In Auckland, the decision to install a septic tank is one that requires careful planning and adherence to local regulations. Septic tanks play a crucial role in managing household waste in areas where centralized sewage treatment facilities are not accessible.
Understanding the rules for septic tanks in Auckland, including the North Shore and West Auckland, not only ensures environmental safety but also helps in maintaining the health of the community.
Soil type, filtration, and effluent disposal methods are just a few factors that influence the design and installation of these systems, making the need for clear and precise information about permits and regulations more important than ever.
This article provides a thorough walk-through of the permitting process, highlighting steps to ensure your septic system meets the local standards for drainage, system design, and environmental protection.
Understanding Septic Tank Requirements in Auckland
In Auckland, septic tanks are essential for the primarytreatment of wastewater where they facilitate the settlement of solids and theseparation of scum and grease. The Auckland Regional Council (ARC) mandatesthat all new septic tanks must incorporate an effluent outlet filter. Thisfilter is crucial as it retains suspended solids, thereby preventing theclogging of the wastewater disposal system.
Maintenance of these systems is also regulated. The ARCrequires all wastewater treatment systems to have a formal maintenanceagreement, with inspections typically occurring every six months. During theseinspections, contractors must check and clean the effluent outlet filters toensure they are free from clogs.
For residential applications, the ARC advises that septictanks should have a minimumcapacity of 4500 litres. This capacity is necessary to provide adequatewastewater retention time for the effective settlement of solids and scum.Larger dwellings or commercial facilities might require septic tanks withgreater capacity and possibly a specialist design from a wastewater engineer.
Safety is another critical consideration. Septic tanks mustbe watertight and equipped with childproof vents and lids to prevent accidents.It is also important to exercise caution when opening these tanks due to thepotential buildup of toxic gasses; entering a septic tank is highly dangerousand should be avoided.
FromJune 2022, properties not connected to a wastewater network are required todemonstrate to Auckland Council that their onsite wastewater systems arefunctioning properly. This proof must be provided through professionalservicing of the septic tank or other systems like aerated systems orcomposting toilets .
Regular maintenance and careful management of what isdisposed of down drains are likened to a vehicle s Warrant of Fitness essentialfor ensuring the system s operational safety and efficiency .
Failure to adhere to these requirements can resultin fines, especially if property owners neglect necessary repairs or failto provide proof of maintenance . Understanding and complying with theseguidelines is crucial for Auckland residents to avoid legal issues and ensuretheir septic systems function effectively and safely.
When Do You Need a Permit?
In Auckland, obtaining the necessary permits for septic tankinstallation is crucial to ensure compliance with both environmental andbuilding codes. Individuals must acquire a buildingconsent for new wastewater systems or significant alterations toexisting ones. This consent verifies that the system adheres to the buildingcode and poses no threat to public health or the environment.
Additionally, a resourceconsent may be required for the discharge of treated wastewater, suchas water from showers, baths, washing machines, and toilets, onto or into theland. This is particularly necessary if the proposed works do not align withthe Auckland Unitary Plan, Chapter E5 rules, or if the effluent field is to beinstalled in sensitive areas like the 1 in 20yr ARI floodplain or on earthworked or potentially compacted land.
For simpler tasks such as maintenance, minor repairs, oralterations to drains or existing system components, a building consent mightnot be necessary. However, it is essential to ensure that these activitiescomply with the New Zealand Building Code. The Auckland Unitary Plan, ChapterE5, details permitted activities that do not require a resource consent,provided they meet certain standards.
In some cases, additional measures such as the treatmentof wastewater with ozone, ultraviolet, filtration, or chlorine mightbe required to ensure the safety of the soakage area. This may necessitate anenvironmental engineer s report and a soil analysis to determine theappropriate siting for tanks and the extent of the soakage area.
All installations must be carried out by a qualifiedinstaller to guarantee that the system functions correctly and safely.
Steps to Obtain a Permit for Septic Tanks
Consulting Local Authorities
The first step in obtaining a permit for septic tanks inAuckland involves consulting with local authorities. Property owners mustprovide Auckland Council with evidence that their onsite wastewater system isfunctioning correctly. This includes septic tanks, aerated systems, andcomposting toilets, which should be professionally serviced.
The Safe Septic program, funded through the Water QualityTargeted Rate, plays a crucial role in educating property owners and ensuringcompliance with the Auckland Unitary Plan.
Submitting Required Documentation
Once the initial consultation is complete, property ownersmust submit the required documentation. This includes maintenance records forthe onsite wastewater systems. Since late 2019, Auckland Council hasreceived over20,000 maintenance records, indicating a growing compliance with the newprocesses.
