Draft approval framework for the use of non-drinking water in Western Australia

Transcription

1 Draft approval framework for the use of non-drinking water in Western Australia Urban developments Looking after all our water needs SCT_Online Print_Final_A4.indd 1 31/05/10 11:08 AM

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3 Draft approval framework for the use of non-drinking water in Western Australia Urban developments Looking after all our water needs Department of Water October 2010

4 Department of Water 168 St Georges Terrace Perth Western Australia 6000 Telephone Facsimile Government of Western Australia 2010 October 2010 This work is copyright. You may download, display, print and reproduce this material in unaltered form only (retaining this notice) for your personal, non-commercial use or use within your organisation. Apart from any use as permitted under the Copyright Act 1968, all other rights are reserved. Requests and inquiries concerning reproduction and rights should be addressed to the Department of Water. ISBN (online) Acknowledgements This document has been developed by the Department of Water in partnership with the following organisations: Department of Health; Department of Environment and Conservation; Department of Planning; Department of Commerce (Building Commission, Plumbers Licensing Board); Urban Development Institute of Australia; Water Corporation and WA Local Government Association. The Department of Water is grateful for the valuable input from representatives of the above organisations who contributed to the development of this document. Document valid until October 2011 This document is released as a draft. As it is tested over time, the Department of Water will look for opportunities to further streamline the process. A formal review of the document will be undertaken in October Disclaimer This document has been published by the Department of Water. Any representation, statement, opinion or advice expressed or implied in this publication is made in good faith and on the basis that the Department of Water and its employees are not liable for any damage or loss whatsoever which may occur as a result of action taken or not taken, as the case may be in respect of any representation, statement, opinion or advice referred to herein. Professional advice should be obtained before applying the information contained in this document to particular circumstances. This publication is available at our website < or for those with special needs it can be made available in alternative formats such as audio, large print, or Braille.

5 Draft approval framework for the use of non-drinking water in Western Australia Contents Summary... v 1 Intent Non-drinking water schemes Non-drinking water sources... 3 Treated wastewater... 3 Stormwater... 3 Greywater... 3 Groundwater... 4 Rainwater Non-drinking water supply... 4 On-site options... 4 Third-pipe schemes... 4 Managed aquifer recharge Regulatory objectives Regulatory agencies Overview of the approval framework Stages for assessment and approval Process for assessment of each stage Land planning considerations... 8 Relationship to Better urban water management... 8 Greenfield, infill and urban renewal developments... 9 Non-drinking water proposals outside the land planning process... 9 Non-drinking water proposals outside urban areas Infrastructure planning considerations Details of the approval framework Stage 1: Option evaluation and concept design Process for submitting the Stage 1 study for endorsement Better urban water management district scale Elements of the Option evaluation and concept design stage Stage 2: Preliminary design Process for submitting the Stage 2 study for endorsement Better urban water management local scale Elements of the Preliminary design study Stage 3: Detailed design study Process for submitting the Stage 3 study for endorsement Better urban water management subdivision scale Elements of the detailed design study Agency approvals required Stage 4: Implementation Process for submitting the Stage 4 study for endorsement Better urban water management development application Agency approvals Review Appendices Shortened forms Department of Water iii

6 Urban developments Glossary References Appendices Appendix A Agency contacts Appendix B Resources Figures Figure 1 Overview of approval requirements Figure 2 Non-drinking water project stages and relationship to Better urban water management Tables Table 1 Stage 1 study requirements Table 2 Stage 2 study requirements Table 3 Stage 3 study requirements iv Department of Water

7 Draft approval framework for the use of non-drinking water in Western Australia Summary Non-drinking water systems provide water that is of lower quality than drinking water, but still suitable for many uses such as garden irrigation and toilet flushing. The implementation of non-drinking water systems is encouraged provided they meet water quality standards for protecting public health and the environment and they reduce demand for drinking water without increasing the total volume of water used. This approval framework guides proponents step by step through the general considerations and specific approval requirements for establishing a non-drinking water system. It is intended for use by proponents of greenfield, infill and urban renewal projects. However the principles and general requirements are likely to be relevant for other non-drinking water projects. Future work will focus on identifying opportunities for agencies to drive the implementation of non-drinking water systems, particularly where traditional water resources are constrained. The Department of Water s Water Recycling and Efficiency Branch is the lead agency for the approval process (contact details at Appendix B). Proponents will receive consolidated, across-agency advice prepared by the Department of Water. The objectives of the approval framework for non-drinking water systems are to promote: public health protection of the environment optimal management of water resources fairness consistent decisions timeliness eliminate duplication regulatory certainty known and uniform standards auditable standards monitoring and reporting to ensure compliance public confidence reliable service provision financially viable projects delivered at an acceptable cost to consumers. The following regulatory agencies may be involved at various stages in the assessment of non-drinking water projects: Department of Health Department of Environment and Conservation Department of Water Economic Regulation Authority Office of the Environmental Protection Authority Western Australian Planning Commission and Department of Planning local government. Department of Water v

