Rainwater tanks
Installing a rainwater tank
In Mosman, the installation of a rainwater tank is classified as ‘Exempt Development’ and in most cases does not require Council approval provided that certain basic requirements are met. These requirements are fully detailed in State Environmental Planning Policy (Exempt and Complying Development Codes) 2008.
A summary of the ‘Exempt Development’ requirements for rainwater tanks is provided below:
- Not have a capacity more than 10,000 L, and
- Be located at least 450mm from each lot boundary, and
- Be located behind the building line of any road frontage, and
- Not rest on the footings of an existing building for support, and
- Not require cut and fill of more than 1m below or above ground level (existing), and
- Be fitted with a first-flush device that causes initial run-off rainwater to bypass the tank, and
- Have a sign affixed to it stating the water in it is rainwater, and
- Be constructed or installed to prevent mosquitoes breeding in it, and
- Have its overflow connected to an existing stormwater drainage system that does not discharge to an adjoining property, or cause a nuisance to adjoining owners, and
- Be located at least 1m from any registered easement, sewer main or water main, and
- If it is constructed or installed on or in, or in relation to, a heritage item or a draft heritage item—be located in the rear yard, and
- Pumps attached to the development must be housed in a soundproof enclosure, and
- If reticulated water is provided to the lot, the development must not be interconnected with any system supplying drinking water to the lot unless it complies with the relevant water authority’s requirements.
Further advice can be obtained from Council’s Development Advisor who is available for public consultation between the hours of 8.30am – 10.30am, Monday to Friday or by phone – 9978 4172.
