5 step guide to applying for Water Authority compliance

So, you've installed your business's new pre-treatment system. Now what?

The process of achieving Water Authority compliance doesn't necessarily end with the installation of your pre-treatment system; there may still be paperwork to be completed.

Exact requirements differ from state to state. However, all Australian Water Authorities do require documentation regarding your business's pre-treatment device.

This documentation generally takes the form of a trade waste permit or a council permit. In this article, we will take you through the process of applying for these permits.

Step 1: Find the appropriate application form

The application form which you will need will depend on your location.

This is because, each Australian state and territory has one or more Water Authorities, and each Water Authority requires different documentation and affiliated paperwork.

Here are three examples of Water Authorities and their associated application forms.

Step 2: Fill out your details

Now that you've found the appropriate application form, you'll need to input the details.

Like all business paperwork, your application form will request some standard personal and business details. However, it may also require technical information regarding your waste management system.

Trade waste application forms typically request the following information.

• Business information
• Person(s) responsible for waste management
• Reason for applying for a trade waste permit
• Contaminants found in wastewater

Before filling out your details, it is best to familiarise yourself with all of the above.

Step 3: Attach associated documents

Whether you can supply associated documents yourself, or whether you will need to employ a third party to supply them on your behalf, will depend on your location and your local Water Authority.

Associated documents may include the following.

Process and instrumentation diagram:

This should clearly show the major items of equipment in your treatment apparatus, as well as key characteristics of the major items of equipment (volumes, materials, construction, etc).

Business premises site plan:

Your site plan should show the location of fixtures and your treatment apparatus. It should also show sampling points, locations of open areas connected to the sewer, and pumps and flowrates.

Fixture and activity description:

This should include a description of fixtures and activities on the site which generate trade waste. You'll also need to indicate the proposed method of treatment and volumes.

For specific information regarding associated documents in your area, see your application form.

Step 4: Submit your application

Once you have completed your application form and accumulated the appropriate documentation, it will be time to apply with your local Water Authority.

You can submit your application in one of three ways.

1. Via email online
2. Through Australia Post
3. In person at your Water Authority's base of operation

Make sure you follow all submission guidelines. The last thing you want is for your application to be returned due to a technical mistake. You may be surprised by how often this happens!

Step 5: Prepare to be audited

Your premises may be audited on submission of your application or at a later date.

Either way, it is important to ensure that your premises and pre-treatment system are up to scratch both now and in the future. You never know when you could be audited.

Water Authorities monitor the drains and the water quality in and around your area. If abnormalities are found, this will lead to inspections.

If you are based in a 'high risk' region or an area where infringements have been issued frequently in the past, then you are likely to be audited sooner rather than later.

 "After applying, you should receive a response regarding the outcome within 2 - 4 weeks."

What happens next?

Your local Water Authority will get back to you regarding approval or denial of your application.

In some cases, they may request more information or an on-site inspection before approval can take place. Speak with your Water Authority for details.

After applying, you should receive a response regarding the outcome within 2 - 4 weeks.

Visit our website for more information on wastewater management and pre-treatment devices.