Pyrenees Shire Domestic Wastewater Management Plan

Transcription

Pyrenees Shire Domestic Wastewater
Management Plan
Part 1: DWMP
Pyrenees Shire Council
June 2006
Prepared for
Prepared by
Maunsell Australia Pty Ltd
Level 9, 8 Exhibition Street, Melbourne VIC 3000, Australia
T +61 3 9653 1234 F +61 3 9654 7117 www.maunsell.com
ABN 20 093 846 925
June 2006
30018206
© Maunsell Australia Pty Ltd 2006
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E:\30018206 Pyrenees DWMP\Reports\FINAL\Final Issue to Pyrenees Shire Council 30-06-06\Pyrenees
DWMP -Part 1 Rev C.doc
Revision C June 2006
Quality Information
Document
Ref
30018206
Date
June 2006
Prepared by
L Leong
Reviewed by
H Irving
Project Report
Revision History
Revision
Revision
Date
Authorised
Details
Name/Position
A
27/03/2006
Draft Issue to Pyrenees
Shire Council
G. R.
Reynolds
Associate
Director
B
23/05/2006
Final Issue to Pyrenees
Shire Council
C Yeats
Principal
Engineer
C
30/06/2006
Shire Council, proceeding
review by Councillors
G Reynolds
Associate
Director
Signature
Original
Signed
Table of Contents
Executive Summary
1.0
Introduction
1.1
Aims and Objectives
1.2
Regional Context
1.2.1
Shire Physiography
2.0
Context
2.1
Victorian Government White Paper
2.2
Country Town Water Supply and Sewerage Program
2.3
Regulatory Requirements
2.3.1
Water Act 1989 Part 9 s.183 Powers in relation to septic tanks
2.3.2
Local Government Act 1989
2.3.3
Health Act 1958
2.3.4
Environment Protection Act 1970
2.3.5
State Environment Protection Policy (Waters of Victoria) (SEPP WoV)
2.3.6
EPA Development Approvals in Sewered and Unsewered Areas ,
November 1998
2.3.7
EPA Septic Tanks Code of Practice 2003
2.4
Roles and Responsibilities of Stakeholders
2.4.1
Department of Sustainability and Environment Role
2.4.2
Environment Protection Authority Role
2.4.3
Department of Human Services Role
2.4.4
Water Authority (Grampians Wimmera Mallee Water, Central Highlands
Water) Role
2.4.5
Catchment Management Authorities (North Central CMA, Glenelg
Hopkins CMA) Role
2.5
Risks Associated with Domestic Wastewater
2.5.1
Local Governments Role
2.6
Local Government Planning
2.6.1
Annual Report 2005
2.6.2
Council Plan 2005 – 2009
2.6.3
Budget 2005 – 2006 and 2006 – 2007
2.6.4
Municipal Strategic Statement and Planning Scheme Municipal
Strategic Statement Review 2004
2.7
Key Stakeholder Plans and Reports
2.7.1
Department of Sustainability and Environment
2.7.2
North Central Catchment Management Authority
2.7.3
Central Highlands Water
2.7.4
Grampians Wimmera Mallee Water
3.0
Management
3.1
DWMP Advisory Panel
3.2
DWMP Project Management Team
3.3
Methodology
3.4
Community Consultation
4.0
Assessment of Current Situation
4.1
Wastewater Management Profiles
iii
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4.1.1
Snake Valley
4.1.2
Landsborough
4.1.3
Waubra
4.1.4
Moonambel
4.1.5
Lexton
4.1.6
Town Summaries and Water Supply Catchments (2001 DWMP)
4.2
Wastewater Values
4.3
Wastewater Threats
4.4
Risk Assessment
4.4.1
Assigned ratings to values
4.4.2
Assigned ratings for threats
4.4.3
Assigned ratings for sensitivity
4.4.4
Risk calculations
5.0
Action Plan
5.1
Requirements for actions
5.1.1
Goals
5.1.2
Quality Assurance and Documentation
5.1.3
Compliance Program and Enforcement
5.1.4
Issuing of Permits
5.1.5
Transfer of Ownership
5.1.6
Referrals
5.1.7
Education and Community Assistance
5.1.8
Planning
5.1.9
Community Assistance
5.2
Individual Town Action Plans
5.2.1
Snake Valley Action Plan
5.2.2
Landsborough Action Plan
5.2.3
Waubra Action Plan
5.2.4
Moonambel Action Plan
5.2.5
Lexton Action Plan
5.3
Overall Pyrenees Action Plan
Appendix A – Government Policy, Legislation and Guidelines
Standards and Codes of Practice
Australian Standards
Septic Tank Code of Practice
State Environment Protection Policy
Aerated Wastewater Treatment Plants Code of Practice
Land Capability Assessment for On-site Domestic Wastewater Management
(2003)
5.4
Stakeholders’ Roles and Responsibilities
EPA Victoria
Local government
Appendix B – Community Consultation Methods
Appendix C – Wastewater Risk Assessments
Appendix D –Town and Water Supply Catchment Summaries
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a
a-1
a-1
a-2
a-2
a-3
a-3
a-3
a-4
a-4
b
c
d
Glossary of Terms
AS: Australian Standard
AWTS: Aerated Wastewater Treatment Systems
BOD: Biochemical Oxygen Demand
Conventional Sewerage: Use of sewers to collect sewage
DNRE: Department of Natural Resources and Environment (now DSE)
DSE: Department of Sustainability and Environment
DWMP: Domestic Wastewater Management Plan
EHO: Environmental Health Officer
Effluent: Liquid flowing out of a treatment process
Effluent reuse: Effluent reuse is a process where treated wastewater is recycled for useful purposes
and is not discharged to a natural waterway. The treated water may be used by industry or for
watering of golf courses or other recreational facilities, agro foresting, pastures and food crops.
EPA: Environmental Protection Authority
Faecal Matter: solid excretory product evacuated from the bowels
Grey water: Domestic wastewater from sources other than toilets - for example, water from washing
machines, dishwashers, showers and basins.
Groundwater: Water that is found below the surface, usually in porous rock or soil or in underground
aquifers.
Infiltration: Water entering the sewerage system through cracked pipes or faulty joints.
LCA: Land Capability Assessment
Maunsell: Maunsell Australia Pty Ltd
MAV: Municipal Association of Victoria
NATA: National Association of Testing Authorities
NCCMA: North Central Catchment Management Authority
Non-potable reuse: The use of treated wastewater for purposes that do not require water of a
drinkable standard.
Runoff: Water that flows across the land surface and does not soak into the ground.
SEPP: State Environment Protection Policy
Septic tank: Underground tank used for treatment of wastewater through bacterial activity.
Sewage overflow: A release of sewage from a designed relief point to avoid sewage flowing back into
houses.
Sewage: the waste and wastewater produced by residential, commercial and industrial sources and
discharged into sewers
Page i
Sewerage: The entire system for sewage collection, treatment, and disposal.
Sludge: Solid matter that is removed during wastewater or water treatment. It can be processed into a
material that can be beneficially used (biosolids).
SS: Suspended Solids
Sullage: domestic wastewater other than that which comes from the toilet.
VCAT: Victorian Civil and Administrative Tribunal
Wastewater: Another name for sewage.
Source:
http://www.sydneywater.com.au/EnsuringTheFuture/WaterSchool/Definitions.cfm
Page ii
Executive Summary
Project Background and Context
Domestic Wastewater Management Plans (DWMPs) are a Victorian Government White Paper (2004)
initiative to action sustainable management for wastewater. The implementation of DWMPs will
provide tools for local governments to manage on-site wastewater disposal within their municipalities.
Pyrenees Shire Council participated in a pilot program for developing a DWMP in 2001. The 2001
DWMP was adopted by Council and is used to assist in decision making with respect to installation of
on-site wastewater systems. In 2005, The Municipal Association of Victoria (MAV) provided funding to
the Pyrenees Shire Council to update the 2001 DWMP in accordance with the MAV Model Domestic
Wastewater Management Plan (2005). Council has engaged engineering consultant Maunsell to
update their DWMP.
This revised DWMP aims to increase the protection of the environment and public health within the
municipality, hence reducing the risk posed by domestic wastewater. This has been done through
identifying risks associated with domestic wastewater and addressing those risks through
management strategies. The revised DWMP has focused on the 5 Council nominated priority towns
(from highest to lowest priority):
•
Snake Valley
•
Landsborough
•
Waubra
•
Moonambel
•
Lexton
Pyrenees Shire Council’s DWMP is presented in 3 volumes:
•
Part 1 Overall document: Details project context, methodology and management, assessment of
current wastewater situations and action plans.
•
Part 2 Recommended Actions: Provides guidance on the actions to be undertaken by Council to
implement the DWMP.
•
Part 3 Maps and plans: Includes priority town maps.
To develop the final DWMP documents, Maunsell utilised background documents, stakeholder
consultation and site investigations to produce 3 internal documents for Council. These documents
were:
•
Project Drivers report: Outlines both internal and external stakeholder comments regarding their
drivers for the preparation of Pyrenees’s DWMP.
•
Current Management report: Outlines Maunsell’s interpretation of the Council’s current system for
managing on-site wastewater. The report also begins to develop some possible recommendations
for improving the management of wastewater within the shire.
•
Town descriptions report: Outlines key issues associated with the management of onsite
wastewater that were identified in each priority town during site investigations. The report also
summarises the findings of any previous studies. Key threats and values (factors important to the
community and factors to be protected) within each of the towns are also listed.
Page iii
These documents were the basis for producing the DWMP documents ensuring stakeholder concerns
were addressed, information had been correctly represented and interpreted, and that Council views
had been incorporated.
Project Outcomes Summary
The statutory responsibilities for on-site domestic wastewater systems in Victoria are based on a
hierarchical system under the ultimate direction of the State Government. While the Water Authorities,
CMA’s and other agencies determine the broader context for management of domestic wastewater, it
is the local government that must ensure these requirements are met. A number of legislative
requirements, policies and guidelines govern local councils to fulfil their roles and responsibility with
respect to domestic wastewater management including the Environment Protection Act 1970 and the
State Environment Protection Policy (Waters of Victoria).
A risk assessment has been undertaken to identify the key risks requiring management. Site
investigations of the priority towns have primarily been the basis for the derivation of risks. Once key
risks were identified for each town, strategies were able to be derived.
The assessments revealed that the main risks are not town-specific, rather Shire-wide. That is, the
risks which are common to most of the priority towns include:
•
Septic tanks located within 100m from waterways potentially impacting the waterway
•
Discharge of greywater offsite potentially impacting public health
•
Failure of septic systems potentially impacting amenities, waterways and public health
It would be beneficial to tackle the physical problems on a town-by-town basis through implementation
of the individual town action plans. These actions will give noticeable results to specific physical
problems. However, actions to address physical problems will only provide short term solutions if not
implemented in conjunction with appropriate management actions across the whole Shire.
The key actions from the Shire-wide action plan that must be adopted by Council to meet current
minimum legislative requirements and to assist consistent management are:
•
Annual reporting to the EPA
•
Compliance program
It is strongly recommended for Pyrenees that its data management systems must be consolidated as
an initial priority. The compliance program should commence in the priority town of Snake Valley,
accompanied by an education program. Other towns should follow soon there after. A compliance
program can be Council administered or a residential responsibility program. A Council administered
program would be more beneficial for Pyrenees.
Further Shire-wide actions which are not key to meeting legislative requirements, but which will be
highly beneficial include:
•
Collate and compile existing records
•
Evaluating Land Capability Assessment (LCA) applications consistently
•
Developing a Council growth plans/policy
•
Initial mandatory inspections
•
Initial education program (press releases, advertising, radio announcements, revise information
packs)
Page iv
As stated above, to help alleviate the physical town-specific problems, individual priority town action
plans have been developed. For example, actions for Landsborough include:
•
Undertake inspections of all septic systems in areas of high vulnerability (close proximity to
watercourses, very small blocks etc.) to ensure that they are operating efficiently and are
maintained.
•
Identify which systems are blackwater only.
•
Consider the implementation of a greywater collection system if there are a large number of
blackwater only systems
For the highest priority town Snake Valley, a more extensive level of actions is required as Council has
identified the town as a growth area and has placed much emphasis on the need to attend to the
town’s wastewater needs.
The project outcome was to produce an effective DWMP which should be implemented by Council to
manage wastewater in the Shire. Council must ultimately decide upon which actions to undertake and
provide adequate resources towards these actions. It is envisaged that when completed and adopted
by Council, the DWMP will become a policy of Council and influence the planning process with respect
to wastewater management issues. We understand that many Councils are preparing budget plans
for the following year and recommend that an allowance be made to undertake actions from the
DWMP.
Pyrenee’s draft DWMP was submitted by Maunsell on behalf of Council to the MAV on 31 March
2006. This draft is currently being assessed by the MAV, DSE and the EPA. This final DWMP copy
will also be submitted to the MAV by Maunsell on 30 June 2006. Any comments on Council’s DWMP
preceding this date should be incorporated by Council.
Snake Valley Actions
Snake Valley, the highest priority town within the Pyrenees Shire Council requires an alternative
approach to wastewater management. Snake Valley has a very strong community spirit and requires
adequate infrastructure within the town to allow the community to grow.
While the community spirit is growing, the town is becoming physically disjointed. The majority of new
houses have been built outside the designated township zone to the south of the town with little or no
regeneration in the township zone. This is partially due to the adoption of the Domestic Wastewater
Management Plan in 2001. The 2001 DWMP identified that the minimum lot size to adequately contain
wastewater with a conventional septic tank within Snake Valley is 2Ha. As no lots within the township
zone are 2Ha, it is difficult to approve the alteration or expansion to existing houses. Consequently
the centre of town is declining as residents are forced to build on larger lots outside the township zone.
It is vital that Snake Valley improves its current wastewater situation to ensure that it continues to
develop and thrive throughout the township zone area.
An appropriate solution for Snake Valley needs to be developed through the following steps:
•
Obtain funding (or fund from existing Council budget) to investigate innovative sewerage
schemes
•
Develop innovative sewerage options appropriate for Snake Valley
•
Begin discussions with Central Highlands Water regarding the implementation of an appropriate
sewerage option for Snake Valley
•
Work towards implementing scheme
Page v
Summary
The Pyrenees Shire Council’s updated Domestic Wastewater Management Plan is a progressive step
towards the sustainable management of wastewater in the Shire. Actions need to be adopted at both
shire and town specific levels, by Pyrenees, to ensure physical and managerial issues are addressed
and improved. Some of these actions need to be implemented immediately to ensure that Pyrenees
meets its minimum legal obligations. Beyond this however, these actions will ensure that increased
development within the Shire does not pose an increased risk to public health and the environment.
Those actions chosen to be adopted by Pyrenees must be funded from Council’s existing and future
budgets.
It is not possible however, to provide solutions for every town by applying the principles and actions of
the DWMP. Snake Valley, the highest priority town requires an alternative approach. An innovative
sewerage scheme appears to be the most appropriate solution. Funding should be sought
immediately for the investigation of options for Snake Valley.
Once adopted, the updated DWMP will positively contribute to the planning process for the
municipality’s future.
Page vi
1.0
Introduction
The MAV requires Pyrenees Shire Council to update their existing Domestic Wastewater Management
Plan (DWMP), dated 11 December 2001. The document was a result of the municipality’s
participation in a pilot strategy for managing on-site wastewater systems within a small rural
municipality.
In the recent White Paper - Securing Our Water Future Together ‘Our Water, Our Future’ released in
June 2004 a number of key issues are addressed, some of which have not been closely investigated
in Pyrenees Shire 2001 Domestic Wastewater Management Strategy, including but not limited to:
•
Requirements for sustainable disposal methods for wastewater and initiation of Domestic
Wastewater Management Plans for towns that are currently unsewered
•
Improving health of Victorian river systems
•
Country Towns Water Supply and Sewerage program
•
A renewed emphasis on smarter use of available water
•
Drive for investment in priority water projects
These changes have initiated the need to upgrade the existing DWMP for Pyrenees Shire in
accordance with the Municipal Association of Victoria’s (MAV) requirements as stated in the Model
Domestic Wastewater Management Plan (2005). The DWMP aims to increase the protection of the
environment and public health within the municipality, hence reducing the risk posed by domestic
wastewater.
To secure funding for the Country Towns Water and Sewerage Program, Pyrenees Shire Council
recently nominated five priority towns that need improved wastewater management practices. The
priority towns are (from highest to lowest priority):
•
Snake Valley
•
Landsborough
•
Waubra
•
Moonambel
•
Lexton
1.1
Aims and Objectives
The focus of the revised DWMP for Council is to deliver sustainable management of wastewater to the
five priority towns with respect to public and environmental health risks. It will allow the widely varying
risks associated with domestic wastewater (within a municipality) to be identified and corresponding
management strategies developed to mitigate the risks.
The project outcome is to produce an effective DWMP which can be implemented by the council to
manage wastewater in the Shire. It is envisaged that when completed and adopted by Council, the
DWMP will become a policy of Council and influence the planning process with respect to wastewater
management issues.
Page 7
This DWMP will provide Pyrenees Shire with:
•
a strategic planning tool to allow long term strategies to be developed for wastewater system
management
•
a framework for making decisions about individual on-site wastewater system installations
•
a strategic framework for enforcement and compliance options
•
a strategic framework for costing and funding wastewater management within the municipality;
and
•
a framework for effective liaison between councils, the community and water and catchment
authorities.
This document has been developed in two parts. Part 1: DWMP details the Domestic Wastewater
Management Plan for Pyrenees Shire and includes the following sections:
•
Context – Details the risks and legislation associated with domestic wastewater as well as the
roles and responsibilities of stakeholders.
•
Management – Details the methodology undertaken in the development of the DWMP and
outlines the role and responsibilities of the DWMP Advisory Committee
•
Assessment of Wastewater Current Situation – Provides information on the current
wastewater situation within each of the priority towns along with the wastewater threats and
values.
•
Action Plans – Provides a number of management strategies and action plans with respect to
management of domestic wastewater within the municipality
•
Appendices – Details supplementary information that has been used in the development of this
DWMP
Part 2: Recommended Actions provides guidance on the actions to be undertaken by Pyrenees Shire
Council to implement the DWMP.
1.2
Regional Context
Pyrenees Shire is located approximately 150km west of Melbourne. The region is easily accessed by
the Western Highway, Sunraysia Highway, Pyrenees Highway and Glenelg Highway. According to
the Council in 2006, the municipality is home to approximately 6,600 people living in 3,400 houses.
The land use of this municipality is a diverse mix of rural activities including cereal and hay crops, wool
viticulture and forestry. A large percentage of the population’s livelihoods depend on the land. It has
been reported that the agricultural returns from this area has a gross value of $80 million per annum.
Pyrenees Shire covers an area of 3,500km2, divided into 5 ridings. Figure 1 displays a map of the
Shire with the riding borders:
Page 8
Figure 1 –Map of the Pyrenees Shire
(Information sourced from Council Plan 2005-2009)
1.2.1
Shire Physiography
The physiography of the Shire as described in the Pyrenees Shires 2001 DWMP:
The physiography of the Shire changes markedly over its length. In the northern portion of the Shire,
the Pyrenees Range is the dominating feature. This comprises steeply rising hills and ridges of
predominantly uplifted sediments, the high point of which is Mount Avoca (760m) west of Avoca.
To the east of the Pyrenees Range the land takes the form of a highland plateau and includes the
extensive alluvial flood-plain of the Avoca River.
Page 9
The Great Dividing Range passes east-west through the central portion of the Shire. This comprises
steep ridges and hills at its western end (which contains the high points of Mt Cole - 866m, Mt
Lonarch and Ben Major).
The Great Divide forms the watershed between two drainage systems. In this regard, the land to the
north drains to the Wimmera River and to the Murray River system via the Avoca River. The Avoca
Floodway is regarded as a wetland of importance due to its definition as a permanent inland delta.
The land to the south of the Divide drains to the Hopkins River system.
The Wimmera River is a closed system terminating at Lake Albacutya a RAMSAR Wetland and a
series of terminal lakes in Wyperfield National Park. The Wimmera River is noted as an important
wetland with permanent rivers and steams, including waterfalls, river flats and seasonally flooded
grasslands.
The rivers and streams in the Shire are relied upon extensively for urban water supply and/or
agriculture.
Lake Goldsmith, situated near Beaufort, has been recognised for its recreation and tourism value.
The southern portion of the Shire is characterised by basaltic plains, formed when a succession of
volcanic eruptions covered the pre-existing plains with basalt sheets. These plains contain a number
of natural lakes and swamps where volcanic flows and pyroclastic material have closed off catchment
outlets or created small catchments with internal drainage such as Lake Goldsmith.
The
physiographic variations in the Shire result in climate variations from north to south, with significant
implications in terms of agricultural activities. In this regard, the areas in the northern plains of the
Shire experience hot, dry summers and cool winters. Rainfall in the northern part of the Shire varies
from 450mm per year, the majority in the April-October period. The climate in the southern part of the
Shire by contrast is characterised by more temperate summers and higher rainfalls (usually in excess
of 750mm on the higher ranges). Southern plains rainfall is typically approximately 600 mm. p.a.
Page 10
2.0
Context
2.1
Victorian Government White Paper
The Victorian government released The White Paper – Securing Our Water Future Together ‘Our
Water, Our Future’ in June 2004. The White Paper details all strategies to be undertaken within
Victoria to improve water management in the state.
Ongoing drought has highlighted the need for more appropriate water management in Australia in all
areas of water use. The White Paper details strategies for sustainable water use for all water used in
the community, commercial, industrial, recreational and domestic sectors. Actions such as improved
irrigation efficiency, reduced water usage in metropolitan areas and development of water reuse
strategies are all included.
Chapter five provides direction to meet the policy that:
“All Victorians will be provided with safe and reliable drinking water and sewerage services that
protect public health and the environment.”
In country Victoria it is estimated that there are over 22,000 properties in towns with more than 100
properties that rely on septic tanks.
For some of these towns, effluent is best treated through well managed septic tanks. For other towns
however, due to housing density, soil types or surrounding environment, septic tanks are no longer
considered appropriate for the management of effluent. To address this issue, Action 5.40 of the White
Paper is the Country Towns Water Supply and Sewerage program.
2.2
Country Town Water Supply and Sewerage Program
The development of Pyrenees Shire’s DWMP is part of a larger state government project called “The
Country Town Water Supply and Sewerage Program” which aims to provide safe and reliable water
supply and sewerage services to small country towns. This project is administered by the Department
of Sustainability and Environment (DSE).
There are five major elements of this program, consisting of:
•
Domestic Wastewater Management Plans - Plans to effectively manage domestic wastewater,
particularly in towns that may never be sewered such as Landsborough and Moonambel
•
Innovative Projects - Examination and trialling of alternative more sustainable and more
economical technologies to effectively manage domestic wastewater when compared to
traditional reticulated sewerage
•
Development of State-wide Strategy - for future investment rural areas with respect to water
and wastewater
•
Investment in Priority Projects - Providing solutions for towns with existing critical human
health and environmental issues
•
The Gippsland Lakes Project - to aid nutrient reduction to The Lakes consistent with the
Gippsland Lakes Action Plan.
A total of $42 million is available to improve services to rural towns with existing public health and
environmental issues including $2.3 million available to fund the development of domestic wastewater
management plans.
Page 11
2.3
There are a number of legislations, polices and guidelines that requires consideration during the
development of the DWMP. Appendix A of this report further details regulatory requirements.
2.3.1
Water Act 1989 Part 9 s.183 Powers in relation to septic tanks
The Water Act requires referral to water authorities when wastewater systems are proposed within
drinking water catchments. The Water Authorities have jurisdiction under the Water Act to require a
property within a sewerage district to carry out any required septic tank repairs or maintenance works.
This may lead to the requirement of a system upgrade if the septic tank cannot meet the required
standard.
2.3.2
The Local Government Act empowers councils to enact local laws and set special charges for council
activities. Councils could use these powers to develop local regulations for wastewater management
provided these regulations are consistent with State policy and legislation and to raise revenue for its
wastewater management programs.
2.3.3
Health Act 1958
The Health Act (1958) states that it is the function of every council to prevent disease, prolong life and
promote public health through programs that control or prevent environmental health dangers and
disease. The Act requires councils to find solutions, where possible, to all nuisances within the
municipality.
2.3.4
Environment Protection Act 1970
The Environmental Protection Act 1970 (“The Act”) is the primary legislation that regulates and
controls on-site domestic wastewater system installations. The Act outlines council responsibilities in
approving the installation, modification and use of on-site domestic wastewater systems, where the
systems are designed to treat or receive up to 5000 litres of effluent per day.
Treatment systems that are designed to treat more than 5000 litres of effluent per day are scheduled
premises under the EPA Scheduled Premises Regulations. A Works Approval is required from the
EPA for construction of these installations and an EPA discharge licence is required for operation. The
EPA is responsible for the oversight and management of these systems.
The Environment Protection Act also outlines the council annual returns lodgement process to the
EPA.
2.3.5
State Environment Protection Policy (Waters of Victoria) (SEPP WoV)
This SEPP aims to ensure that all residential subdivisions are provided with reticulated sewer access
at the time of subdivision. Where this is not possible or practical, each lot must be capable of treating
and retaining the domestic wastewater within the boundaries of the proposed allotments. The Policy
directs councils to refer to the EPA’s Septic Tanks Code of Practice. The Code of Practice allows
Councils to assess the ability for proposed developments to retain wastewater on site.
2.3.6
EPA Development Approvals in Sewered and Unsewered Areas , November 1998
The EPA Development Approvals guidelines detail the Victorian requirements for the approval of
developments and the permitting of on-site domestic wastewater treatment systems. The guidelines
restate council’s responsibilities in relation to submitting annual returns and the requirements of the
Page 12
SEPP WoV. The guidelines also specify factors to consider when assessing proposed off-site
discharges from on-site domestic wastewater systems.
2.3.7
EPA Septic Tanks Code of Practice 2003
This document is the manual for the design, construction, selection, installation and maintenance of
on-site domestic wastewater systems. It contains information on land capability assessment, treatment
and disposal options, the permit process, septic tank design, construction and maintenance, and
effluent management.
2.4
Roles and Responsibilities of Stakeholders
The statutory responsibilities for on-site domestic wastewater systems in Victoria are based on a
hierarchical system under the ultimate direction of the State Government. This hierarchy of control is
shown in Figure 2.
Federal Government
Victorian State Government and Relevant Government Bodies
Department of Sustainability and Environment, Department of Human Services, Environment Protection Authority
Responsibilities
Resource planning and allocation, Defining authority obligations, Financial performance, Deriving policies, Price
and service regulation, Benchmark for environmental performance.
Water Authorities
Grampians Wimmera Mallee Water, Central Highlands Water, North Central Catchment Management Authority,
Glenelg Hopkins Catchment Management Authority.
Responsibilities
Management of water and sewerage assets, catchment and waterways, licensing and supply
MAV Responsibilities
Pyrenees Shire Responsibilities
Representative Council body
Providing appropriate infrastructures, health
and environmental protection
Community Responsibilities
Maintaining performance of on-site systems and complying with Council regulations
Adapted from Department of Sustainability and Environment, 2005
Figure 2 –Statutory Responsibilities
Page 13
While the Water Authorities, CMA’s and other agencies determine the broader context for
management of domestic wastewater, it is the local government that must ensure these requirements
are met. The DWMP is the document that includes management requirements of all authorities. The
DWMP expects, in its formulation, a degree of interaction between each of the authorities to develop a
shared understanding and expectation of the goals and outcomes.
The following is a list of the roles and responsibility of the external stakeholders with respect to
domestic wastewater management. These roles and responsibilities as defined by the MAV are
further outlined in Appendix A, Section 5.4.
2.4.1
Department of Sustainability and Environment Role
The government has responsibility for the natural and built environment, which is managed by the
Department of Sustainability and Environment (DSE) on behalf of the Victorian State Government.
DSE assists in delivering the government's vision to position Victoria as a world leader in
sustainability.
DSE provides an oversight role in domestic wastewater management and can become involved the
referrals process when applications involve sub divisions, crown land or areas subject to flooding.
Under the Planning and Environment Act DSE has the authority to reject a planning permit / septic
tank permit.
2.4.2
Environment Protection Authority Role
The EPA is responsible for establishing and regulating documents including the SEPPs and the Septic
Tank Code of Practice. Therefore annual returns from Councils regarding their wastewater situation
are particularly important to address the critical issues and improve planning.
The Melbourne Office of the Environmental Protection Authority (EPA) has advised that it would like to
see protection of the environment through the development of DWMPs. The areas of concern to the
EPA are those towns that are currently unsewered and have sewage and sullage issues.
2.4.3
Department of Human Services Role
The Department of Human Services (DHS) is responsible for ensuring that all Victorians have access
to quality services that protect and enhance the community's physical, mental and social well-being.
They are also responsible for water quality standards including drinking water, irrigation water and
reuse. DHS have no direct impact on domestic wastewater management, however they do have a
responsibility to ensure public health is protected.
2.4.4
Water Authority (Grampians Wimmera Mallee Water, Central Highlands Water) Role
Regional and Rural Water Authorities are the state owned companies that manage the collection and
distribution of water resources, as well as the collection and treatment of wastewaters.
Generally Rural Water Authorities manage and operate the irrigation districts and the stock and
domestic supply systems, and administer the extraction and diversion of water from waterways and
groundwater sources. Regional water authorities on the other hand supply water and wastewater
services to the towns and cities within their area of administration.
Within the Pyrenees Shire, Grampains Wimmera Mallee Water is the urban rural water authority, and
Central Highlands Water is the regional water authority.
Page 14
2.4.5
Catchment Management Authorities (North Central CMA, Glenelg Hopkins CMA)
Role
Catchment Management Authorities are the state owned companies that manage the land, water and
biodiversity resources. This is particularly important in rural areas, where any negative changes to the
land, water or biodiversity impact on the rural communities, economic production and natural
ecosystems.