8 Urban developments Where a non-drinking water proposal has the potential to impact upon existing water service infrastructure, the water service provider (e.g. the Water Corporation, Aqwest, Busselton Water Board, local government authority) should also be consulted. Where a non-drinking water proposal has the potential to cause environmental impacts, the proponent should obtain advice from the Office of the Environmental Protection Authority (OEPA). The timeframe for assessment by the OEPA will depend on whether the OEPA provides informal advice or chooses to formally assess the proposal. The OEPA s assessment will occur outside the non-drinking water approval process. This framework is intended only as a guide. As the use of non-drinking water is an evolving field, the regulatory requirements for them may change as more information becomes available. To ensure that appropriate consideration is given to the necessary approval requirements of each specific proposal, it is recommended that proponents discuss the steps and requirements for their proposal with the relevant approving agencies early in the process. Any updates to this draft approval framework will be made available on the Department of Water s online Waterwise community toolkit at < vi Department of Water

9 Draft approval framework for the use of non-drinking water in Western Australia 1 Intent In recent years there has been increased interest in the use of non-drinking water to supplement or partially replace scheme (drinking water) supplies. Drivers include reduced rainfall, climate change predictions, population growth, the cost to the community and the environment of developing new sources, and increased public awareness of the need to conserve our high quality water resources. Possible uses of non-drinking water include irrigating public open space or household gardens and for toilet flushing. Non-drinking water systems are encouraged provided they meet water quality standards for protecting public health and the environment and they reduce demand for drinking water without increasing the total volume of water used. This draft approval framework provides simplified and clearly defined approval requirements for non-drinking water systems in urban developments. The framework guides proponents step by step through the approval requirements for establishing a non-drinking water system. It provides information on the general considerations and approval-specific considerations for non-drinking water systems and arranges these approval requirements in a logical four-stage process. It also involves a commitment by government agencies to work collaboratively in the approval of non-drinking water systems. The Department of Water s Water Recycling and Efficiency branch is the lead agency for the approval process. Proponents will receive consolidated, across-agency advice prepared by the Department of Water. By following the process explained here, proponents will gain a greater understanding of the opportunities and constraints for their non-drinking water proposal, and will have more confidence in determining the viability of the proposal. The approval framework is intended for use by proponents such as developers and local governments interested in implementing a non-drinking water system. It is not appropriate for on-site non-drinking water options being considered by individual householders, such as individual greywater and rainwater systems. However, where a developer is proposing to have such on-site systems installed in a number of houses as a requirement of the development, the process does apply. The approval framework supports the Better urban water management (WAPC 2008) process, which recognises that the greatest opportunities for establishing non-drinking water schemes exist early in the land planning process. The framework is intended to guide proponents of greenfield, infill and urban renewal projects. However, the principles and general requirements are likely to be relevant for other non-drinking water projects, including those in industry, mining and agriculture. Proponents should contact the Department of Water s Water Recycling and Efficiency Branch (See Appendix A) for advice on how to apply the framework to projects outside urban areas. Department of Water 1

10 Urban developments Future work will focus on identifying opportunities for the regulatory agencies to drive the implementation of non-drinking water systems, particularly where traditional water resources are constrained. 2 Department of Water

11 Draft approval framework for the use of non-drinking water in Western Australia 2 Non-drinking water schemes Non-drinking water schemes provide a fit-for-purpose water source for those uses that do not require high quality drinking water. The Department of Water s online Waterwise community toolkit provides information for proponents about non-drinking water source and supply options, and general considerations when developing a non-drinking water scheme. 2.1 Non-drinking water sources This section describes some non-drinking water sources that may be considered. Further information is available in the Waterwise community toolkit. Treated wastewater From wastewater treatment plants Treated wastewater, discharged from a wastewater treatment facility after it has had its nutrient and biochemical load reduced, can provide a secure and sustainable source of water that is independent of rainfall. Further treatment may be required depending on the intended end use. Via sewer mining Sewer mining involves the abstraction of untreated wastewater from the sewerage network. As sewer mining is a complex option requiring the construction of a wastewater treatment facility, it is considered most viable when the reuse site is not close to an existing wastewater treatment plant. Where sewer mining from a Water Corporation sewerage system is being considered, the corporation s draft sewer mining guidelines apply. Stormwater The Department of Water encourages the infiltration of stormwater at or near its source as a primary means of managing urban stormwater. This helps to keep the water balance as close as possible to the pre-development situation. It is likely that large quantities of stormwater for use as a non-drinking water source may only be able to be harvested from: high-density development or commercial areas areas with limited infiltration potential (due to high groundwater levels or less permeable soils) areas with existing large scale stormwater discharge systems (such as traditional drains or large sumps). Greywater Greywater can provide a climate-independent resource for reuse, subject to continued occupancy of a house and the number of people in a household. Department of Water 3

