Waste Water Management
Loxton Waikerie Council operates Communal Waste Management Systems (CWMS) within the townships of Loxton, Waikerie, Moorook and Kingston-On-Murray. These are a septic tank effluent disposal system (STEDs), all septic tanks installed on properties located within the townships must have a connection to the CWMS. Properties which fall out of the schemes are required to have onsite waste management.
Council approval is required for all installations and alterations which may be made to any waste management system. There are three main types of systems currently approved through the Council, Septic and Soakage, Aerobic Systems and Holding Tanks. Other systems are available for installation but are approved by the Department of Health.
Onsite Soakage Systems
This system works by initial treatment of the effluent by a septic tank. The 'treated' effluent is then directed to underground soakage trenches that allow it to be absorbed by the ground. As this system relies on the ability of the surrounding area to absorb the effluent the quality of the soil determines if this type of system is suitable. The septic tank needs to be pumped out every 4 years for this system to remain effective.
Application to Install A Septic Tank System
Maintenance of Septic Tank Systems
Aerobic Systems
This system works by initial treatment of the effluent by a septic tank and then further treatment to improve the quality of the effluent to ensure it is safe to be discharged at surface level. This system requires a minimum of 200m2 of dedicated irrigation area to dispose of the treated effluent. The irrigation area is required to be landscaped, preferably with shrubs, and trees and should be designed to discourage pedestrian and vehicle access. The septic tank needs to be pumped out every 4 years and the system requires 3 monthly maintenance through an approved servicing contractor.
Application to Install an Aerobic Wastewater System
Maintenance of Aerobic Wastewater Systems
Holding Tanks
This system works by initial treatment of the effluent by a septic tank and then storage of the treated effluent in a holding tank. This type of system is ONLY approved where no other system can be installed, such as within 100m of the Murray River. The septic tank needs to be pumped out every 4 years and the holding tank pumped as required. If you require further information regarding installation of a holding tank please contact the Environmental Health Officer at Council.
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