Within Pyrenees Shire Council, 2 CMA’s have areas of administration. These are:
•
North Central CMA to the north
•
Glenelg Hopkins CMA to the south
2.5
Risks Associated with Domestic Wastewater
Domestic wastewater can be described as those wastes that are generated by household activities.
Such household activities are undertaken in the toilet, bathroom, laundry and kitchen. Much of the
generated wastewater contains harmful micro-organisms and high levels of nutrients that, when
inadequately managed, can harm public health, the environment, local amenity and potentially pose a
legal or economic risk.
Generally there are two types of domestic wastewater treatment systems: on-site and off-site systems.
Off-site systems generally consist of a number of small transmission pipelines that collect sewage
from individual properties, which is then transported to a common trunk sewer. The trunk sewer
transports all sewage to a common treatment plant where it is treated and disposed. On-site systems
generally consist of septic tanks that service individual properties.
Often within small towns, traditional off-site sewage services are costly, when considering the initial
infrastructure installation and ongoing operation and maintenance. For this reason, many small towns
are likely to remain unsewered in the future.
The potential risks associated with domestic wastewater, as stated by the MAV, are summarised in
Table 1.
Local councils have a responsibility to manage the risks associated with domestic wastewater. The
current recognized best practice management strategy is to develop and implement a Domestic
Wastewater Management Plan.
Table 1 – The risks associated with domestic wastewater (Municipal Association of Victoria, 2003)
Type of risk
Risk summary
Public health
Drinking
water
Drinking water supplies becoming contaminated with
chemicals and bacteria from effluent as a result of poorly
drained soils; small lot sizes; high usage; ageing septic tanks;
and lack of proper maintenance of septic tanks. Illnesses that
are contracted from effluent contaminated water include
Gastroenteritis, Shigellosis, Giardiasis, Cryptosporidiosis and
Hepatitis.
Recreational
water
Statistically significant risk of illness if people come into
contact with contaminated water used for recreational
purposes. Illnesses include ear and eye infections and
respiratory infections.
Page 15
Environmental
Septic tanks contribute high rates of nitrogen and phosphorous to water
catchments due to surface runoff.
Septic tanks create direct bacterial contamination of the environment with ten
times the amount of E. coli (a disease producing bacteria found in
animal/human waste) found in catchments near residential areas compared to
catchments without residential areas.
The highest levels of faecal coliforms were found in catchments serving septic
tanks compared to other disposal systems.
A number of environmental contamination incidents have occurred in Australia
and Victoria e.g. Benalla, Venus Bay.
Economic
From an economic perspective, trying to alleviate years of environmental
contamination is costly and involves overcoming a host of practical issues.
Management should be primarily focused on prevention.
In the event of contamination of ground and other waters there is the cost of
advising residents, visitors and tourists to the area of the risk, managing
community anxiety and the indirect costs associated with the perception that
the area is unsafe.
Legal
Council has quite clearly established statutory duties under the provisions of
the Environment Protection Act 1970 and Health Act 1958.
Council has a duty to exercise its enforcement powers where it knows there is
a breach of the legislation and there is a likelihood of injury.
Two court cases have determined that a failure to act will be a breach of the
duty of care owed by the Council and it will be liable in negligence for any
damages caused by the breach of the duty of care
2.5.1
Local Governments Role
Councils have been involved with public health protection, maintenance and promotion for many
years. In the early days the council’s role was to establish basic infrastructure such as roads, drains
and waste management. Recently a growing focus has developed on managing council assets to
ensure long term viability and protection of public health and the environment.
The Local Government Act 1989, Section 3C, states that Council must:
“promote the social, economic and environmental viability and sustainability of the municipal
district.”
When considering this statement with respect to the management of on-site wastewater systems, it is
the responsibility of the local government to ensure that the on-site wastewater systems are:
•
Installed in accordance with the planning controls, having due regard for the ability of the soil to
absorb the waste and in compliance with any special requirements of the water authority or the
catchment management authority
•
Operated in accordance with the SEPP and Septic Tank Code of Practice, and
•
Transferred to owners with knowledge of the systems installed on their property
2.6
Local Government Planning
Pyrenees Shire Council currently has a number of plans and strategic documents to guide actions into
the future. The key documents produced include:
Page 16
2.6.1
Annual Report 2005
The 2005 Annual Report advises that Council is currently addressing many issues including improving
the wastewater situation across the Shire. The Annual Report also describes the ‘Best Value’
program, which aims to make Council accountable to the community, to provide the highest quality
services and value for money. Wastewater management, as a Council service would be assessed in
accordance with the ‘Best Value’ program. The performance of this service would be monitored and
contribute to the measure of Council’s overall performance.
2.6.2
Council Plan 2005 – 2009
The Council Plan details a number of objectives and strategies that will be implemented over the next
four years. The identified priority of ‘Sustainable Strategic Planning’ specifically targets waste
management through the action: the preparation of Domestic Wastewater Management Plans and
Polices.
2.6.3
Budget 2005 – 2006 and 2006 – 2007
Council has informed that there was no set budgetary amount in 2005 – 2006 allocated for the
development of a DWMP. Rather, funding has been obtained from other areas eg. consulting budget.
The annual budget for 2006 – 2007 should specifically include funding to undertake DWMP actions.
2.6.4
Municipal Strategic Statement and Planning Scheme Municipal Strategic Statement
Review 2004
The Municipal Strategic Statement (MSS) sets the direction for future land use planning within the
Shire, which is reviewed and updated every 3 years. This 3 year review report assists Council to
determine whether planning issues have been resolved or if further strategies are required. These
documents will aid decision making process for planning permit applications lodged under the
planning scheme which is relevant to the development of the Domestic Wastewater Management
Plan.
2.7
Key Stakeholder Plans and Reports
There are a number of key stakeholder plans which are relevant to the Shire’s day to day operations
and future directions. These plans have been detailed briefly in this section.
2.7.1
Department of Sustainability and Environment
The Department of Sustainability and Environment (DSE) have a number of initiatives and plans that
can be linked to the development of the DWMP for Pyrenees Shire. These include:
•
The Victorian Government White Paper, 2004 (Details all water initiatives for Victoria)
•
Section from the White Paper: Country Towns Water Supply and Sewerage Program (Provides
funding for more appropriate management of Victoria’s water and wastewater services)
•
Victorian River Health Strategy, 2002 (Provide the framework for communities to work in partnership
with Government to manage and restore our rivers over the long term)
2.7.2
North Central Catchment Management Authority
One relevant report identified for North Central CMA is:
•
North Central Catchment Condition Report 2003 (reports on the condition of the region’s assets)
Page 17
2.7.3
Central Highlands Water reports which are relevant to the development of the DWMP include:
•
Central Highlands Region Water Authority Water Plan 2005-2008 (outlines the water authority’s
future priorities and strategies for the 3 year period)
•
Central Highlands Water Sustainability Report 2004 (evaluates CHW”s current and future direction
in terms of environmental, social and economical factors)
2.7.4
Grampians Wimmera Mallee Water reports which are relevant to the development of the DWMP
include:
•
Grampians Water Sustainability Report (evaluates the organisation’s current and future direction
in terms of environmental, social and economical factors)
•
GWMWater Annual Report 2004/05 (more detail evaluation of the organisation’s economic,
environmental and social performance)
Page 18
3.0
Management
3.1
DWMP Advisory Panel
The DWMP Advisory Panel is responsible for providing input into the development of the DWMP. The
relevant organisations have been detailed as follows:
External Stakeholders
•
Department of Sustainability and Environment (south-west regional office)
•
Department of Human Services
•
Environment Protection Agency (south-west regional office)
•
North Central CMA
•
Glenelg Hopkins CMA
•
Wimmera CMA
•
•
Internal Stakeholders
•
Environmental Health Department
•
Planning Department
•
Building Surveyor
•
Engineering Department
•
Assets Development
•
Rates Department
3.2
DWMP Project Management Team
Project Manager: Bruce Andrews
Public Health Advisor: Bob Scurry
Planning Advisor: Kevin Porter
Engineering Advisor: Trevor Smith
Building Advisor: Michael Kuczer
Assess and Development Advisor: Bruce Andrews
The DWMP project management team will be responsible for:
•
Developing, implementing, monitoring and reviewing the DWMP
•
Identifying relevant staff and organisations and their roles in implementing the DWMP
•
Ensuring that relevant staff are aware of and participate in the implementation of the DWMP
•
Ensuring that all relevant personnel are given updated information on domestic wastewater
management
•
Providing leadership and direction for Pyrenees Shire Council’s domestic wastewater
management
•
Periodically participating in statewide discussions and events on domestic wastewater
Page 19
3.3
Methodology
The following methodology was used by Maunsell in the development of the Pyrenees Shire Council
DWMP:
Order
Task
Method
1
Reviewed relevant information
-Reviewed MAV guidelines
-Reviewed legislation and guidelines
-Reviewed Pyrenees 2001 DWMP
-Reviewed existing Pyrenees reference documents
2
Initial contact with stakeholders
-Contacted stakeholders (both internal and external)
to inform of project and obtained project drivers
-Produced draft Project Drivers Report
-Received and incorporated Council comments
regarding report
3
Familiarly with internal Council
procedures
-Interviewed Environmental Health Officer
-Interviewed Building Inspector
-Interviewed Assets and Development Services
Representative
-Interviewed Engineering Department
Representative
-Interviewed Planning Department Representative
-Produced draft Current Management Report
regarding report
4
5
Physical assessment of priority
towns
-Visited each priority town
Prepared DWMP
-Derived action plan
-Prepared brief description of a initial compliance
program
-Produced draft Towns Description Report
regarding report
-Identified values and threats
-Undertook risk assessment
-Produced draft DWMP and Recommended
Actions Report for Council review
regarding report
-Submitted of DWMP to MAV
-Met with Council to discuss reports
-Produced DWMP (volume 1-3) incorporating
Council comments
-Presented DWMP to Councilors
The above methodology required constant consultation between Maunsell and Pyrenees Shire
Council to fill information gaps and to clarify procedures.
Page 20
Once the DWMP for Pyrenees Shire has been reviewed by the MAV, the following tasks needs to be
undertaken by the Council:
Order
Task
Method
6
Council to endorse actions
-DWMP project management team to determine
which actions to adopt, assign responsibilities and
timeframes
7
Council approval
-DWMP project management team to seek council
approval for the adoption of the DWMP actions
8
DWMP in Action
-Implement DWMP (follow Part 2: Recommended
Actions document to complete actions)
-DWMP project management team to review
progress annually
9
DWMP Review
-Evaluate DWMP at end of fourth year
3.4
Community Consultation
Community engagement was not appropriate during Tasks 1-5 as they require only Council and MAV
endorsement. Community consultation is required during the implementation of the DWMP actions
during their early development phases.
Implementation of the Pyrenees Shire DWMP will require an effective community consultation
process. A number of methods are available to undertake this consultation and have been outlined in
Appendix B – Community Consultation Methods. Opportunities should be explored to integrate this
consultation with other planned consultation programs with the community.
Page 21
4.0
Assessment of Current Situation
4.1
Wastewater Management Profiles
4.1.1
Snake Valley
Table 2 –Wastewater management profile for Snake Valley
Town Description
Catchment
Waterway
•
Located approximately 25km west of Ballarat.
•
Population is estimated to be 350 people, however town is experiencing
significant growth due to it close proximity to Ballarat.
•
Facilities: hotel, Primary School, RSL, community hall, general store and
recreational reserve (active cricket season).
•
Town residents appear to be young families and retirees.
•
The community appears to take great pride in their town. Most houses and
gardens are very well kept.
•
Community hall provides a focal point, offering community classes such as
yoga.
•
General store appears busy and a social meeting place for locals.
•
Reticulated water supply from White Swan and Lal Lal reservoirs.
•
Several houses have a gravity feed water tank.
•
One major un-named waterway running north-south through town
(tributary of Baillie Creek )
Allotments
On-site Systems
Geology
•
A few small creeks within town
•
Approximately 165 allotments
•
Many of the houses appeared to be less than 20 years old or renovated.
•
It was observed that larger developments were occurring on the south
boarder of the township zone area, whilst the centre appears to have
smaller blocks, some which are in a poor state of repair.
•
Council advised that greywater discharges within the town
•
It was also advised that in the past some older houses discharged their
greywater to the stream at the back of their properties. These properties
are also within 100m of the stream.
•
The majority (approx 60%) of the homes in Snake Valley appear to be
greater than 10 years old. This would indicate that about 60% of the septic
tanks in the town are greater than 10 years old.
•
Pyrenees Shire Council has advised that there have been complaints
regarding discharge of supernatant from septic tanks directly into open
channels along the road, including from dwellings adjacent to the hotel.
•
Alluvial Plains, Sediments and Basalt (sourced from Council’s 2001
DWMP)
Future
Snake Valley is one of the five towns within Pyrenees Shire participating in the Victorian State
Government Community Building Demonstration Projects. These projects are testing new ways to
identify community issues, mobilise local skills and leadership and forge new partnerships in 10
localities across Melbourne and regional Victoria. One of the successes of this project in Snake Valley
is the introduction of a visiting medical service.
Page 22
Snake Valley has a very strong community spirit but requires adequate infrastructure within the town
to allow the community to be maintained and grow.
While the community spirit is strong, the town is becoming physically disjointed. The majority of new
houses have been built outside the designated township zone to the south of the town with little or no
regeneration in the township zone. This is partially due to the adoption of the Domestic Wastewater
Management Plan in 2001.
Pyrenes Shire Council adopted a Domestic Wastewater Management Plan in 2001. This plan
identified that the minimum lot size to adequately contain wastewater with a conventional septic tank
within Snake Valley is 2Ha. There are no lots within the designated township zone that are 2Ha or
greater. Any new house or addition to an existing house within the town zone requires a septic tank
permit. On the small lots it is difficult to design a wastewater system that will adequately contain all
wastewater on-site. This becomes more difficult where the house is located adjacent to a water way,
or on the edges of a floodplain as for many of the lots in Snake Valley. Through the adoption of the
2001 DWMP, Pyrenees Council has limited opportunity to allow houses within the centre of the town
to be built or expanded. It is vital that Snake Valley improves its current wastewater situation to
ensure that it continues to develop and thrive throughout the township zone area.
One appropriate solution for Snake Valley is a Septic Tank Effluent Drainage (STED) scheme for the
township zone. In a STED scheme, the effluent from the existing septic tanks is collected, via a small
diameter piped network and conveyed to a central treatment plant. The STED scheme would only be
required for the town zone area.
4.1.2
Landsborough
Table 3 –Wastewater management profile for Landsborough
Town Description
Catchment
•
One of the smallest towns in the Shire
•
Located 105km north-west of Ballarat
•
Population of approximately two hundred people.
•
Facilities: post office, general store, hotel, recreation reserve and primary
school.
•
Historic setting, thriving town during gold rush (part of the Goldfields
Tourist Route)
•
Many historic buildings have been preserved with information displays for
tourists.
•
Many sporting facilities: football oval, multi purpose courts with tennis nets,
basketball hoop, and weather shelter.
•
Appears to be a social centre with a number of people gathering in the
streets.
•
Appear to have an older demographic
•
Landsborough reservoir provides untreated water supply.
•
Council has received concerns regarding non potable water supply
including anecdotal evidence in relation to the unsuitability of bore water
and a recent letter of complaint from a ratepayer regarding illness relating
to the water supply.
•
Water supply is supplemented by groundwater bore and rainwater tanks.
•
Recent Government funding has been received to obtain desalinated bore
water supplies from Merah
Page 23
Waterway
Allotments
On-site Systems
•
Main township zone lies in between two major creeks: Malakoff Creek runs
along the south western side of the town, Native Youth Creek runs along
the north eastern part.
•
A number of houses are located in close proximity to Malakoff and Native
Youth Creeks.
•
Approximately 140 houses
•
Most houses appear to be greater than 20 years old.
•
Number of small allotments in township.
•
Estimated that more than 85% of septic tanks are greater than 20 years
old.
The following were identified in the Septic Tank Identification and Evaluation
Survey 2002:
•
•
9 of 15 systems surveyed in the town were All Waste Systems
•
8 were operating satisfactory and had an average age of 5.8
years with a maximum life of 14 years.
•
None were in need of a pump out.
•
One system was over 50 years old with effluent at ground level.
5 split systems were identified in Landsborough
•
Out of the 5, 4 were operating as they were originally designed
which allows for the direct discharge of sullage to ground level.
•
One system had a septic tank effluent at ground level as well as
sullage. There was one system that was undetermined but was
operating satisfactorily.
Geology
•
Tertiary gravels (sourced from Council’s first DWMP)
Future
•
Expanding vineyard developments (south of town) may increase town and
tourist populations over the next few years. However, at the time of
inspection, three properties were for sale.
4.1.3
Waubra
Table 4 –Wastewater management profile for Wabura
Town Description
Catchment
•
Small town located on Sunraysia Highway 35km north west of Ballarat.
•
Population of approximately 150 people.
•
Facilities: a general store, hotel, primary school (recently renovated),
preschool, recreational oval, multi purpose courts and a picnic ground.
•
Active sporting clubs including the Waubra Football and Netball Club.
•
The town has reticulated non-potable bore water supply drawn from two
groundwater bores.
•
Some properties in the town have rain water tanks.
•
The town is within the Talbot reservoir and Evansford reservoir
catchments, which supply Maryborough with filtered water.
Waterway
•
Allotments
•
Some of the development within the township appeared to be on small
blocks.
•
It is estimated that 70% of houses are greater than 20 years old, indicating
that the majority of the septic tanks are over 20 years old and that some
properties may have split systems.
A number of houses, the general store and the hotel are located in close
proximity to the watercourse in the centre of town or a drain that runs into
this watercourse
Page 24
On-site Systems
•
Anecdotal information that new town real-estate has ‘soggy’ ground
conditions
•
Most of the houses in Waubra (approx 70%) appear to be greater than 20
years old. This would indicate that the majority of the septic tanks are more
than 20 years old.
The following were identified in the Septic Tank Identification and Evaluation
Survey 2002:
•
Of the 33 systems which they assessed 11 were All Waste Systems.
• Out of the 11 systems, 6 were in need of immediate pumpout.
• The average system age was 19.8 years.
• One system out of the 11 was 88 years old with suspected
discharge effluent at ground level.
•
The number of split systems identified in Waubra was 21.
• Out of the 21, 18 were operating as they were originally designed
which allows for the direct discharge of sullage to ground level.
• Three system had a septic tank effluent at ground level as well as
sullage.
Geology/Soil
Future
4.1.4
•
Basalt and Granite (sourced from Council’s first DWMP)
•
“The soils comprise shallow loam (200 mm) over a sandy layer that
becomes saturated in winter then heavy impermeable clay and then
granite” (Sourced from Waubra Innovative Sewerage Scheme report)
•
The shire has been successful in obtaining funding in the first round of the
project to investigate options to provide an innovative solution for the
provision of sewage to Waubra. It is considered a priority town because it
is within CHW water supply catchment. This project is now to proceed to
the detailed design stage by CHW.
•
The town population does not appear to be increasing; however as
Waubra is located only 35km from Ballarat, it may become an area of
growth in the future.
•
Due to the towns location on the Sunraysia Highway minor variations in
visitor numbers may occur with most visitors passing through.
Moonambel
Table 5 –Wastewater management profile for Moonambel
Town Description
Catchment
Waterway
•
Small town located 90km North West of Ballarat
•
Population of approximately 100 residents
•
Facilities: primary school, recreation reserve, general store, hotel, public
hall, park and tennis courts.
•
Town appeared to be appealing to the tourist market with numerous
wineries and vineyards in the region as well as accommodation and
restaurants.
•
The exterior of the general store had a historic feel and is well presented.
•
The town doesn’t have a reticulated water supply
•
Town utilises water tank supplies
•
Portion of water is supplied by bore water
•
The major water course in the region is Mountain Creek which runs along
Page 25
the northern side of the township.
Allotments
•
A number of houses are located close to Mountain Creek.
•
Many houses are greater than 20 years old, likely that most have split
systems and thus greywater is being discharged off site.
•
Many small property allotments in the township.
On-site Systems
•
Most of the houses in Moonambel (approx 85%) appear to be greater than
20 years old. This would indicate that the majority of the septic tanks are
more than 20 years old.
Geology
•
Alluvial flats (sourced from Council’s first DWMP)
Future
•
Moonambel is likely to experience growth pressures due to well
established viticulture industry and has the potential to provide
employment opportunities.
4.1.5
Lexton
Table 6 –Wastewater management profile for Lexton
•
Small town located approximately 50km North West of Ballarat
•
Population of approximately 200 people
•
Well kept town with many residents taking pride in their town and their
community.
•
Facilities: hotel, general store, co-op store, garage, park and recreation
oval (active football team).
•
Appears town population consisted mostly of retirees and some families
•
Town created a community co-operative to save their general store and
post office from closure, showing a great source of community pride.
•
The town describes itself as the “Crossroads of Victoria” and is part of the
Major Mitchell Heritage Trail.
•
Town primary school closed and children now must commute by bus to
Waubra Primary School.
Catchment
•
Town is provided with treated water supplies from the Lexton Reservoir
(Central Highlands Water)
Waterway
•
Town located in floodplain
•
A number of water courses including Burnbank Creek run through the town
and are known to cause local flooding.
•
Pyrenees Hotel and co-operative store located very close to river. In the
event of a septic system failure at either source, there is a large possibility
septic effluent may enter Burnbank Creek.
•
Likelihood of a number of septic tanks within 100m of watercourse.
Town Description
Allotments
•
Approximately 100 houses
•
Housing appear to be quite dense in areas.
•
Most newer houses are on larger blocks, few older houses appeared to be
on built on small blocks.
•
Most of the houses in Lexton (approx 75%) appear to be greater than 20
years old. The age of the houses would indicate that the majority of the
septic tanks are more than 20 years old.
•
Greywater was observed discharging directly into the stormwater drains.
In one street drain, the grey water had turned septic causing an unpleasant
odour. This drain directed water to Burnbank River.
Geology
•
Alluvial flats and Alluvium flats (sourced from Council’s first DWMP)
Future
•
The town is not experiencing any growth pressures.
On-site Systems
Page 26
4.1.6
Town Summaries and Water Supply Catchments (2001 DWMP)
Town summaries (including risk analysis and recommendations) from Pyrenee’s 2001 DWMP have
been included in Appendix D. Towns include:
•
Amphitheatre
•
Evansford
•
Landsborough
•
Lexton
•
Moonambel
•
Redbank
•
Snake Valley
•
Waubra
•
Beauford, Avoca and Raglan (minor summaries)
Details about the individual water supply catchments within the Shire are also included in this
Appendix.
4.2
Wastewater Values
Values are those things that need to be protected. From an environmental view point, this is often
considered to be the receiving environment, say the river through the town. Values can also be
described as factors which are important to the community.
A number of generic values have been identified by the MAV. These values include:
•
Public Health (Infectious disease transmission and exposure)
•
Environmental (Surface water quality, In stream biodiversity, and groundwater quality)
•
Amenity (Visual, recreational and odour)
•
Economic (Development potential and property values)
•
Cultural (Including historical values)
Table 7 describes the types of values for each town.
Page 27
Table 7 –Key Receiving Values for each town
Snake Valley
Snake Valley has the potential for further
growth due to its proximity to Ballarat;
therefore the township has very high
economic value for property and land
use.
The town is well maintained and has
recently renovated the town hall, thus
the town places a very high value on
amenity and sense of community.
Snake Valley has a few small
watercourses through the township
which have been assigned a medium
level of significance.
Landsborough
Landsborough is one of the towns on the
Goldfields tourist route. It is a township
of very high cultural heritage value due
to the historic buildings. The town also
has high economic value due to the
tourist industry and the possibility of
growth due to the emerging viticulture
industry in the area.
Landsborough has excellent sporting
facilities for football, tennis, basketball,
lawn bowls and other sporting pursuits.
Therefore the town places very high
value on recreational amenity.
This town is situated between two major
creeks which have been assigned a
high level of significance.
Landsborough relies on a combination of
borewater and rainwater, thus places a
very high value on groundwater.
Page 28
Waubra
Waubra potentially has high
development value due to its location.
However, due to its location in a
catchment, it also has very high
environmental value.
Waubra relies on borewater, thus places
a very high value on groundwater.
The town of Waubra has medium
cultural value due to Waubra Primary
School servicing the area including
Waubra and Lexton.
Moonambel
Moonambel has the potential for growth
in both industry and tourism given the
growing viticulture industry in the area,
therefore the township has very high
economic value for tourism and land
use.
Mountain Creek runs along the northern
border of the town and has been
assigned a high value of significance.
Lexton
Lexton has medium economic value for
tourism and land use due to its location
on the Sunraysia Highway.
Lexton had to create a community
cooperative to maintain their local store
and post office facilities thus it is likely
that they place a very high value on the
sense of community.
Lexton has high environmental value
due to the town being situating within a
floodplain.
4.3
Wastewater Threats
Threats are defined as those situations which can cause harm and therefore can potentially affect on
the values. For example, greywater in street gutters could cause illness in children who play in it. Key
wastewater threats for each priority town are outlined in Table 8.
Page 29
Table 8 –Key wastewater threats for each town
Snake Valley
•
Houses in close proximity (<100m) to
creek.
•
60% of septic tanks estimated to be >20
years old and thus blackwater only on-site
wastewater systems.
•
Possible groundwater contamination.
Landsborough
•
Small property allotments.
•
Houses in close proximity (<100m) to the
creeks.
•
years old and may not have been
appropriately maintained.
•
Blackwater only on-site wastewater
systems.
•
Lack of space on properties for septic tank
effluent lines.
Waubra
•
•
Houses in close proximity (<100m) to the
waterways.
•
•
systems.
•
Greywater discharge into stormwater
network.
•
Town located in CHW water supply
catchment
Page 30
Moonambel
•
•
creek.
•
•
systems.
•
Greywater discharge into open drains.
•
Lack of space on properties for septic tank
effluent lines.
Lexton
4.4
•
Houses and septic tanks located within
area that is prone to flooding.
•
creek.
•
•
systems.
•
Some greywater discharge observed in
stormwater network.
•
Stagnant water in drains turning septic.
Risk Assessment
A risk can be defined as the probability of harmful consequences, or expected losses to people,
places or property, resulting from interactions between natural or human induced hazards.
A risk assessment has been undertaken to identify the key risks requiring management. Assessments
have been done on a town-basis, taking into consideration the value of the receiving environment and
the magnitude of the wastewater threats. Only when the key risks are identified, are the strategies
able to be derived (Section 5.0).
Page 31
Site investigations have primarily determined values and threats, and have been included in Section
4.2 and 4.3 respectively. However initial assessments regarding the priority of values and threats may
not necessarily be accurate as many risks were not seen at the time of visitation eg. flooding. Hence
a complete risk assessment was required.
The following steps were undertaken for the risk assessment for each town:
4.4.1
Assigned ratings to values
Value categories included:
•
Environment: waterways
•
Environment: groundwater quality
•
Amenity: recreational
•
Amenity: landscape
•
Cultural heritage
•
Stormwater quality
•
Economic: property
•
Economic: tourism
•
Economic: industry
•
Sense of community
•
Public health
Each value was assessed and equated to a numerical value:
•
Low value = 1
•
Medium value = 2
•
High value = 3
•
Very high value = 4
4.4.2
Assigned ratings for threats
Threat categories included:
•
Failure of septic system
•
Septic <100m from waterway
•
Offsite greywater discharge
•
Density of housing
•
Lack of maintenance
•
Groundwater quality
Ratings were assigned for each threat with regard to the possible effect on the receiving value:
•
Low threat = 1
•
Medium threat = 2
•
High threat = 3
•
Very high threat = 4
Page 32
4.4.3
Assigned ratings for sensitivity
Sensitivity can be defined as the likelihood/probability/vulnerability of a threat impacting on a value.
Ratings were assigned for the sensitivity of each receiving value with regard to the imposing threat:
•
Low sensitivity = 1 (threat would probably have no impact on receiving value)
•
Medium sensitivity = 2 (threat would probably have moderate impact on receiving value)
•
High sensitivity = 3 (threat would probably have large impact on receiving value)
•
Very high sensitivity = 4 (threat would probably threaten the existence of the receiving value)
Take, for example, the threat of a ‘lack of maintenance’ of a septic tank near the environmental value
of ‘waterway’: It is assumed that the system is an original tank built with the house and has never
been replaced. This tank poses a great risk due to its age and consequently its condition. The
system may be leaking effluent which would flow into the waterway if not absorbed by the soil.
However there is still the probability that the tank is not failing and therefore not affecting the waterway
directly. The sensitivity of the value to the threat is high because leaking effluent may directly impact
on the waterway. A sensitivity of 3 was appropriately assigned.
4.4.4
Risk calculations
The formula used to calculate the risk score was:
RISK = THREAT x VALUE x SENSITIVITY
Threats, values and sensitivity for each town have each been scored between 1(low) and 4(very high).
The formula above was then used to determine the magnitude of the risk. The highest risk was
represented by the number 64 (4x4x4) while the lowest risk was represented by 1 (1x1x1). For
example, a score of 64 indicates that a particular high value is under very high threat with a high
probability. Further the sensitivity of the threat impacting the value is very high.
All completed tables for each town have been provided in Appendix C - Wastewater Risk
Assessments.
It is recognised there is a degree of subjectivity when undertaking any risk assessment and that
different users may rate (values/threats) differently. However, risks at either end of the scale will
generally be seen within the same range by most competent assessors.
Table 9 provides a summary of the risks which obtained a raw scored of 64, 48 or 36 (top 3) for each
town.
