National Environmental Standard for On-site Wastewater Systems (Septic Tanks) — call for submissions
In accordance with section 44 of the Resource Management Act 1991, the Minister for the Environment gives notice of the Government’s intention to develop a national environmental standard (regulation) for domestic on-site wastewater systems (septic tanks). The proposed national environmental standard aims to improve the management and environmental performance of septic tanks and other on-site systems used to treat domestic wastewater. This is consistent with the purpose of the Act as it will promote sustainable management of resources and help to safeguard the life supporting capacity of water and soil.
In essence, the proposal is that:
Owners of properties with on-site wastewater systems in specific locations be required to hold a current warrant of fitness that confirms their on-site system is functioning properly and is being maintained to an appropriate standard.
The standard would authorise regional councils to require property owners with an on-site wastewater system to hold a current warrant of fitness (WOF) for their system. To obtain a WOF, a system would be required to pass an inspection every three years. A discussion document outlining the subject matter and rationale of the proposed standard has been produced by the Ministry for the Environment to help people make submissions. This document can be viewed at the Ministry for the Environment, 23 Kate Sheppard Place, Thorndon, Wellington and online at www.mfe.govt.nz
If you would like a printed copy of the discussion document, free copies are available by emailing your request to orders@mfe.govt.nz or by phoning (04) 439 7467. Any person can make a submission on the subject matter of the proposed standard.
Please include the following information in your submission:
- Your name, postal address, phone number and email address (if applicable).
- That you are making a submission on the proposal to develop a national environmental standard for on-site wastewater systems.
- Whether you support or oppose the proposal as detailed in the discussion document.
- Your submission with reasons for your views.
- Any changes you would like made to the proposed standard as detailed in the discussion document.
- The decision you would like the Minister for the Environment to make.
Please send your submission to the Ministry for the Environment, PO Box 10362, Wellington or email to standards@mfe.govt.nz by 5 pm on Friday 26 September 2008.
The Ministry for the Environment will analyse the submissions and provide a report to the Minister with appropriate recommendations.
Last updated: 18 July 2008
