Approval to Operate
The Local Government Act 1993 advises that the operation of an On-Site Sewage Management (OSSM) system requires Council approval. This is an Approval to Operate under Section 68 of the Local Government Act.
All owners of existing sewage management systems must hold a valid Approval to Operate which helps Council monitor and manage the impact of pollution in local areas. The Approval to Operate also ensures property owners are aware of their responsibility to operate and maintain their system.
All OSSM systems must be inspected and registered with the Council. When inspections are scheduled in your area, you will receive a notification by mail advising of the date of the inspection.
During inspections, each system will be assessed and categorized as follows:
- Low Risk
- Moderate Risk
- High Risk
- Special Licence
The risk category is determined based on the system's type, age, and associated health or environmental risks.