Consultation on a proposed new regulation for on-site wastewater systems
The Ministry for the Environment invites your views on a possible new regulation covering the management and maintenance of on-site wastewater systems (such as septic tanks).
A typical septic tank system.
The proposal
The Minister for the Environment is proposing a national environmental standard be introduced to improve the management and environmental performance of domestic on-site wastewater systems. In essence, the proposal is that:
Owners of properties with on-site wastewater systems in specific locations will 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.
Obtaining a warrant of fitness
To obtain a warrant of fitness, an on-site wastewater system would need to pass an inspection. Owners would need to have their systems inspected every three years.
Regional councils would identify the areas where people need to get a warrant of fitness. This would be based on a set of environmental criteria.
Why a warrant of fitness?
Ageing septic tanks represent the majority of on-site wastewater systems installed in New Zealand. It has been estimated that in some regions at least 20 per cent of homes rely on this form of sewage treatment. In many areas these systems are not providing sufficient treatment. They are affecting human health and the environment. Failing systems can:
- create human health risks from the overflow or ponding of effluent (sewage)
- contribute to lakes, rivers, estuaries and beaches becoming unfit for swimming, gathering seafood and marine farming
- lead to contamination of groundwater and surface water, which affects the quality of drinking-water supplies and may increase the occurrence of algal blooms.
These effects occur because of a range of factors, including poor maintenance, sensitive receiving environments (such as lakes, rivers and streams), high-density residential areas, shallow groundwater, and unsuitable soil types.
Ongoing maintenance backed up by regular inspections plays a significant role in improving the performance of wastewater systems and helping to reduce the risks to human health and the environment.
A septic tank being opened for inspection
What are national environmental standards?
A national environmental standard is a legally enforceable regulation. The exact wording of any standard will be legally drafted by the parliamentary counsel if, after consultation, the Government decides to implement a standard.
We want to hear your views
Any person can make a submission on the subject matter of the proposed standard. A discussion document is available to help you make a submission.
You can view the discussion document at the Ministry for the Environment, 23 Kate Sheppard Place, Thorndon, Wellington and online at www.mfe.govt.nz/publications/rma/
To receive a free printed copy email publications@mfe.govt.nz or phone (04) 439 7467.
We recommended you read the entire discussion document so you are fully informed before making a submission.
Submissions must be received by the Ministry for the Environment no later than 5:00pm on 26 September 2008.
The Ministry for the Environment is running a series of public workshops to explain the proposed standard. For details of workshops in your area and to register for the workshops please visit the Ministry’s website, www.mfe.govt.nz or phone (04) 439 7769.
More information
Contact the Ministry for the Environment by phoning (04) 439 7769 or emailing standards@mfe.govt.nz or check out our website at www.mfe.govt.nz.
