Water Tank Regulations Queensland
The Southern Downs Regional Council (including towns such as Warwick and Stanthorpe) joins with the Toowoomba and Gold Coast Regional Councils to be granted approval by the Queensland Government to opt in to the MP 4.2 and MP 4.3 water saving requirements..
From 1 July, all new residential and commercial buildings within the reticulated water network will be required to have a rainwater tank installed as part of the build.
Southern Downs Mayor Vic Pennisi said the initiative would shore up an additional water supply for urban users in times of drought.
“As a region, we will continue to face ongoing water challenges and it is important to be mindful that we are one day closer to the next drought,” Mayor Pennisi said. “Long term water security remains high on Council’s agenda and we are committed to ensuring our community is better prepared for the challenges of dry times ahead. “Rainwater is perfect for non-drinkable purposes such as gardening, laundry, home cleaning, car washing and topping up your pool.
“The mandatory installation of rainwater tanks is one of several solutions to assist in water security and will relieve pressure on potable water supplies.”
Tank Requirements for New Residential Properties
- Roof collection area – Collect water from at least 50% of the roof area or 100m2 (whichever is lesser)
- Must be plumbed to services – Toilets, washing machines and at least one outdoor tap
- Have a minimum capacity of 5,000 litres (1,100 gallons)
Tank Requirements for New Commercial Properties
- Roof collection area – Collect water from at least 50m2 of the roof area
- Plumbed to services – Toilets (50m2 per pedestal) and outdoor taps
- Minimum capacity – 1,500 litres per required pedestal
The approval of mandatory rainwater tanks will be issued as part of the overall plumbing approval process for new residential and commercial buildings. In considering the location of tanks, applicants are advised to check the location of Council sewers, storm water and water mains on the allotment.
Visit: Southern Downs Regional Council Development Code for Rainwater Tanks
Select Water Tanks have already been providing water tanks to the Sothern Downs Region for well over 20 years. We provide custom-made water tanks from Colorbond/Aquaplate or the increasingly popular, Stainless Steel because of its cooling and long-lasting properties.
Our tanks are built to meet all the minimum health and safety standards including being insert and vermin proof and they are made to your specifications in terms of the location of inlet, outlet and overflow devices.