If you are an land owner looking to subdivide and develop, a residential or commercial developer or planning consultant, or the owner of a new commerical facility with wastewater to be managed - you may have found your way here by searching "what IS a Site and Soil Evaluation?".
For areas that are not in an area serviced by a provider for wastewater disposal - an SSE will be required for developments and subdivisions.
An SSE is a written report that assesses various aspects of a site in relation to the collection, treatment and on-site disposal of sewerage, so that it is appropriately managed, and suitable for the site.
Essentially, the site is assessed for disposal of wastewater risks - depth and risk to groundwater, nearby environmentally sensitive receptors (such as rivers, creeks and lakes) and geology. Per the Government Sewerage Policy (2019) certain setback distances are assessed, to ensure the final system meets minimum requirements. The volume of sewerage output, minimum treatment requirements, and location plans area also assessed.
On-site testing is also required - this involves digging a minimum of two soil bores (usually to around 2 m depth) to assess the soil type and structure on site. Infiltration testing of soils is also completed. Samples are collected and assessed for Phosphorus Retention, Sodicity, pH - and includes a soil texture classification assessment.
The resulting report will be collated into an SSE, including assessment of land application options, best suited disposal systems and total area requirements needed to dispose of treated wastewater.
The Government Sewerage Policy (2019) sets the State Government’s position on how sewerage services are to be provided in Western Australia through the planning and development of land. SSEs should be undertaken in accordance with AS/NZS 1547 On-site domestic wastewater management, and the Health (Treatment of Sewage and Disposal of Effluent and Liquid Waste) Regulations 1974.
If you require an SSE - please get in touch at sam@westsoilandwater.com.au / 0424 021 264
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