12 Urban developments Greywater reuse is likely to be most viable as an on-site (e.g. single household) option. Groundwater Groundwater availability is limited in many areas and a groundwater allocation may not always be available. The relevant regional office of the Department of Water should be contacted early in the planning phase to determine whether the proposal is within a proclaimed groundwater area and requires licensing and also to determine if sufficient groundwater is likely to be available. Rainwater Rainwater availability is seasonal. To gain the full potential of rainwater as a water source the rainwater system should be plumbed into the building for non-drinking purposes, such as toilet flushing. 2.2 Non-drinking water supply The following are some options for the supply of non-drinking water. Further information is available on the Waterwise community toolkit. On-site options In suitable areas, householders can collect rainwater from roofs in rainwater tanks, reuse greywater from the shower, bathroom and laundry or use groundwater from domestic (garden) bores. It is the responsibility of the householder to maintain these systems. This approval framework is not intended to regulate on-site non-drinking water systems being considered by individual householders, such as on-site greywater and rainwater systems. However, where a developer is proposing these on-site systems across a number of houses in a development the approval framework does apply. Third-pipe schemes A third-pipe scheme provides non-drinking water to multiple users as an additional water service to the mains scheme that supplies drinking water and the sewerage system that takes used water away from the house. Potential sources for third-pipe schemes include treated wastewater, urban stormwater (see considerations above) or groundwater. The greatest opportunity for installing third-pipe schemes is in new residential developments, where the pipeline can be constructed at the same time as other underground infrastructure. A third-pipe scheme may also provide non-drinking water within buildings, including multi-tenanted office or apartment complexes. 4 Department of Water

13 Draft approval framework for the use of non-drinking water in Western Australia Managed aquifer recharge Managed aquifer recharge is the intentional recharge of an aquifer under controlled conditions, either by injection or infiltration, in order to store a water source for later abstraction and use (indirect reuse), or for environmental benefits. Some possible sources of recharge are treated wastewater, urban stormwater or groundwater drawn from other aquifers. Some level of pre-treatment of the source water will generally be required prior to recharging the aquifer, depending on the outcome of environmental and health risk assessments. Generally, infiltration of rainwater via infiltration systems (such as soak wells, infiltration trenches, detention or infiltration basins or vegetated areas) as a consequence of urbanisation is not considered managed aquifer recharge. There may be opportunities for collection or redirection of urban stormwater for managed aquifer recharge, subject to satisfying the ecological water requirements of ecosystems that previously received stormwater input. Managed aquifer recharge may not be feasible on all sites, due to hydrogeological, environmental or cost limitations Department of Water 5

14 Urban developments 3 Regulatory objectives The objectives of the approval framework for non-drinking water systems are to promote: public health protection of the environment optimal management of water resources fairness consistent decisions timeliness eliminate duplication regulatory certainty known and uniform standards auditable standards monitoring and reporting to ensure compliance public confidence reliable service provision financially viable projects delivered at an acceptable cost to consumers 6 Department of Water

15 Draft approval framework for the use of non-drinking water in Western Australia 4 Regulatory agencies The following regulatory agencies may be involved at various stages in the assessment of non-drinking water projects: Department of Health regulates the design, construction, connection, operation and maintenance of sewage schemes in accordance with the Health Act 1911 Department of Environment and Conservation regulates wastewater from prescribed industries, as determined under Part V of the Environmental Protection Act 1986 Department of Water manages the state s water resources, assesses water management strategies under Better urban water management (WAPC 2008), grants licences for groundwater and surface water, provides advice to the Minister for Water on requests for exemptions from the need to hold a water service provider licence Economic Regulation Authority assesses technical and financial capability in the licensing of water service providers under the Water Services Licensing Act 1995 Office of the Environmental Protection Authority assesses proposals under Part IV of the Environmental Protection Act 1986 Western Australian Planning Commission and Department of Planning consider non-drinking water proposals through the land planning process. Local government manages local assets, may be a water service provider, administers the Health Act 1911, administers the Building Code of Australia, grants approvals through the land planning process. Note that consideration of proposals by the Office of the Environmental Protection Authority (OEPA) is undertaken outside of this non-drinking water approval process. Where a non-drinking water proposal has the potential to cause environmental impacts, the proponent should obtain advice from the OEPA. The timeframe for assessment by the OEPA will depend on whether the OEPA provides informal advice or chooses to formally assess the proposal. The OEPA s assessment will occur outside the non-drinking water approval process. Where a non-drinking water scheme has the potential to impact upon existing water service infrastructure, proponents are required to consult with the water service provider (e.g. the Water Corporation, Aqwest, Busselton Water Board, or local government authority). Department of Water 7

