the local Council must issue two permits for the system and only allow systems that the EPA have issued certificates of approval for:

• A permit to install a septic tank must be obtained from Council’s Environmental Health Services Department 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 must be issued by Council prior to use of any part of the septic tank system and prior to the issue of your building certificate of occupancy.

Applying for a Septic Tank Permit:

You required to submit the following information to Council:

1. Application to Install a Septic Tank along with the fee detailed on the application
2. Certificate of Title
3. Land Capability Assessment
4. Site plan detailing:

• Dimensions
• Location of dwelling and the distance from boundaries
• Location of driveway, water courses, easements, water tanks, water pipes, stormwater drains, gas pipes, underground electricity, telecommunication cables and other services
• Proposed location of the septic tank and nominated effluent disposal area and
• The north point.

Please note: It is advisable to submit your application for the septic system before the building permits to avoid complications and delays.

Further Information

For more infromation call 9249 4000 or email health@brimbank.vic.gov.au