Trade Waste

What is trade waste?

Trade waste is a water-borne waste (liquid) that is discharged from any business or premises to Council’s sewerage system. This can be trade or factory waste, fats, oils, grease, solids and/or other impurities. Trade waste does not include storm water, unpolluted water, prohibited substances or domestic wastewater/sewage (liquid from hand basin, shower, bath or toilet).

Who generates trade waste?

Any person or business operation can generate trade waste e.g. food outlets, laundromats, service stations, and vehicle workshops.

What is a trade waste approval and do I need one?

A Trade Waste Approval is a legally binding document stating the requirements and conditions under which discharge to Council’s sewerage system is allowed. It is an offence under the Water Supply (Safety and Reliability) Act 2008 to discharge trade waste into the sewer without a Trade Waste Approval.

What is a pre-treatment system?

A pre-treatment system is a device that is designed to prevent trade waste (fats, oils, greases and solids) from entering the sewer system, preventing blockages, spills and potential damage to the environment. Pre-treatment systems work by separating the fats, oils, grease and solids which allows the wastewater to travel through Council’s sewerage system. A liquid waste carrier will be required (how often depends on how much trade waste is generated) to clean the system and the collected waste is then transferred to a commercial waste treatment facility.

Why is trade waste management important?

It is a legal requirement to manage your trade waste correctly to protect the environment, the health and safety of the public, and community infrastructure.