Inspection and permit to usePrior to the occupation of your dwelling, a final inspection of the septic tank must be undertaken by a Shire of Harvey Environmental Health Officer.
The responsibility is with the installer of the system to arrange the inspection.
Please ensure prior to the inspection that:
- The pipe work into the tanks has been left exposed
- All conditions as specified on the approval letter have been completed and
- Power is available and connected to the pump and alarm, if installed.
Once the system has been inspected and commissioned, a Permit to Use will be issued and you are able to move into your dwelling or use the system.
Important note: It is an offence to use a system before it has been inspected and approved.
Desludging/pumping outOver time tanks will accumulate sludge and scum and will need to be pumped out (desludged).
As a guide, pumping out/desludging is required as follows:
- Two-person households: Every four years
- Four-person household: Every eight years
- Four+ person household: More often is recommended.
Pumping out/desludging requires a licenced liquid waste contractor. Contractors are listed in the Yellow Pages under Septic Tank Cleaning Services.
Existing Effluent Disposal SystemsLeach drains:
- If your system was approved from 1990 onwards, it has two leach drains and an alternating device.
- Alternate between the leach drains each year to allow systems to rest.
Secondary treatment systems:
- These systems need regular servicing by a qualified agent.
- After servicing, the agent must submit a report to the Shire.
The Shire may have copies of existing plans. If required, please contact us.
More information and contactsFor more information please contact us.
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