16 Urban developments 5 Overview of the approval framework 5.1 Stages for assessment and approval This approval framework establishes four stages at which assessment will be required: 1 Option evaluation and concept design 2 Preliminary design 3 Detailed design and applications for approval 4 Implementation. An overview of the approvals process is provided in Figure 1. By following the process explained here, proponents will gain a greater understanding of the opportunities for their particular project and the constraints on it, and will have more confidence in their assessment of its viability. The Department of Water is the lead agency responsible for the coordination of the approval framework. However, all agencies are available to provide early advice in the development of non-drinking water proposals. Agency contact details are provided in Appendix A. 5.2 Process for assessment of each stage Each stage will be assessed under a stopwatch process. Where all of the required information is provided by the proponent, the assessment will proceed as per the timeframes provided in Figure 1. Where additional information or clarification is sought from proponents, the assessment process will stop until all required information has been received by the Department of Water (Water Recycling and Efficiency Branch). 5.3 Land planning considerations Relationship to Better urban water management Better urban water management provides guidance on implementing State planning policy 2.9 Water resources (Government of Western Australia 2006), which is a requirement of the State water strategy for Western Australia (Government of Western Australia 2003). Better urban water management is intended to ensure that an appropriate level of consideration is given to the total water cycle at each stage of the planning process. The document intends to assist regional, district, local and subdivision phases of the planning process. Figure 2 illustrates the ideal relationship between the stages in developing a nondrinking water project and the land planning and Better urban water management stages. 8 Department of Water

17 Draft approval framework for the use of non-drinking water in Western Australia This framework has aligned the timing of the approval requirements for non-drinking water schemes with the planning stages of Better urban water management. This is because the greatest opportunities for establishing non-drinking water schemes exist early in the land planning process. Proponents should make themselves aware of any regional-scale water planning documents relevant to their development. Non-drinking water developments should be consistent with any regional water planning objectives. Note that the relationship between the four non-drinking water approval stages and Better urban water management in Figure 2 is indicative only. At the discretion of the approving agencies, the appointment of a licensed water service provider may be required at the district or local stage of planning, rather than prior to subdivision approval. This decision would be based on factors including the risk of the project, the scale of the project and whether the scheme is supplying an essential water supply. Where this applies, the Stage 3 detailed design study will be required at this earlier stage. Proponents will be required to undertake all necessary work to support the licence application in accordance with the Economic Regulation Authority s publication Electricity, gas and water licences: application guideline and forms (ERA, 2008). The decision to grant a licence is at the discretion of the Economic Regulation Authority board. Greenfield, infill and urban renewal developments Where a non-drinking water scheme is to be implemented through the land planning process, the requirements of this framework must also be submitted as an appendix to the relevant water management strategy (i.e. in addition to the eight copies to be submitted to the Department of Water). The normal process for submitting the water management strategy should be followed. Where a non-drinking water proposal is part of a development that does not require all of the land planning elements (for example, an urban renewal project only requiring subdivision approval and the development of an urban water management strategy, or retrofitting that requires development approval), each of the non-drinking water approval elements must still be completed and submitted to the Department of Water in accordance with stages 1 to 4 above. For small scale non-drinking water schemes, or where there has been significant progress on a non-drinking water project prior to the release of this framework, some flexibility may be allowed in applying the approval framework. Advice should be obtained from the Department of Water in this regard. Non-drinking water proposals outside the land planning process There may be instances where a non-drinking water scheme is being considered outside the land planning process or where a local government development application is the only land planning approval required. For example, a local government authority may wish to retrofit its public open space irrigation systems to replace groundwater with treated wastewater for irrigation. Department of Water 9

