Rainwater tanks

Permits

Water tanks must be installed and certified by a licensed plumber. Domestic rain water tanks do not need a building permit, however if there are earthworks, retaining walls, or any type of building structure associated with the tank, you may be required to apply for a building and/or planning permit.
 
Talk to a planner before starting any work.

Drainage

All tanks must be fitted with an overflow pipe of the same diameter as the inlet pipe. The outlet must be connected to a stormwater drainage system going to the legal point of discharge.

Health

Water collected may not be suitable for drinking as it may be contaminated by the surface it was collected from.

Tanks should be sealed to prevent insects, vermin and other animals entering. Unsealed tanks also pose a risk to children.

General tips

The tank should be professionally designed, and manufactured using corrosion resistant, non toxic material.

It must be a minimum of 500mm from any boundary, and not be placed on an easement without approval from the relevant authority. Tanks should not be placed over septic systems including sand filters.