When a developed property is connected to sewer, onsite effluent disposal systems including septic tanks and leach drain and soakwell systems will eventually require decommissioning.
Decommissioning is when the tanks are pumped out and the system is either removed or backfilled.
These works must legally be engaged by licensed waste removal contractors.
What is Septic Tank Decommissioning
Under the Health (Treatment of Sewage and Disposal of Effluent and Liquid Waste) Regulations 1974, the owner of a property must decommission any disused apparatus for the treatment of sewage when a property is connected to the sewer.
Decommissioning means all septic tanks, leach drains and soakwells must be vacuumed empty by a licenced waste removalist. All empty tanks must then be removed, or where removal is not practical have their lids and bases broken and filled with clean sand.
When is Septic Decommissioning required?
Septic tank decommissioning is legally required when:
- the property is sold
- the use of the development changes e.g. from a residence to a childcare centre
- the building extensions encroach on the minimum setbacks from the system.
For all your Waste Management, Sucker Truck, septic, stormwater and sewer pump stations contact Mackie Waste Management.