18 Urban developments In these circumstances, the required studies should still be submitted to the Department of Water in accordance with stages 1 to 4 above. For small scale non-drinking water schemes, or where there has been significant progress on a non-drinking water project prior to the release of this framework, some flexibility may be allowed in applying the approval framework. Advice should be obtained from the Department of Water in this regard. Non-drinking water proposals outside urban areas This document is intended primarily for non-drinking water proposals in urban developments, and future frameworks will be developed for non-drinking water proposals in other settings. However, the four approval stages, and the detail required within those stages, are considered relevant to other non-drinking water developments, including industry, mining and agriculture. Please contact the Department of Water s Water Recycling and Efficiency Branch (see Appendix B) for further guidance. 5.4 Infrastructure planning considerations Proponents of a non-drinking water scheme should take into account any existing and planned water infrastructure and should ensure that their project is compatible. The existing water service provider should be contacted to provide information about any existing and planned water infrastructure, including aspects such as timing, sizing and configuration of the capital investment program. 10 Department of Water

19 Draft approval framework for the use of non-drinking water in Western Australia Figure 1 Overview of approval requirements Department of Water 11

20 Urban developments Figure 2 Non-drinking water project stages and relationship to Better urban water management 12 Department of Water

21 Draft approval framework for the use of non-drinking water in Western Australia 6 Details of the approval framework 6.1 Stage 1: Option evaluation and concept design Overarching requirements for Stage 1: evaluate options and develop a non-drinking water concept consult with approving agencies to seek advice on the proposed concept align with regional non-drinking water objectives identify secure non-drinking water sources identify the area of land required for infrastructure demonstrate understanding of and ability to comply with relevant regulations Department of Health, Environment and Conservation, Water, existing water service provider, Economic Regulation Authority. Process for submitting the Stage 1 study for endorsement The first stage in the development of a non-drinking water proposal is to evaluate the options and identify a viable proposal. Proponents are encouraged to discuss their options with the relevant approving agencies early in this stage. The Option evaluation and concept design study should be submitted to the Water Recycling and Efficiency Branch of the Department of Water. Eight printed copies and an electronic copy are required. The Department of Water will coordinate comments from the relevant approving agencies and will prepare a coordinated response. Once submitted and assessed by the agencies, the non-drinking water concept presented in the Option evaluation and concept design study will be either: endorsed endorsed with conditions not assessed further information required rejected. If all required information is provided, proponents will receive a response from the Department of Water within 45 working days. Since the framework applies to a range of project scales, the 45 working days is needed to accommodate the consideration of large scale and complex projects. The time required to assess smaller scale and less complex projects will be reduced. Department of Water 13

22 Urban developments Where additional information or clarification is sought from proponents, the assessment process will stop until the additional information has been received by the Department of Water. Better urban water management district scale The Option evaluation and concept design stage in the development of a nondrinking water scheme should generally be undertaken at the district scale of planning. Therefore, where the non-drinking water scheme is being implemented through the land planning process, the option evaluation and concept design study should also be submitted as an appendix to the district water management strategy. Note that, at the discretion of the approving agencies, the appointment of a water service provider may be required at this stage based on factors including the risk of the project, the scale of the project and whether the scheme is supplying an essential water supply. This would require that the proponent undertake the Stage 2 and Stage 3 studies at the district scale of planning, including all necessary work to support the licence application in accordance with the Economic Regulation Authority s publication Electricity, gas and water licences: application guideline and forms. The decision to grant a licence is at the discretion of the Economic Regulation Authority board. Elements of the Option evaluation and concept design stage The Option evaluation and concept design study should include, but may not be limited to, discussion of the following general and agency-specific requirements. It is expected that all of the following elements will need to be addressed. However, the level of detail required in the document will depend on the scale and complexity of the project. Table 1 Stage 1 study requirements Component Content Part 1: Evaluating the options Project description and intent Briefly discuss the drivers for proposing the non-drinking water system and the aims. Location Provide maps and details of the location of the proposal. Where possible include: electronic spatial data GIS or CAD, depicting the proposal extent, geo-referenced and conforming to the following parameters: 14 Department of Water

23 Draft approval framework for the use of non-drinking water in Western Australia Component Content Part 1: Evaluating the options - Datum: GDA94 - Projection: Geographic (latitude/longitude) or Map Grid of Australia (MGA) - Format: Arcview shapefile, Arcinfo coverages, Microstation or AutoCAD. Where possible include: maps and/or directions: - for urban areas: street address, lot number, the suburb and nearest road intersection - for remote localities: the nearest town together with distance and direction from that town to the proposal site. Site characteristics and possible constraints Is the site in a public drinking water source area? Are wetland or odour buffers required? Is the site contaminated? Are there any other site-specific constraints or considerations that may affect the proposed scheme? Land planning considerations Consider any local planning policies and local laws (local government requirements). Consider planning policies that may affect the location and/or operation of infrastructure e.g. buffer zones. Consider opportunities for irrigation of public open space. Consider opportunities to create multiple use corridors. Consider statewide policies. Department of Water 15