Table 9 demonstrates that the main issues are not town-specific, rather Shire wide. That is, the issues
identified in the top 3 ranked categories are common to all or most of the priority towns. Therefore
when Pyrenees Shire implements a strategy, Council will obtain the best outcomes from implementing
appropriate management actions across the whole Shire.
It would be beneficial to tackle the physical problems on a town-by-town basis. The actions addressed
in the individual town action plans (Section 5.2) have addressed the top risk rankings for each priority
town. It should be noted that these actions will only provide end point solutions if not implemented in
conjunction with management actions. They would, however give noticeable results to specific
physical problems.
Page 33
Table 9 –Highest risks
Rank
Score
1
64
Town
Density of housing
Environment: Waterways
Density of housing
Failure of Septic System
Environment: Groundwater quality
Landsborough
Amenity: Recreational
Public Health
Septic < 100m from waterways
Groundwater Quality
Discharge of greywater offsite
Public Health
Public Health
Moonambel
48
Impacted Values
Snake Valley
Waubra
2
Threat
Lexton
Snake Valley
Landsborough
Amenity: Landscape
Public Health
Density of housing
Amenity: Landscape
Density of housing
Groundwater Quality
Groundwater Quality
Economic: Property
Economic: Industry/ Land Use
Sense of Commodity
Public Health
Public Health
E:\30018206 Pyrenees DWMP\Reports\FINAL\Final Issue to Pyrenees Shire Council 30-06-06\Pyrenees DWMP -Part 1 Rev C.doc
Page 34
Rank
Score
Town
Waubra
Moonambel
Lexton
3
36
Snake Valley
Landsborough
Waubra
Threat
Impacted Values
Public Health
Public Health
Groundwater Quality
Density of housing
Public Health
Public Health
Public Health
Public Health
Sense of Community
Public Health
Economic: Tourism
Economic: Tourism
Economic: Property Value
Groundwater Quality
Page 35
Rank
Score
Town
Moonambel
Lexton
Threat
Density of housing
Page 36
Impacted Values
Economic: Tourism
Economic: Property Value
Amenity: Landscape
Sense of Community
Amenity: Landscape
5.0
Action Plan
Action plans have been developed for Pyrenees Shire Council to address the risks identified during
the risk assessment. Included in the section are priority town action plans and a Shire-wide action
plan. To effectively reduce the environmental, health and economic risks that are posed by domestic
wastewater to the environment and the community, actions from the plans must be implemented.
The key actions from the Shire-wide action plan that must be adopted by Council to meet current
minimum legislative requirements and to assist consistent management are:
•
Annual reporting to the EPA
•
Compliance program
Actions which are not key to meeting legislative requirements, but will be highly beneficial include:
•
Updating current database
•
Evaluating LCA applications consistently
•
Developing Council growth plans/policy
•
•
Initial education program (press releases, advertising, radio announcements, revise information
packs)
It is ultimately Council’s decision to determine which actions to adopt.
5.1
Requirements for actions
5.1.1
Goals
The overall goals for action planning for Pyrenees Shire Council include:
•
To ensure all stakeholders meeting their responsibilities and legislative requirements
•
To better manage domestic wastewater within a sustainable framework
•
To reduce the risks posted by domestic wastewater
•
To protect the community and the environment
•
To improve current Council practices and procedures
•
To increase awareness both within Council and within the community
5.1.2
Quality Assurance and Documentation
The EPA Act 1970 states:
“(1)
The municipal council must, in respect of each financial year, lodge with the Authority an annual
return in the month of July each year containing the following particulars—
(a) the number of permits issued for septic tank systems;
(b) the number of septic tank systems disconnected;
(c) the number of septic tank systems inspected;
(d) the number of septic tank systems which have been in use within the municipality during the
financial year.
Page 37
(2)
A municipal council is exempted from complying with sub-section (1) if during the financial
year—
(a) the council has not issued any permits for septic tank systems; and
(b) there have been no septic tank systems disconnected, inspected or in use in the
municipality.”
Therefore under the EPA Act 1970 it is mandatory for Council to report to the EPA on an annual basis.
Council must update its document storage systems to allow reporting to the EPA.
5.1.3
The State Environment Protection Policy (SEPP) Waters of Victoria (June 2003) states:
“requires that the wastewater management plans provide for regular assessment of compliance
of septic tank performance against conditions in permits issued by councils.”
Pyrenees Shire must develop a compliance program based on the minimum licence conditions as
required by the EPA outlined in Table 10. The compliance program could be implemented on a
towns-basis starting with the highest priority town, Snake Valley.
Table 10 – Minimum Licence Conditions for Onsite Wastewater Management
Requirement
Condition
General
•
The system must be assessed for permit compliance by an
(accredited person/person acceptable to the Council) every
(1/2/3/other years/months).
Conditions for conventional
septic tanks
•
The septic tank must be de-sludged at least once every three
years, or whenever the tank becomes more than half full of
sludge.
Maintenance condition for
aerated wastewater
treatment systems,
sandfilters, composting
toilets, etc
•
The system must be maintained at least once every (three
months/other period that reflects EPA Certificate of Approval) by
a competently trained person or servicing agent, in accordance
with the manufacturer specifications
Care of effluent absorptions
systems
•
The effluent absorption area must be maintained as a permanent,
dedicated area.
•
Vehicles and livestock must be excluded from the effluent
absorption area.
•
Stormwater must be diverted around the effluent absorption area
to a Council approved point of discharge.
•
Buildings, driveways, concrete, tennis courts, swimming pools,
tennis courts, garden beds, vegetable gardens, large trees and
the like must not be placed in or on effluent disposal areas.
•
The effluent irrigation area must be maintained as a permanent,
dedicated area.
•
Vehicles and livestock must be excluded from the effluent
irrigation area.
•
Suitable plants and landscaping must be established on the
effluent irrigation area before effluent application commences;
and the plants and landscaping must be maintained over the life
of the system.
•
Stormwater must be diverted around the effluent irrigation area to
Care of effluent irrigation
areas
Page 38
a Council approved point of discharge.
•
All irrigation pipework and fittings must comply with Australian
Standard 2698 Plastic pipes and fittings for irrigation and rural
applications.
•
The irrigation system must be permanently fixed with distribution
pipes buried at least 150mm below the natural ground surface.
Sampling and Analysing
Effluent
•
A sample of effluent must be taken at least once each (3 months
for offsite discharges/12 months for surface irrigation or disposal
via subsurface absorption or transpiration trenches/other) and
analysed by a laboratory registered with National Association of
Testing Authorities (NATA) for the tests required for the particular
system installed.
Reporting To Council
Maintenance Reports & Effluent Sampling Results
•
Copies of the maintenance reports and effluent sampling results
for the preceding 12 months must be submitted to Council by
day/month each year
Permit Compliance Assessment Report
•
A copy of the permit compliance assessment report must be
submitted to Council within (30 days/other) of each assessment
being made
If no permit is applicable, then minimum EPA requirements should be enforced.
5.1.4
Issuing of Permits
The Environmental Protection Act 1970 outlines Council’s legislative responsibly to issue septic tank
permits. Once an application for a septic tank permit has been accepted by Council, it is their
obligation to:
“(a) approve the plans and specifications and the means for the treatment and disposal of the effluent
and issue a permit; or (b) issue a permit subject to any modifications or conditions that the municipal
council considers appropriate; or (c) refuse to issue a permit”.
Option C is subject to a restriction as outlined in the Act.
Further, Council’s order of issuing permits for planning, building and septic tanks requires review
which has been detailed in the Part 2: Recommended Actions document.
5.1.5
It is not mandatory for Council to consult with prospective owners however under Section 173 of the
Planning and Environmental Act 1987, Council should provide this consultation. As a progressive
organisation, it would be good governance for Pyrenees to ensure this procedure is undertaken.
5.1.6
Referrals
Under Sections 55 and 56 of the Planning and Environment Act 1987, responsible authorities must
give a copy of an application to all referral authorities unless such authorities have previously
considered the issue within the last three months and stated, in writing, that they have no objections to
the application.
Page 39
5.1.7
Education and Community Assistance
Pyrenees Shire Council is subject to the scrutiny of the Best Value program, under Section 208 of the
Local Government Act 1989. Under this program, Council is required to report to the community and
the State Government on an annual basis, outlining Council’s performance during the period. Poor
performance in any sector of the Best Value principles reflects poorly on the Council as a whole. It is
thus in the interests of Council to seek the best outcomes for its key performance indicators.
Particularly pertinent to DWMP implementation is the area of community consultation. Community
consultation provides a forum in which Council may receive feedback from residents, giving them the
opportunity to provide input at the early planning phases. Further, Pyrenees Shire must consider in its
processes, residents with special needs (eg. those which with no access to computers or telephones,
those that cannot read, immigrants). Council approaches should be able to provide the best possible
outcomes for its diverse and varied community in a way that is easily understood.
Under the Best Value program in relation to the DWMP, Council must:
•
provide education and increase awareness regarding domestic wastewater management
•
make available financial assistance, if required, for residents to manage their on-site wastewater
systems.
5.1.8
Planning
With effective planning, many of the barriers to effective management of on-site domestic wastewater
can be avoided. It is imperative that issues such as ensuring each house allotment is large enough to
contain all wastewater on site are considered in early planning stages. It is also imperative that the
Council have a clear strategic direction to guide actions now and into the future.
5.1.9
All residents within the Shire must be given equal opportunity to maintain and replace their wastewater
systems as required. Developing a framework for providing community assistance is required.
5.2
Individual Town Action Plans
The following are the priority town action plans. These individual town action plans can be
implemented to help alleviate the physical town-specific problems.
5.2.1
Snake Valley Action Plan
Due to Snake Valley’s current and future situation (as described in Section 4.1.1), the following actions
should be undertaken:
•
Obtain funding (or fund from existing Council budget) to investigate innovative sewerage
schemes
•
Develop innovative sewerage options appropriate for Snake Valley
•
Begin discussions with Central Highlands Water regarding the implementation of an appropriate
sewerage option for Snake Valley
•
Work towards implementing the scheme
5.2.2
Landsborough Action Plan
The following actions must be undertaken in Landsborough to address the immediate threats due to
inappropriate disposal of effluent:
Page 40
•
maintained.
•
Undertake an initial inspection of all septic tanks greater than 10 years old to ensure that they are
operating efficiently. Where they are beyond their serviceable life the systems must be replaced.
•
Provide advice to property owners to pump out systems every 3 years for all septic tanks, and 3
monthly inspections of AWT’s.
•
•
•
Ensure all greywater discharges passes through holding tanks.
•
Investigate the possibility of on-site disposal of greywater.
5.2.3
Waubra Action Plan
Following approval and funding of the Waubra Innovative Sewerage Scheme, the actions of the
DWMP must take into consideration the future development of the selected scheme. The actions
must be implemented with a view to maximising the benefit and ease of development of the innovative
sewerage scheme. The following actions should be undertaken for Waubra to address the immediate
wastewater threats:
•
Undertake inspections of all septic systems in rural living zone areas of high vulnerability (eg.
close proximity to watercourses) to ensure that they are operating efficiently and are properly
maintained.
•
operating efficiently. Where they are beyond their serviceable life the systems and not within the
innovative sewerage scheme, they must be replaced.
•
•
Ensure all greywater discharge passes through holding tanks
•
Provide advice to property owners to pump out systems every 3 years for all septic tanks, and to
conduct 3 monthly inspections of AWT’s.
5.2.4
Moonambel Action Plan
The following actions must be undertaken in Moonambel to address the immediate threats due to
•
maintained. These inspections should include the toilet block at Mountain Creek picnic reserve.
•
•
•
•
•
•
Page 41
5.2.5
Lexton Action Plan
The following actions must be undertaken in Lexton to address the immediate threats due to
•
maintained.
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
Where practical, reconstruct/regrade drainage channels to prevent stagnant water and potential
health problems associated with stagnant water.
5.3
Overall Pyrenees Action Plan
Table 11 details the action plan to be adopted shire-wide which have been grouped in the following
categories:
•
Improving records and documentation
•
Compliance program and enforcement
•
Issuing of permits
•
Transfer of ownership
•
Education
•
Referrals
•
Community assistance
•
Future council growth plans
Necessary actions are actions that the council must immediately work towards implementing and
achieving to meet minimum legislative requirements. Optional actions are actions that the council can
work towards implementing once the necessary actions are operational. Optional actions will assist
with existing procedures.
Within the Table, each action includes:
•
the need for each action
•
the outcome of each action
•
the action’s priority (necessary or optional)
•
the departmental responsibilities
•
the probable timeframe
Each of the actions is described in further detail in Part 2 of the DWMP titled ‘Recommended Actions’.
Individual actions plans have been developed for each of the priority town to address key physical
issues as identified in Section 4.
Page 42
Table 11: Action Plan
Action
Section 2.2.1
(Part 2)
Improving Records and Documentation
Necessary Actions
Annual reports to the EPA regarding all on-site
domestic wastewater systems within the
municipality
Section 2.1.1 Collate and compile existing records
(Part 2)
Add fields to current database
Section 2.1.2
(Part 2)
Section 2.2.2 Generate reports from current database on a
(Part 2) weekly/monthly basis
Develop a list/flowchart to evaluate all LCA
Section 2.4.2 applications consistently (base on current
(Part 2) industry benchmarks)
Optional Actions
Develop a list of certified servicing agents,
Section
installers and LCA consultants which should be
2.3.1, 2.4.1
easily accessible (eg. through Pyrenees
(Part 2)
website, new residents kit)
Section 2.3.2
(Part 2)
Refer applications to EPA approved systems
appropriate to area
Actioning unsatisfactory services that are
Section 2.4.3
reported to Council
(Part 2)
Needs
Responsibility
Commencement
Date
Timeframe
Outcomes
-Council must meet EPA Guidelines for
DWMP 629 and SEPP (Waters of Victoria)
-Formal documentation of municipality’s
annual wastewater situation
-EHO
-Administrator
01/01/07
st
1 July each year
-Council is compliant with statutory
guidelines and protecting health within
the municipality
-Information is difficult to access
-Ensures a back-up system
-Administrator
01/07/08
2 months
first year.
2 weeks
subsequent
years.
20 minutes
per record
-Inability to group records according to
desired fields
-Insufficient information within each record
for proper tracing the history of on-site
wastewater systems
-Poor existing warning system for tanks
requiring maintenance
-EHO
-Administrator
-IT/External
programmer
01/07/08
-EHO
-Administrator
-External programmer
01/07/08
-No existing standard for the assessment of
LCAs
-Different council assessors may judge
LCAs differently
-EHO
01/07/07
1 week
-Consistent assessment of LCA’s
according to industry benchmarks
regardless of assessor
-Residents are free to choose their own
service agent, installers and LCA consultant
-No council standard to ensure that work is
being carried out by suitably qualified
personnel
-Residents are likely chose a standard
system
-Residents may not be aware of choices
and maintenance requirements
-There may be no local certified servicing
agent for certain types of systems
-Ensure checking of works on wastewater
systems
-EHO
01/01/07
4 weeks
-All works of on-site systems will be
carried out by trained and qualified
personnel ensuring the proper
maintenance of on-site systems
-EHO
01/07/06
2 weeks
-All systems are appropriate to each
property
-EHO
-Compliance
Officer/External
Contractor
01/01/07
2 months
-All servicing of on-site systems will be
carried out by trained and qualified
personnel ensuring the proper
maintenance of on-site systems
Page 43
2 months
for fields to
be added.
20 minutes
per record.
30 minutes
every
week/month
-Council will have an efficient record
system capable of being interrogated to
retrieve relevant and up-to-date
information for management of on-site
systems
-Council will have an efficient record
system capable of being interrogated to
retrieve relevant and up-to-date
information for management if on-site
systems
-Maintenance schedules for on-site
systems will be easily tracked enabling
enforcement and compliance to protect
public health
Action
Needs
Responsibility
Update GIS-based overlay
-Some current records of the locations of
on-site systems
-Require easy visual reference for
management and decision making
-EHO
-GIS Officer
Section 2.5.1
(Part 2)
Implement planning GIS overlay showing buffer
zones, soil conditions and slopes
-EHO
-GIS
Section 2.5.2
(Part 2)
Prevent inappropriate development
-No current record of buffer zone locations
and soil conditions
-Require easy visual reference for
management and decision making
-Setback zones are for the protection of
environment and public health
-EHO
-Current departmental referral process may
miss some relevant applications
Section 2.1.3
(Part 2)
Section 2.5.3
(Part 2)
Hold weekly departmental meetings regarding
planning applications
Necessary Actions
Section 3.2.1 Initial mandatory inspections
(Part 2)
Section 3.2.2 Consider 100m setbacks from waterways, and
(Part 2) maintain minimum lot sizes
Section 3.2.3
(Part 2)
Encourage advanced systems within setback
zones
Commencement
Date
01/07/08
Timeframe
Outcomes
-Accurate recording of the locations of
wastewater systems in an industry
recognised standard format
01/01/08
4 months to
set-up.
10 minutes
per
additional
data.
2 months
01/01/07
6 months
-EHO
-Planning
-Engineering
01/01/07
1 hour/week
-Many systems are likely to require
maintenance or be failing
-It is likely that wastewater systems have
not been maintained in line with legal
requirements
-EHO
-Compliance
Officer/External
Contractor
01/01/07
1.5 hour
per system
-Minimum lot sizes identified in 2001 DWMP
should be maintained
-Setback distances may vary
-EHO
-Planning
- Water Authorities
01/01/07
4 months
-Standard septic tank systems currently
exist within close proximity to
environmentally sensitive areas
-EHO
01/01/07
3 hours per
property
-Ensure the protection of environmental
health
01/07/08
1 hour per
system
-Wastewater systems will be operating
properly, ensuring residents meet their
legal obligations and protect
environmental and public health assets
-Planning
-Compliance
-Simple visual reference for wastewater
system approvals and town
assessments
-Prevent inappropriate development
which may endanger the environment or
public health
-Ensures that all new subdivision are
capable of retaining waste effluent on
site
-More efficient method of evaluating
planning applications
-Increase communications between
Council departments
-Problem wastewater systems will be
identified and immediate action may be
taken to repair/replace failing systems.
-Identifies potential greywater
discharges within the shire for
immediate investigation and treatment
-Will ensure the protection of
environmentally sensitive areas and
public health
Officer/External
Contractor
Introduction of mandatory maintenance
Section 3.4.1
(Part 2)
-No systems exist for the checking of
maintenance schedules and enforcement
-Wastewater systems are allowed to pass
their recommended maintenance periods,
reducing effectiveness
-EHO
-Compliance
Officer/External
Contractor
-Residents
Page 44
Action
Section 3.4.2 Inspection reports are forwarded to council
(Part 2)
Optional Actions
Township Inspection Program
Section 3.5.2 Identify locations to implement greywater
(Part 2) controls
Determine Council’s policy on greywater reuse
Section 3.5.3
(Part 2)
Develop performance criteria for wastewater
Section 3.5.1 systems (eg. checklist)
(Part 2)
Undertake flood management investigations for
Section 3.5.4 flood prone areas
(Part 2)
Enforcement of compliance through local
Section laws/policies and/or introduce monetary fines
3.6.1, 3.6.2
(Part 2)
Issuing of Permits
Optional Actions
Section 4.0 Ensure all planning applications are referred
(Part 2)
Section 5.0
(Part 2)
Optional Actions
Inform prospective residents
Needs
Responsibility
-Require proof of maintenance works
completed and operational effectiveness of
wastewater systems in use
-Compliance
Officer/External
-Administrator
-Plumber/servicing
agents
-Residents
-Some towns in Pyrenees are predicted to
grow significantly, yet remain unsewered
-No existing Council policy regarding
greywater reuse
-No current standard exists for the
assessment of domestic wastewater
systems
-Some towns within Pyrenees are within
floodplains
-On-site systems should not be built within
floodplains
Commencement
Date
01/07/06
Timeframe
Outcomes
2 hours per
report
assessment
-Allows easy recording of on-site
systems’ condition and enables flagging
for maintenance within the updated
database
-EHO
01/07/07
6 months
-EHO
01/07/07
6 months
-Identifies towns which may benefit from
a reduction in loading from wastewater
systems
-Potential risks associated with
greywater reuse can be minimised
01/07/07
01/07/07
3 weeks for
criteria. 1 hr
per system
3 months
-Ensures all systems are evaluated
equally, regardless of the servicing
agent
-Options may be evaluated for the
mitigation of floods to prevent effluent
surcharge into the environment
-EHO
-EHO
-Infrastructure
-No existing compliance program and
enforcement procedures
-EHO
-Solicitor
-Compliance
Officer/External
Contractor
01/07/07
1 year
-Council officers will be able to enforce
compliance with local laws/policies
and/or monetary fines
-Some applications may not be referred
-EHO
-Planning
-Building Inspector
-Engineering
01/07/06
Potentially 1
hour/week
meeting
-Ensures that all approved buildings will
be capable of treating and containing
their own effluent within the property
boundaries
-Properties may be sold with failing systems
to new owners who are unaware of, or
unfamiliar with on-site systems
-EHO
-Compliance
Officer/External
Contractor
-Rates
01/01/07
2 months to
establish
-Ensures new owners are not left
unknown about the condition of a
system
Page 45
Action
Needs
Responsibility
Commencement
Date
Timeframe
Outcomes
-Promotion of council
-Public information
-EHO
-Media/Marketing
Coordinator
-Administrator
01/08/06
1 month
-Many new residents in the Shire are from
the city and are unfamiliar with the
operation, or the existence of a wastewater
system on their property
-EHO
-Planning
-Building Inspector
-Rates
-Media/Marketing
-Administrator
01/01/07
2 months
-Ensures that all residents are familiar
with their obligations for on-site domestic
wastewater treatment
-Increase awareness about integrated
water cycle management
-Increased profile of DWMP and
promotion of council as an
environmentally sensitive organisation
-Ensures all new residents are familiar
with the operational requirements of
wastewater systems
-As public representatives councillors and
council staff should understand the role of
the DWMP
-EHO
-Planning
-Infrastructure
-Building Inspector
01/09/06
0.5 day
-Increased awareness and
understanding of domestic wastewater
management
Referrals
Develop standard referral letter to relevant
Section 7.0
authorities
(Part 2)
-Limited number of referrals are being made
to the relevant authorities
-EHO
01/01/07
1 day
Annual meeting with referral authorities
Section 7.0 regarding domestic wastewater management
(Part 2)
-Water and wastewater objectives and
benchmarks are constantly changing and in
need of review
-EHO
-Water Authorities
-CMAs
-EPA
-DHS
-DSE
01/07/07
Yearly
requirement
of 1 week to
prepare, 3
hour
meeting.
-Ensures authorities receive the
information they need
-Streamlines referral process
-Increase relationship with authorities
-Facilitates continuous development of
DWMP and wastewater goals
-Information sharing and leading
industry advice
-Some residents may have difficulty in
financing the maintenance and/or renewal
of their wastewater system
-EHO
-Rates
01/07/08
2 years
-Ensures proper maintenance of
wastewater systems by all residents
-Some existing growth plans for the
projected growth for Pyrenees exist but
further plans need to be developed
-Planning
01/07/07
1 year
-Planning Control
-Ensures growth does not negatively
impact on the future of towns.
Education
Necessary Actions
Press release and advertisements (eg. local
Section 6.2.1 newspaper) detailing the introduction of the
(Part 2) DWMP
Establish information packs for new/potential
Section 6.2.2 residents for unsewered districts, ensuring
(Part 2) information is easily assessable
Section 6.3.1
(Part 2)
Optional Actions
Hold additional workshops for Council staff
Optional Actions
Section 8.1.1 Investigate a wastewater subsidy/low-interest
(Part 2) loans for residents who require assistance
Future Council Growth Plans
Necessary Actions
Section 9.0 Develop Council growth plans/policy
(Part 2)
Page 46
Appendix A – Government Policy, Legislation and Guidelines
Page a
The following is a list of legislation, policy and best practice guidelines that will need to be considered
in the development of the DWMP.
•
Environmental Protection Act 1970
•
Health Act 1958
•
•
Planning and Environment Act 1987
•
Water Act 1989
•
State Environment Protection Policy(Waters of Victoria) (2001)
•
State Environment Protection Policy (Groundwater’s of Victoria) (2001)
•
Code of Practice for Septic Tanks 2003 (Publication No: 891)
•
Code of Practice for Small Wastewater Treatment Plants (Publication No: 500)
•
Development Approvals in Sewered and Unsewered Areas (Publication No: 629)
•
Guidelines for Aerated Wastewater Treatment Systems (Publication No: 760)
•
Guidelines for Applying for Onsite systems (Publication No: 935)
•
Reuse options for domestic wastewater (Publication No: 812)
•
Land Capability Assessment for onsite Domestic Wastewater Treatment (Publication No: 746.1)
•
AS139 Safety Signs for the occupational environment
•
AS/NZS 1546.1: 1998 On-site domestic wastewater treatment units, Part 1: Septic Tanks
•
AS/NZS 1546.2: 2001 On-site domestic wastewater treatment units, Part 2: Waterless
composting toilets
•
AS/NZS 1546.3: 2001 On-site domestic wastewater treatment units, Part 3: Aerated wastewater
treatment systems
•
AS/NZS 1547: 2000 On-site domestic wastewater management
•
AS/NZS 3500: National Plumbing and Drainage – Domestic Installations
•
AS2698 Plastic Pipes and fittings for rural applications
•
AS3000 Wiring rules, electrical installations, buildings, structures and premises
•
Environments for health – promoting health and wellbeing through built, social, economic and
natural environments, Municipal Public Health Planning Framework, DHS, Melbourne. (2001)
•
Publication number WQ97.002 Improved Wastewater Management in Small towns: A process for
Community Involvement, DNRE, (1997) Melbourne
Standards and Codes of Practice
The following Standards and Codes of Practice are relevant to both the existing on-site septic tanks
and advanced wastewater treatment plants in all towns. Some of the more important standards are
detailed below.
Australian Standards
“AS/NZS 1547 Onsite domestic-wastewater management” (2000) outlines among other things:
•
Performance statements for on-site domestic wastewater systems
•
Management of on-site domestic water systems
•
Means of compliance with the performance statements
Page a-1
In the code a domestic wastewater system is one that receives, treats and adsorbs wastewater within
the property boundaries of the site of generation.
Some of the key performance indicators are:
•
Surface and groundwater is not polluted
•
Cumulative and adverse environmental effects comply with the relevant environmental
requirements
•
On-site domestic wastewater systems are managed so as to achieve sustainable long-term
performance
By ensuring effective management of the systems, it is possible to prevent adverse environmental
effects.
The following are some relevant statements from the Australian Standard:
•
“All wastewater systems should be monitored ensure that they are operating properly and are
being regularly maintained.”
•
The primary wastewater treatment unit will need to be desludged regularly, i.e. every three to five
years.”
It is outside the scope of the Australian Standard to define the allocation of responsibilities.
Septic Tank Code of Practice
The Septic Tank Code of Practice (EPA Publication 891) was created to ensure that on-site domestic
wastewater treatment systems protect public health and the environment, both now and into the
future. These codes have recently been updated to include greater emphasis on sustainable
management of water catchments. The codes also address controlling of cumulative impacts from
individual waste sources, integration of environmental considerations into land use planning and
consideration of new technologies that differ from the traditional septic tank.
The Code describes the responsibilities of those involved in on-site wastewater management and
refers them to legislation, policies and guidelines that are applicable and mandatory.
The code sets out requirements for:
•
Integration of on-site wastewater management in relation to land development
•
Design of on-site wastewater treatment systems
•
Installation of on-site wastewater treatment systems
•
Operation and maintenance of on-site wastewater systems
State Environment Protection Policy
State Environment Protection Policies (SEPP’s) are subordinate legislation made under the provisions
of the Environment Protection Act 1970 to provide more detailed requirements and guidance for the
application of the Act to Victoria.
SEPPs aim to safeguard the environmental values and human activities (beneficial uses) that need
protection in the State of Victoria from the effect of waste, such as:
a-2
•
Human health and well-being
•
Ecosystem protection
•
Visibility
•
Useful life and aesthetic appearance of buildings, structures, property and materials
•
Aesthetic enjoyment
•
Local amenity
The SEPP sets out objectives for managing domestic wastewater and refers to the Septic Tank Code
of Practice if on-site treatment is being considered. The SEPP (Waters of Victoria) states that where
on-site systems are being proposed the wastewater must be treated and retained within the allotment
boundaries.
