When it comes to managing onsite wastewater systems, New Zealand has clear and strict regulations that homeowners and builders must adhere to. From gaining council approval to maintaining compliance, understanding the requirements can feel overwhelming. This blog aims to break down the basics of septic system regulations and provide guidance on permits, compliance, and ongoing responsibilities to keep your system in good standing.
The Approval Process: Permits and Inspections
Before installing a septic system, council approval is mandatory. Approval requirements vary by site and build, typically needing local council approval, but jobs outside standard rules may also require regional council resource consent. Here's what you need to know:
Start Early with a Designer
Engage a qualified onsite wastewater system designer early in your project. They’ll help you choose the right system, determine its location, and prepare a PS1 (producer statement) for your design. This document is required for your building consent application. Allow enough time for this process, especially if you also need a resource consent.
Timing of Installation
Septic systems are typically installed toward the end of a build to prevent accidental damage to the tank or field and ensure alignment with the house’s drainage system. There are some instances where the system needs to be installed first, this is common where the house will block access to the tank location.
Post-Installation Steps
After installation, the drainlayer will provide a PS3 (producer statement for construction) and ‘as built’ drawings. These must match the approved PS1 design to receive your Code Compliance Certificate (CCC). Additionally, a building inspector may inspect the system to ensure it was installed as planned.
Activating Resource Consent
If your project required a resource consent, notify your regional council when the system becomes operational.
Compliance Requirements for Septic Systems
Operating a septic system comes with ongoing responsibilities to meet legal standards. These requirements depend on whether you hold a resource consent or are operating under council-permitted activity rules.
Understanding Your Responsibilities
Resource consents come with specific conditions, and your PS1 design often incorporates council regulations. Additionally, manufacturers provide advice and warranty requirements to follow. If you're new to these systems, it can feel overwhelming. If you're unsure, reach out to your designer or system supplier—they're usually more than happy to guide you through the requirements.
Routine Servicing and Maintenance
Regular servicing is crucial to ensure your system operates efficiently and remains compliant. Service intervals vary based on system type:
Aerated systems: Every 6 months
Septic tanks: Every 12 months
Your consent conditions will state the required service intervals and it is important to adhere to these to avoid becoming in breach of your discharge consent.
Maintaining Legal Compliance
Keeping your system compliant is usually a simple task, routine servicing and fixing any issues in a timely manner will generally keep things on track.
Monitor Warning Signs
Watch for issues like odours or ponding, and address them promptly. A reliable service agent will help identify and resolve problems before they escalate.
Account for Property Changes
Your system is designed to handle a specific number of bedrooms or a maximum daily flow rate. Adding rooms or buildings—even unconsented ones—could overload your system’s capacity and breach your conditions. Always check before making significant property changes.
Ongoing Maintenance
Routine servicing and timely repairs are essential to avoid compliance issues. Early intervention can prevent minor issues from turning into major problems.
Partner with Experts
Navigating septic system regulations doesn’t have to be stressful. At Austin Bluewater, we specialise in everything from system design to servicing. If you need advice or support with your project, feel free to contact our experienced team.
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