On-Site Sewage Management Systems

What is an on-site sewage management system?

If your home is not connected to a reticulated sewer it is likely your home has some type of on-site sewage management system. An on-site sewage management system is any system that stores or treats sewage.

Types of systems

  • Septic tanks
  • Septic closets
  • Collection wells
  • Aerated waste water treatment systems
  • Composting toilets
  • Aerobic sand filter devices
  • Wet composting toilets
  • Combustion toilets.
  • On-site sewage management systems can also include partial systems.

The NSW Government conducted an inquiry into these systems and found the failure rate was as 90%. Legislation was introduced in 1998 requiring Council to regulate the operation of all on-site sewage management systems. From 1 July 2021, all plumbing applications must be lodged through the NSW Planning Portal. 

NSW Planning Portal

 

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