Aerated Wastewater Treatment Plants Code of Practice
The Guidelines for Aerated Wastewater Systems (EPA publication 760) form part of the Domestic
Wastewater Management Series and are to be used as a guideline for the approval of aerated
wastewater systems by the EPA. Aerated systems that comply with these guidelines will be
considered suitable under the Environmental Protection Act 1970 S.53.M7. Some key points of this
code include:
•
They cover generic approval of systems that treat <5000 l/d. This approval is valid for 5 years, the
verification is required 12 months prior to expiry
•
Brand name, model and date of manufacture must be visible
•
Householders are to monitor effluent quality annually and forward results to the council
•
EPA may revoke approval if failing to meet criteria
•
Effluent discharged from the premises must be tested on a quarterly basis, effluent discharged to
land to be tested on an annual basis against the criteria supplied within these and other relevant
guidelines
•
Maintenance must be carried out once every 3 months
•
Results of performance, laboratory testing and maintenance must be forwarded annually to the
Council
Land Capability Assessment for On-site Domestic Wastewater Management (2003)
A land capability assessment must be lodged to council as part of the approvals process for an on-site
wastewater treatment system. This assessment must:
•
Assess the capability of the site to sustainable manage wastewater within allotment boundaries;
and
•
Identify a management program that should be put in place to minimise the health and
environmental impacts
5.4
Stakeholders’ Roles and Responsibilities
The following roles and responsibilities with respect to the management of domestic wastewater are
outlined below, as defined by the MAV website (2003):
a-3
EPA Victoria
The EPA’s responsibilities for the management of domestic wastewater include:
•
The declaration of State Environment Protection Policies (SEPPs) that set environmental
objectives to be achieved
•
Establishing standards for discharge to surface water and off-site
•
Approving the design and type of septic tank systems, which can be installed for the issue of a
permit to install a septic tank system
•
The publication and updating of the Septic Tank Code of Practice and information bulletins
•
Receipt and collation of councils annual returns to enable the Authority to identify trends
impacting on the environment insensitive areas and to provide a basis for future domestic
wastewater planning and research
Local government
Councils’ responsibilities for domestic wastewater management are:
•
Ensuring new residential subdivisions are provided with reticulated sewerage or that the
allotments are capable of treating and containing domestic wastewater on-site
•
Issuing permits to install new septic tank systems
•
Refusing permits if the site is unsuitable and / or the area available for the treatment and disposal
of effluent is not sufficient
•
Refusing permits if the septic tank system is not of a type approved by the EPA
•
Issuing certificates to use septic tank systems
•
Monitoring the operation of existing septic tank systems and the compliance with permits and
certificates
•
Submitting an annual return to the EPA, including information on:
o
o
o
o
o
The number and type of systems in use
The number and type of systems installed during the year
Whether these systems have off-site discharge or contain on-site
Details of assessments for any permits for systems with off-site discharges which
have been issued
Townships where reticulated sewerage or an alternative sewerage system should be
installed
Water Authorities
Water Authorities are responsible for:
•
Provision of water and reticulated sewerage services
Regional Water Authorities:
•
Fifteen authorities operate under the Water Act (1989). These authorities are also required to
satisfy a range of obligations set out in Water Service Agreements and are directly accountable to
the Minister for Sustainability and Environment.
•
Many authorities are responsible for harvesting water from water supply catchments that can be
adversely affected by poorly functioning septic systems. For this reason, there should be close
consultation between councils, developers and water authorities in planning for development in
unsewered areas.
These authorities are also responsible for water supply and sewage treatment, including
sewerage infrastructure management.
•
a-4
Rural Water Authorities:
•
The rural authorities - Wimmera Mallee Water, Goulburn Murray Water and Southern Rural Water
- also operate under the Water Act (1989). These authorities are responsible for delivering
irrigation water to irrigators and some bulk water supplies to regional urban water authorities.
•
While the rural authorities are not directly responsible for water supply and sewage treatment for
urban areas, as noted above, both regional urban and rural water authorities can be affected by
land use activities in water supply catchments, including unsewered development.
Landholders
A landholder’s responsibilities are:
•
Connecting to a sewerage system where it is available (unless otherwise exempted)
•
Obtaining a septic tank permit before a building permit is issued and installing a system
•
Obtaining a certificate to use the systems once installed
•
Obtaining a permit to make alterations to an existing septic system
•
Maintaining existing systems, including de-sludging at least every three years, or when the tank
becomes half full of sludge and any specified monitoring conditions
•
Ensuring effluent absorption area remains clear from development, unsuitable vegetation,
impermeable surfaces etc.
a-5
Appendix B – Community Consultation Methods
Page b
Objective
Method
Description
Suggested time
to use
Cost
Advantages
Disadvantages
Hints
Informing the
community
(preconsultation
methods)
Advertisements
in the local
paper
Advertisements in
the news section of
the local paper
inform the
community about a
matter under
consultation
Before a consultation
At the launch of an
issues paper
Rural papers $100+
• Provides high profile
coverage
• Difficult to target
specific groups
• Use plain English
Will be more
expensive in fringe
urban papers
• Captures a broad
audience
• Difficult to attract
coverage
• Use existing media
connections
• Opportunity to
generate community
debate
• Costly advertising
To invite submissions
• Can be targeted to a
specific township
• Avoid jargon
• Primarily English
language only
• Will not get to nonresident owners
(especially holiday
homeowners)
• Targeted audience
may miss article
Informing the
community
(preconsultation
methods)
Web page
Can inform people
accessing the
council web site
To display issues
paper
As all councils have
a Website adding a
document will not
require additional
costs
• No time or
geographic
restrictions
• Participation is
limited by access to
technology
• Is accessible to non
resident owners
(especially holiday
homeowners)
• Need to be regularly
monitored and
updated
Council
publication
Article inserted into
the regular council
publication
For progress report
on status of plan
To disseminate
general information
about septic tank
maintenance, i.e. as
a management
strategy.
Councils regularly
produce
publications. To
include wastewater
items would require
little additional
expense.
• Municipal circulation
• Control over content
• Uses existing
resources and
networks
• Can be made
accessible to people
of all abilities.
• Avoid jargon
• Advertise the web
address through other
media, council
newsletter or mail out.
• Ensure the document
is easy to find (provide
instructions if needed)
• Can be made
of all abilities.
Informing the
community
(preconsultation
methods)
• Slow turnaround of
information for
release can be a
problem, depending
on issue and
location
• Expensive to
translate large
quantities of
material
• Targeted audience
may miss article
• Avoid jargon
Objective
Method
Description
Suggested time
to use
Cost
Advantages
Disadvantages
Hints
Informing the
community
(preconsultation
methods)
Written
correspondence
Personally
addressed letter to
residents,
organisations and
other stakeholders.
To acknowledge the
receipt of
submissions
Cost is minimal as
there are only a
limited number of
letters
• Personal letters give
more value to
correspondence
• Time consuming
• Ask someone
unfamiliar with the
issue to proof read the
document
Informing the
community
(preconsultation
methods)
Media releases
News story in the
local paper or other
media, eg radio,
magazines
To acknowledge
participation in
forums or meetings
To inform special
interest groups
(environmental,
progress associations
etc)
To be used with high
profile sections of the
campaign (Issues
Paper release,
Minister announcing
funding etc)
• Can target exact
groups
• May have difficulty
accessing mailing
lists
• Check letter complies
with approved council
format
• More certainty of
delivery
These are free if
picked up by the
media
• Provides high profile
coverage
• Difficult to target
specific groups
• Captures a broad
audience
• Difficult to attract
coverage
• Opportunity to
generate community
debate
• Primarily English
language only
• Message may be
changed, reduced
by media thereby
giving an incomplete
message
• Make the article
interesting but easy to
read
• Include photos where
possible
• Try to establish
personal contacts with
media
• Distribute media
releases to all outlets,
you don’t know which
one will take it up
• Writing “letters to the
editor” can quickly
dispel false or negative
statements made by
others (it is important
to discuss with senior
management any
policy on this form of
media release)
Objective
Method
Description
Suggested time
to use
Cost
Advantages
Disadvantages
Hints
Informing the
community
(preconsultation
methods)
Letterbox drop
The distribution of
information to
residents via their
letter boxes
To advertise public
meetings, also
providing background
information
Cost is dependent
on distribution area
and the number of
drops. Trifold A4
information
brochures may cost
$1.00+ each for
printing &
distribution
• Relatively easy and
inexpensive to
organise depending
on the quantity
• Can be costly to
produce high quality
or large quantities
• Make easily
identifiable as council
material so not
considered junk mail
• Quick way to
distribute local
information
• Can be difficult to
target audience
• Avoid school holiday
periods
• Can be distributed by
post office
• Provide access details
to full documents
Informing the
community
(preconsultation
methods)
Personal
briefings
Informal or
semiformal
discussion either
one to one or in a
small group
Once plan is
complete, for owners
with faulty septics or
who have access to
reticulated sewerage
but aren’t connected
Can be used with
leaders of key
stakeholder groups
(includes agencies,
progress
associations) as a
‘dry run’ prior to full
public consultation
Variable
• Targeted
communication
• Personal contact
and response
• Control over
information released
• Able to work with
interpreters if
required
• Can sort out
presentation ’bugs’
prior to community
consultation
• Can be expensive
for large numbers of
groups
• Can be sidetracked
by single issue
participants
• When meetings are
‘on the spot’, take time
to gather thoughts and
prepare key points
ready for discussion
• Consider having
another staff member
present if the issue is
contentious
Objective
Method
Description
Suggested time
to use
Cost
Advantages
Disadvantages
Hints
Informing the
community
(preconsultation
methods)
Pamphlet or
leaflet
A leaflet designed to
provide information
on a particular item
To advertise public
meetings, also
providing background
information
Cost is dependent
on distribution area
and the number of
drops. Trifold A4
information
brochures may cost
$1.20+ each for
printing &
distribution by mail
• Relatively easy and
inexpensive to
organise depending
on the quantity
produce high quality
or large quantities
• Overproduced leaflets
may suggest that a
decision has already
been made
To outline the
community
consultation process
• Quick way to
distribute local
information
• Can be difficult to
target audience
• Research shows
(COM, 2001)
personalised letter with
low quality brochure
works best
• Limit the amount of
text; use pictures
• Consider inserting
pamphlet into rates
notice or local paper
• Envelopes can be mail
merged with property
owners details from
database
Informing the
community
(preconsultation
methods)
Public Displays
Mobile or permanent
exhibitions
developed to
present information
about an issue or
proposal
During initial scoping
of issues, to raise
awareness.
After final decision
has been made, for
example to connect a
township to sewer, as
a promotion tool.
Depends on who
provides the display.
May be very
expensive for
council to develop
• Fewer time
restrictions
develop
• Can be relocated
around the
municipality to key
access points or
events in order to
gain maximum
exposure
• Can be ineffective if
issue or proposal is
not seen as
important
• Can be used for
ongoing provision of
information
• Include items that will
generate interest, such
as video
• Use large print
information boards
• Make display colourful
and interesting
• Be aware when target
audience is most likely
to be present. In high
holiday home areas
this may be on
weekends or
seasonally
• See if manufactures of
proposed options have
available resources
Objective
Method
Description
Suggested time
to use
Cost
Advantages
Disadvantages
Hints
Informing the
community
(preconsultation
methods)
Public exhibition
The formal
exhibition of a plan
or document at key
locations for a set
period of time
Once draft plan is
complete
Cost of preparing
multiple copies of
the plan.
• Opportunity to
inform interested
community members
at a time suitable to
them
develop
• Make as visually
appealing as possible
• Only effective if
people walk past or
are aware that it
exists
• Select exhibition
locations that are
readily accessible.
These include general
stores, post offices,
council offices and
libraries
around the
municipality to key
access points or
events in order to
gain maximum
exposure
• May not be
all the time (i.e.
office hours if
housed at council)
• Include location on
council’s website
• Distribute to key
groups, especially
progress associations.
• Allow for public
comment for at least 6
weeks. This will give
groups that meet on a
monthly basis the
chance to discuss and
respond in time.
• Don’t release over
holiday breaks,
especially Christmas, if
possible.
Seeking
information from
the community
(interactive or twoway methods)
Community
Survey
A structured form
that asks specific
questions and
gathers information
Risk assessment,
release of issues
paper.
Cost of developing,
producing,
distributing,
collecting and
collating surveys
needs to be
considered
• Can provide useful
data
• Can quantify
anecdotal data
• Can have low
response rates
depending on the
method used
• Ensure the
methodology will
support the credibility
of the results.
• Consider using a
professional data
collation/ market
research company if
the group size is very
large
Objective
Method
Description
Suggested time
to use
Cost
Advantages
Disadvantages
Hints
Seeking
information from
the community
Focus groups/
review groups
Semi-structured
interview with a
small group of
invited
representative
participants
Can be used with
leaders of key
stakeholder groups
(includes agencies,
progress
associations) as a
public consultation
Minimal
• Can encourage
participation by
individuals who may
not otherwise be
involved
• Facilitator can be
expensive
• Make sure the group
reflects the wider
population
• Participants can
express and share
views
• Time consuming to
organise
• Discussion can be
dominated by some
participants if not
properly facilitated
• A facilitator would be
advantageous
• Can gather detailed
information
• Enables each
member to
participate
Seeking
information from
the community
Suggestion box
Provision of a place
for community
members to lodge
ideas and feedback
Any time when
community feedback
is required
Minimal
• Allows confidential
feedback
• Relatively easy to
manage
• Inaccessible
positioning will
make this option
useless
• The front counter of a
public building is the
most accessible area,
i.e. library or sports
stadium
• Make sure there is
paper, pens etc
• Limited access to
target audience.
Unless the issue is
highly controversial
people will not go out
of their way to
participate
Objective
Method
Description
Suggested time
to use
Cost
Advantages
Disadvantages
Hints
Seeking
information from
the community
Phone in/hotline
Time-limited
opportunity for the
community to make
contact and / or
provide feedback in
a semi-structured
context.
When new
information has been
released from council
Depends on the
population size and
open timeframe.
May need to have
dedicated and
trained staff to
answer calls
• Allows members of
the community to
participate at a time
suitable to them
• Requires large
amount of
resources, time,
expertise
• Assess how many
lines will be required
• Can be used to
gather a list of
interested
individuals for later
use
• Minimal interaction
with participants
• Attend the line during
business and non
business hours
• May not gain
response from all
interests in the
community
• Allow reasonable time
after consultation so
that community
members can discuss
amongst themselves
• Advertise the hotline
thoroughly
• Can be used with
translators/
interpreters
Seeking
information from
the community
Inviting
submissions
A letter or a media
promotion seeking
written presentation
of views on a
proposal, concept or
activity
After initial
consultation, so that
residents are briefed
on the issues and can
write more informed
submissions.
Minimal
• Can be useful for
lobbying
• Useful for
documenting
people’s feedback
and opinions
• Can solicit irrelevant
feedback
• Can be seen as
political
Involving the
community
Township
committees
Face to face
meeting with a
selected group,
which has a specific
interest in the issue
Can be used with
leaders of key
stakeholder groups
(includes agencies,
progress
associations) as a
public consultation
Minimal
• Opportunity for
members of the
community to
become familiar with
local authority
• Can draw on
expertise that may
not exist within
council
• Can provide a
degree of
ownership, which is
important to foster
relationships
• May not be
representative of the
wider community
• Try to be the only
guest speaker at a
meeting
• Meetings can be
time consuming and
dominated by
specific interests
• Spend most of the
time listening - don’t
overload with
information
• Resource
requirements can be
high
Objective
Method
Description
Suggested time
to use
Cost
Advantages
Disadvantages
Hints
Involving the
community
Public Displays
Mobile or permanent
exhibitions
developed to
present information
about an issue or
proposal
Can be used to
explain proposed
options for people
that cannot grasp the
concepts
Depends on who
provides the display.
May be very
expensive for
council to develop
• Fewer time
restrictions
develop
around the
municipality to key
access points or
events in order to
gain maximum
exposure
• Can be ineffective if
issue or proposal is
not seen as
important
• Include items that will
generate interest, such
as video
• Use large print
information boards
• Make display colourful
and interesting
• Be aware when target
audience is most likely
to be present. In high
holiday home areas
this may be on
weekends or
seasonally
• Can be used for
ongoing provision of
information
• See if manufactures of
proposed options have
available resources
Involving the
community
Community
forum
The use of speakers
to provide
information and
facilitate informed
discussion on a
topic
During risk
assessment phase
After release of
issues paper
Experts and quality
facilitators don’t
come cheaply.
Expect to pay
$1,500+ for
researched
presentations
• Can assist in
forming opinion and
/ or consensus
through debate and
discussion
• Allows a divers
range of interests to
be brought together
• Conflicting interests
may become
entrenched and
reduce opportunity
for debate and
consensus
• Providing
refreshments can
enable informal
discussion
• Keep a balance of
presenters to avoid ‘us
vs. them’
• A facilitator would be
advantageous
• Use multimedia where
possible
• Use credible experts in
the field, if required
Objective
Method
Description
Suggested time
to use
Cost
Advantages
Disadvantages
Hints
Involving the
community
Electronic
discussion
groups
The use of chat
rooms and email to
interact between
council and
community
During risk
assessment phase
Minimal, is internet
resources already
exist.
• Not time limited so
people such as shift
workers, can
participate
• Requires access to
technology
• Advertise through
other media, for
example, council
newsletter
Public meeting
Formal gathering of
the general public
regarding an issue
or matter, generally
involving larger
numbers of people.
After release of
issues paper
In initial stages to
scope threats, values
and risks
In later stage to
present results of
background paper
and possible future
options
• Can be costly to set
up and maintain
• Requires specialist
skills to implement
Experts and quality
facilitators don’t
come cheaply.
Expect to pay
$1,500+ for
researched
presentations
• Public meetings are
open to everyone
• Can bring together a
large diversity of
people
• Difficult to focus
discussion with
larger numbers of
people
• Assess target group to
find appropriate time
• May be dominated
by more vocal
people with specific
interests
• Consider using an
independent facilitator
• Can become
political and will
require skilful
facilitation
• Advertise in local
papers
Appendix C – Wastewater Risk Assessments
Page c
Snake Valley
Sensitivity Analysis
Failure of
Septic
Rating System
V
a
l
u
e
s
Rating
Environment:
Waterways
Environment:
Groundwater
quality
Amenity:
Recreational
Amenity:
Landscape
Cultural
Heritage
Stormwater
Quality
Economic:
Property
Economic:
Tourism
Economic:
Industry
Sense of
Community
Public Health
Threats
Offsite
Density
greywater
of
discharge
housing
Septic <
100m from
waterways
Lack of
maintenance
Groundwater
Quality
4
4
3
4
3
3
2
1
3
4
3
4
1
3
1
3
1
4
2
3
3
4
2
2
1
1
1
3
1
4
2
3
4
3
1
2
1
2
3
3
2
3
3
1
1
4
1
3
3
2
1
2
3
3
1
1
1
2
1
4
3
4
2
3
2
Threat x Value
Failure of
Septic
Rating System
V
a
l
u
e
s
Rating
Environment:
Waterways
Environment:
Groundwater
quality
Amenity:
Recreational
Amenity:
Landscape
Cultural
Heritage
Stormwater
Quality
Economic:
Property
Economic:
Tourism
Economic:
Use
Sense of
Community
Public Health
Septic <
100m from
waterways
3
Threats
Offsite
Density
greywater
of
Lack of
Groundwater
discharge
housing maintenance Quality
3
2
4
1
4
4
12
12
8
16
4
16
4
12
12
8
16
4
16
4
12
12
8
16
4
16
4
12
12
8
16
4
16
3
9
9
6
12
3
12
2
6
6
4
8
2
8
4
12
12
8
16
4
16
1
3
3
2
4
1
4
4
12
12
8
16
4
16
4
12
12
8
16
4
16
4
12
12
8
16
4
16
Threat x Value X Sensitivity
Failure of
Septic
Rating System
V
a
l
u
e
s
Rating
Environment:
Waterways
Environment:
Groundwater
quality
Amenity:
Recreational
Amenity:
Landscape
Cultural
Heritage
Stormwater
Quality
Economic:
Property
Economic:
Tourism
Economic:
Use
Sense of
Community
Public Health
Septic <
100m from
waterways
3
Threats
Offsite
Density
greywater
of
Lack of
Groundwater
discharge
3
2
4
1
4
4
48
48
24
64
12
48
4
24
12
24
64
12
0
4
48
12
24
16
12
16
4
48
24
24
48
16
32
3
18
9
6
12
9
12
2
24
12
12
32
6
8
4
24
12
16
48
12
32
1
9
9
2
4
4
4
4
36
36
16
16
8
48
4
36
12
8
16
8
16
4
48
36
32
32
12
32
Landsborough
Failure of
Septic
Rating System
V
a
l
u
e
s
Rating
Environment:
Waterways
Environment:
Groundwater
quality
Amenity:
Recreational
Amenity:
Landscape
Cultural
Heritage
Stormwater
Quality
Economic:
Property
Economic:
Tourism
Economic:
Industry
Sense of
Community
Public Health
Threats
Offsite
Density
greywater
of
discharge
housing
Septic <
100m from
waterways
Lack of
maintenance
Groundwater
Quality
4
4
4
2
3
3
2
1
3
2
3
4
1
3
1
3
1
4
2
3
3
4
2
2
1
1
1
3
1
4
2
3
4
3
1
2
1
2
3
3
4
3
3
1
1
4
3
3
3
2
1
2
4
3
1
1
1
2
3
4
3
4
2
3
4
Threat x Value
Failure of
Septic
Rating System
V
a
l
u
e
s
Rating
Environment:
Waterways
Environment:
Groundwater
quality
Amenity:
Recreational
Amenity:
Landscape
Cultural
Heritage
Stormwater
Quality
Economic:
Property
Economic:
Tourism
Economic:
Use
Sense of
Community
Public Health
Septic <
100m from
waterways
4
Threats
Offsite
Density
greywater
of
Lack of
Groundwater
discharge
4
3
3
2
2
4
16
16
12
12
8
8
4
16
16
12
12
8
8
4
16
16
12
12
8
8
3
12
12
9
9
6
6
4
16
16
12
12
8
8
2
8
8
6
6
4
4
1
4
4
3
3
2
2
3
12
12
9
9
6
6
4
2
8
8
6
6
4
4
16
16
12
12
8
8
4
16
16
12
12
8
8
Failure of
Septic
Rating System
V
a
l
u
e
s
Rating
Environment:
Waterways
Environment:
Groundwater
quality
Amenity:
Recreational
Amenity:
Landscape
Cultural
Heritage
Stormwater
Quality
Economic:
Property
Economic:
Tourism
Economic:
Use
Sense of
Community
Public Health
Septic <
100m from
waterways
3
Threats
Offsite
Density
greywater
of
Lack of
Groundwater
discharge
3
2
3
2
2
2
64
64
48
24
24
24
4
32
16
36
24
24
0
4
64
16
36
12
24
8
3
48
24
27
27
24
12
4
32
16
12
12
24
8
2
32
16
18
24
12
4
1
8
4
6
9
6
8
3
36
36
9
9
24
18
2
24
24
12
6
8
16
4
48
16
12
12
16
24
4
64
48
48
24
24
32
Waubra
Failure of
Septic
Rating System
V
a
l
u
e
s
Rating
Environment:
Waterways
Environment:
Groundwater
quality
Amenity:
Recreational
Amenity:
Landscape
Cultural
Heritage
Stormwater
Quality
Economic:
Property
Economic:
Tourism
Economic:
Industry
Sense of
Community
Public Health
Threats
Offsite
Density
greywater
of
discharge
housing
Septic <
100m from
waterways
Lack of
maintenance
Groundwater
Quality
3
4
4
2
3
3
3
1
1
3
3
4
2
3
1
1
3
1
1
4
3
1
4
1
2
1
1
1
3
1
4
2
3
4
3
1
3
2
2
1
3
1
1
2
2
1
4
1
1
2
2
1
2
3
1
1
2
1
2
1
3
3
2
2
3
2
Threat x Value
Failure of
Septic
Rating System
V
a
l
u
e
s
Rating
Environment:
Waterways
Environment:
Groundwater
quality
Amenity:
Recreational
Amenity:
Landscape
Cultural
Heritage
Stormwater
Quality
Economic:
Property
Economic:
Tourism
Economic:
Use
Sense of
Community
Public Health
Septic <
100m from
waterways
4
Threats
Offsite
Density
greywater
of
Lack of
Groundwater
discharge
4
3
2
2
4
4
16
16
12
8
8
16
4
16
16
12
8
8
16
3
12
12
9
6
6
12
2
8
8
6
4
4
8
2
8
8
6
4
4
8
2
8
8
6
4
4
8
3
12
12
9
6
6
12
2
8
8
6
4
4
8
3
12
12
9
6
6
12
3
12
12
9
6
6
12
4
16
16
12
8
8
16
Failure of
Septic
Rating System
V
a
l
u
e
s
Rating
Environment:
Waterways
Environment:
Groundwater
quality
Amenity:
Recreational
Amenity:
Landscape
Cultural
Heritage
Stormwater
Quality
Economic:
Property
Economic:
Tourism
Economic:
Use
Sense of
Community
Public Health
Septic <
100m from
waterways
4
Threats
Offsite
Density
greywater
of
Lack of
Groundwater
discharge
4
3
2
2
4
4
48
64
48
16
24
48
4
48
16
12
24
24
64
3
24
36
9
6
18
12
2
8
32
18
4
16
8
2
16
8
6
4
12
8
2
32
16
18
16
12
8
3
36
24
18
6
18
12
2
8
16
12
4
16
8
3
12
24
18
6
12
36
3
12
12
18
6
12
12
4
48
48
24
16
24
32
Moonambel
Failure of
Septic
Rating System
V
a
l
u
e
s
Rating
Environment:
Waterways
Environment:
Groundwater
quality
Amenity:
Recreational
Amenity:
Landscape
Cultural
Heritage
Stormwater
Quality
Economic:
Property
Economic:
Tourism
Economic:
Industry
Sense of
Community
Public Health
Threats
Offsite
Density
greywater
of
discharge
housing
Septic <
100m from
waterways
Lack of
maintenance
Groundwater
Quality
4
4
3
2
3
3
4
3
4
3
4
4
1
3
1
3
1
4
2
3
3
4
2
2
1
1
1
3
1
4
2
3
4
3
1
2
1
2
3
3
4
3
2
1
1
4
4
3
3
2
1
2
4
3
1
1
1
2
3
4
3
4
2
3
4
Threat x Value
Failure of
Septic
Rating System
V
a
l
u
e
s
Rating
Environment:
Waterways
Environment:
Groundwater
quality
Amenity:
Recreational
Amenity:
Landscape
Cultural
Heritage
Stormwater
Quality
Economic:
Property
Economic:
Tourism
Economic:
Use
Sense of
Community
Public Health
Septic <
100m from
waterways
3
Threats
Offsite
Density
greywater
of
Lack of
Groundwater
discharge
4
4
4
1
2
3
9
12
12
12
3
6
4
12
16
16
16
4
8
2
6
8
8
8
2
4
2
6
8
8
8
2
4
2
6
8
8
8
2
4
2
6
8
8
8
2
4
3
9
12
12
12
3
6
4
12
16
16
16
4
8
4
12
16
16
16
4
8
2
6
8
8
8
2
4
4
12
16
16
16
4
8
Failure of
Septic
Rating System
V
a
l
u
e
s
Rating
Environment:
Waterways
Environment:
Groundwater
quality
Amenity:
Recreational
Amenity:
Landscape
Cultural
Heritage
Stormwater
Quality
Economic:
Property
Economic:
Tourism
Economic:
Use
Sense of
Community
Public Health
Septic <
100m from
waterways
3
Threats
Offsite
Density
greywater
of
Lack of
Groundwater
discharge
4
4
4
1
2
3
36
48
36
24
9
18
2
48
48
64
48
16
0
2
24
8
24
8
6
4
2
24
16
24
24
8
8
2
12
8
8
8
6
4
2
24
16
24
32
6
4
3
18
12
24
36
9
24
4
36
32
16
16
16
32
4
36
48
32
16
8
32
2
18
8
8
8
4
12
4
48
48
64
32
12
32
Lexton
Failure of
Septic
Rating System
V
a
l
u
e
s
Rating
Environment:
Waterways
Environment:
Groundwater
quality
Amenity:
Recreational
Amenity:
Landscape
Cultural
Heritage
Stormwater
Quality
Economic:
Property
Economic:
Tourism
Economic:
Industry
Sense of
Community
Public Health
Threats
Offsite
Density
greywater
of
discharge
housing
Septic <
100m from
waterways
Lack of
maintenance
Groundwater
Quality
4
4
3
2
3
3
2
1
3
2
3
2
1
2
1
3
1
4
2
3
3
4
2
2
1
1
1
3
1
4
2
3
4
3
1
2
1
2
3
3
4
3
3
1
1
4
3
3
3
2
1
2
4
3
1
1
1
2
3
4
3
4
2
3
4
Threat x Value
Failure of
Septic
Rating System
V
a
l
u
e
s
Rating
Environment:
Waterways
Environment:
Groundwater
quality
Amenity:
Recreational
Amenity:
Landscape
Cultural
Heritage
Stormwater
Quality
Economic:
Property
Economic:
Tourism
Economic:
Use
Sense of
Community
Public Health
Septic <
100m from
waterways
3
Threats
Offsite
Density
greywater
of
Lack of
Groundwater
discharge
4
4
3
1
2
3
9
12
12
9
3
6
2
9
12
12
9
3
6
3
9
12
12
9
3
6
3
9
12
12
9
3
6
2
6
8
8
6
2
4
2
6
8
8
6
2
4
1
3
4
4
3
1
2
2
6
8
8
6
2
4
4
2
6
8
8
6
2
4
12
16
16
12
4
8
4
12
16
16
12
4
8
Failure of
Septic
Rating System
V
a
l
u
e
s
Septic <
100m from
waterways
3
Threats
Offsite
Density
greywater
of
Lack of
Groundwater
discharge
4
4
3
1
2
Rating
Environment:
Waterways
Environment:
Groundwater
quality
Amenity:
Recreational
Amenity:
Landscape
Cultural
Heritage
Stormwater
Quality
Economic:
Property
Economic:
Tourism
Economic:
Use
Sense of
Community
2
18
24
16
6
4
16
4
36
16
16
12
8
24
Public Health
4
48
48
64
24
12
32
3
36
48
36
18
9
18
2
18
12
36
18
9
0
3
18
12
24
9
9
6
3
36
24
36
27
12
12
2
12
8
8
6
6
4
2
24
16
24
24
6
4
1
6
4
8
9
3
8
2
18
24
8
6
8
12
Appendix D –Town and Water Supply Catchment Summaries
Page d
WATER SUPPLY CATCHMENTS
The Shire also contains a number of water supply catchments and bore fields that
provide water to local towns, as well as to the City of Maryborough in the
neighbouring Central Goldfields Shire. Land use planning for these areas is also the
responsibility of the Shire in conjunction with water supply and catchment
management authorities. Septic tank management in these areas is of particular
importance to public health.
