Greywater use
As a result of drought conditions and current water restrictions in WA, there has been considerable community interest in greywater use. Recycling your greywater is an efficient way to save water by reusing it on your garden. Greywater is the waste water from baths showers, washing machines, laundry troughs, and in some cases kitchens. Kitchen water contains higher levels of organic matter, greases, oils and detergents so it can only be used if it is treated and passes through a grease trap. Toilet water (black water) must not be used due to contamination risks.
For more information, please speak to an Environmental Health Officer on 9311 8111 or email admin@vicpark.wa.gov.au.
Greywater reuse systems
Installation of greywater reuse systems for single dwellings or commercial premises/multi-dwellings of volume up to 5,000L/day using sub-surface irrigation must be approved by the Town's Environmental Health Services. Any other applications must be approved by the Department of Health via the Town. To apply, you can download an Application to Construct or Install and Apparatus for the Treatment of Sewage from the Department of Health Website below. There is a list of approved systems on the website also.
For further information please refer to the Department of Health's Greywater Reuse website or the Code of Practice for the Reuse of Greywater in Western Australia 2010.
Manual bucketing
Manual bucketing of shower and laundry water is another way to reuse greywater and does not require approval from the Town if completed in accordance with the Code of Practice. Waste water from washing of nappies or soiled clothing should not be used.
Greywater reuse tips
- Ensure you select garden-friendly detergents that are biodegradable, low in phosphorus, sodium, boron and chloride.and avoid the use of bleaches and softeners.
- Greywater should not come into direct contact with edible fruits and vegetables. It should only be used to irrigate above ground food plants such as fruit trees.
- Monitor the growth of fruits and vegetables, or plants for stress.
- Maintenance or checks of the system should be completed on a regular basis.
- When raining, switch off the greywater reuse diverter to avoid run-off from your property.