Rainwater Tanks
A rainwater tank is useful for capturing and using rainwater that would otherwise be wasted flowing into the stormwater system and into our waterways.
Benefits of using rainwater:
- Greater security of water supply during water restrictions (water restrictions do not apply to rainwater use)
- Saving you money. It is unlikely that rainwater will meet all of your water requirements, but it will supplement your water needs and save you money over the long term
- Reduces impact on existing stormwater infrastructure
- The knowledge that you are contributing to the more sustainable use of Melbourne's limited water supply!
Before using rainwater, first consider adopting other simple and effective ways to save water. For further information go to Saving Water.
Choosing a Tank
Your local rainwater tank supplier can provide you with detailed information to ensure that you obtain a tank best suited to your needs and property.
Factors that need to be considered are:
- Cost
- How much rain is expected to be captured and how the rainwater will be used
- What size tank is required
- What type of tank material is preferred, such as polyethylene, concrete, galvanised iron or fibreglass
- Site preparation prior to installation, including connection of overflow to the existing operating stormwater drainage system
- Ongoing maintenance
Look in the phone directory under 'Tanks and Tank Equipment' for local suppliers of rainwater tanks or visit the savewater!® website.
How to use rainwater
Rainwater is a popular alternative water supply, which can easily be used for the flushing of toilets and is ideal for watering the garden.
Can I drink water from my tank?
Using rainwater for drinking purposes is permitted but is undertaken at the choice and risk of the property owner. There is no guarantee that the water is free from contamination and its misuse could have serious consequences to your health.
A rainwater tank can become contaminated from a variety of sources including human faeces from leaky septic tanks, wastewater drainage, bird or possum droppings on roofs, atmospheric pollution and chemical residues from roof run-off.
A number of precautionary measures can be adopted to reduce the health risks associated with drinking water sourced from a rainwater tank, including:
- Keep tanks regularly maintained and secure, clean roofs, gutters, filters and other catchment areas
- Install screens between the roof and water tank to prevent access by animals and leaf litter
- Install a first flush or other diversion system to drain the first rainfall catch
- Install a water tap filtering device
Council's Health Department can advise you on the health issues related to rainwater use in your area. Contact them on 1300 322 322.
Rebates
For information on current rebates for rainwater tanks, go to Grants and Rebates.
Approvals for rainwater tanks
Plumbing work
Certain classes of plumbing work may only be done by a licenced plumber. This is the case for connecting your tank for indoor uses such as flushing of toilets. A Plumbers Certificate of Compliance should be supplied for any work (materials and labour) to install a rainwater tank exceeding $750 (including GST).
Permits and approvals
- Planning permits - The majority of rainwater tanks do not require a planning permit; however if your property is covered by a Heritage Overlay, or if the rainwater tank will have a capacity of more than 45,000 litres, or if the siting of the rainwater tank will require the removal of vegetation, please contact the Council's Planning Department on 1300 322 322 to obtain further advice.
- Building regulatory information - There are specific controls regarding the siting of tanks in relation to building work under the Building Regulations 2006. The Regulations state that the rainwater tank may encroach on the minimum setback distance of the wall of the building by not more than 0.5 metres.
The most common issues that require consideration are:
- That the tank doesn't impact on a neighbour's amenity (e.g. siting, noise, visual impact)
- That an overflow pipe is installed and connected to a legal stormwater drainage system
- That the system is well maintained
For further Information
It is recommended that you contact Council's Planning Department to discuss or clarify any permits and approvals that may be required for the installation of a rainwater tank.
Council's Health Department can also advise you on the health issues related to rainwater use in your area.
For further information please contact Council on 1300 322 322.