Trade Waste

Trade waste refers to liquid waste produced by businesses, industries, or commercial activities, excluding domestic sewage. Examples include wastewater from:

• Restaurants and cafes
• Vehicle repair workshops
• Laundries and dry cleaners
• Medical and dental clinics
• Manufacturing and industrial operations

This waste may contain substances like fats, oils, grease, chemicals, or heavy metals that can harm the sewerage system and the environment if not properly managed.

Unregulated trade waste can:

• Block or damage sewer pipes
• Disrupt wastewater treatment processes
• Pose health risks to workers and the public
• Cause environmental pollution

To mitigate these risks, Council enforces the Trade Waste Environmental Management Plan, ensuring all discharges meet specific standards. 

Businesses intending to discharge trade waste into the sewer system must:

1. Apply for a Trade Waste Discharge Permit: Complete the Application for Approval to Discharge Trade Waste to Sewer(PDF, 403KB).(PDF, 403KB)
2. Install Appropriate Pre-Treatment Devices: Depending on the nature of the waste, devices like grease traps or oil separators may be required.
3. Maintain Equipment Regularly: Ensure all pre-treatment systems are serviced and cleaned as per Council guidelines.
4. Comply with Discharge Standards: Adhere to the limits set out in the Trade Waste Environmental Management Plan(PDF, 964KB).

Discharging trade waste without approval is an offence under the Water Supply (Safety and Reliability) Act 2008 and may result in significant penalties. 

Council's responsibilities include:

• Assessing trade waste applications
• Monitoring compliance with discharge standards
• Providing guidance on pre-treatment requirements

Maintaining records of trade waste generators