Details of these are listed in Table 1
CATCHMENT
AMPHITHEATRE
AREA Ha
330
TOWNS SUPPLIED
Amphitheatre
BEAUFORT (Mt Cole)
684
Beaufort, Raglan
BUNG BONG
BOREFIELD
N/A
Avoca
EVANSFORD
7730
Maryborough, Talbot,
Carisbrook
LANDSBOROUGH
160
Landsborough, Navarre
LEAD DAM
130
Avoca
LEXTON
2160
Lexton
MUSICAL GULLY
100
Beaufort
MALAKOFF CREEK
3000
Landsborough,
Navarre
REDBANK
340
Redbank
SUGARLOAF
1000
Avoca
TALBOT
1420
Maryborough, Talbot,
Carisbook
LANDSBOROUGH
BOREFIELD
N/A
Landsborough, Navarre
WAUBRA
BOREFIELD
N/A
Waubra
COMMENTS
Approx 50% is
freehold land. Water
supply is untreated
Crown Land. Water
supply to Beaufort is
disinfected by UV
radiation. Supply to
Raglan is untreated
Back up supply only.
Water supply is filtered
and disinfected
Freehold farmland &
township. Water supply
is filtered and
disinfected
Freehold land. Water
supply is untreated
supply is filtered and
disinfected
supply is untreated
Freehold land. water
supply is disinfected by
UV radiation
Freehold land (Back up
supply only). Water
supply is untreated
Crown land. Water
supply is untreated
disinfected
Freehold farmland and
residential. Water
disinfected
Back up supply only.
Water supply is
untreated
Intake area in
agricultural land. Water
supply is disinfected
with Chloramine
ALL SURFACE CATCHMENT AREAS ARE PROCLAIMED AS SPECIAL WATER
SUPPLY AREAS UNDER THE CATCHMENT AND LAND PROTECTION ACT,
1994.
1
RESULTS FOR INDIVIDUAL TOWNSHIPS
AMPHITHEATRE (Pop. 150)
Summary
Amphitheatre is a small community located within the Avoca Rural Catchment,
primarily on Quaternary Deposits (River Flats). Gravel deposits can be expected
beneath the River deposits, resulting in good drainage. Lots within the township zone
range down to 0.04 ha.
TABLE 5 – Risk Analysis for Amphitheatre
Parameter
Rainfall 600 – 650mm
Permeability
Flooding
Slope
Depth of water table
Soil Thickness
Domestic water catchment
Overall rating
Recommended Minimum Lot Size for Conventional Septic
Systems
Rating
2
1 to 2
3
1
3
1
1
3
2ha
Recommendations
y
All septic tanks should be desludged at least every three years.
y
Any dwelling undergoing renovation or extensions should be required to have the
septic tank checked to ensure it will meet the new loading and if necessary
brought up the current standards.
y
Council should provide an information kit for all landowners on the operation and
maintenance of a septic system.
y
The Planning Scheme should be amended to require all applications on areas less
than the recommended minimum lot size, be accompained by site specific land
capability assessment in accordance with EPA requirements. (currently EPA
Pub.746)
2
EVANSFORD (Pop. 50)
Summary
Evansford is a very small community located between two land systems basalt shales
and Ordovician shales. Part of the present township zone is located close to and
within the catchment area of Talbot reservoir which is one of a group of storages that
supplies Maryborough and Talbot. There are a number of lots within the township
zone as small as 0.02 ha.
TABLE 6 – Risk Analysis for Evansford
Parameter
Rainfall 570mm
Permeability
Flooding
Slope
Soil Thickness
Overall rating
Recommended Minimum lot Size for Conventional Septic
Systems
Shales
2
4
1
1
3
4
1
4
4ha
Basalt
2
3
1
1
1
3
4
4
4ha
Recommendations
y
Pub.746)
y
The area of Ordovician shales may be prone to surfacing of effluent in winter and
should also be inspected annually at the end of winter.
y
The planning scheme currently zones a portion of the area within the water supply
catchment as “Township”. It is recommended that this area be rezoned “Rural”.
y
y
y
All septic tanks should be desludged every three years.
3
LANDSBOROUGH (Pop. 200)
Summary
Landsborough is located on three land units:
•
•
•
Alluvial Flats
Tertiary Gravels
Sedimentary rises
Alluvial flats are zoned township, low-density residential zone and rural living zone.
There are a number of lots within the township zone as small as 0.05 ha.
Tertiary Gravels are also zoned township and rural living zone. Lot sizes range from 1
– 5 ha’s.
TABLE 7 – Risk Analysis for Landsborough
PARAMETER
Climate (Rainfall 500mm)
Permeability
Flooding *
Slope
Depth to Water table
Soil Thickness
Domestic catchment
SUMMARY
Recommended Minimum Lot Size
for Conventional Septic Systems
Alluvial flats
2
2
4
1
3
1
1
2
1ha
Tertiary Gravels
2
3
4
1
3
1
1
3
2ha
Sedimentary Rises
2
3
1
2
1
3
1
3
2ha
* Note: The flooding overlay is based on data of unknown accuracy
Recommendations
According to the risk analysis the following recommendations were developed:
y
Pub.746)
y
•
Flooding information is based on data that is of unknown accuracy and it is
recommended that council approach the Catchment Management Authorities to
review data.
•
y
4
LEXTON (Pop. 200)
Summary
Lexton is located on two land units Alluvial flats within 100m of a watercourse and
Alluvium flats located at least 100m from watercourses. Lots within the township
zone range down to 0.14 ha.
TABLE 8 – Risk Analysis for Lexton
Parameter
Rainfall 600mm
Permeability
Flooding
Slope
Soil Thickness
Overall rating
Systems
Rating
2
2
3
1
3
1
1
3
2ha
Recommendations
y
Pub.746)
y
Lexton contains numerous watercourses that will restrict development.
y
Existing disposal system on properties less than 100m from watercourses will
require regular inspection to protect the water quality of the streams.
y
Owners of Systems on lots >100 from streams should be provided with
information to enable them to correctly operate and maintain their system. Some
random auditing of these systems is desirable to build up a picture of their
performance.
y
y
y
5
MOONAMBEL (Pop. 100)
Summary
Moonambel is also located on two land units the first being Alluvial flats within 100m
of the watercourse and the second being similar soils greater than 100m from a
watercourse. There are a number of lots within the township zone as small as 0.016
Ha.
TABLE 9 – Risk Analysis for Moonambel
Parameter
Climate (rainfall 600m)
Permeability
Flooding
Slope
Soil Thickness
Distance to watercourse
Overall rating
Systems
Rating
2
2
1
1
2/3
1
1
1
2
1ha
Recommendation
y
Pub.746)
y
y
y
Those properties located within the 100 m to a watercourse buffer should be
inspected at the end of winter and any deficiencies rectified.
y
6
REDBANK (Prop. 100)
Summary
Redbank is a small community located on alluvial flats. Redbank is a very small
community unlikely to create a major environmental risk. There are a number of lots
within the township zone as small as 0.05 ha.
TABLE 10 – Risk Analysis for Redbank
Parameter
Climate (rainfall 570mm)
Permeability
Flooding
Slope
Soil Thickness
Overall rating
Systems
Alluvial
2
2
2
1
2
1
1
2
1ha
Recommendation
y
Pub.746)
y
y
y
Any alterations to an existing septic system will require an upgrade to ensure the
system conforms to current standards.
y
7
SNAKE VALLEY (Pop. 300)
Summary
Snake Valley essentially a dormitory town for Ballarat and is experiencing significant
growth, with the likehood of continued expansion.
Snake Valley is located on three land units. Alluvial Plains (Very Wet), Sediments
and Basalt. Lots within the township zone range down to 0.2 ha.
TABLE 11 – Risk Analysis for Snake Valley
Parameter
Rainfall 600mm
Permeability
Flooding
Slope
Soil Thickness
Overall rating
Recommended Minimum Lot Size for
Conventional Septic Systems
Basalt
2
3
2
2
2
3
1
3
2ha
Sediments
2
4
2
2
2
3
1
4
4ha
Alluvial
2
2
2
2
4
3
1
4
4ha
Recommendations
y
Pub.746)
y
y
y
8
WAUBRA (Pop. 150)
Summary
Waubra is located on two land units:
y
Basalt (undulating) and
y
Granite (which encompasses a small area of steeper land in the south west corner
of the Rural Living Zone)
The township Zone is located wholly on the Basalt unit while the rural Living Zone is
located generally on Basalt with the rear parts of the higher lots on Granite.
The lot sizes in the township zone range from 0.03 Ha to greater than 0.4 Ha in area.
The planning scheme currently permits new subdivisions of a minimum lot size of
0.03 Ha.
The lot size in the Rural Living Zone range from 0.4 Ha to greater than 10 Ha. The
minimum lot size permitted by the planning scheme is 0.4 Ha.
The results of the risk analysis are set out in the Table 5
TABLE 12 – Risk Analysis for Waubra
Parameter
Climate (rainfall 700mm)
Permeability
Flooding
Slope
Soil Thickness
Distance to Water Course < 100 m
Distance to Water Course > 100 m
Overall rating
Systems
Basalt
3
3
1
1
2*
3
3
3
2ha
rating
Granite rating
3
4
1
3
2
4
3
4
4ha
(* May experienced high water table near creek)
Recommendations
y
Pub.746)
y
9
•
All disposal areas should be located clear of the property boundary to provide an
adequate buffer within the property for lateral movement of effluent on sloping
ground.
•
The existing small allotments within the township zone will require an annual
inspection at the end of winter and any deficiencies observed should be rectified.
•
The undeveloped area in the township zone north of the Sunraysia Highway
should be rezoned from township to rural living.
•
y
10
BEAUFORT (Pop 1200)
Beaufort is sewered, however development is being experienced within the Rural
Living Zone located to the south of the town. Lot size within this area is generally
greater than 2ha and Council has adequate existing powers to ensure all new
subdivisions in the area are capable of retaining all wastewater on site.
AVOCA
(Pop 1050)
Avoca has been recently sewered, although not all properties have been connected.
Rural Residential development is occurring west of the town on 4ha allotments.
These lots are capable of containing wastewater within their boundaries. Council has
adequate controls for wastewater disposal in the event of receiving a proposal to
create smaller allotments.
RAGLAN
(Pop. 150)
Council’s planning scheme includes a restructure plan which recognises the need for
adequate sized allotments to enable disposal of domestic wastewater.
11
Domestic Wastewater Management Plan
Part 2: Recommended Actions
June 2006
30018206
Prepared for
Prepared by
ABN 20 093 846 925
June 2006
300 182 06
Quality Information
Document
Ref
300 182 06
Date
June 2006
Prepared by
L Leong
Reviewed by
H Irving
Project Report
Revision History
Authorised
Revision
Date
Details
A
27/03/2006
Draft Issue to Pyrenees
Shire Council
G Reynolds
Associate
Director
B
23/05/2006
Shire Council
C Yeats
Principal
Engineer
C
30/06/2006
Finial Issue to Pyrenees
G Reynolds
Associate
Director
Revision
Name/Position
Signature
Original
Signed
Table of Contents
1.0
2.0
3.0
4.0
Introduction
2.1
Storage of Records
2.1.1
2.1.2
Add fields to current septic tank database
2.1.3
Update GIS overlay
2.2
Reporting from records
2.2.1
Reporting to the EPA
2.2.2
Generate reports from current database
2.3
Listing certified systems and service providers
2.3.1
List of Certified Servicing Agents and Installers
2.3.2
Refer Applications to EPA list of Approved Wastewater Systems
2.4
Assessing LCAs
2.4.1
List of Certified LCA Consultants
2.4.2
Evaluate LCA applications consistently
2.4.3
Actioning unsatisfactory services that are reported to Council
2.5
Planning
2.5.1
Planning GIS Overlay
2.5.2
2.5.3
Weekly departmental meetings
Compliance Program
3.1
Compliance Officer
3.2
Program Commencement
3.2.1
3.2.2
Setbacks and minimum lot sizes
3.2.3
Encourage advanced systems within setback zones
3.3
Implementation of Compliance Program
3.3.1
Council administered program
3.3.2
Residents responsible for compliance
3.4
Ongoing
3.4.1
3.4.2
Inspection reports to be forwarded to council
3.5
3.5.1
Develop performance criteria for wastewater systems
3.5.2
Identify locations to implement greywater controls
3.5.3
Council policy on greywater reuse
3.5.4
Undertake flood management investigations
3.6
Regulation and Enforcement
3.6.1
Local Laws or policies for enforcement
3.6.2
Issuing of Monetary Fines
Issuing of Permits
4.1
Planning Permits
4.2
Building Permit
4.3
Septic Tank Permit
1
1
1
1
1
2
2
2
3
3
3
3
4
4
4
4
4
4
5
5
6
6
6
6
6
7
7
7
8
9
9
9
9
9
10
10
10
11
11
11
12
12
12
12
5.0
5.1
Prospective Residents
6.0
Education
6.1
Education
6.2
Initial Education Program
6.2.1
Press Releases and Advertisements
6.2.2
Information packs for all households
6.3
Further Education
6.3.1
Educating Council staff
7.0
Referrals
7.1
Referral authorities
8.0
8.1.1
Investigate wastewater subsidy/low-interest loans for applicable
residents
9.0
Appendix A – Flowchart to evaluate LCA Applications
Appendix B – Certified Agent List
Appendix C – Example Advertisements, Flyers and Press Releases
13
13
14
14
14
14
14
16
16
17
17
18
18
19
a
b
c
1.0
Introduction
This document forms Part 2 of the Domestic Wastewater Management Plan (DWMP) for Pyrenees
Shire Council.
Detailed within this report are a series of actions that are recommended for adoption by Council, to
improve current wastewater management within the Shire. This report details the Action Plan outlined
in Part 1 of the DWMP and should be read in conjunction with the Plan.
The recommendations have been divided into the following sections, as in the Action Plan:
•
Improve records and documentation
•
Compliance program and enforcement
•
Town inspection program
•
Issuing of permits
•
Transfer of ownership
•
Education
•
Referrals
•
Community assistance
•
Future council growth plans
The Action Plan itself details:
•
the need for each action
•
the outcome of each action
•
the action’s priority (necessary or optional)
•
the departmental responsibilities
•
the probable timeframe
This report further details each action and provides guidance for:
•
the steps involved for council to implement the action
•
the probable resources required
Further, individual town actions plans have been included for the priority towns which are not planned
to receive future sewerage infrastructure.
A number of examples for certain actions have been provided in the Appendices of this report.
Page 1
2.0
2.1
Storage of Records
Most records of on-site wastewater systems for Pyrenees Shire Council are currently not stored
electronically on the Open Office program. Changes recommended herein are aimed at improving
compliance with legislation, simplifying reporting processes and monitoring on-site wastewater
systems within the Shire.
2.1.1
Pyrenees Shire Council currently has records for onsite wastewater systems within the Shire. Only a
small number of these are stored electronically on the Open Office program. Most records at
Pyrenees Shire remain in hard copy format only. Pyrenees Shire is progressing towards updating all
records, with full consolidation of both the electronic database and hard copy files to bring positive
benefits in accessibility and ease of use.
Electronic information
Council has recently purchased the Open Office database system. The database has the capacity to
store information on size, age and service details of the tanks. It also includes the name of the owner,
address, type of premises, waste control system, register and permit number of the septic tank, and
water testing results. At the time of inspection, Open Office only contained the details of 12 septic
tanks within the Shire. Pyrenees Shire would benefit greatly from devoting resources to bring the
database up to date and maintain the information. The Council should also keep records of tanks that
have been decommissioned.
This action should be undertaken by administrative staff (potentially 20 minutes per file). It may be
necessary to recruit an additional part time administrator to assist in completing the task.
Hard-copy information
Council should file reference documents relating to records within a centralised area. Suggested
documents that may be beneficial to keep include:
•
Maintenance reports
•
As-Constructed drawings
•
Layout plans
•
Compliance certificates
These documents should be referenced on the electronic database and the hard copy format filed in a
logical manner.
2.1.2
Add fields to current septic tank database
The following fields should be added to the Open Office database to improve management and
reporting:
•
LCA assessor
•
The ability to issue notices to landholders (eg. with rates) for the periodic maintenance cycle and
track subsequent correspondence.
•
Regular summary report generation (refer to Section 2.1.5)
Page 1
This action would require Council to consult with the software distributor to add fields to the existing
database. A timeframe of 2 months could be allowed for consultation with the distributor and for the
distributor to add the additional fields. Once the fields were added, it is estimated that it would take
approximately 20 minutes to update each record.
2.1.3
Update GIS overlay
Council’s current GIS-based overlay should be revised to ensure the exact location of each on-site
wastewater system within the Shire is included. The exact location of each system can be added
sequentially once they are sited on location (Section 3.2.1).
This action requires coordination between Council’s GIS officer and the Environmental Health Officer.
It is estimated that this task may take 10 minutes for each subsequent system to be recorded.
It is understood that the current GIS overlay includes information from Council’s Rates Department.
This information should be evaluated to determine if it includes:
•
Updated property owner information
•
Households with concessions
Coordination, if not already occurring between the Rates Department and Environmental Health
Officer is required to obtain updated information from the Rates Department on a regular basis (eg.
monthly), to enable the GIS overlay to be accurate. This task would require approximately 6 months
to complete, with an additional 30 minutes each month to receive data from Rates Department and
update on the GIS overlay. This extra data would also provide useful information to aid decision
making.
Council may be thinking about linking this information to Open Office. Whilst this may appear to be
useful, may also clog the database memory and may be confusing. Keeping the GIS overlay separate
from the database would be more user-friendly for Council as hard copy formats can be produced and
used at the same time as the database.
2.2
Reporting from records
2.2.1
Reporting to the EPA
Pyrenees Shire Council is required under legislation to report to the EPA in relation to the on-site
wastewater systems within the Shire. To facilitate reporting to the EPA, Council records of on-site
systems need to be stored in the one place, preferably electronic. This will allow for brief reports to be
generated and issued to the EPA in July annually.
The first annual report produced would require a few months for data and document preparation by an
EHO and administrator. However the required time would be greatly reduced (eg. 2 weeks) for reports
in subsequent years as there would be an existing template. Further the accuracy of reported data will
improve as subsequent actions are achieved eg. determining the number and location of blackwater
systems.
Page 2
2.2.2
Generate reports from current database
Summary reports could be produced automatically from the electronic system on a weekly/monthly
basis to notify the Department of:
•
Properties which are due for maintenance
•
Properties which require following up (have not paid fine, have not submitted maintenance report)
•
Flagged properties (eg. may require inspection, residential compliant)
For this action to be possible, the electronic database would require upgrading to have the ability for
records to be flagged when a system requires inspection.
This data could be given to the Compliance Officer/External Contractor as to the identified issues
which need to be addressed. It is estimated that it may take 1 week for the flagging system to be
implemented and the report template to be developed. Further, approximately 30 minutes every
week/month may be required to generate reports and consult with the Compliance Officer/External
Contractor.
2.3
Listing certified systems and service providers
Pyrenees Shire should implement one of the following actions (Action 2.3.1 or Action 2.3.2) to
maintain and manage certified agents, installers and EPA approved wastewater systems.
2.3.1
List of Certified Servicing Agents and Installers
Septic tanks are not the only form of on-site wastewater systems. Septic tanks are however one of the
simplest technologies currently available to treat effluent on-site. Other technologies such as Aerobic
Wastewater Treatment (AWT’s) require 3 monthly inspections under their licence conditions. To
ensure these inspections occur, Pyrenees Shire Council must encourage residents to install on-site
wastewater systems that have a local service agent.
Pyrenees Shire must develop a list of locally available certified servicing agents and installers for each
type of EPA approved on-site wastewater treatment system (refer to Action 2.3.2).
Both installers and maintainers of on-site wastewater systems must forward records to Council to
show that systems are installed and/or operating according to licence conditions. This could be made
a requirement in order to be placed on Council’s list.
This action could take approximately 3 weeks to collate the information, consult with serving agents
and installers, develop the list and to make the list available.
An example of a certified agent list is provided within Appendix B.
2.3.2
Refer Applications to EPA list of Approved Wastewater Systems
Council could refer applicants to the EPA list of Approved Wastewater Systems, especially highlighting
those which are appropriate to the Pyrenees area. It is estimated that this action would take
approximately 2 weeks to be completed by the Environmental Health Officer.
Page 3
2.4
Assessing LCAs
2.4.1
List of Certified LCA Consultants
A list of certified LCA Consultants should be developed for residents to ensure an appropriate LCA is
carried out and forwarded to Council.
This action is estimate to take approximately 1 week to consult with the LCA consultants, develop the
list and make the list available.
2.4.2
Evaluate LCA applications consistently
Consistent assessment of LCAs is required to ensure different Council assessors evaluate
applications to the same industry standards. A suggested flowchart has been included in Appendix A.
If this flowchart is adopted, it is estimated that input from relevant staff members, modifications and
trialling of the flowchart would require approximately 1 week. However the time required for
developing the flowchart would be saved during evaluation of future LCAs.
It is understood that the MAV is in the process of producing a similar document which would be issued
to Councils and could replace the suggested flowchart.
2.4.3
Actioning unsatisfactory services that are reported to Council
If Council receives a complaint or suspects a certified service provider has not undertaken works
properly, the following actions are recommended to be taken by the Plumbing Industry Commission (in
order):
•
The service agent should be contacted and asked to re-evaluate and resolve any problems
•
The Commission’s Duty Investigator should be contacted for further advice and may be able to
assist in the matter (if step 1 is unsuccessful)
•
Lodge a formal compliant in writing to the Commission’s Assistant Manager Investigations (if step
1 and 2 are unsuccessful)
Further, the agent should be removed from Council’s certified agents list.
This action will ensure that the list of certified servicing agents and plumbers are meeting industry
standards and reporting accurately works undertaken. It is estimated that this action could require a
few months if all 3 steps are required.
2.5
Planning
2.5.1
Planning GIS Overlay
A GIS overlay may have been developed with a view to documenting, in an industry standard form,
the location and type of every wastewater treatment system within the Shire’s boundaries. To
complement this, a secondary planning overlay should be developed to show area specific information
for each of the priority towns. The information should include, but not limited to:
•
Nominated Council buffer zones
•
Soil conditions
•
Slopes
•
Zones of referral authorities
•
Minimum lot sizes for conventional septic tank
Page 4
This information may be readily derived and collated from council and other government records. The
development of this overlay would provide all relevant authorities with a quick reference for the
assessment and possible rejection of planning applications incorporating domestic wastewater
systems.
This action requires Council’s GIS officer under the instruction of the Environmental Health Officer to
collate the information and develop the secondary overlay. It is estimated that this task may take 2
months.
2.5.2
Development must not be allowed in setback zones to protect waterways and surrounding
environments. Council must ensure that approvals of sub-divisions in unsewered areas are based on
soil properties and performance, not just lot sizes. This action would require amendments to the
planning scheme and could require 6 months to complete.
2.5.3
Weekly departmental meetings
Whilst relevant applications are forwarded internally by the Planning Department (eg. if application in
unsewered area), the internal referral process can be improved. Weekly interdepartmental meetings
should be held whereby all planning applications can be commented on by the Planning, Assets,
Building and Environmental Health Departments. This will allow for:
•
Applications to be assessed efficiently
•
Ensure all relevant departments are consulted
•
Departments can reach a consensus on the outcome of an application
•
Minimise inappropriate approvals
•
Allow better communication between Departments
The time required each week would largely depend on the amount of applications received. It is
estimated that meetings would run for approximately 1 hour per week.
Page 5
3.0
Compliance Program
A compliance program is required for the management of on-site domestic wastewater systems to
ensure that wastewater systems are being maintained and managed as required by the EPA. The
following section has been divided into those actions that must be undertaken on commencement of
the compliance program while the second section details those actions to be undertaken on an
ongoing basis.
3.1
Compliance Officer
The recruitment of a compliance officer to work with, and within, the Pyrenees Shire Council will
facilitate the implementation of a Shire wide compliance program. It is expected that the Compliance
Offficer position would be filled on a part-time basis and be responsible for those actions which cannot
be administered by existing Council staff.
3.2
Program Commencement
It is recommended the compliance program it is undertaken on a town-priority basis, starting with the
highest priority town Landsborough.
3.2.1
When commencing the compliance program, mandatory inspections of all systems should be
undertaken to establish their condition and expected life.
This action is also the first step in enabling Council to track the performance of existing systems.
To accurately quantify this, inspections of on-site systems must be undertaken.
The following are required to be established:
•
The condition of on-site systems
•
Approximate age (when unknown). The age of some systems could readily be identified from
Council’s database.
•
Location. The exact location of each on-site should be recorded on the GIS overlay.
•
Expected life. The serviceable life of an on-site system is reported to be around 25 years.
•
Number and location of balckwater-only systems. This will enable Council to identify where
greywater is potentially being discharged off site.
•
Maintenance requirements eg. vegetation grown over vent, cracked lid, etc.
Council could engage an external contactor to undertake the inspections. It is likely that this action
would take approximately 1.5 hours per system allowing for systems to be de-sludged before a full
inspection can be carried out. The cost of de-sludging may be borne entirely by Council.
Alternatively, this cost may be placed on the resident if they have not met their requirements at the
point of inspection (ie. conventional tanks: de-sludging at least once every three years, or whenever
the tank becomes more than half full).
3.2.2
Setbacks and minimum lot sizes
Pyrenees Shire Council routinely requests a Land Capability Assessment (LCA) for all blocks smaller
than 2 ha. Previously identified in Pyrenees 2001 DWMP, are minimum lot sizes for a number of
towns within the shire. Some of these minimum lot sizes are less than the recognised 2 ha. It is
recommended that Pyrenees Shire retains these lot sizes where they have been implemented and
adopts the 2 ha minimum for all areas not previously recognised in the 2001 DWMP.
Page 6
The minimum setbacks recommended within EPA’s 2003 Septic Tanks Code of Practice include:
•
60m from storages (non-potable dams or reservoirs)
•
60m from streams or channels (non-potable)
•
100m from streams (potable water supply catchments)
•
300m from storages (potable dams or reservoirs)
Pyrenees does not permit any new systems within 60m of any watercourse and new systems between
60m and 100m may be accepted pending on site investigation. It is recommended that Pyrenees
Shire considers enforcing a set 100m setback distance in the future with no provision for decreasing
setback distance to reduce any confusion and ensure all approvals are appropriate.
The GIS-based overlays would assist with this action, which is projected to take approximately 4
months to complete.
3.2.3
Encourage advanced systems within setback zones
Once the location and quality of all wastewater systems is known in combination with determined
setback areas, upgrade of systems within setback zones should be encouraged. This can be done by
consulting with the relevant property owners on a case by case basis. It is estimated that this action
would require approximately 3 hours consultation time for each affected property.
3.3
Implementation of Compliance Program
A compliance program can either be:
•
Administered by Council, with Council carrying out all inspections and organising required
maintenance and pump-outs, or
•
Undertaken by residents, with the relevant paper work forwarded to Council.
Council must decide which of these options it will adopt. However the first option is recommended for
Pyrenees as it allows Council to closely monitor the program in its developmental stages with few
extra resources.
3.3.1
Council administered program
The advantage of a council administered program is Council will have a high level of confidence that
the requirements of the compliance program are being met.
Program details
The program would consist of the following elements:
•
Informing and educating residents of the new requirements with respect to on-site wastewater
management
•
Developing partnership with suitably qualified persons to undertake inspections and effluent
sampling. This person does not necessarily have to be an EHO, but any suitable trained person,
say retired plumber, employed on a part-time basis.
•
Organising administrative support to ensure pump outs and inspections and other relevant
paperwork is undertaken, and forwarded to Council
Page 7
With a large number of systems without Council records, an additional Council staff member or
external contractor would be required (refer to Section 3.6).
Funding compliance program
Any council administered program requires funding. Two options are:
•
Septic tank levy
Houses in sewered districts are charged a levy by the water authority for the privilege of having
reticulated sewerage. Council could charge the same levy to undertake all maintenance of on-site
wastewater systems. The levy would only apply to those properties within the area covered by the
compliance program. It is unlikely that the levy would cover the full cost of undertaking and
administering any compliance program.
•
General Rates Increase
Council could consider a general rates rise to cover the full cost of this program.
3.3.2
Residents responsible for compliance
The advantage of having residents responsible for their own compliance is reduced cost to the council,
however it is likely that such a program would be difficult to administer.
Program details
The program would consist of the following elements:
•
Informing and educating residents of the new requirements with respect to on-site wastewater
management, including their responsibilities
•
Informing those currently involved in the maintenance of on-site wastewater systems of the new
requirements
•
Developing new local laws or policy (similar to the dog registration , or rubbish collection service)
to enable enforcement to occur
•
Establishing administrative position(s) to ensure that all notices are issued, and reminders are
issued
•
Collating all records and updating databases accordingly.
With the large number of records not stored in one centralised system, the resources to coordinate
this form of program would further require additional resources which would be greater than the
council administered program.
Funding compliance program
The program would need to be funded from Council’s existing budgets.
Page 8
3.4
Ongoing
3.4.1
Pyrenees Shire Council is responsible for complying with current legislation and ensuring
environmental responsibility, the following must be made mandatory:
•
All septic tanks be pumped out every 3 years
•
All Advanced Wastewater Treatment Systems (AWT’s) be inspected quarterly
•
All sand filters to be inspected at least once every year
•
All wetland systems to be inspected one year after installation and every three years thereafter, to
ensure that the system is functioning correctly.
•
All worm farm systems must be desludged every three years. Inspection and maintenance of the
worm farm must be carried out after 6 months, 18 months and thereafter at 2 yearly intervals after
installation for the life of the plant.
The amount of time required to implement this action would be dependant on whether or not it is
administered by Council. If these inspections are to be organised by the council then an additional
staff member will be required.
Regulation and Enforcement must be undertaken to ensure that maintenance is undertaken
(assuming resident responsibility) as required. This has been detailed further in Section 3.5 of this
report.