If a new system is being installed or an existing one issignificantly altered, building and possibly resource consents are required.These ensure the system meets all environmental and safety standards.
Inspection Process
Following the submission of all necessary documentation, aninspection process takes place. The inspection ensures that the septic systemis installed correctly and functions as intended.Regular inspections are mandated by the Auckland Unitary Plan; primarysystems everythree years and secondary or tertiary systems everysix months.
These inspections involve checking and cleaning parts of thesystem that may be blocked, damaged, or worn. It is crucial that theseinspections are carried out by trained professionals to maintain the system sefficiency and compliance with local regulations .
What Happens if You Don t Have a Permit?
If property owners in Auckland do not have the necessarypermits for their septic tanks, they face several consequences, primarilydriven by the need to safeguard public health and the environment.
Environmental and Public Health Risks:
Without a permit, septic systems may not meet the required standards, leading to significant environmental pollution and public health risks. Issues such as offensive odours and effluent seepage must be addressed immediately to prevent further contamination and health hazards.
Council Intervention and Fines:
Auckland Council takes action when non-compliant systems are reported. Property owners are required to rectify any faults with their wastewater systems within a specified timeframe, which varies depending on the severity of the issue and its potential environmental impact. Failure to comply can result in substantial fines, especially if the property owner neglects necessary repairs or maintenance. Fines can accrue daily if the faulty system continues to be used without rectification.
Mandatory Correction Notices:
When a wastewater problem is reported, the council investigates and may issue a notice to the property owners mandating them to fix the system. This notice outlines the required actions and the deadlines for compliance. The council’s requirements ensure that all wastewater systems operate safely and effectively, regardless of the system type.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Neglecting regular maintenance
One of the most common mistakes property owners make isneglecting regular maintenance of their septic systems. It is essential toensure that tanks are pumped out atleast every three years to prevent solids from blocking pipes ordisposal field drains. Fitting a septic tank outlet filter can prevent solidsfrom entering the disposal field and causing clogs.
Improper management of water usage
Another frequent oversight is the improper management ofwater usage within the household. Reducing water use, ensuring all dishes arescraped into a bin before washing, and keeping vehicles and large animals offthe disposal field can significantly mitigate the risk of overloading thewastewater system. Also, diverting stormwater away from the disposal field canprevent poor drainage, which is often exacerbated by soil conditions.
Using inappropriate substances
The use of inappropriate substances in septic systems is acritical error. Harsh chemicals, such as bleach and antibacterial soaps,can destroythe bacteria essential for treating wastewater. Property owners shoulduse biodegradable products suitable for on-site wastewater systems to avoidimpairing the treatment quality.
Failure to engage qualified professionals
Lastly, a common mistake is the failure to engage qualifiedprofessionals for the installation and maintenance of septic systems. Septictanks should be installed and serviced by suitably qualifiedmaintenance contractors who can handle all aspects of the system, frompumping sludge to ensuring that the tank is watertight and fitted withchildproof vents and lids .
Tips for Successful Permit Acquisition
To ensure the successful acquisition of permits for septictanks in Auckland, property owners should consider several key strategies.These tips are designed to facilitate compliance with local regulations andstreamline the permit application process.
Engage with Local Authorities Early:
Starting the permit process by consulting with local authorities can provide crucial insights into specific requirements. The Safe Septic program, funded through the Water Quality Targeted Rate, is instrumental in educating property owners and ensuring onsite wastewater system compliance as set by the Auckland Unitary Plan.
Maintain Accurate Records:
Keeping detailed and accurate maintenance records is essential. Since late 2019, Auckland Council has received over 20,000 maintenance records, reflecting growing compliance with new processes. These records help in demonstrating responsible management and compliance with regulations.
Educational Engagement:
Utilizing the resources provided by local initiatives can greatly aid in understanding the requirements and processes involved. The educational materials provided to residents, especially in sensitive and coastal areas, are invaluable for maintaining system efficiency and compliance.
Professional System Maintenance:
Regular and professional maintenance of septic systems is crucial. Approximately 98 percent of inspected systems in areas like Piha and Little Oneroa have been found to be properly maintained, underscoring the importance of regular professional checks.
Understand and Comply with Consent Requirements:
Knowing when a building consent and a resource consent are required is crucial. For new systems or significant alterations, both types of consents might be necessary to ensure compliance with the building code and environmental safety.
Utilize Expert Services for Application Processes:
Companies like TechTreat can manage the entire permit process, from application to approval. Their experience with district councils and understanding of consent application processes can significantly ease the burden on property owners.
By following these tips, property owners in Auckland cannavigate the complexities of permit acquisition for septic tanks moreeffectively, ensuring compliance with local regulations and contributing toenvironmental sustainability.
