Get the tick on your septic
Published on 08 November 2024
Property owners with an onsite sewage management system (OSSM) are being reminded about the importance of Council’s inspection program and the associated required approval to operate
There are more than 7,000 properties in the Shoalhaven that do not have access to Council’s sewerage system and operate an OSSM, more commonly referred to as a septic system or septic tank.
“It’s important that property owners with onsite sewage management systems operate them efficiently and safely to protect the health of our community and the environment,” said Manager Environmental Services, Dr Michael Roberts.
The NSW Government introduced the inspection and approval program in 1998 after an outbreak of Hepatitis A on the Mid North Coast was linked to oysters. They were found to be contaminated with sewage from failing septic systems in the catchment.
“The Shoalhaven has a substantial oyster industry and has many waterways that are used for recreation and tourism that we want to protect from pollution and contamination. Systems that are in the drinking water catchment need to be carefully managed to prevent contamination of our drinking water,” Dr Roberts said.
Properties with a septic system must treat and dispose of their own sewage on site or collect it for pump out by a licensed contractor for disposal at a Council sewage treatment plant.
Council monitors the operation of all the local septic facilities, including on residential and commercial properties such as caravan parks, to assess their performance against environmental and health criteria.
Every property owner with an onsite sewage management facility must have an approval to operate their system. An approval lasts for up to five years before it needs to be renewed.
If a system is not working properly, a licensed plumber should be contacted immediately. Approval from Council is required prior to the installation of a new system or new disposal area.
Residents are required to pay an annual charge to recover the costs of inspection and approval to operate, with charges listed within the annual rates notice.
For more information or to arrange an inspection, visit Council’s Onsite Sewage Management webpage.