Tag: Septic Tanks

You will need a Septic Tank in Sydney, where municipal sewer services are unavailable. 

If you are considering installing a Septic Tank Sydney, it’s essential to understand the local regulations and requirements and the different types of systems available.

Septic tanks are commonly used in areas where municipal sewer services are unavailable in Sydney, and proper planning is vital to ensure compliance with local regulations and effective wastewater management. From soil conditions and tank sizes to system types and council requirements, this Sydney specific guide will walk you through everything you need to know about septic tanks in Sydney. Whether you’re looking for a basic system or advanced treatment units, this resource will help you make informed decisions and easily navigate the installation process.

Some things to consider when installing a septic tank system in Sydney include the following:

1. Soil conditions: The type and quality of soil on your property will affect the design and installation of the septic tank system. A percolation test can be conducted to determine the soil’s ability to absorb water and to determine the size of the drain field that will be required.

2. Tank size: The size of the septic tank will depend on the size of the property, the number of occupants, and the expected water usage. A licensed professional can help determine the appropriate size for your needs.

3. Maintenance requirements: Regular maintenance and pumping of the septic tank are required to ensure the system’s proper functioning. Following the recommended pumping schedule and hiring a licensed septic system maintenance professional to perform the maintenance is essential.

4. Local regulations: Sydney’s local councils regulate the installation and use of septic tank systems. It is important to check with your local council to ensure your system meets all requirements and obtains the necessary permits. Quick links to Sydney’s council websites:

• • Cumberland City Council
  • Blacktown City Council
  • Blue Mountains City Council
  • Camden Council
  • Campbelltown City Council
  • Fairfield City Council
  • Hawkesbury City Council
  • Liverpool City Council
  • City of Parramatta Council
  • Penrith City Council
  • The Hills Shire Council
  • Hornsby Shire Council
  • Ku-ring-gai Council
  • Northern Beaches Council
  • Sutherland Shire Council

5. Type of system: Several types of septic tank systems are available in Sydney, including traditional septic systems, which use a septic tank and drain field. Aerobic Treatment Units (ATUs) like AWTS introduce oxygen to enhance waste breakdown through to more advanced systems like Advanced STS and Advanced Membrane Bio-Reactors. Each system has advantages and disadvantages, and choosing the system that best fits your needs and site conditions is important. If you haven’t already read our Septic Tank Buying Guide, we recommend you do so.

“When choosing a septic tank system in Sydney, it is important to consult a licensed professional with experience in installation and maintenance in your local area. They can help you choose the right system for your needs, obtain the necessary permits, and install it properly.”

Local regulations when installing a septic system in Sydney

Local Sydney Council LGA regulates the installation of septic systems in Sydney, including areas such as Penrith, Blacktown, Parramatta, Cumberland, The Hills Shire, and Hawkesbury, regulate septic system installations. While regulations may vary between councils, common requirements typically include obtaining approval and necessary permits, conducting site and soil assessments, adhering to minimum setback distances from structures and water bodies, and ensuring the system is designed and constructed according to specific standards. Regular maintenance and inspections are also mandated to ensure the system’s proper functioning and compliance with local regulations.

Some standard regulations that may apply when installing a septic system in Sydney include the following:

• Approval and permits: You must obtain approval from your local council and obtain the necessary permits before installing a septic system. This may include submitting detailed plans and designs, paying fees, and complying with specific requirements.

Plans and Specifications Should Include: 

a) Site Plan 

b) Proposed Internal and External Drainage, Tank and Trench Position

c) Trench Design

d) Septic Tank Manufacturers Specifications

e) Certificate of Accreditation from NSW Health Visit the NSW Health website.

• Site and soil assessments: Your local council may require a site and soil assessment before installing a septic system. This may involve testing the soil to determine its ability to absorb water, assessing the site’s slope and drainage, and ensuring adequate space for the system.
• Minimum setback distances: The local Sydney council may require a minimum setback distance between the septic system and nearby structures, water bodies, and property boundaries. This ensures that the system does not risk public health or the environment.
• System design and construction: The septic system must be designed and constructed following specific standards and guidelines. This may include the septic system type and size, the drain field’s design and location, and the use of appropriate materials and equipment.
• Maintenance and inspections: Regular maintenance and inspections of the septic system are required to ensure proper functioning and compliance with local regulations. This may include regular septic tank pumping, drain field inspections, and necessary repairs.