Environment

Installing a Rainwater Tank Frequently Asked Questions

Which size rainwater tank is most suitable for me?

Rainwater tanks between 2,000 - 4,000L may store sufficient water for the average size garden during dry periods. Suppliers can provide advice on what size rainwater tank best suits your needs.

What other accessories do I need?

• Gutter protectors (to prevent leaves entering the tank)

• First flush diverters (to prevent top layer of soil entering the tank)

• Mosquito proofing, tank stand and specialist plumbing

• Backflow prevention (to prevent tank and main water mixing)

• Pump/s

Your supplier can provide further information on the accessories required.

Can I connect my rainwater tank to the toilet or washing machine?

Yes. A licensed plumber must install the connection(s), and you may also be eligible for additional rebates from Sydney Water, see the enclosed Sydney Water Rainwater Tank Rebate brochure for more details.

Will I need to buy a pump?

You can either rely on gravity feeding or use a pump, depending on the type and location of your tank. Pumps can be noisy so they should not be used between 8pm to 7am on weekdays and Saturday, 8pm to 8am on Sunday and public holidays. Suppliers can provide further information on whether a pump will be required.

Do I need a licensed plumber to install my rainwater tank?

If you install a rainwater tank that is used outdoors only and does not have a connection to Sydney Water's water supply, you will not need a licensed plumber to install your tank.

However, you will need a licensed plumber to undertake:

• any connections to a toilet or washing machine

• any connections to Sydney Water's water supply, either by an interconnection or top up system

• the installation of backflow prevention devices

Can my rainwater tank overflow?

Heavy and long periods of rain may exceed the capacity of your tank so it is essential that the overflow from the tank be piped directly into the stormwater drainage system serving the building. Overflow must not be directed to the sewer and must be covered with an insect proof mesh.

Do I need a sign on my rainwater tank?

Signs are important. For an above ground rainwater tank a sign must be affixed to the tank stating that the tank contains rainwater. Signs indicating that rainwater is in use should also be attached to all tap outlets. Alternatively, the use of a single sign could be displayed at the front of the property. Please refer to the Checklist for Development Applications for Rainwater Tanks included in this pack for more information.

Can I get a rebate?

Blacktown City residents may be eligible for Sydney Water rainwater tank rebates of up to $1500. Rebates are also available to households not connected to the mains water supply, through the NSW Department of Environment, Climate Change and Water. Please refer to the enclosed Rainwater Tank Rebates brochure for more information.

I am building a new house, can I claim a rebate?

No. If you are required to install a rainwater tank as part of your BASIX reductions targets, then you are not eligible for the rebate from Sydney Water.

If I rent, can I install a rainwater tank?

Approval must be obtained from the property owner in order to install a rainwater tank. If the owner of the property decides to proceed they are entitled to a rebate if a purchase of a tank is made and installed.

Can I install a rainwater tank underground?

Yes, but it may be subject to development consent. Please refer to the Checklist for Development Applications for Rainwater Tanks included in this pack for more information.

Does it cost anything to submit a Development Application (DA)?

Blacktown City Council offers a reduced fee of $10 to submit a DA when required for rainwater tanks. Rainwater tanks up to 10,000L do not require Council approval if it meets the exempt development criteria. Please refer to the Checklist for Development Applications for Rainwater Tanks included in this pack for more information.

Is rainwater safe to drink?

The NSW Department of Health does not recommend drinking or cooking with rainwater in most urban areas. Rainwater is perfectly safe for watering the garden, washing the car, using in the laundry and toilet flushing. Please refer to the enclosed NSW Health Rainwater Tank brochure for more information.

Do I have to use Council's preferred supplier list?

No. Residents are not limited to the preferred suppliers for rainwater tanks; they may select any rainwater tank supplier of their choice. If a resident chooses to take out a green loan they are also not limited to the preferred suppliers outlined by Council. Please be advised that any contract for the supply and installation of a rainwater tank will need to be entered into directly between you, as the customer, and the supplier. Any warranty in relation to the supply and installation will be the responsibility of the supplier and not Council.