Thinking of installing a rain water tank? Some important factors to consider

This article written about rainwater tanks is in the Australian context. Fortunately there are not as many rules and regulations when it comes to rainwater tanks & harvesting in South Africa. Contrary to what the article states, rainwater from your rainwater tank can be used for drinking water but it must be filtered first. Similar to Australia, is South Africa’s looming water crisis; all South Africans should consider rainwater tank installation in this water scarce country.

Households use approximately 85% of the total water consumption for the City of Boroondara.

Collecting and using rainwater is a positive way of reducing water usage. Before installing a rainwater tank, there are some important factors to consider.

Permits

A planning permit is generally only required if the site is covered by a Boroondara Planning Scheme Overlay. Domestic rainwater tanks only require a building permit if the water tank will be supported by an existing building, or is on a tank stand.

Drainage

Water tanks must be fitted with an overflow pipe of the same diameter as the inlet pipe, and must be connected to the stormwater system at a legal point of discharge.

Health

• Rainwater collected in water tanks is not suitable for drinking because it can contain contaminants from collection surfaces.
• Tanks must be sealed to prevent risk to small children and to keep insects, vermin and other animals out.

Tank siting

• If a rainwater tank is part of other building works, or is supported by another structure, it is permitted to project into the minimum setback from a side boundary by 500mm.
• Tanks up to 3m high should be a minimum of 500mm from any side boundary.
• Freestanding tanks should not be located forward of the existing building line.
• You should leave a gap of at least 500mm between a tank and any side boundary to allow access for maintenance.

General

• Stored water should be kept free of contaminants: leaves, atmospheric pollution, animal/bird droppings and other matter.
• The water tank must be professionally designed and manufactured using corrosion resistant, non-toxic materials.
• Water tanks should be installed by a licensed plumber.
• Any support tank stands must be professionally designed and constructed to meet structural regulations and manufacturer’s recommendations, which will form part of your Building Permit application.

Source: Boroondara

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