24 Urban developments Component Content Part 1: Evaluating the options Intended end uses and estimated demand Identify the proposed uses for the nondrinking water supply (e.g. public open space irrigation, domestic garden irrigation, toilet flushing). On the basis of the proposed end uses, provide an estimate of demand. Assessment of possible non-drinking water sources Identify secure non-drinking water source options and contingencies should the nondrinking water system fail, having regard for the estimated demand. If the source of non-drinking water is derived from municipal wastewater or stormwater, obtain advice from the existing wastewater or drainage service provider, where applicable, on matters such as volumes available for abstraction, charges and existing treatment systems. For groundwater schemes (and where groundwater is a contingency source): - obtain advice from the Department of Water regional office on water availability and licensing and permit requirements. Consider Department of Water policies as appropriate Managed aquifer recharge policy (DoW 2010, in prep), Land use compatibility table (DoE 2004), community bore policy (DoW 2010), Stormwater management manual for Western Australia (DoW ). Evaluation of options and recommended preferred option Undertake an evaluation of options based on the outcomes of the above analysis to determine the preferred non-drinking water option. 16 Department of Water

25 Draft approval framework for the use of non-drinking water in Western Australia Component Content Part 2: Concept design of preferred option Identify infrastructure and land requirements Consider infrastructure needs and how much land will required. Consider any existing and planned water infrastructure for the site and how this impacts upon the proposed non-drinking water scheme contact the existing water service provider. Desktop review of health risks Consider Department of Health requirements discuss fit-for-purpose requirements and exposure risk level based on source water and intended end-uses as per the draft Guidelines for the use of recycled water in Western Australia (DoH 2009a) and/or the draft Guidelines for the use of alternate water (DoH 2009b). Understand the requirements of the Australian guidelines for water recycling (Phase 1 and relevant Phase 2 modules) (EPHC 2006) and the Guidelines for the use of recycled water in Western Australia (DoH 2009a) to determine ability to manage public health risks. Desktop review of environmental risks Consider Department of Environment and Conservation requirements for an environmental works approval and licence if the source water is from a prescribed activity in accordance with the Environmental Protection Act Where an irrigation scheme is proposed, the Department of Environment and Conservation will require details of how the system will be managed and intended uses of the water. Department of Water 17

26 Urban developments Component Content Part 2: Concept design of preferred option For managed aquifer recharge proposals consider the Department of Water s requirements as per the Managed Aquifer Recharge policy (DoW 2010, in prep), including hydrogeological assessment and the environmental risk assessment requirements. A desktop site feasibility assessment is required at this stage. Where a non-drinking water proposal has the potential to cause environmental impacts, the proponent should obtain advice from the Office of the Environmental Protection Authority (OEPA). The timeframe for assessment by the OEPA will depend on whether the OEPA provides informal advice or chooses to formally assess the proposal. The OEPA s assessment will occur outside the nondrinking water approval process. However, proponents should attach the OEPA s advice to their Stage 1 study. Institutional arrangements Consider who will manage the system in the immediate and long term. Seek support from the local government authority which will be the current or future asset manager, where applicable. Identify the preferred water service provider: - Consider the process for obtaining exemptions from water service licensing (contact the Department of Water for advice). Assess the potential to become a licensed service provider against the Economic Regulation Authority s publication Electricity, gas and water licences: application guideline and forms. 18 Department of Water

27 Draft approval framework for the use of non-drinking water in Western Australia Component Content Part 2: Concept design of preferred option If the Water Corporation is the existing water and/or wastewater service provider and is the preferred non-drinking water service provider, refer to Waterwise developers: H 2 Options on the Water Corporation s website, or contact the Water Corporation. Preliminary costs Develop a preliminary business case for the non-drinking water scheme. Elements of business case include (from the Water Corporation s H 2 0ptions): - the project feasibility in terms of the cost to the consumer - development of a cost-benefit analysis (including capital costs, operational costs) - revenue streams - the benefits to you as a proponent - the benefits to the consumer and the community - the benefits to the environment - management implications. Overall risk assessment Proponents are encouraged to convene a meeting of the approving agencies to undertake an evaluation of risks. A summary of the outcomes of this meeting and a risk matrix should be provided. Community acceptance Proponents are encouraged to convene a meeting of the approving agencies to undertake an evaluation of risks. A summary of the outcomes of this meeting and a risk matrix should be provided. Overall environmental footprint Consider impacts on biodiversity, energy efficiency, water efficiency. Department of Water 19

