Septic Tank Regulations in Northern Territory

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Many homes in the Northern Territory—not just those in rural areas—have an independent need to collect, treat, and ultimately dispose of wastewater at the property.

Septic tanks systems are the most common solution to this need for onsite sewage treatment. The septic tank is generally made from concrete, fibreglass, or plastic and installed underground.

The term “septic” refers to the bacterial environment (anaerobic or not requiring oxygen) that develops inside the tank. It’s this bacterial environment that works to break down the waste.

Domestic wastewater flows into the septic tank for basic treatment. Treated wastewater then flows out of the tank and into a leach field—a series of pipes and trenches filled with porous material. In this manner, pathogens can be filtered out before they could contaminate water sources in the vicinity.

Septic tanks are only moderately efficient. The rate of decomposition in septic tanks, however, is rarely as fast as the rate of accumulation.

The accumulated sludge (called septage or fecal sludge) must be periodically removed. Failure to do so would result in an overflow of undecomposed material. Not only is this bad for the environment, it may also clog the leach field, leading to expensive repairs.

Fortunately, there are vacuum trucks for this chore of pumping out excess fecal sludge.

Northern Territory Septic Tank Installations

Installation of a septic tank wastewater system may involve government agencies and consultants, depending on the following:

  • Where you want to install the system
  • Whether it’s inside or outside of a building control area
  • The type of system being fitted
  • The size and scale of the system to be installed
  • Whether it uses conventional technology or alternative technology

Codes and Regulations

Regulations covering the installation of septic tanks, holding tanks and treatment systems in the Northern Territory, are there for good reason. The approval process helps owners, designers and installation professionals ensure proper disposal of wastewater to protect the public and the environment. It would be disastrous for contaminants to flow into our water system.

You want to stay inside the law and importantly, you want to end up with a system suitable for your needs. Before installing your septic tank system, it’s a good idea to consult a licensed plumber or hydraulic engineer to help design and install the system for you.

Darwin Fibreglass Pools & Spas provides expert advice and capability in building and installing septic tanks for Top End locals.

Check and Empty

Once installed, you are responsible for checking your septic tank and arranging its upkeep. You will need to arrange for a plumber or waste handler to have your septic tank pumped out.

Fibre Glass Septic Tanks

At Darwin Fibreglass Pools and Spas, we supply and install fibreglass septic tanks that are 2 metres high and come in 2500 litre, 3000 litre, and 4000 litre capacity sizes. Due to the fibreglass construction, these units are lightweight and have strong structural integrity.

Call us today

If you need a new septic tank installed or wish to upgrade your existing septic tank system, call Darwin Fibreglass Pools & Spas today on (08) 8947 1192 or email us to get a free quote.

You might also like to read our previous article: How Do I Get a Septic Tank Installed in Darwin?