Step 1 - Determine whether you need have an Effluent Disposal System

Systems are required for all unsewered areas in Murray and must be a type that is approved by the Department of Health.

Note within the Peel-Harvey Estuary catchment, which stretches from the Estuary to just the other side of the South-Western Highway, you will be required to install a nutrient removing wastewater treatment system. These wastewater systems consist of Filtrex, Aquarius O2-NR, Fujiclean ACE1200 and Taylex ABS1500.  

Applications and installations are usually arranged by specialised contractors. Plumbing connections are to be undertaken by a licensed plumber.

Step 2 - Complete the Application Form

Application to Construct or Install an Apparatus for the Treatment of Sewage

Guidelines for the Installation of an Apparatus for the Treatment of Sewage

Step 3 - Gather supporting documents

Alongside your application, you will need to supply:

• A copy of the plan and specifications of the proposed apparatus, showing the top and longitudinal section to a scale of not less than 1:50.
• A copy of a site plan of the premises, to a scale not less than 1:100, showing:
  • The position of all buildings erected or proposed and the position of the proposed and any existing apparatus including setback distances
  • The position, type and proposed use of all fixtures intended to discharge into the apparatus
  • The position and setback distances of all drains, pipes, inspection openings, vents, traps and junctions in relation to buildings and boundaries
  • The size of pipes and fittings and the fall of the drains
  • Details of the proposed and any existing effluent disposal system and its setback distances to buildings, boundaries and trafficable areas
  • The source of water supply to be used in connection with the apparatus if premises is not supplied by a non-reticulated mains supply

Step 4 - Submit your application to the relevant organisation

This will be determined when filling out the application form.

Applications to the Shire of Murray can be made in the following ways:

In person: Administration Office at 1915 Pinjarra Road, Pinjarra

Post: PO Box 21, Pinjarra, WA, 6208 

Email: mailbag@murray.wa.gov.au

For applications to the Executive Director of Public Health, please follow instructions in the application form.

Step 5 - Make payment 

The fee owing will be determined through the completion of the application form.

Standard application

Where referral is required for certain commercial applications

Step 6 - Assessment 

We will contact you should we require any further information and should all conditions be satisfactorily met, we will issue approval.

Step 7 - Installation 

Installation should be completed in accordance with the conditions of approval. 

Step 8 - Inspection 

An appointment must be made with a Shire Environmental Health Officer to conduct an inspection of the apparatus. It is recommended that the inspection be arranged by a plumber as certain procedures may need to be actioned to facilitate the inspection.

Where the apparatus is an aerobic treatment unit (ATU) or nutrient retentive system the person notifying the Shire shall provide an 'as constructed' plan and written certification that the unit has been installed in accordance with Department of Health specifications.

Step 9 - Permit to use

If the installation is approved a permit will be issued.

It is an offence to occupy a dwelling or building prior to the issue of a Permit to Use.

If an additional inspection is required due to faulty workmanship or incomplete compliance with conditions of approval, a re-inspection fee will apply.