28 Urban developments 6.2 Stage 2: Preliminary design Overarching requirements for Stage 2: align the project with any district non-drinking water objectives evaluate project feasibility against Department of Health, Department of Environment and Conservation, Department of Water, Economic Regulation Authority and existing water service provider requirements (where applicable). identify exact land, easement and buffer requirements and their exact locations undertake preliminary design Process for submitting the Stage 2 study for endorsement The purpose of the Preliminary design study is to further develop the non-drinking water proposal and to seek advice from agencies on the specific approval requirements to be met. The Preliminary design document should be submitted to the Water Recycling and Efficiency Branch of the Department of Water. Eight printed copies and an electronic copy are required. Once submitted and assessed by the agencies, the non-drinking water concept presented in the Preliminary design study will be either: endorsed endorsed with conditions not assessed further information required rejected. Where the Stage 2 study is endorsed or endorsed with conditions, proponents will also be provided with a list of the approvals to be obtained in Stage 3. If all the required information is provided, proponents can expect to receive a response from the Department of Water within 60 working days. As the framework applies to projects across a range of scales, the 60 working days is needed to accommodate for the consideration of large scale and complex projects. The time required to assess smaller scale and less complex projects will be reduced. Where additional information or clarification is sought from proponents, the assessment process will stop until the additional information has been received by the Department of Water. 20 Department of Water

29 Draft approval framework for the use of non-drinking water in Western Australia Better urban water management local scale The preliminary design stage in the development of a non-drinking water scheme relates to the local scale of planning. The Preliminary design study must be endorsed prior to seeking local structure plan approval. If the non-drinking water scheme is being implemented through the land planning process, the endorsed Preliminary design study should be submitted as an appendix to the local water management strategy. Note that at the discretion of the approving agencies, a water service provider may be required at this stage, based on factors including the risk of the project, the scale of the project and whether the scheme is supplying an essential water supply. This would require that the proponent undertake the Stage 3 detailed design study at the local scale of planning, including all necessary work to support the licence application in accordance with the Economic Regulation Authority s publication Electricity, gas and water licences: application guideline and forms. The decision to grant a licence is at the discretion of the Economic Regulation Authority board. Elements of the Preliminary design study The Preliminary design study should include, but may not be limited to, discussion of the following general and agency-specific requirements. It is expected that all of the following elements will need to be addressed. However, the level of detail required in the document will depend on the scale and complexity of the project. Table 2 Stage 2 study requirements Component Content Part 1: Proposal details Project description and intent Briefly discuss the drivers for proposing the non-drinking water system and the aims. Site characteristics and possible constraints Discuss in detail the site characteristics and possible constraints and the effect of these on the proposal: - is the site in a public drinking water source area? - are wetland or odour buffers required? - is the site contaminated? Department of Water 21

30 Urban developments Component Content Part 1: Proposal details Location As for Stage 1, provide maps and details of the location of the proposal. Where possible include: electronic spatial data GIS or CAD, depicting the proposal extent, geo-referenced and conforming to the following parameters: - Datum: GDA94 - Projection: Geographic (latitude/longitude) or Map Grid of Australia (MGA) - Format: Arcview shapefile, Arcinfo coverages, Microstation or AutoCAD. Where possible include: maps and/or directions: - for urban areas: street address, lot number, the suburb and nearest road intersection - for remote localities: the nearest town together with distance and direction from that town to the proposal site. Commitment to a secure non-drinking water source or sources and contingency water sources If the source of non-drinking water is derived from municipal wastewater or stormwater, evaluate project feasibility against any requirements, conditions and charges set by the existing wastewater or drainage service provider. For groundwater schemes (and where groundwater is a contingency source), the following licences should be obtained prior to the submission of the Stage 2 study: - A 26D licence (to construct or alter wells) for exploratory drilling if required 22 Department of Water