3.4.2
Inspection reports to be forwarded to council
Inspection reports must be forwarded to Council by servicing agents. Council must ensure certified
service agents are forwarding inspection reports as a condition of being on the certified list (Action
2.3.1).
This action is estimated to take 2 hours/report to evaluate the maintenance report, consulting with
servicing agents when required, filing the report and referencing the report on the database system.
3.5
3.5.1
Develop performance criteria for wastewater systems
The importance of the performance of a wastewater system is dependant on the proximity of the
system to the surrounding areas of significance. Whilst the EPA has developed a performance rating,
the 20/30 rule, Council should use this basis to develop its own performance-based criteria to
determine:
•
Wastewater systems located in high risk areas
•
Wastewater systems located in low risk areas
A high risk site may be defined as one that has received a LCA rating of 4 or 5 while a low risk site
could be those with ratings between 1 and 3, or more appropriately the planning GIS overlay
discussed in Action 2.5.1 should be used to identify high and low risks.
It is estimated that this task take approximately 3 weeks to develop the criteria and 1 hour per system
for evaluation.
Page 9
3.5.2
Identify locations to implement greywater controls
Pending the results of the blackwater only systems investigation, it may be suitable to investigate
implementing stormwater treatment systems, or town-wide greywater collection systems.
The steps involved in the process of stormwater treatment systems include:
•
Determine the location and number of blackwater only systems in each priority town
•
Evaluate current town infrastructure
•
Develop a series of options
•
Undertake concept design
Development pressures are leading to increasing environmental impacts within some Pyrenees towns.
Therefore unsewered towns which are not planned to receive wastewater infrastructure should be
investigated for the possibility of a town-wide grey water collection system. This could first occur for
the priority town of Snake Valley, which has not received funding from the State Government to be
connected to new sewerage services. It is estimated that this action would take approximately 4
months to identify towns, possible locations and identifying the degree of benefits and constraints.
The timeframe required for this action is estimated to be 6 months. A similar timeframe is estimated
for concept planning of stormwater treatment systems.
3.5.3
Council policy on greywater reuse
It is recommended that Council determines its policy on grey water reuse.
The nature of greywater will always innately pose a health risk as it has the potential to be
contaminated by micro-organisms which can lead to disease. Greywater can also pose an
environmental risk by unbalancing the amount of acidity and alkalinity, therefore causing stress on
soils and vegetation. There is also the possibility of greywater runoff into stormwater drains and
ultimately into the waterways. However all these potential risks can be minimised through appropriate
management by both Council and households.
The EPA supports the use of grey water reuse (all non-toilet and non-kitchen waste) in the interest of
water conservation. Under the Environmental Protection Act 1970, residents require Council’s
consent before any alterations or installation of a septic tank system. However grey water reuse
systems are not subject to this requirement if a holding tank is not installed. Nevertheless, under the
Water Industry Act 1997 and Water Act 1989, residents require the consent for grey water systems
from the relevant water authorities. Council do have jurisdiction if a grey-water system is causing a
nuisance to health or the environment under the Health Act 1958 and the Environmental Protection
Act.
This action may require approximately 6 months for Council to investigation options, draft policies and
obtain Council approval. The EPA’s publication 812.1 ‘Reuse options for household wastewater’ may
be helpful for Council to determine options.
3.5.4
Undertake flood management investigations
Flood management investigations should be carried out for towns within floodplains such as Lexton.
Development of on-site systems within floodplains poses potentially severe environmental risk from
effluent surcharge in the event of a flood. Investigation should determine how to minimise/prevent
further effluent fields within floodplain areas. This action is estimated to take approximately 3 months
and should be done in consultation with the relevant CMAs.
Page 10
3.6
Regulation and Enforcement
The compliance program will require regulation and enforcement to ensure that requirements are
being met and provision is made for cases of non-compliance.
Possible methods of enforcement are detailed below:
3.6.1
Local Laws or policies for enforcement
Pyrenees may be able to apply a local law or policy, which gives Council power to act in an event that
an offence has been committed. The use of local laws or local policy may ensure that residents
maintain their on-site systems.
If no such local law exists for Pyrenees, a new local law could be created. To determine if this is a
feasible option the council should:
•
Obtain legal advice to determine if it is possible for the Council to make a new local law or add to
an existing one
•
Obtain legal advice to ensure that the proposed local law is not conflicting with any other Act
•
Create a local law that requires septic tank owners desludge their septic every 3 years and
requires AWT owners to have inspections of their system undertaken on a quarterly basis.
•
A provision should also be included for all other types of approved wastewater systems that
require routine maintenance
•
Include a requirement for installation/maintenance/certification certificates to be forwarded to
council
•
Include a section that requires residents to connect to reticulated sewer where it is available.
It is estimated that it may take up to a year to undertake this action particularly if a new local law is
created. This task would require input from a solicitor to provide advice to the EHO.
3.6.2
Issuing of Monetary Fines
Introducing monetary fines for those not complying with council requirements is another method for
ensuring on-site systems are maintained as required. The fines can be done independent of, or with
support of, local laws. Fines must be supported by local policy. Fines must be collected for this action
to be effective.
Implementing and maintaining a system of using monetary fines is likely to require the appointment of
a full time enforcement officer. This could also be contracted out by the council. This action is
estimated to take approximately 2 months to establish.
Page 11
4.0
Issuing of Permits
The planning, building and septic tank permit issuing system at the Pyrenees Shire Council is
satisfactory, however the current system only requires some planning applications to be referred
internally. Under the Planning and Environmental Act 1987 all planning applications must referred to
internally and/or externally as appropriate. Therefore to ensure that applications relating to on-site
systems are captured, it should be routine for all planning applications to be sent to the EHO and
building departments for comment. This could be done through weekly departmental meetings with
the relevant departments (Action 2.5.5).
4.1
Planning Permits
As stated above, ALL applications for planning permits must be referred to the Environmental Health
Office for comment. This includes sub-divisions and excising existing houses.
It is the responsibility of the Environmental Health Officer to ensure that wastewater is considered at
earliest stage during any project. The Environmental Health Officer could indicate which planning
applications require connection to existing sewers if considered reasonable.
4.2
Building Permit
Within Township Zones, a planning permit is not required, thus management of wastewater on-site
must be considered when the building permit is received.
It is current practice within the council for the permit to install a septic tank to be received and granted
prior to building approval.
4.3
Septic Tank Permit
It is current practice within the council for a septic tank permit to be received and considered prior to a
building permit being granted.
Page 12
5.0
5.1
Prospective Residents
To ensure that properties are not sold with failing wastewater systems, council is strongly encouraged
to make available information to prospective purchasers regarding the need to inspect properties,
including septic tanks prior to purchase. It may be useful to have a ‘Prospective Residents’ section
available on the Council website, which would include raising awareness of septic tank requirements.
This action may take approximately 1 month to complete. Further, this information should be sent
within the new residents’ kit when a property is purchased (Action 6.2.2). This should be sent out with
the rates, which would require coordination with the Rates Department.
Page 13
6.0
Education
6.1
Education
Education is required to ensure that Council officers, existing home owners and new home owners are
aware of their obligations with respect to containment of wastewater on-site. While Pyrenees Shire is
a progressive council and much of the community has already been educated on the importance of
appropriate wastewater management, the introduction of a compliance program will require further
community eduction and consultation.
Education must take a number of forms to ensure that it reaches the widest possible audience, and
that its contents are understood. This section explores some forms of an education program. The
Smart Septics handbook entitled ‘Keeping your Backyard Healthy’ provides Council with useful
material which can be readily adopted.
Continued education is required to ensure that there is continued management of on-site wastewater
systems. Suggested formats include:
•
Initial education program for owners of existing on-site wastewater systems
•
Further education and engagement for high priority town(s) eg. Snake Valley
•
Education pack for new residents
•
Information for people building a new home
•
Community workshops
•
Council officer education
6.2
Initial Education Program
6.2.1
Press Releases and Advertisements
A press release must be used to inform residents of the implementation of the DWMP and how it will
impact them. Follow up advertising would then be required to formally release the DWMP and provide
further details.
The press releases / advertisements should contain information on:
•
Why a Domestic Wastewater Management Plan has been implemented
•
Requirements under the State Environmental Protection Policy (Waters of Victoria) for a
compliance program
•
Council’s obligations
•
Resident’s obligations
Examples of press releases have been included in Appendix C.
This action is projected to take approximately 1 month.
6.2.2
Information packs for all households
The Pyrenees Shire Council has indicated that it plans to send out information packs to new owners,
but is yet to implement this plan. Residential kits should include the following:
•
What is onsite wastewater management and how does it operate
Page 14
•
What does the householder need to do to ensure if operates effectively (i.e. chemical usage etc)
•
What management is required, cleaning etc.
•
Integrated water cycle management
•
List of certified LCAs, servicing agents and plumbers
•
Water saving practices
•
Contact details for further information
•
Financial assistance information
•
A flowchart detailing the septic tank application process
•
A list of approved EPA wastewater systems
•
Forms for planning, septic systems and building applications
While it is likely that residents will already understand the operation and maintenance of the
wastewater system, the compliance program is a new element, and thus all information should be
supplied to the resident for a complete understanding.
These packs could be varied for the following situations:
•
New house
•
Potential owners
•
Sellers
•
General information for the public
The flyer could be distributed in a number of ways including:
•
Posting to all residents with septic tanks
•
Posting on community notice boards in towns and council run club rooms
•
Easily accessible via Council website or individual town websites
The flyer could simply be a modified version of the existing Managing your Septic Tank pamphlet
which includes the extra information regarding the compliance program.
Examples of flyers can be seen within Appendix C.
The following are suggested methods for informing new owners of their responsibilities:
•
Include standard pamphlet with ALL information sent out during the Cooling Off Period of a
property sale. During the “cooling off period” solicitors/Conveyance officers request one of the
three pieces of documentation. These are:
-Planning Certificate
-Building Certificate
-Land Information Certificate (i.e. evidence that the rates have been paid)
Council must provide information to all prospective property owners, regardless of whether they
are in a sewered district or not, to cover any liability issues.
•
Send pamphlet out when council’s Rates Department informed of property sale. As the council
plans to include this information into the Open Office database, this could be an effective
reminder to inform new owners.
The revision of existing information is projected to take approximately 2 months
Page 15
6.3
Further Education
6.3.1
Educating Council staff
Council Officers must understand the requirements for septic tank management under relevant Codes
of Practise and both the EPA Act and the State Environment Protection Policy (SEPP) Waters of
Victoria. Officers must be informed of their obligations with respect to:
•
Septic Tank Code of Practice, including set-backs from waterways
•
Land Capability Assessment Code of Practice and the interpretation of an LCA to ensure it is
written in accordance with the Australian Standard
•
SEPP, including management of existing systems and planning for future connection of new
developments on the fringes of sewered towns
•
EPA Act, including reporting to the EPA
Education of Council is imperative, in particular, staff answering general enquiries relating to planning
or building certificates must understand the importance of on-site wastewater management. Staff
should be well informed on such information as, but not be limited to:
•
General information on residents options for wastewater systems
•
Where they can obtain further information from
•
Basic information on how an application is assessed
•
Some basic information and reasons why applications are rejected
This action may require half a day of training.
Page 16
7.0
Referrals
7.1
Referral authorities
Referrals to responsible authorities are required by Council under the planning scheme.
To improve communication with the referrals authorities, the following actions could be undertaken:
•
Hold regular annual meetings with each referral authority. The purpose of this meeting would be
to introduce officers and resolution of reoccurring issues (approximately 1 week to prepare
information, 3 hour meeting)
•
Develop standard referral letter from Council. This letter would contain a checklist of reasons that
the application was referred (approximately 1 day to develop).
Page 17
8.0
To provide an equal opportunity for all residents to maintain their onsite wastewater systems,
provisions must be made to assist those in need of funding. Funding sources require investigation.
8.1.1
Investigate wastewater subsidy/low-interest loans for applicable residents
Pyrenees Shire should consider introducing a subsidy for low income earners and pensioners to assist
with maintaining their systems and upgrading when required. To allow a subsidy program to be
developed the council must:
•
Develop guidelines as to who will be applicable for a subsidy (eg. those who receive a rates
rebate)
•
Establish the amount of the subsidy for each type of work that may be required
•
Develop application forms for the subsidy
•
Determine the source from which council will collect the subsidy funds
It has been reported by All Brands Servicing that it costs approx $70 to have an AWT serviced
equating to $280 per year. FR Butler and Sons reported that it costs approximately $240 to pump out
a septic tank.
Implementing low interest loans is a way of encouraging those who would like to update their systems
but have not previously done so due to financial reasons. Low interest loans could be gained through
lobbying a community bank such as the Bendigo Bank that uses its profit to benefit the community.
This action may require 12 months to complete including research, consultation and implementation
time.
Page 18
9.0
Population growth within Pyrenees Shire Council is expected. With good planning, the majority of
issues pertaining to effluent management via on-site wastewater systems can be avoided. The aims
of such planning relate to the containment of development and the restriction of subdivision in areas
which cannot suitably treat the expected effluent loads.
The following actions will assist with future effluent management:
•
Establish predicted growth areas within the Shire, particularly on the fringes of sewered towns
•
Educate those building new homes of responsibilities for on-site wastewater management
As the Pyrenees municipality population is gradually growing, Council must establish a policy for
predicted growth areas. This must include mapped areas where additional residences can be
accommodated. This is to be developed in conjunction with servicing authorities. The plan must
include agreements with the servicing agents such as:
•
development will not occur outside the established growth areas and
•
those properties within the growth area must connect to existing infrastructure
For towns with no existing or planned sewerage infrastructure, a growth plan is required to ensure that
additional residences within the town do not negatively impact on the future of the town, particularly
with respect to management of wastewater on-site. This task could potential require 1 year for plans to
be developed.
Page 19
Appendix A – Flowchart to evaluate LCA Applications
Page a
Checklist for LCA Approval
Question
1
Question
2
Does the planned site violate any conditions of the Primary Data on the overlay map (1st layer)?
Yes
No
An onsite wastewater system cannot be located on
this site
Go to Question 2
Does the planned site violate any conditions of the Secondary Data on the overlay map (2nd layer)?
Yes
No
Council Conditions must be met. Go to Question 3
Go to Question 3
Question
3
Is the LCA Consultant an approved Council assessor?
Yes
No
Go to Question 4
Either:
Assessor required to
go through approval
process
Assessment required
to be redone
Once one of these has been done, go to Question 4
Question
4
Has the LCA provided all of the compulsory data fields?
Yes
No
Go to Question 5
Assessor required to complete all the compulsory data
fields before LCA can be assessed.
Once compulsory data fields have been completed, go
to Question 5
Question
5
Has site inspection been undertaken for this LCA?
Yes
No
Go to Question 6
Site inspection required to be done.
Once site inspection has been completed,
go to Question 6
Question
6
Has a test pit at the proposed effluent field been dug and assessed?
Yes
No
Go to Question 7
Is it impractical or inappropriate to dig a test pit at the
proposed effluent field location?
Yes
A confirmatory bore hole as per AS1547-2000
standard, section 41C31.2 is required before
proceeding to Question 7
Question
7
No
Test pit is required to be dug before proceeding to
Question 7
What type of effluent disposal has been recommended as the preferred option?
ETA/ETS System
Trenches and beds
Evapo-transpirationabsorption / Evapotranspiration-seepage
Irrigation
systems
Mounds
Go to Question 8
(pg. 3)
Go to Question 9
(pg. 5)
Go to Question 10
(pg. 6)
Go to Question 11
(pg. 8)
Question
8
Trenches and beds: which category is the soil texture?
Category 1
Gravels and sand
Category 1 soils require special design and
distribution techniques to help achieve even
distribution of effluent over the full design
surface. Has this been recommended?
(These soils have low nutrient retention
capacities, often allowing accession of
nutrients to groundwater)
Yes
Go to Question 8a
Category 2
Sandy Loams
Is the permeability (Ksat) > 3.0/d?
Category 3
Loams
and
Category 4
Clay Loams
Are special design requirements and
distribution techniques proposed?
No
Yes
Special design
and distribution
techniques
required (eg.
Pump distribution
system), or else
select another
effluent disposal
This soil type requires:
special design and
distribution techniques
to help achieve even
distribution of effluent
over the full surface.
These soils have low
nutrient retention
capacities, often
allowing accession of
nutrients to
groundwater.
If this has been
recommended, go to
Question 8a. If not,
special design and
distribution techniques
required (eg. Pump
distribution system), or
else select another
effluent disposal.
No
Go to Question 8a
Go to Question 8a
Category 5
Light Clays
and
Category 6
Medium to Heavy Clays
Are special design requirements and
distribution techniques and / or soil
modification proposed?
Yes
No
Go to Question 8a
Reject the use of
trenches and
beds. Consider
ETA / ETS
systems
(or other effluent
disposal
methods), or soil
modifications
and / or design
requirements.
8a
Is the soil sodic or display shrink / swell behaviour?
Yes
No
Go to Question 8b
Specialist design sought
8b
Is the soil depth >1.2m below the bottom of the trench?
Yes
No
Go to Question 8c
Reject the use of trenches and bed. Consider another system.
8c
Is the slope of the site > 25%
Yes
No
Go to Question 12 (pg. 9)
Council condition to use erosion control measures, regrading
of site or other treatment options. Go to Question 12 (pg. 9)
Question
9
ETA / ETS (Evapo-transpiration-absorption / Evapo-transpiration-seepage): Which Category is the Soil?
Category 1 - Gravels and Sand
Category 4 - Clay Loams
Category 2 - Sandy Loams
Category 5 - Light Clays
Category 3 - Loams
Category 6 - Medium to Heavy Clays
ETA / ETS systems unsuitable (not normally used) for these soil types. Choose an alternative
system.
Go to Question 9a
9a
Is the soil depth > 1.2m below the bottom of the trench?
Yes
No
Go to Question 9b
Reject the use of ETA / ETS system. Consider another
system
9b
Is the slope of the site < 5%?
Yes
No
or other site treatment options. Go to Question 14 (pg. 11)
Question
10
Irrigation Systems: Is a spray irrigation system proposed?
Yes
No
Is there potential for the spray to contact humans or animals, or areas normally occupied by
humans or animals?
Go to Question 10a
Yes
No
Reject the use of spray irrigation. Use
another type of irrigation system or
alternative effluent disposal method
Ensure boundaries are controlled at all
times and signed to deter access Comply
with AS1319)
10a
Which category is the soil texture?
Category 3 - Loams
Council conditions to recommend controls to prevent nutrients
reaching groundwater, if not recommended in LCA, go to
Question 10b
Go to Question 10b
10b
Is the soil depth > 0.4m below dripline?
Yes
No
Go to Question 10c
Reject the use of irrigation systems. Consider use of mounds.
10c
Is the proposed system subsurface or surface irrigation?
Subsurface
Surface
Go to Question 10d
Go to Question 10e (pg. 8)
10d
Is the slope of the site > 25%
Yes
No
of site or other treatment options. Go to Question 14 (pg 11)
10e
Is the slope > 6%
Yes
No
of site or other treatment options. Go to Question 14 (pg. 11)
Question
11
Mounds: Which category is the soil texture?
Category 3 – Loams
Go to Question 11a
Council conditions to require special soil modification requires to improve effluent absorption.
Go to Question 11a
a
Is the slope > 15%
Yes
No
Go to Question 11b
of site or other treatment options. Go to Question 11b
b
Question
12
Is the water table depth > 0.6m below the bottom of mound?
Yes
No
Reject the use of mounds. Consider using an irrigation
system.
What is the permanent population at the residential site?
Calculate the design daily flow (Q)
Q = 200 L/P X population
= ____ L/d
Go to Question 13
Question
13
Calculate the trench and bed dimension to ensure adequate sizing:
What is the proposed effluent disposal field area in m2?
A=LXW
What is the Design Loading Rate (DLR) in mm/d?
Check that:
A (L X W) > Q
DLR
True
False
Go to Question 14
Council condition to require an increase in area required.
Go to Question 14
Question
14
Box 15
Check the DLR is below the maximum:
System
Category 1
Gravel and Sand
Category 2
Sandy Loams
Category 3
Loams
Category 4
Clay Loams
Category 5
Light Clays
Category 6
Heavy Clays
Trenches and Bed
< 50 mm/d
< 50 mm/d
< 50 mm/d
< 30 mm/d
< 12 mm/d
N/A
ETA / ETS
N/A
N/A
N/A
< 12 mm/d
< 8 mm/d
< 5 mm/d
Irrigation Systems
< 35 mm/d
< 35 mm/d
< 28 mm/d
< 25 mm/d
< 20 mm/d
< 15 mm/d
Mounds
< 32 mm/d
< 24 mm/d
< 24 mm/d
< 16 mm/d
< 8 mm/d
N/A
True
False
OK. Go to Box 15
Council condition to reduce DLR. Go to Box 15
Council to issue permit with required conditions
Appendix B – Certified Agent List
Page b
“The Mill” 15 Hopetoun Street, Bendigo
PO Box73
3
, Bendigo Vic3552
hea
lth@bendigo.
v
ic
.
gov
.
a
u
Telephone:
(
0
3
)54
3
46
3
33
F
a
c
s
imile:
(
03)54
3
46
3
09
TTY:
(
0
3)543
46
4
60
SERVI
CI
NG AGENTS:W ASTEW ATER
TREATMENTPLANTS
Updated:October,2004
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City of Greater Bendigo
PO Box733,Bendigo Vic3552
Appendix C – Example Advertisements, Flyers and Press
Releases
Page c
A list of the EPA permit conditions can be found at
www.epa.vic.gov.au
The Environment Protection Authority (EPA) together with the City of
Greater Bendigo, develop permit conditions to ensure that the system
is correctly maintained to minimise the potential impact on public
health and the environment.
Are You Aware Of Your
Responsibilities As An Owner Of
A Wastewater Treatment System?
The third compartment allows the settling of more solids. In some
systems, the solids are returned to the first compartment to
recommence the treatment process. The final compartment disinfects
the wastewater directly through Chlorination. The treated water is
acceptable for distribution through sub-surface and surface irrigation.
This means it can be used on your garden.
The first compartment is much like a conventional septic tank, where
the break down of solids commences. In the second compartment the
wastewater comes in direct contact with air. Aerobic bacteria help to
improve the quality of the water.
Most wastewater treatment systems are comprised of four separate
compartments, unlike the standard septic tank system that contains
only two.
How Does Your
System Work?
A properly maintained system provides a valuable water resource for
your garden and reduces the adverse health impacts on yourself,
neighbours and the environment.
The aim of this brochure is to inform you, the property Owner about
your responsibilities of owning a Wastewater Treatment System.
City of Greater Bendigo’s Guide
to Maintaining Your Wastewater
Treatment Plant.
o
o
o
o
o
o
o
o
o
o
o
o
The first compartment of your system must be desludged at
least once every three (3) years. And then backfilled with
water.
An alarm system with suitable visual and/or audio must be
installed in an appropriate location to indicate a failure of
any effluent pump or aeration component.
These systems can only be used in an unsewered area.
Once sewer is available this system must cease to operate
and all waste water is to be connected to sewer, unless the
treated effluent can be beneficially reused.
The capacity of the system is approved for a domestic
wastewater flow not exceeding 2000 Litres/day, and an
organic loading not exceeding 600 grams Biochemical
Oxygen Demand per day.
Maintenance of the systems by an accredited person or
servicing agent must be carried out at least once every
three (3) months in accordance with Council Specifications.
A list of Servicing Agents can be obtained from the City of
Greater Bendigo.
Effluent from your system must be analysed on an annual
basis in accordance with EPA’s “A guide to sampling and
Analysis of Waters, Wastewaters, Soils and Wastes”. This
must be taken and tested by a person or laboratory
registered by the National Association of Testing Authorities
(NATA). Contact the City of Greater Bendigo for a list of
registered persons or laboratories.
Copies of the maintenance reports and analytical effluent
tests must be submitted to Council within 14 days of the test
results being received. The reports may be submitted either
by yourself or the servicing agent.
No stock or vehicular traffic is permitted over the surface
irrigation area.
All stormwater shall be diverted away from the irrigation
area.
The irrigation area must be operated so as to prevent any
run off of recycled water from the premises.
Should at any time the Waste Water Treatment Plant and/or
Surface Irrigation not operate in accordance with the EPA
Certificate of Approval, Septic Tanks Code of Practice or
the permit to install by the City of Greater Bendigo, then
further works will be required.
No modifications or variations to the system may be made
unless approved by the EPA and the City Of Greater
Bendigo
Did You Know?
o
o
o
o
o
o
Surface irrigation must be a permanent, dedicated area that
cannot be altered without the City Of Greater Bendigo
consent.
A minimum of three separate surface areas should be
established to ensure adequate distribution of effluent
water. To achieve best results, it is important that some
areas are ‘rested’ rather than receiving constant, regular
wastewater flows.
Recycled water is not to be used for growing fruit or
vegetables.
Individual garden beds must be adequately mulched to a
minimum depth of 100mm and planted with suitable effluent
water tolerant plants.
Surface irrigation beds should be built up above natural
ground level with good quality imported soil and should
ideally be edged.
For further information about irrigation area options, refer to
the City of Greater Bendigo’s “Guidelines for surface
irrigation from wastewater treatment plants”.
Responsibilities for
Effluent Irrigation.
Reproduced image of a Septech Turbojet 2000 with the permission of Septech
Industries Australia.
The following is a diagram of a Wastewater treatment plant
√
√
√
√
√
√
√
Environment Protection Authority- www.epa.vic.gov.au
City of Greater Bendigo- www.bendigo.vic.gov.au
For more information call Environmental Health at the City
of Greater Bendigo or visit the following web sites.
Use soapy water to clean your toilet and
fixtures as strong detergents, disinfectants and
bleaches will kill off the bacteria in your
system.
Do not leave taps running for long periods of
time.
Only use detergents that have a low Alkaline
and Chlorine level.
Minimise the amount of fats, food scraps and
oil entering the system by using a sink strainer.
Odours may be experienced after a significant
amount of use; this can be reduced by flushing
a cup of garden lime down the toilet.
Plant adequate vegetation which is tolerant to
effluent water. A list of these plants can be
obtained from the City of Greater Bendigo or
contact your local plant nursery for advice.
Ensure that only registered Plumbers and
Drainers undertake alterations to your system,
and that any works undertaken are in
accordance with the City Of Greater Bendigo
permit.
Hints And Tips To Best
Manage Your System:
Updated:November 2004
PO Box733,Bendigo Vic3552
health@bendigo.vic.gov.au
Telephone:(
03)54346333
Fac
s
imile:(
03)54346309
TTY:(
03)54346460
“The Mill”15Hopetoun Street,Bendigo
Environmental Health
CityofGreater Bendigo
Owner’s Guide to
Wastewater
Treatment Plants
Mornington Peninsula Shire
Page 1 of 5
A guide to your Septic Tank &
Waste Water disposal system
As an owner of a septic system you are responsible for ensuring your septic system is safe, works efficiently and
is not causing any harm to the environment. A failing septic system can be a health hazard to you, your family
and the community. These guidelines will show you how to manage your septic system safely. It contains helpful
information about how a septic system works, the different types of septic systems installed around the
Mornington Peninsula Shire, trouble-shooting, and looking after your septic system.
A 20 minute do it yourself, once a year, septic checklist has been attached which will help determine if a septic
problem exists.
As a septic owner you are responsible for:
• Keeping the system well maintained
• Ensuring the system is checked regularly
• Getting the septic tank pumped (desludged) every 3 years
• Maintaining your absorption, field if you have an onsite absorption trench
• Complying with the councils requirements and permit conditions
The council is responsible for:
• Helping people ensure their septic system is working well
• Environmental monitoring of all the septic systems in the council area
• Providing advice
• Regulating the installation, operation and maintenance of septic systems
• Monitoring and reporting on the overall impact of effluent from septic systems
How does
your Septic
Tank work?
When you flush the toilet, have a shower or wash the dishes where does the water go? After
doing these activities the water is dirty and needs to be treated.
The water runs from these fixtures through pipes into a septic tank. Your septic tank is a living
http://www.mornpen.vic.gov.au/content/content.asp?cid=674&tid=674&tpid=511&si... 14/02/2006
Page 2 of 5
ecosystem where bacteria breakdown and digest the waste within the dirty water.
The bacteria process the dirty water to produce 3 layers within the septic tank:
1. A layer of fats (called scum) which floats to the surface. This scum seals the wastewater
and prevents any air from entering. More importantly to you it prevents odours from escaping.
2. A clear layer called effluent. This is the treated dirty water that the bacteria have been
breaking down. As new dirty water enters, the treated effluent flows out of the tank through an
outlet pipe. From the outlet pipe the water is further treated or disposed of using onsite or
offsite methods
3. A layer of solids, which sinks to the bottom, referred to as sludge. These are heavy solids
which can’t be treated.
You may
have a Split
System
installed
A split system is where wastewater from your kitchen, bathroom and laundry flow to a
separate tank called the grease trap. Wastewater from your toilet, which contain more solids
flows to a septic tank.
Grease traps are a similar system to that of a septic tank except that the sludge layer is
absent. Grease traps are designed to filter the fat, oil & grease from the wastewater
discharged from commercial and domestic properties.
As the wastewater flows through, the grease floats to the surface and is collected as scum.
Every 3 years the contents have to be sucked out and disposed of. For commercial kitchens
removing the grease is required every 3 months. Without regular pumping, grease may build
up in the pipes and drains, creating nasty smells, back-ups and blockages.
In some
cases,
further
treatment is
required
after the
Septic Tank
The effluent from the septic tank still contains large amounts of dissolved pollutants such as
salts and nutrients. It may also contain disease-causing pathogens. The soil type and the
depth of the water table on your property can be a sign of whether you need further treatment.
