Septic Tank Permit Applications

To obtain a permit to install a new Septic Tank System:

• Check your planning permit for any conditions relating to the septic system
• Discuss the types of septic tank systems available and the best type of system to meet your needs with your licensed plumber.
• A soil permeability test or LCA may be required.  A copy of this report must be forwarded to Council with the application documents. This may have already been done as part of the planning approval process.
• Liaise with the licensed plumber to submit the application to Council to install or alter a septic tank system. The application form must be signed by both the owner of the property, and the licensed plumber employed to undertake the works.
• Ensure the relevant documentation and fee accompanies the application, a site plan of the proposed system must be included with the application.

Apply for a permit to install a new system

Council will then assess the application and conduct a site inspection. Where all requirements have been met a permit will be issued to the nominated plumber.

A major alteration usually refers to any change that affects the way the septic system operates or its ability to treat wastewater safely and effectively such as:

• Adding or replacing a treatment component (e.g., installing a sand filter, reed bed, or upgrading to an aerated wastewater treatment system)
•  Changing or enlarging the land application area (e.g., irrigation or effluent disposal area)
•  Reconfiguring pipework that alters the treatment or disposal process
•  Upgrading the system to manage increased wastewater flows (e.g., due to an extension of the dwelling increasing the number of habitable rooms)
•  Adding a greywater treatment system that connects to the septic

Apply for a major alteration permit

A minor alteration means an alteration that consists only of the installation, replacement or relocation of the internal plumbing, fixtures or fittings of an on-site wastewater management system. If extra fittings are being installed, you will need to apply for a major alteration.

Apply for a minor alteration

Replacing an existing septic tank system means removing or decommissioning the current system and installing a new system in its place to manage all wastewater from the property. This is usually required when the existing system:

• No longer functions properly (e.g., fails to treat or dispose of wastewater effectively)
•  Cannot cope with current or future wastewater volumes
•  Poses a risk to public health or the environment
• In older dwellings the system may be required to be upgraded or replaced to comply with current requirements.

Apply for a permit to replace an existing septic tank system

Amending an existing septic tank permit means making changes to an already approved septic tank permit because the original details of the installation or property use have changed before the system has been installed or finalised. This process is used when you need to update the details on your current permit — rather than applying for a completely new permit.

 You may need to amend your permit if there are changes such as:

• A different type of septic system is being installed than originally approved
• Changes to the location of the septic tank or land application area (e.g., irrigation trenches)
• Changes to house plans that affect wastewater flow (e.g., more bedrooms, additional bathrooms)
• Alterations to the wastewater design or plumbing layout after approval
• A change in land use that affects wastewater volumes (e.g., switching from a holiday house to permanent residence)

Complete the Amend a septic tank permit form(DOCX, 174KB) / Amend a septic tank permit form(PDF, 314KB) and pay the applicable fee with your application.