31 Draft approval framework for the use of non-drinking water in Western Australia Component Content Part 1: Proposal details - If sufficient water is available for allocation, submit a 5C application (to take water) to the regional office. Forms are available on the Department of Water s website. Water licensing works on a firstcome, first-served basis in most regions. Intended end uses of the non-drinking water Specify the uses of the non-drinking water. A detailed water balance Develop a detailed water balance for the proposal, including demand and flow characteristics. The Water Corporation s water balance tool may be useful. Confirm that the non-drinking water source can meet demand. Exact land requirements for the non-drinking water scheme Provide easement and buffer requirements and their exact locations within the development. Design criteria and standards Assess the effect of meeting the existing water service provider s requirements and conditions on the feasibility of the project. Part 2: Preliminary design of non-drinking water scheme elements Health risks Submit application for a non-drinking water scheme in accordance with the requirements of the Department of Health s draft Guidelines for the use of recycled water in Western Australia (DoH 2009a), including the health risk assessment. Submit details, including diagrams, of the proposed method of achieving the water quality needed for the intended uses. Department of Water 23

32 Urban developments Component Content Part 2: Preliminary design of non-drinking water scheme elements Submit a preliminary non-drinking water quality management plan for the project as per Department of Health s Guidelines for the use of recycled water (DoH 2009a) and Guidelines for the use of alternate water (DoH 2009b). Subject to the above health requirements being addressed, approval in principle may be granted for the commissioning of the wastewater treatment plant (where relevant). Environmental risks Assess the project s feasibility using the Australian guidelines for water recycling (Phase 1 and relevant Phase 2 modules) (EPHC 2006) and the draft Guidelines for the management of environmental risks with the use of wastewater from prescribed premises (in prep, DEC). Contact the relevant Department of Environment and Conservation regional office to arrange a scoping meeting to discuss project. For managed aquifer recharge proposals, prior to the submission of the Stage 2 study: - Comply with the Department of Water s Managed aquifer recharge policy, including environmental risk assessment requirements in line with the Australian guidelines for water recycling (phase 2 managed aquifer recharge) and hydrogeological assessment. - Obtain 26D, 5C and permits as required (the Department of Water aims to issue these licences in less than 90 days) and undertake testing/ piloting of MAR scheme. 24 Department of Water

33 Draft approval framework for the use of non-drinking water in Western Australia Component Content Part 2: Preliminary design of non-drinking water scheme elements Demonstrate that the scheme will not adversely affect water resources such as water-dependent ecosystems and groundwater resources. Institutional arrangements Obtain advice from the Department of Water as to whether the proposed nondrinking water service may be exempt from the need to be serviced by a licensed water service provider (s19 of the Water Services Licensing Act 1995). Identify the water service provider and assess potential to become a licensed service provider against the Economic Regulation Authority s Electricity, Gas and Water Licences: Application Guideline and Forms. Contact the ERA to discuss the non-drinking water proposal. If the Water Corporation is the preferred non-drinking water service provider, ensure that the requirements of H 2 Options: Waterwise developers on the Water Corporation s website have been met, and contact the Water Corporation. Seek support from the local government authority as the current or future asset manager, where applicable. Consider other local government requirements as applicable (i.e. environmental health requirements, Building Code of Australia requirements, planning approvals). Risk assessment Prepare a risk assessment identifying the risks (environmental, health, technical and financial) and measures for minimising the hazards and hazardous events identified. Business case Review and refine the business case from Stage 1. Department of Water 25

34 Urban developments 6.3 Stage 3: Detailed design study Overarching requirements for Stage 3: submit applications to the Department of Health, Department of Environment and Conservation, Department of Water, Economic Regulation Authority and existing water service provider (where applicable) fully design the non-drinking water reticulation infrastructure submit detailed engineering design to the appropriate local government authority the detailed design study and all required approvals must be in place prior to seeking subdivision approval (where applicable). Process for submitting the Stage 3 study for endorsement The purpose of the Detailed design stage is for proponents to secure all of the necessary approvals in order to proceed with the project. Proponents are required to submit the Detailed design study with their applications for approval detailed below directly to the relevant agencies (as identified in the advice received from the Department of Water in Stage 2). The time taken to assess applications differs from agency to agency and depends on the specific approvals required. See the section below on Elements of the detailed design study for timeframes for specific approvals. Where the Department of Water is not an approving authority, two printed copies and an electronic copy of the detailed design study should be submitted to its Water Recycling and Efficiency Branch. Better urban water management subdivision scale The detailed design study and all required approvals must be in place prior to seeking subdivision approval. Where an urban water management strategy is required, the approved detailed design study and a copy of all approvals should be provided as an attachment. Elements of the detailed design study This stage involves finalising the design and obtaining approval from each of the agencies to proceed with the non-drinking water project. The Detailed design study should include, but may not be limited to, discussion of the following general and agency-specific requirements. It is expected that the following elements will need to be addressed to meet agency approval requirements. 26 Department of Water