The effluent, if left untreated, could seriously pollute the surrounding ecology. It may need
further treatment to ensure that the effluent doesn’t cause harm. Below are the two most
common types of systems in the Mornington Peninsula Shire.
• Sand Filters: From the septic tank the effluent enters the top of the filter, percolates through
the filter and is collected for disposal at the bottom of the filter. Sand filters catch suspended
solids and provide an aerobic environment, which encourage bacteria that digest waste and
reduce pollution. Replacement of sand within the sand filter is required every 5 years
• Mechanical Treatment Plant or Aerated Wastewater Treatment System: The effluent
from the septic tank leads to a second tank where oxygen is bubbled through the effluent to
encourage aerobic bacteria. The effluent is then chlorinated before being pumped out into
trenches or drip irrigators. People using these systems are required to have quarterly
maintenance servicing by their private contractor.
After this treatment has occurred the effluent must be satisfactorily disposed of.
What
happens to
Waste Water
after further
treatment
Onsite discharge
The council’s policy is to contain all wastewater onsite. Generally this is done in absorption
trenches. The absorption trench is where the effluent flows after all other treatment. An
archway or perforated pipe is laid on gravel trench and covered with soil. Effluent seeps
through the archway or pipe and is absorbed by the soil. Soil processes further treat the
effluent reducing pollutants and pathogens.
Page 3 of 5
Offsite discharge
This process is rarely permitted now. Offsite discharge means that the effluent is disposed of
off the property, pumped from the secondary treatment process through to the stormwater
which flows into the waterways. It is imperative that the wastewater at this stage has been
treated efficiently so as not to pollute. Regular testing of the water discharged from your
property is required. An analysis report will enable you to know whether your septic is causing
harm to the environment.
On Site Methods of Disposal
How do I
know if my
Septic is
failing?
Your septic may need attention if any of these conditions occur:
• A rotten egg smell is noticed around your septic system.
• There is prolific green grass around your absorption trenches or discharge pipe.
• The ground is damp or soggy around absorption trenches.
• The toilet or drains are slow to clear.
• The toilet is flushed and the water seal is sucked through.
• The septic has not been checked in over 12 months.
• The septic has not been desludged in 3 years.
What are
common
causes of
Septic
System
problems?
• The tank contains too much scum and sludge
Solid scum and sludge form at the top and the bottom of the tank as the effluent passes
through. The solids don’t move from the tank. It just begins to build up. This is the reason the
tank needs to be pumped regularly. If the tank doesn’t get pumped out wastewater with solids
will flow out of the tank untreated. This will cause problems with your absorption trenches,
pumps, sand filters, or if you have an offsite discharge flow untreated effluent into our
waterways. Garbage disposal units add considerably to the amount of solids entering your
system
Solution: Desludge your system every 3 years, more frequently if there is heavier usage.
Newly pumped out septic tanks should be filled with water and a handful of lime added to
prevent odours. If a garbage disposal unit is installed regular desludging is imperative.
• Overloading the system with water
Too much water causes the wastewater to flow too quickly through the tank before the
bacteria have a chance to break it down. This can result in clogging of absorption trenches
due to solids being pushed through the system. This is common in holiday homes, where the
system is not used for most of the year and then overloaded during the peak holiday season
Solution: Use less water.
Page 4 of 5
• Tank too full
If you have a septic tank and absorption trench the level in the tank should not be higher than
the outlet. If you have a pump out system, the pump should be no more than 2/3 full. Failure of
the pump will cause odours and eventually breakdown of absorption system.
Solution: If level of tank is higher than the outlet get your system pumped. If pump has broken
down immediate repair or replacement is essential
• Protect the septic drainage field
Flooded drain fields are not only smelly messy nuisances but can spread diseases and
contaminate drinking water. Building structures, planting trees, parking vehicles or allowing
animals to graze can cause detriment to your absorption trench. Do not cover absorption
trench with concrete or pavers or let children play on absorption trenches.
Solution: Don’t water the garden or wash the car near the absorption trench.
Small shrubs and plants may be grown over the absorption or sand filter area. Root systems
from large trees can crack pipes and should be avoided.
The following are suitable for growing over absorption trenches:
CANNAS
JAPANESE IRISES
LEYCESTERIA
JAPANESE ANEMONES
HELENIUMS
DWARF SALVIA
N.Z. FLAX
HOSTA
HEMBROCALLIS
SPRENGELIA
KALMIA ANGUSTIFOLIA
ZENOBIA
BAURA SESSILIFLORA
BONFIRE SALVIA
MELALUCA GIBBOSA
• Toxic chemicals going into system
Chemicals like paints, solvents, oils, disinfectants, pesticides etc can kill the helpful bacteria in
your septic system. The bacteria help breakdown the effluent. The loss of bacteria stops it
digesting effluent.
Solution: Switch to bio-degradable or natural cleaners if possible, and use smaller
amounts. Bicarbonate of soda and vinegar are good alternatives.
Maintenance
Attention to the care and maintenance of your septic system can prevent problems and save
the cost of repair and early replacement.
At least once a year, inspection covers over your septic tank should be removed to determine
the depth of the scum and sludge. Tanks should not be washed or disinfected after the sludge
and the scum has been pumped out, but simply refilled with water to reduce odours on start
up. A small amount of sludge should be left in the tank to re-establish bacterial action.
A final point concerns the frequency of de-sludging. It is important to have the sludge depth
checked at least annually. Many homeowners may be reluctant to perform this operation. It
may be best carried out by a contractor.
For further
advice
please
• EPA: (03) 9794 0677 or at www.epa.vic.gov.au
• The Mornington Peninsula Shire: +61 3 5950 1050
• Your local drainer: look in yellow pages under Drainers
contact:
Page 5 of 5
• Septic tank specialists: look in yellow pages under Septic
Septic Systems
INFORM ATION TO HOUSEHOLDERS ON
THE OPERATION AND M AINTENANCE
Advice on Use:
A septic tank system should operate trouble free by following these simple directions.
To reduce sludge building up in the tank:
x Scrape all dishes to remove tea leaves,fats,grease etc before washing
x Use a sink strainer to restrict food scraps entering the septic system.
x Don’
t use a garbage disposal unit
x Don’
t put sanitary napkins,disposable nappies and other hygiene products into the system
To keep bacteria working in the tank:
x Use soapy water to clean toilets & other fixtures
x Use detergents that have low phosphorus,alkaline salts & chlorine levels
x Use detergents in the recommended quantities
x Don’
t use bleaches,whiteners,nappy soakers,spot removers,degreasers and disinfectants
x Don’
t put chemicals or paint down the drain
To reduce volume of effluent requiring disposal:
x Install water conservation fittings
x Take showers instead of baths
x Only wash clothes when there is a full load
x Only use the dishwasher when there is a full load
x Spread water use as evenly as possible throughout the week. The septic system is unable to cope
with large volumes of water over short periods.
Advice on Maintenance:
Septic tank:
x De-sludge the septic tank at least every three years or when the scum and sludge occupy 2/3 of the
volume of the tank
x Protect the tank from vehicles
x Have any grease trap cleaned out regularly
x Keep the vent and/or access cover of the septic tank exposed
x Have any outlet filter inspected and cleaned
x If there are offensive odours coming from the system,flushing garden lime through the toilet often
corrects the problem
x Treatment plants must be serviced in accordance with the permit conditions
Land application area:
x Spray or drip irrigation areas are not play areas for children and access should be restricted
x No vehicles or stock should be allowed on trenches or transpiration beds
x Suitable plants should be planted over the drainage field. A list of plants can be obtained from
Nillumbik Council.
x Deep rooting trees or shrubs should not be grown over absorption trenches or pipes.
x Keep surface water diversion drains above and around the land application area clean to reduce
absorption of rainwater into trenches or beds
x Evapo-transpiration and irrigation areas should have their grass mowed and plants maintained to
ensure that these areas take up nutrients with maximum efficiency
x W arning signs for surface irrigation areas should always be visible
x No building works can extend over the effluent trenches or septic tank
x Rotary hoeing can damage effluent trenches
x Do not cover area with clay, plastic sheeting or fill
x Do not construct sheds, swimming pools etc over the area
x Do not construct paths or sealed surfaces over the area
Equipment:
x Follow the manufacturer’s instructions for maintaining and cleaning pumps, filters etc
x Flush drip irrigation lines periodically to scour out any accumulated sediment
x Check pumps, alarms and pits for proper function on a regular basis
x Do not turn the pump off while the system is in use
x Check operation of mechanical treatment plants after power failures and do not turn off power when
going on holidays as continuous operation is essential
Advice on Operating Problems:
Problems can occur if systems are not maintained. W arning signs to look for are:
x
x
x
x
x
Absorption field is wet or soggy with wastewater pooling on the surface
Smell of “sewage”near the septic tank or absorption area
Drains and toilets run slowly
W ater backing up in sink
Grease trap is full or blocked
Advice on the Consequences ofFailure:
x
x
x
x
x
x
Spread of infectious diseases
Breeding of mosquitoes and attraction of flies and rodents
Nuisance and unpleasantness
Pollution of waterways
Contamination of bores, wells and groundwater
Alteration of the local ecology
Advice on Owner/Occupier Responsibilities:
Home owners and occupiers are legally responsible to keep their on-site wastewater system in good
working order. If any of the warning signs are evident, the owner or occupier should contact a plumber
or the Council’s Environmental Health Services Unit.
A permit must be obtained from Council’s Environmental Health Services Unit prior to any alteration or
upgrade of the septic system.
Environmental Health Services 9433 3340
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#ITIZENS
'UIDE
Don’t place sprinkler systems close to or on the leach
field. All surface runoff should be diverted away from
the field to prevent saturation of the soil.
automobiles,
or large
Don’t allow large equipment,
animals on any part of your septic system.
ymes or other
Don’t add yeasts,chemicals,bacteria,enz
substances claiming to eliminate or reduce the solids
and scum in your tank.
Don’t wash or disinfect the tank after pumping.
e or kerosene to thaw a froz
en tank.
Don’t use anti-freez
They will kill the bacteria in the tank and coat the soil in
the leach field,
thus increasing the chance of sealing off
the flow of liquid into the soil. The recommended method
of thawing a tank is with a stock tank heater or septic
tank heater.
Plant grass over the leach field. However,do not plant
shrubs or trees as roots can damage sewer pipes and may
lead to shifting and settling in the field.
Inspect your tank each year.
Outside:
Don’t clean paint brushes or dispose of paint into your septic
system. Latex-based paint will clog sewer pipes and coat the
soil in your leach field. Oil-based paints are toxic and will
diminish the bacteriological action taking place in the tank.
cigarette
Don’t dispose of facial tissue,sanitary napkins,
butts,tampons,paper towels,or excessive amounts of toilet
paper into the septic system. These items will not degrade in
the tank and may clog inlet and outlet pipes.
Keep pumping and service records on the premises,regardless of change of ownership.
1246C.R. 16;
Fairplay,
CO 80440
Mailing address: P.O. Box 216
Ph: 719.836.4267i FAX:719.836.4266
E-mail: vmumm@parkco.us
Park County Environmental Health Department
ero phosphate content or
Laundry Detergent: Choose one with a z
use soap flakes with 1/3cup of washing soda. (
Before switching,
wash clothes in pure washing soda to remove detergent residues.)
Oven Cleaners: Quickly sprinkle salt on drips,then scrub. Use
baking soda and scouring pads on older spills.
Metal Cleaners: For brass and copper scrub with a used half of
lemon dipped in salt. For stainless steel: use a scouring pad and
soapy water. For silver: rub gently with toothpaste and a soft wet
cloth.
use oil soap and warm water.
Furniture/Floor Polishes: To clean,
Dry with a soft cloth. Polish with 1part lemon j
uice to 2parts oil
(
any kind)
,
or use natural products with lemon oil or beeswax in
mineral oil.
Toilet Cleaners:Sprinkle on baking soda or Bon Ami,then scrub
with a toilet brush.
Carpet/Upholstery Cleaners: Sprinkle dry cornstarch or baking
soda on the surface,
then vacuum. For tougher stains,blot with
white vinegar in soapy water.
Scouring Cleaners & Powders: Sprinkle baking soda on a damp
sponge or add 4Tbs. baking soda to 1qt. warm water or use
Bon Ami. It’s cheaper and won’t scratch.
or remove
Drain Decloggers: Use a plunger or metal snake,
and clean trap.
Use a lint filter on your clothes washer.
Regularly check plumbing fixtures. A leaking toilet can add up
to 1000gallons of water each day to your system.
Disinfectants: Use Borax—1/2cup in a gallon of water.
Deodoriz
es also.
Ammonia-Based Cleaners: Sprinkle baking soda on a damp
sponge. For windows,
use a solution of 2Tbs. white vinegar
to 1qt. water. Place the mixture into the spray bottle.
Although their use is not required,the following substitutes
for common household chemicals will reduce the stress on a
septic system and the environment:
Substitutes for Common
Househol
dHaz
ardous Wastes
Use a sink strainer with mesh fine enough to retain coffee
grounds. Limit the use of your garbage disposal.
Wipe greasy dishes with paper before washing to decrease the
amount of grease and soap curd entering the system.
Limit the use of household chemicals. Constant use of bleach,
lyes,
soaps and strong detergents or drain cleaners may reduce
bacterial action and cause rapid accumulation of sludge and
eventual clogging of the leach field.
Inside:
Dos andDon’
ts
ParkCountyEnvironmental
Heal
thDepartment
Seven
Ho
meo
wner
Res
p
o
ns
i
b
i
l
i
t
i
es
Your SepticSystem
necessary to construct a new leach field.
settling, although a considerable amount of biological
t
s
r
q
p
o
Keep records of the system design, location
and maintenance activities (including
pumping dates).
Recognize the value to the property by having a
well-maintained system.
Do not dispose of hazardous household
wastes in the septic system.
Respond to a failing system with required maintenance, particularly when surfacing of effluent
occurs or odors are apparent.
Understand how the system operates, including
knowing what the minimum maintenance requirements are for your particular design.
Locate the tank riser (septic tank lid) and
keep it marked.
be pumped. A list of licensed septic pumpers is available at the Park County Environmental Health Department: 719.836.4267. Be sur
et
odi
g upbot
ht
ankli
ds
dence, the tank should be pumped every 2-4 years.
It all depends on what you put down your septic tank.
(Check the list of Dos and Don’ts on the back of this
surface, and sewage may back up into the plumbing
the soil and will eventually break through the ground
When this happens, effluent no longer filters through
scoured into the leach field and will cause clogging.
close to the bottom of the outlet device, solids will be
sot
he pumperc
anpumpeac
hc
ompar
t
ment
.
capacity of the tank. If more than 1/3, the tank should
or scum is allowed to accumulate. For a full time resi-
brochure.) If either the sludge or scum approaches too
sludge line should be no more than 1/3 of the total
line and the other the total capacity of the tank. The
colorations on the cloth. The lowest will be the sludge
Pull the stick straight out. You will see two distinct dis-
and lower it into the bottom of the tank.
Third, cover a long stick with a rough, white cloth
access to the liquid below.
Second, make a hole in the scum layer so you have
ment of the tank.
Septic tanks should be cleaned before too much sludge
(absorption) field.
Finally, the remaining liquid goes into the leach
First, locate and remove the lid to the first compart-
SES WHICH CANBE FATAL IF INHALED.
sc
um. The middle layer, mostly liquid, flows into the
second compartment where the process repeats itself.
THE TANK AT ANYTIME. SEPTIC TANKS CONTAINGAS-
Grease and hair float to the top and become a layer of
system remains in good working order:
Do regular pumping of the septage from the
septic tank.
when a tank needs pumping. CAUTION: DO NOT ENTER
tank, solids settle to the bottom and form sludge.
Here are seven things you should do to insure your
n
the solid accumulation is the only way to determine
When wastes enter the first compartment of a septic
Although it is an unpleasant task, a yearly inspection of
it is not only essential to clean the tank, but it may be
liquids in sewage. This is primarily a physical process of
decomposition does occur.
fixtures. When a leach field is clogged in this manner,
The function of a septic tank is to separate solids and
The Septic Tank
maintenance, your system should last a long time.
System (ISDS). With reasonable use and periodic
and maintenance of your Individual Sewage Disposal
You, the homeowner, are responsible for the care
Care and maintenance of your
I
ndividual Sewage Disposal
System.
9.1
12.4
15.6
18.9
22.1
25.4
28.6
31.9
750
1000
1250
1500
1750
2000
2250
2500
15.6
14.0
12.4
10.7
9.1
7.5
5.9
4.2
2.6
2.0
10.2
9.1
8.0
6.9
5.9
4.8
3.7
2.6
1.5
3.0
7.5
6.7
5.9
5.0
4.2
3.4
2.6
1.8
1.0
4.0
5.9
5.2
4.5
3.9
3.3
2.6
2.0
1.3
0.7
5.0
4.8
4.2
3.7
3.1
2.6
2.0
1.5
1.0
0.4
6.0
4.0
3.5
3.1
2.6
2.1
1.7
1.2
0.7
0.3
7.0
Household Size (Num berofPeople)
4.0
3.0
2.6
2.2
1.8
1.4
1.0
0.6
0.2
8.0
3.0
2.6
2.2
1.9
1.5
1.2
0.8
0.4
0.1
9.0
2.6
2.3
2.0
1.6
1.3
1.0
0.7
0.3
10.0
Do use phosphate- free detergent to prolong the life of your system.
Do use good q
uality toilet tissue that b
reak
s up easily when wet.
Don’
t deposit c
offee grounds,c
ook
ing fat,diapers,or similar material that does not easily dec
ompose
in to your system.
Don’
t use a garb
age disposal unless you’
re prepared to have your septictankpumped out freq
uently.
x
x
x
x
B
reakup sc
um layer and stir prior to pumping.
S
tir sludge into the liq
uid b
efore pumping.
Pump through the manhole not b
affle inspec
tion ports.
I
nspec
tb
affles at eac
hc
leanout.
x
x
x
x
S
epticT
ankCleaning Tips
Do wash only full loads of laundry and spread out loads to avoid overloading your on-site system.
x
Managing your on-site system begins with a simple awareness of your
householdhabits.
Here are a few “
Do’
s”and“
Don’
ts”to prac
tic
e.
5.8
1.0
500
Tank
Size
(gal)
ESTIMATED SEPTIC TANK PUMPING FREQUENCIES
(IN YEARS)* chart developed by Karen Mancl,Ohio State University
Brown County Health Department
8
2
6Mt.
Orab Pike
Georgetown,
OH4
5
1
2
1
9
3
7
-3
7
8
-6
8
9
2
HighlandCounty Health Department
1
4
8
7N.
High S
t.
,
S
uite 4
0
0
Hillsboro,
OH4
5
1
3
3
9
3
7
-3
9
3
-1
9
4
1
White OakCreekWatershedProj
ec
t
7
0
6S
outh Main S
treet
Georgetown,
OH4
5
1
2
1
9
3
7
-3
7
8
-4
4
2
4ext.
1
2
3
S
eparating Blac
k
water from Graywater.
Reduc
ing Toilet Reservoir Volume and /
or
F
low.
Using F
auc
et Aerators or S
pray Tips.
I
nstalling F
low Restric
tors into S
upply L
ines of
F
auc
ets or S
howers.
Considering Water-S
aving Applianc
es.
Using P
rec
ision Watering/
I
rrigation Eq
uipment.
This Publication was financed in part or totally through a grant from the
Ohio Env
ironmental Protection Agency and the United S
tates Env
ironmental Protection Agency,under the prov
isions of S
ection 3
1
9
(
h)of the
Clean Water Act.
** All the information c
ontainedin this
broc
hure is for general use.Please c
ontac
t your
loc
al health department for all c
ounty spec
ific
s
andloc
al regulations.
**
x
x
x
x
x
x
I
nc
onsideration of the longevity and effec
tiveness of any septicsystem,reduc
tion of the waste
flow must b
e pursued. Therefore,water c
onservation should b
e c
onsidered when b
uilding a
new home or when revitaliz
ing an old one.
Ways to ac
hieve this is b
y:
S
ewage F
low Rate and
“
Low F
low”I
deas
W IT H
W H EN
H O M E SE P T IC SY ST E M S !
DE A L IN G
CO N SIDE R A T IO N S
IN F O R M A T IO N , T IP S &
Tests showing the presence of bacteria in
well water.
x
x Are soils suited for a leaching –type
system?
Types and sizes of absorption systems are based
upon the number of bedrooms in a home and
the types of soils located in the area of the
absorption system.
Absorption System-
A set of trenches 1
8to 3
0inches deep and at
least 8inches wide are ex
cavated to allow for
the placement of a 4 inch perforated tile
embedded in 8inches of clean stone. A layer of
synthetic building fabric is placed on top of the
stone and back filled with native soil. These
trenches clean and absorb the effluent water
from the tank.
Trenches-
x Will the lot be large enough to isolate the water supply from the sewage disposal system?
Make sure not to dispose of certain chemicals, medicines, and left over food (
such as
greases)into your septic system.
Remember your system has an ex
pected
life–span much like the shingles on a roof.
x
x
Septic Tank and Sand
Bioreactor /
Disinfection With
Onsite Irrigation
Very shallow and/ or very slowly
permeable soil.
At least 1
2
"to limiting condition
Regular professional inspections. Leach
lines should be inspected annually to reveal
potential problems and septic tanks should
be inspected every three years and pumped
as needed.
x
Two inspections per year.
Flush lateral lines.
Maintain/replace pump.
Pump septic tank as needed.
Shallow and /or slowly permeable soil.
At least 1
2
'
to limiting condition.
From 3to 1
2
0min./inch percolation rate.
Septic Tank and
Mound System
Two inspections per year.
Flush lateral lines.
Maintain /replace pump.
Add disinfectant.
Collect and analyze effluent.
Pump septic tank as needed.
Install risers and inspection ports to allow
for quick and frequent inspections and
pumping of the tank.
x
One inspection per year .
Alternate fields.
Tank pumped as needed.
Deep, permeable soil.
At least 6
6
"to limiting layer.
From 3to 6
0min./inch Percolation rate.
SYSTEM
Septic Tank and
Leach Field
Be careful when changing landscaping.
Vehicle traffic, misdirected rain water, or
paving over only a portion of the system can
damage it, leading to a malfunction.
x
EXPECTED
MANAGEMENT
Avoid ex
cess water use. Practicing water
conservation can reduce the overworking of
your septic system ex
tending its life.
x
SOIL CONSIDERATIONS
x Don’t plant trees or water - loving plants near the leach field!
x Have you located a source of drinking water?
Baffles are contained within the tank and force
the incoming water to circulate downward
towards the bottom of the tank keeping solids
from floating directly across the top. The outlet
baffle keeps the scum layer from moving into
the soil absorption system.
x Is the on-lot disposal area down slope from the home so effluent can flow by gravity to the leach field?
x Is an area available for the installation of a septic disposal field?
Av
oiding Septic System
Malfunctions
Grass growing faster and greener in
one particular area of the yard.
x
x Is there an adequate soil depth over the limiting layer?
Ground wet or mushy underfoot.
x
x Is the lot large enough to relocate the
leach field if necessary?
Plumbing backups.
x
Sewage odors in the house or yard.
Gurgling sounds in the plumbing.
Slowly draining sinks and toilets.
x
x
Signs of a Failing
Septic System
x
x Is the lot located in a flood hazard
area?
x Does the lot meet minimum Health
Dept. requirements?
x Are there public sanitary sewers in
place?If not, are any planned in the
future?
Home Site /Septic System Considerations
Baffles-
A watertight container constructed of a sound,
durable material that is resistant to corrosion or
decay.
Septic Tank-
Components of a
Conv
entional Septic Tank /
Soil Absorption System
A GUIDE TO
OPERATING & MAINTAINING YOUR
SEPTIC SYSTEM
WHAT YOU NEED TO KNOW...
The way you treat your septic system will
influence how longthe system lasts andhow
well it functions. If you own or rent a
property servedby anon-site sewage system,
you need to think about how your actions
affect the system. You need to be careful
about what substances you flush down the
drain and how often your septic tank is
cleanedout andinspected.
watertight and are buried underground. The
purpose ofthe septic tankis to separate solids
from liquids in the wastewater stream and
begin the process of breaking down
contaminants. Solids settle at the bottom of
the tankandscum floats to the top ofthe tank.
This process occurs without oxygen,so the
tankneeds to be sealed.
Typical leaching Bed System
These decisions will impact on the
effectiveness of your septic system and
makingthe wrongone canleadto expensive
and time consuming problems. Sometimes,
they can also result in harm to the natural
environment or public health by polluting
lakes or contaminating drinking water
supplies.
Inorder to avoidthe inconvenience andcost
associatedwith the repair or replacement ofa
failedseptic system,you shouldknow how to
properly operate and maintain your septic
system.This brochure provides some helpful
advice for property owners about the steps
they can and should take to help their septic
system perform well for years to come.
HOW YOUR SEPTIC SYSTEM WORKS...
A typical on-site sewage system consists of
two major parts:a septic tankanda leaching
bed area. Septic tanks should have two
chambers and are generally constructed of
concrete,steel,fibreglass or polyethylene,are
W astewater from the septic tankthenflows to
the leaching bed area through a distribution
boxor header line.Leachingbeds (sometimes
called tile beds,disposal areas or absorption
areas)consist ofundergroundperforatedpipes
or clay tiles which evenly distribute
wastewater over natural soil or importedfill.
The purpose ofthe leachningbedis to further
treat the wastewater through a process where
bacteria requiringoxygendigest andremove
impurities such as suspended solids,organic
chemicals, viruses and/or bacteria. The
leaching bed disposes of the filtered
wastewater into the natural soil and,
ultimately,into the groundwater.
DO YOU HAVE A SEPTIC SYSTEM ?
Most owners of rural (and some suburban) properties and people who live in small communities
are probably living with a septic system. Almost all cottages or recreational properties also rely
upon on-site sewage disposal. Sometimes, all that can be seen of a septic system is a large
grassed area with no trees, patios or paved areas. In other cases, the leaching bed area may be a
raised mound on the property.
When buying a rural or cottage property, it is important that you or your lawyer determine
whether a septic system exists and that it is working properly (a professional inspection may be
appropriate). If the previous owner does not have a record showing the location of the septic
tank or leaching bed area, you may be able to get it from the local municipal building department,
board of health or conservation authority. If there is a record of the company which installed the
system, the firm may have drawings or site plans showing the location of the system. Firms
which pump septic tanks can also locate access ports.
Once you have a copy of a site plan showing the location of the septic system, make sure you
keep the records up to date and in a safe place for future reference.
COMMON SEPTIC SYSTEM PROBLEMS...
Toilets and Drains are NOT Garbage Cans !
There are a number of common signs of
trouble with septic systems. These include:
Some items you flush down a toilet or pour
down a drain can significantly reduce the
ability of the beneficial bacteria in a septic
toilets or drains which are
backed up or run more slowly
than usual
foul odours in the house or
drinking water
sogginess in the ground around
the septic tank or leaching bed
area
surface flooding of sewage or
septic tank effluent around the
septic system
system to break down and treat domestic
sewage. Harmful chemicals and substances
will kill bacteria and render a septic system
useless.
Bulky or hard-to-break down
products can clog pipes, quickly fill septic
tanks and decrease the effectiveness of the
system. Septic tank additives/starters may be
harmful to septic systems and are not
necessary to begin or continue septic tank
operation.
activated alarm signals (lights
or bells) on sepcial treatment
units
dosing pumps which run
constantly or not at all (Note:
not all systems have pumps)
unusually green or thick grass
growing in or around the
leaching bed area
significant algae growth in or
around nearby lakes or water
bodies
high levels of nitrates, bacteria
or other contaminants in
wellwater
NEVER put the following items or substances
into a septic system:
fats, oils and grease,
gasoline, antifreeze,
varnishes, paints and solvents,
caustic drain and toilet bowl
cleaners,
photographic solutions,
bleach, pesticides,
nail polish remover,
cat box litter,
tampons, sanitary napkins,
diapers, paper towels, facial
tissues, condoms,
plastics,
coffee grounds, egg shells and
other kitchen waste or
cigarette filters.
TIPS ON MAINTAINING YOUR SEPTIC SYSTEM ...
There are a number of steps property owners can take to improve the functioning of their septic
system and extend its life:
conserve water and reduce wasteflow into the system by installing water saving
features in plumbing fixtures, using dishwashers and laundry machines only with full
loads, taking shorter showers rather than full baths, fixing leaky faucets and avoiding
the use of garbage disposal units — too much water will overload a septic system
ensure septic tanks are inspected at least every two years by a qualified person and
pump tanks out at least every 3 - 5 yers (or sooner since frequency depends on
tank/household size). These actions can be combined
do not impair access to the septic tank so that proper maintenance and servicing can
occur
reduce the use of phosphate-based detergents, soaps and cleaners to minimize algae
growth in nearby lakes and rivers. Phosphates can impair water quality and fish
habitat
avoid the construction of parking areas, patios, tennis courts or decks in the area of
or over the leaching bed. The extra traffic or weight can crush pipes or comapct the
soil or fill material. Construction can also limit oxygen from getting into the soil or
fill
have an effluent filter installed in the septic tank to reduce the amount of solids
entering the leaching bed and prevent clogs
do not use snowmobiles over the leaching bed area in winter since this reduces the
natural insulation of the bed provided by the snow cover
avoid planting trees or shrubs on the leaching bed area since roots can clog the
perforated pipes and shade the leaching bed area, thereby limiting evapotranspiration
minimize grass watering around the leaching bed area. Extra water can reduce the
bed’s ability to absorb and treat wastewater from the house
exercise caution about wasteflows from water treatment units, furnace condensate
discharges and water softener back washes. These substances can harm the septic
system, especially in large quantities
direct rainwater runoff from roofs, patios and driveways away from the leaching bed
area and septic tank access ports to avoid system overload.
