On–site sewage management systems allow for the safe and healthy disposal of wastewater in non-sewered areas. These systems are commonly known as septic tanks and aerated wastewater treatment systems.
Why do I need an approval to operate my on-site sewage management system
On 6 April 1998, the operation of a system for on-site sewage management (OSSM) became a prescribed activity under the Local Government Act 1993. This means that, regardless of the type or age of the system, Council is required to issue an approval to operate all on-site sewage management systems within the Council area.
Poorly maintained or damaged OSSM systems can harm the environment causing contamination of water sources, adding to the spread of diseases to humans and an increase in the incidence of vermin around properties.
Council has in place an inspection process whereby a review of each system will be undertaken. As part of the inspection service Council will provide advice to assist the landowner manage their OSSM systems in accordance with health and environmental performance standards.
Such standards relate to the prevention of:
- disease
- foul odours
- contamination of water
- people coming into contact with untreated sewage
Following the inspection, the on-site sewage management system will be granted an approval to operate for a period of one or five years or an unlimited period depending on the identified level of environmental risk.
Application and inspection fees associated with on-site sewage management are set each year under Council’s Management Plan.
Tamworth Regional Council On-Site Sewage Management Strategy
Council has developed an On-Site Sewage Management Strategy. This strategy provides categories for risk assessment of on-site sewage management systems in the Tamworth Regional Council area and represents a best practice management system for regulation of on-site sewage management for the Region.
Which on-site sewage management systems are accredited
The most common on-site sewage management systems are:
Septic Tanks
A septic tank is a water proof tank usually located below ground level which provides treatment of sewage by the anaerobic (in the absence of air) bacterial digestion of the solids. The solids accumulate at the bottom of the tank while the partly treated liquid flows from the septic tank to either a holding tank for regular pump out or directly to a soil absorption system.
Aerated Wastewater Treatment Systems
Aerated wastewater treatment systems (AWTS) use aeration of wastewater as an integral part of the treatment process. An AWTS differs from the septic tank in that the effluent is further treated through an aerobic biological process and disinfection with the effluent finally being applied to land through irrigation.
To obtain a list of on-site sewage management systems accredited by NSW Health please view NSW Health On-site Single Domestic Wastewater Management information.
How do I apply for an approval
There are two forms of approval.
Approval to install a new system
Prior to the installation of a new on-site sewage management system on your property you are required to make application to obtain an approval from Council.
Approval to operate an existing system
Approvals to operate existing on-site sewage management systems are issued to the owner of the land. If a change in ownership occurs a new application to operate must be obtained from Council.