Storm Water and Water Tanks

Storm water must be contained within the subject site and disposed of in a way that avoids the likelihood of damage or nuisance to another property. 

Stormwater and Runoff Requirements

Property owners must manage stormwater runoff from their roofs, paved areas, and swimming pools to prevent flooding or damage to neighbouring properties.

Key Requirements

• Keep water within property boundaries – it should not enter buildings, pool on the property, or flow onto neighboring land.
• Install proper drainage – use soakwells or other catchment systems to absorb rainwater from gutters and downpipes.
• Follow building standards – drainage systems must comply with the Building Code of Australia (BCA) and AS/NZS 3500.3.
• Downpipe placement – must be spaced no more than 12 meters apart and direct water to soakwells.
• Soakwell placement – should be at least the width of the soakwell away from buildings and property boundaries to allow proper drainage.

For more details, contact Building Services at 9439 0200 or email building@kwinana.wa.gov.au.

Rainwater Tanks

A building permit is not required for a small steel or fiberglass rainwater tank if:

• It is 1.8m or shorter (fence height).
• It holds less than 5,000 litres.
• It is placed in the rear yard and not visible from the street.
• It sits on the ground or a stand no taller than 300mm.

A building permit is required for larger or elevated tanks.

For safe rainwater use, refer to the WA Department of Health  on the safe use of rainwater tanks on your property.