BASIX
BASIX is a NSW Government initiative that ensures new homes are designed and built to use less potable water and produce fewer greenhouse gas emissions.
BASIX is a flexible tool which allows the user to select from a range of options in order to meet the energy and water reduction targets.
Each development application for a residential dwelling must be submitted with a BASIX Certificate. A certificate is issued once a BASIX assessment has been satisfactorily completed, using an online tool.
The building applicant (e.g. architect, builder, owner builder) is responsible for completing the assessment, ensuring the BASIX commitments are clearly marked on the plans, and submitting the BASIX Certificate with the development application.
BASIX Certificate
The Building Sustainability Index (BASIX) is a web-based planning tool designed to assess the potential performance of residential buildings against a range of sustainability indices.
A BASIX Certificate identifies the sustainability features required to be incorporated in the building design. These features may include sustainable design elements such as recycled water, rainwater tanks, AAA-rated showerheads and taps, native landscaping, heat pump or solar water heaters, gas space heaters, roof eaves/awnings and wall/ceiling insulation.
You need a BASIX Certificate in the Lachlan Shire area when BASIX applies to the type of development for which you require approval. Commencement dates and details of types of development are at www.basix.nsw.gov.au
The applicant is required to submit the BASIX Certificate with the development application or complying development certificate application. The plans and specifications must also identify the BASIX commitments which will be checked by a professional building certifier during construction. Where submitted plans or specifications are inconsistent with the relevant BASIX Certificate, Council requires applicants to submit consistent applications before progressing the assessment process, either by amending plans/specifications or by submitting a new BASIX Certificate with commitments that match the rest of the application.
Applicants can generate the BASIX Certificate only on the NSW Department of Planning's BASIX website: www.basix.nsw.gov.au. For more information, phone the BASIX Help Line on 1300 650 908.
Rainwater Tanks
Rainwater tanks are a great way to decrease your demand on treated water from mains water, as well as reducing the stormwater run-off which can pollute waterways.
What can tank water be used for?
Tank water can be used for purposes such as flushing toilets, washing clothing, topping up swimming pools, watering the garden or washing your car.
Things to consider when choosing a rainwater tank
What will you use the water for?
This will affect the size of the tank you select. A minimum 5000 litre tank is recommended when using the rainwater for household activities. Internal as well as external use of rainwater is the best environmental outcome, as it ensures that the water in the tank is used regularly.
How big is your roof?
Roof area determines how much water you can collect. If rainwater is only able to be collected from part of your roof, you may need to adjust your downpipes or install more than one tank.
Do you have enough space for the tank?
A traditional round 5000 litre tank will need an area of 1.7 metres in diameter and 2.3 metres in height. Underground tanks are an option, but they can be expensive and you will need a DA. Slimline tanks may be a better option for limited space. They can be installed between the side of the house and the fenceline provided there is a 450mm gap for access.
How will you maintain the tank?
Dust and debris on the roof of the house can contaminate the water. A flush-first device should be used, and it should be regularly cleaned. Gutters and leaf-screens should also be regularly checked.
What about mosquitoes?
To prevent mosquitoes from entering the tank, all inlets and outlets to the tank will need to be blocked with insect-proof screens.
Do I need a development application to install a rainwater tank?
Lachlan Shire Council residents are not encouraged to consult the of State Environmental Planning Policy – Exempt and Complying Development Codes to ascertain if approval is required. These Codes can be viewed here: http://www.legislation.nsw.gov.au/maintop/view/inforce/epi+572+2008+cd+0+N.
For all other cases, phone Council’s Environment and Planning team on 02 6895 1900
When selecting your tank installer, ensure they are reputable and can demonstrate they comply with the exempt development provisions of State Environmental Planning Policy – Exempt and Complying Development Codes and all other relevant guidelines for the installation of rainwater tanks.
