Centralised sewerage systems, where each property is linked into a shared sewage system and treated at a sewage treatment plant, are the best way of dealing with wastewater in cities and towns.

However, it may be impractical to provide centralised systems for small widely dispersed developments, such as rural residential developments and isolated rural dwellings. These properties rely on individual onsite wastewater treatment systems ('septic systems') to collect, treat and reuse or discharge their wastewater.

A two-tier approval process applies to onsite wastewater treatment systems where:

1. EPA approves the type of onsite systems that may be installed in Victoria, via a 'certificate of approval system'.

View the approved wastewater treatment systems by:

• approval number
• approval type (includes wastewater and greywater systems)
• dispersal method
• system name.

More information is available from:

• Guidance on Applying for EPA Approval of an Onsite Wastewater Treatment System (Adobe PDF file, 119KB)
• Application form for Approval of Onsite Wastewater Treatment System

2. Local government operates a permit system, which controls the installation, maintenance and monitoring of individual units.

Related Publications

EPA has prepared publications to assist local government and individuals better manage onsite wastewater systems:

• EPA Publication 629 – Development Approvals in Sewered and Unsewered Areas (Adobe PDF file, 82KB)
• EPA Publication 746.1 – Land Capability Assessment for Onsite Wastewater Management (Adobe PDF file, 454KB)
• EPA Publication 748 – EPA's Certificate of Approval System (Adobe PDF file, 24KB)
• EPA Publication 760 – Guidelines for Aerated On-site Wastewater Treatment Systems (Adobe PDF file, 1273KB or 1.3MB)
• EPA Publication 500 – Code of Practice for Small Wastewater Treatment Plants (Adobe PDF file, 1489KB or 1.5MB)