WHO
SEPTIC
SEPTICS AND THE ONTARIO BUILDING CODE
If you suspect your septic system is not working,
a firm which pumps septic tanks may be able to
identify the nature of the problem and recommend
further action. Alternatively, you can call a
licensed company which installs or repairs septic
systems. In Ontario, septics installers must be
licensed by the Province. These companies must
have qualified people working for them who have
passed an examination administered by the
Ministry of Municipal Affairs and Housing.
Before you hire someone to do work, make sure
they have the right license. Most septics installers
will be listed in the yellow pages section of your
telephone book under “septics”.
As of April 6, 1998, the rules for smaller on-site
septic systems are covered by the Ontario
Building Code (OBC). While these rules are put
in place by the Province of Ontario, local agencies
such as municipal building departments, boards of
health or conservation authorities are responsible
for issuing permits and doing inspections.
DO YOU
PROBLEMS ?
CALL
ABOUT
If you suspect a problem with your system, you
may also want to contact the local agency which
enforces the Ontario Building Code requirements
for septic systems. This may be either your
municipal building department, board of health or
conservation authority. If a septic system needs a
significant repair or replacement, it will be one of
these agencies which will have to issue a building
permit and inspect the work once it is completed.
You can find these agencies listed in the “blue
pages”of the telephone book.
The OBC includes regulations related to the
operation and maintenance of septic systems —
requirements for servicing by qualified people,
wastewater monitoring and sampling, septic tank
pump outs, etc. If you have questions about the
OBC requirements for a new or existing septic
system, you should contact the septics
enforcement agency in your area. If you have
general questions about how the Ontario Building
Code works, you can contact:
Ministry of Municipal Affairs and Housing
Housing Development and Buildings
Branch,
777Bay Street,2nd Floor,
Toronto,ON M5G 2E5
telephone:(416)585-6666or
fax:(416)585-7531
or visit theMinistry’s websiteat:
http://
obc.mah.gov.on.ca
TANK INSPECTION AND CLEANING ...
Having your septic tank inspected regularly is one of the least costly ways to avoid the inconvenience
and expense of doing a major septic system repair. Inspections can determine if the outflow to the
leaching bed is clogged because of a back-up in the tank, if too much solid or scum material is in the
tank or whether the tank needs to be pumped more frequently. Because they contain deadly gases,
septic tanks should only be inspected by firms specializing in this work.
How often you need to pump the tank depends on the size or capacity of the tank, the flow of
wastewater entering the tank and the volume of solids in the wastewater stream. Generally, this
should occur every 3 - 5 years, but factors can change during the life of the septic tank. More people
living in the house or the addition of a high water use appliance can exceed the capacity of the
existing tank, requiring more frequent pump outs.
Summer and early fall are the best times to
pump out a septic tank. Pumping at this
time of the year leaves sufficient time
before winter for the tank to refill and
bacterial activity to become re-established.
As well, the ground around the tank will not
be frozen (allowing easier access) and
higher water tables which typically occur in
the spring will have receded.
NEW SEPTICS TECHNOLOGIES ...
Typical Septic Tank
More and more companies are
developing innovative ways to improve the effectiveness of on-site sewage disposal technology.
Some of these systems add other parts to the traditional septic system, such as pump chambers to
provide more regular or controlled flow of wastewater to the leaching bed area and oxygenenrichment treatment units (sometimes called aerobic treatment units) which add oxygen to the
wastewater to assist bacterial activity.
Other types of pre-treatment units use different materials such as special sands, peat or other filter
materials. These systems are becoming increasingly popular because of the quality of the wastewater
they produce and because they can reduce the overall size of the septic system, especially the
leaching bed area.
The effectiveness of these systems is only as good as the degree to which they are properly
maintained and operated by the property owner. Many have parts which require regular lubrication,
uninterrupted electrical connections, servicing and regular check-ups. Some systems require a
maintenance agreement between the property owner and the manufacturer.
The health of your
septic system and the environment
depends
on
actions!
Even properly functioning systems may
release potentially harmful levels of nitrogen
and synthetic chemicals into the soil and
groundwater if septic systems are misused.
• Nutrient loading of our coastal
and estuarine waters
• Shellfish closures due to fecal
coliform inputs
• Groundwater contamination
• Public health problems
• Expensive repairs and property
damage
In coastal North Carolina, failures may result
in many negative impacts, including:
When septic systems are designed,
constructed and maintained properly, they
are an effective method of treating and
disposing of household wastewater in
coastal North Carolina. In contrast, poorly
planned and maintained systems can fail
and contribute to nonpoint source pollution
and public health concerns.
Why should you be
concerned about
septic systems?
It is critical for each homeowner to consider
the consequences of malfunctioning and
misused septic systems and do what is
necessary to prevent negative impacts.
X copies of this public document were printed
at a cost of $X per copy.
This document was funded in part by the National
Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration and the
North Carolina Division of Coastal Management.
For more information about this and other
publications, contact:
North Carolina National Estuarine
Research Reserve, Education Office
135 Duke Marine Lab Road
Beaufort, NC 28516
(252) 728-2170 • www.ncnerr.org
Promoting informed coastal decisions through
science-based education and training.
COASTAL COMMUNITY SERVICES
A technical paper with more details about
septic systems in coastal NC is available
to the public through:
www.ncnerr.org
Additional information about
septic system health and
other coastal environmental
topics is available through
Coastal Community Services at
INFORMATION CLEARINGHOUSE
Science for Coastal Living Series, No. 1
North Carolina Division of
Coastal Management
North Carolina National Estuarine
Research Reserve
BASICS FOR A HEALTHY
COASTAL ENVIRONMENT
Septic
Systems in
Coastal NC
What You Need to
Know to Protect Your
Investment and
the Environment
Water Conservation
• Reduce the amount of solids added to your
wastewater. The more solids you add, the more
often the tank needs to be pumped and the
higher the risk of drainfield failure.
• Do not add cleaners, yeast, additives or other
chemicals to your tank. These substances
do not eliminate the need to pump your tank
and can push solids out into your drainfield.
They may also contain carcinogens that can
get into our water supplies.
• Protect your drainfield. Do not park on, drive
over or build on top of drainfields. Grassy
vegetation must be maintained to absorb
nutrients from the soil, but trees should be
avoided.
3-5 years. All tanks need to be pumped regularly
by a trained professional to remove solids and
prevent the soil in your drainfield from clogging.
• Inspect and pump your septic tank every
Septic System Shape Up!
fixtures. Leaks can double the amount of
wastewater generated.
• Install low-flow toilets and shower
heads. While some low-flow toilets require
double flushing and should be avoided, there
are many effective and inexpensive toilets
and shower heads that reduce water flow.
• Spread out loads of laundry. Washing
machines can cause hydraulic overload,
especially during and after rain.
• Generally conserve the amount of
water used. Run only full washing machines
and dishwashers, and turn off water when
not in use. In general, the less water you
use in the home, the better your septic
system can function.
• Check for and fix leaks in household
Sludge Layer
Effluent
Liquid
Grease Layer
Output to
Drainfield
• Leaky fixtures - One of the most common causes of septic failure, leaking fixtures can cause
hydraulic overload. Toilets are particularly problematic and should be monitored for leaks.
• Slow drains or backups - If wastewater is slow to drain and your plumbing is working properly, there
may be a problem with backup in your septic tank.
• Garbage disposal - Food grinders can double the volume of solids in your wastewater. This causes
septic tanks to fill faster and requires them to be pumped much more frequently. Disposals should not
be used with septic systems.
INSIDE YOUR HOME:
• Wet spots or standing water - Areas that remain wet after rain events or appear without precipitation
should be investigated, since effluent can seep up from a failing system and puddle on the ground.
• Odd growth patterns - Green lines on your drainfield that follow the path of the pipes are normal;
however, green blobs not in line with pipes, random patches of lush growth and bulls-eye patterns
(dead areas surrounded by green growth) all indicate problems in the drainfield.
• Gutters, downspouts or paved surfaces pointing or draining toward your drainfield - Excess
water on the drainfield saturates the soil and prevents wastewater from being disposed of and treated
properly. All paved surfaces and water-diversion devices should point water away from your drainfield.
• Septic odor - Easy to detect, odor is one of the best problem indicators.
OUTSIDE YOUR HOME:
There are many things to watch for both outside and inside your home that can
indicate septic system problems or failure. Keep in mind, however, that there can
also be problems beneath the land surface that may not be visible. Proper
maintenance and use of septic systems are essential to preventing problems.
Red Flags:
Signs of Septic System Failure
(Adapted from Hoover, M. T. 1997. “SoilFacts: Septic Systems and their Maintenance.” North Carolina Cooperative
Extension Service. http://ces.soil.ncsu.edu/soilscience/publications/Soilfacts/AG-439-13/ Visited 11/9/01.)
Generalized cross-section of a household septic tank
Input from
Home Source
Gases
Effluent Filter
(inside)
PRESS RELEASE one
Launch of Septics Program
An important new education program will be launched today by the......
“The Keeping Your Backyard Healthy: Smart Septic Solutions Program
aims to improve people’s management of their septic system so that it
does not pollute the environment or cause a risk to public health”,
said ......
This multi-media program will be provided to all councils across Victoria.
A range of education materials are included in the program, such as
radio and press advertisements, signage, postcards, information sheets
and face-to -face presentations and workshops.
As well, a guidance document has been developed to help councils to
plan and implement the education program and to evaluate its success.
The program has been developed by the Municipal Association of Victoria
with funding from EPA Victoria through the Victorian Stormwater Action
Program.
“Councils are aware of the local needs of their communities and are best
placed to implement the program at a local level, said .....
“The “Keeping your backyard healthy” program will help those who own
or occupy houses where septics are used to ensure the system continues
working efficiently. It provides information about what not to put into the
toilet or sink and when to get the septic pumped out. Information for new
septic owners on how to get approval is also included”, said......
“A failing septic system can cost thousands of dollars and it is
important for your bank balance and the environment that it continues to
work well,” concluded.....
Keep your backyard healthy.
For more information, contact........
��
��
Council name
Council details
��
��
PRESS RELEASE two
Keeping your Backyard Healthy:
Local Program Launch
An important new education program will be launched today by the......
aims to improve people’s management of their septic system, so it does
not pollute the environment or cause a risk to public health”, said ......
This multi-media education program will be delivered to all residents
of the ....council who own a septic or who may purchase one in the near
future. A range of education materials are included in the program,
such as [Council to amend as required] radio and press advertisements,
signage, postcards, information sheets and face-to-face presentations
and workshops.
The program has been developed by the Municipal Association of Victoria
with funding from EPA Victoria through the Victorian Stormwater Action
Program
The “Keeping your backyard healthy” program will help those who own or
occupy houses where septics are used, to ensure the system continues
working efficiently.
“It provides information about what not to put into the toilet or sink and
when to get the septic pumped out. Information for new septic owners
about how to get approval is also included.
“All of us need to know how to identify problems with our septics. This
program will tell us how. The program will also show how to use the
system wisely.
“A failing system can cost thousands of dollars and it is important for
your bank balance and the health of our communities and environment
that it continues to work well” concluded .....
��
��
Council name
Council details
��
��
PRESS RELEASE three
Keeping your Backyard Healthy:
Council to Educate Community
aims to improve people’s management of their septic system, so it does
not pollute the environment or cause a risk to public health”, said ......
“Today I have pleasure in launching.........” [Council to complete]
“A failing septic system can cost thousands of dollars and it is
important for your bank balance and the health of our communities and
environment that it continues to work well,” concluded....
��
��
Council name
Council details
��
��
RADIO LIVE READS one
In our shire, there are .... households with septic systems. They are not
connected to the sewer.
If you have a septic and the backyard gets waterlogged and smells of
sewage or water is backing up in your sink, shower or bath you need to
contact council or a local plumber as soon as possible to find out how to
fix the problem.
Septics need looking after. Keep grease fat and products that don’t
bio-degrade out of them, and have them pumped out regularly and desludged every three years.
Call ...council on .... to find out how to look after your septic. It will save
you money and protect the environment
��
��
Council name
Council details
��
��
RADIO LIVE READS two
Lots of people living in our shire are not connected to the sewer and
instead have septic systems to manage their wastewater. If managed
well, they do a great job of not polluting our environment.
If you are building on land that needs a septic or you need to replace
your current system, council approval is required to install it. Council will
provide all the information you need to assess the capacity of the land to
install a new treatment system. You will need a plumber to do the work.
A properly installed and maintained septic system will save you money
and protect the environment.
Call the council for more information on.......
��
��
Council name
Council details
��
��
RADIO LIVE READS three
Do you live in a house with an old septic system?
You may not know Louise, but she lives in our shire. The house Louise
bought had a really old septic system. All the water from her toilet was
treated in this system, but the water from her laundry and kitchen sink
flowed into the gutter outside her house. Louise didn’t know this was
illegal but she thought it was kind of strange.
After discussing the issue with her neighbour, Louise contacted council
and her plumber and together they designed and installed a new septic
system for Louise. Sure, it cost Louise money up front, but it will prevent
her being fined and protect community health and the environment.
Be smart like Louise and keep your backyard healthy. Call ....council on
...... and find out what you can do to bring your current septic system up
to scratch.
��
��
Council name
Council details
��
��
KEEPING YOUR
BACKYARD HEALTHY
Make sure you look after your septic so that the
wastewater from your toilet, laundry, bathroom or kitchen
does not pollute the environment or affect our health.
Council
CL Logo
Call ….................council
for information about how
on….............................
SMARTSEPTIC SOLUTIONS
KEEPING YOUR
BACKYARD HEALTHY
A working septic is precious. If it fails it could cost you a
lot of time and money as well damage the environment.
Make sure you get your septic inspected regularly and
use it properly.
Council
CL Logo
Call ….................council
on….............................
KEEPING YOUR
BACKYARD HEALTHY
SO YOU NEED A NEW SEPTIC
If you need a septic you need council approval to install it.
Council will provide you with the information you need to
assess the capacity of the land for the installation of a new
treatment system. You will need a licensed plumber to do the
work.
Once you have approval you will be issued with a certificate
of use, which sets conditions on use of the septic.
Council
CL Logo
Call ….................council
on….............................
SMARTSEPTIC SOLUTIONS
KEEPING YOUR
BACKYARD HEALTHY
MAKE SURE YOUR OLD SEPTIC WORKS
■ Do you have an old septic tank at your place?
■ Is it working properly?
■ Do you have a certificate of compliance from Council?
Find out what you need to do to make sure you are not
breaking the law and polluting the environment.
Council
CL Logo
Call ….................council
on….............................
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Pyrenees Shire Domestic Wastewater
Management Plan
Part 3: Spatial Information
June 2006
Prepared for
Prepared by
ABN 20 093 846 925
June 2006
30018206
DWMP -Part 3 Rev B.doc
Revision B June 2006
Quality Information
Document
Ref
30018206
Date
June 2006
Prepared by
L Leong
Reviewed by
H Irving
Revision History
Authorised
Revision
Date
Details
A
23/05/2006
Final issue to Pyrenees
Shire Council
C Yeats
Principal
Engineer
B
30/06/2006
Finial Issue to Pyrenees
G Reynolds
Associate
Director
Revision
Name/Position
Signature
Original
Signed
Table of Contents
1.0
2.0
3.0
Introduction
Shire Map
Priority Town Maps
3.1
Buffer Zones
1
2
3
3
1.0
Introduction
This document forms Part 3 of the Domestic Wastewater Management Plan (DWMP) for Pyrenees
Shire Council. This volume serves to provide spatial information in the form of feature maps to aid
decision making during implementation of the DWMP actions. This document has fulfilled Action
2.5.1 Planning GIS Overlay (refer to Shire-wide Action Plan in DWMP Part 1 and Section 2.5.1 in
DWMP Part 2).
Specifically contained in this document is the following information:
•
Overall map of the Shire showing the priority towns
•
Maps of the individual priority towns which have been developed by Council’s GIS Department
which display:
o Feature Plans: declared water catchment, contours, 100m buffer zones and township
zones
o Feature Plans 2: geological information, flood zones, contours and township zones
As stated in the other DWMP documents, the priority towns are (from highest to lowest priority):
•
Snake Valley
•
Landsborough
•
Waubra
•
Moonambel
•
Lexton
Page 1
2.0
Shire Map
Page 2
Pyrenees Shire
Redbank
Redbank
Moonambel
Moonambel
Landsborough
Landsborough
Avoca
Avoca
Crowlands
Crowlands
Amphitheatre
Amphitheatre
Lexton
Lexton
Waubra
Waubra
Raglan
Raglan
Raglan
Beaufort
Beaufort
Snake Valley
Snake
Valley
Legend:
0
8
Kilometres
Scale: 1:400,000
Highway
Main Road
Towns
16
3.0
Priority Town Maps
3.1
Buffer Zones
The EPA Septic Tank Code of Practice 2003 requires buffer distances to be 60m from streams or
channels (continuous or ephemeral, non-potable) and 100m from streams (potable water supply
catchments). However Pyrenees Shire Council has chosen to display 100m buffer zones from all
streams on the feature maps to ensure their ultimate protection and avoid any discrepancies. Council
may still choose to approve on-site systems within the 40m area on a case-by-case basis.
Page 3
LLin
into
tonn
Rdd
R
Snake Valley Feature Plan
3
3
9
33
33
0
99
99
3
3
39
00
00
9
9
90
0
0
0
44444444422222222200000
0000
000000000000000
444444444000
CCa
arrn
ngg
hhaa
m
m
000
333000000
444444444333333
41
44
44
10
11
11
0
00
00
4
4
1
0
4
4
1
1
0
0
Knell
Dam
Star
Dam
SSnn
aakk
ee
VVaa
llleeyy
rngha
ham
m
Carng
Ca
44
44
40
00
00
00
4
4
00
00
0
0
4
4
0
0
0
0
0
0
00
00
00
00
00
0
0
0
40
44
0
44
0
4
0
4
4
4
Smyth
Sm
ale
esdale
ythesd
Rd
Rd
TZ
Snake Valley
Snake
Valley
Li
Lint
nton
on
MAG DAM
0
00
00
10
11
11
0
0
41
44
44
1
1
0
4
4
1
4
4
0
0
00
00
0
00
40
4
44
00
0
0
00
0
0
44
4
4
4
00
0
0
0
00
0
00
0
00
0
00
0
44
4
40
4
44
4
4
444444444222222
222000000000
000000
444444444222222222000
Rd
Rd
SNAKE VALLEY
RESERVOIR
0
0
0
11
1
0
00
00
10
11
4
4
4
4
4111
44
44
0
Legend:
Kilometres
Scale: 1:15,000 at A4
Planning Zone
Township Zone
Cadastral Line
0.3
Stream
TZ
TZ
100m Stream Buffer
Dam/Reservoir
Contours
Declared Water
Catchment
0.6
LLin
into
tonn
Rdd
R
Snake Valley Feature Plan 2
3
3
9
33
33
0
99
99
3
3
39
00
00
9
9
90
0
0
0
44444444422222222200000
0000
000000000000000
444444444000
CCa
arrn
ngg
hhaa
m
m
000
333000000
444444444333333
41
44
44
10
11
11
0
00
00
4
4
1
0
4
4
1
1
0
0
Knell
Dam
Star
Dam
SSnn
aakk
ee
VVaa
llleeyy
rngha
ham
m
Carng
Ca
44
44
40
00
00
00
4
4
00
00
0
0
4
4
0
0
0
0
0
0
00
00
00
00
00
0
0
0
40
44
0
44
0
4
0
4
4
4
Smyth
Sm
ale
esdale
ythesd
Rd
Rd
TZ
Snake Valley
Snake
Valley
Li
Lint
nton
on
MAG DAM
0
00
00
10
11
11
0
0
41
44
44
1
1
0
4
4
1
4
4
0
0
00
00
0
00
40
4
44
00
0
0
00
0
0
44
4
4
4
00
0
0
0
00
0
00
0
00
0
00
0
44
4
40
4
44
4
4
444444444222222
222000000000
000000
444444444222222222000
Rd
Rd
SNAKE VALLEY
RESERVOIR
0
0
0
11
1
0
00
00
10
11
4
4
4
4
4111
44
44
0
Legend:
0.3
Kilometres
Scale: 1:15,000 at A4
Flood Zone
Stream
Township Zone TZ
TZ
Contours
Geology - Quatenary
Tertiary
Geology -Quaternary
Cadastral Line
Dam/Reservoir
Geology -Cambrian
0.6
Landsborough Feature Plan
00
8880000000
222222222888888
000000000
222222222555555555
ff
ako
Mal
Na
tive
222222222666666
666000000
000
Yo
uth
aauudd
Arrnn
SStt A
22
22
25
2
2
55
55
5000
2
2
5
5
5
00
0
0
00
k
k
ee
Cr
Cree
000000000
666666666
222222222
tt
aarraa
A
Arr
Landsborough
Landsborough
0
00
00
70
77
7
27
22
2
0
0
7
77
2
22
0
7
2
2
Na
tiv
e
22
22
25
55
55
50
2
2
00
00
0
5
2
2
0
5
5
0
0
TZ
TZ
TZ
TZ
Yo
uth
Cr
e
ek
dd
RR
M
al
ak
of
f
0
0
0
00
00
8
8
80
0
88
88
2
2
28
8
22
22
2
2
000
666000000
222222222666666
000
777000000
333333333777777
0
Legend:
Kilometres
Scale: 1:15,000 at A4
Planning Zone
Township Zone
Cadastral Line
0.3
Stream
TZ
TZ
100m Stream Buffer
Dam/Reservoir
Contours
Declared Water
Catchment
0.6
Landsborough Feature Plan 2
00
8880000000
222222222888888
000000000
222222222555555555
ff
ako
Mal
Na
tive
222222222666666
666000000
000
Yo
uth
aauudd
Arrnn
SStt A
22
22
25
2
2
55
55
5000
2
2
5
5
5
00
0
0
00
k
k
ee
Cr
Cree
000000000
666666666
222222222
tt
aarraa
A
Arr
Landsborough
Landsborough
0
00
00
70
77
7
27
22
2
0
0
7
77
2
22
0
7
2
2
Na
tiv
e
22
22
25
55
55
50
2
2
00
00
0
5
2
2
0
5
5
0
0
TZ
TZ
TZ
TZ
Yo
uth
Cr
e
ek
RRdd
M
al
ak
of
f
0
0
0
00
00
8
8
80
0
88
88
2
2
28
8
22
22
2
2
000
666000000
222222222666666
000
777000000
333333333777777
0
Legend:
0.3
Kilometres
Scale: 1:15,000 at A4
Flood Zone
Stream
Geology -Tertiary
Township Zone TZ
TZ
Contours
Geology -Quaternary
Cadastral Line
Dam/Reservoir
Geology -Cambrian
0.6
Waubra Feature Plan
G
00
0
0
0
0
00
66
6
60
6
6
66
44
4
46
4
4
44
4
Drain
Mo
unt
000
555000000
444444444555555
ssiiaa
aayy
nnrr
SSuu
000000
888888000
444444444888
333000000000
444444444333333
0
0
5
5
0
4
4
5
0
00
00
4
4
50
55
55
45
44
44
000000
444444444777777777000
000
666000000
444444444666666
55
55
5555
5
5
5
5
55
50
00
00
0
5
55
0
0
0
Waubra
Waubra
000
000000000
555555555000000
000000
555555555222222222000
TZ
555555555000000000000
000000
000000000000
555555555000000
44
44
4555
4
4
4
4
55
50
00
00
0
5
55
0
0
0
0
Legend:
Cadastral Line
0.3
Kilometres
Scale: 1:15,000 at A4
Planning Zone
Township Zone
Beeaauufo
B
fort
rt
444444444888
888888000000
000
W
Waauubbra
ra
44
44
4999
4
4
4
4
99
90
00
00
0
9
99
0
0
0
R
Rdd
555555555666
666666000000
000
H
Hw
wyy
Stream
TZ
TZ
100m Stream Buffer
Dam/Reservoir
Contours
Declared Water
Catchment
0.6
Waubra Feature Plan 2
G
00
0
0
0
0
00
66
6
60
6
6
66
44
4
46
4
4
44
4
Drain
Mo
unt
000
555000000
444444444555555
ssiiaa
aayy
nnrr
SSuu
000000
888888000
444444444888
333000000000
444444444333333
0
0
5
5
0
4
4
5
0
00
00
4
4
50
55
55
45
44
44
000000
444444444777777777000
000
666000000
444444444666666
55
55
5555
5
5
5
5
55
50
00
00
0
5
55
0
0
0
Waubra
Waubra
000
000000000
555555555000000
000000
555555555222222222000
TZ
555555555000000000000
000000
000000000000
555555555000000
44
44
4555
4
4
4
4
55
50
00
00
0
5
55
0
0
0
Beeaauufo
B
fort
rt
444444444888
888888000000
000
W
Waauubbra
ra
44
44
4999
4
4
4
4
99
90
00
00
0
9
99
0
0
0
R
Rdd
555555555666
666666000000
000
H
Hw
wyy
0
Legend:
0.3
Kilometres
Scale: 1:15,000 at A4
Flood Zone
Stream
Township Zone TZ
TZ
Contours
Geology -Quaternary
Tertiary
Geology -Quaternary
Cadastral Line
Dam/Reservoir
Geology - Devonian
0.6
Moonambel Feature Plan
90000
2222999
M
ocaa
Av
Avoc
ell
ell
awell
St
Staw
TZ
TZ
Moonambel
Moonambel
R
Rdd
00
00
0
2
99
99
90
22
22
29
22
2
88
28
22
00
80
88
0
00
0
Legend:
Kilometres
Scale: 1:10,000 at A4
Planning Zone
Township Zone
Cadastral Line
0.2
Stream
TZ
TZ
100m Stream Buffer
Dam/Reservoir
Contours
Declared Water
Catchment
0.4
Moonambel Feature Plan 2
90000
2222999
M
ell
ell
awell
St
Staw
ocaa
Av
Avoc
TZ
TZ
Moonambel
Moonambel
R
Rdd
00
00
0
2
99
99
90
22
22
29
22
2
88
28
22
00
80
88
0
00
0
Legend:
0.2
Kilometres
Scale: 1:10,000 at A4
Flood Zone
Stream
Geology -Tertiary
Township Zone TZ
TZ
Contours
Geology -Quaternary
Cadastral Line
Dam/Reservoir
Geology -Cambrian
0.4
Lexton Feature Plan
3
33
3
3
31
3
33
11
1
1
10
1
11
00
0
0
0
0
00
Rdd
R
ayyssiiaa
SSuunnrra
bboot
Taall
T
L
Leexx
ttoonn
333333333444
444444000000000
3
3
3
33
33
3
32
2
2
22
22
2
20
0
0
00
00
0
0
000000
333333333444444444000
3
33
33
33
3
3
3
33
30
33
3
3
3
00
0
00
0
0
0
00000
0
0
0
33333
30
3
3
33333
33
3
3
3
333333333333333
333000000
000
33
33
31
11
11
10
3
3
00
00
0
1
3
3
0
1
1
0
0
33333333344444444400000
0000
TZ
TZ
CREEK
4444444440000000
00
Lexton
Lexton
L
Leexxtt
oonn
39
33
33
90
99
99
3
3
0
00
00
9
3
3
0
9
9
0
0
Rdd
R
333333333333333
333000000
000
000
444000000
333333333444444
Hw
H
wyy
3
3
3
33
2
2
22
32
3
33
0
0
00
20
2
22
0
0
00
333333333222222222000
000000
0
0
00
0
3
0
00
33
30
33
3
3
33
3
3
3333
33
34
33
33
40
44
44
0
00
00
3
3
4
0
3
3
4
4
0
0
000
444444000000
333333333444
BBee
aauu
ffoorr
tt
000000
333333333333333333000
0
Legend:
0.3
Kilometres
Scale: 1:15,000 at A4
Planning Zone
Stream
Township Zone TZ
TZ
100m Stream Buffer
Cadastral Line
Dam/Reservoir
Contours
Declared Water
Catchment
0.6
Lexton Feature Plan 2
3
33
3
3
31
3
33
11
1
1
10
1
11
00
0
0
0
0
00
R
Rdd
ayyssiiaa
SSuunnrra
bboot
Taall
T
L
Leexx
ttoonn
333333333444
444444000000000
3
3
3
33
33
3
32
2
2
22
22
2
20
0
0
00
00
0
0
000000
333333333444444444000
3
33
33
33
3
3
3
33
30
33
3
3
3
00
0
00
0
0
0
00000
0
0
0
33333
30
3
3
33333
33
3
3
3
333333333333333
333000000
000
33
33
31
11
11
10
3
3
00
00
0
1
3
3
0
1
1
0
0
33333333344444444400000
0000
TZ
TZ
CREEK
4444444440000000
00
Lexton
Lexton
L
Leexxtt
oonn
39
33
33
90
99
99
3
3
0
00
00
9
3
3
0
9
9
0
0
Rdd
R
333333333333333
333000000
000
000
444000000
333333333444444
Hw
H
wyy
3
3
3
33
2
2
22
32
3
33
0
0
00
20
2
22
0
0
00
333333333222222222000
000000
0
0
00
0
3
0
00
33
30
33
3
3
33
3
3
3333
33
34
33
33
40
44
44
0
00
00
3
3
4
0
3
3
4
4
0
0
000
444444000000
333333333444
BBee
aauu
ffoorr
tt
000000
333333333333333333000
0
Legend:
0.3
Kilometres
Scale: 1:15,000 at A4
Flood Zone
Stream
Geology -Tertiary
Township Zone TZ
TZ
Contours
Geology -Quaternary
Cadastral Line
Dam/Reservoir
Geology -Cambrian
0.6

Pyrenees Shire Domestic Wastewater Management Plan

Transcription

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