Water Tanks

Water tanks are used to provide water storage to service properties for a variety of different purposes. These could be for the storage of drinking water, stormwater management, farming or bushfire fighting.

What is required?

  • If a new property is not on scheme water, or a potable bore supply, then a minimum 120,000ltr rainwater tank is required for the catchment of water. These tanks are required to have fittings to enable first responders to fight bushfires.
  • On residential lots, tanks must be located behind the dwelling and not be visible from the primary street.
  • Tanks to be built outside of building envelopes will require development approval prior to issuing a building permit.
  • All tanks with a capacity greater than 5000ltrs require building approval before their installation.

What documents do I need for my Building Application?

  • Completed application form, BA1 or BA2 with all owners noted and builders section completed and signed
  • Applicable fees (please see fee schedule)
  • Certificate of Design Compliance (only if submitting a BA1 – Certified Building Application)
  • Site plan at a minimum scale of 1:200. Lots greater than 1000m2 on a scale of 1:500 may be suitable. These plans are required to show setbacks from lot boundaries and all other buildings on the property.
  • Elevations at a minimum scale of 1:100 indicating the height and shape of the proposed tank.
  • Construction details signed by a suitably qualified structural engineer
  • The plans should include details on the type of materials the tank will be built.

Will any other approvals be required?

Fun Fact:

Did you know 80-90% of Building Permits are applied for without proper consideration for the Shire’s planning requirements? 

It is important to speak to our planning team about your project before finalising and submitting your building application, this will ensure a smoother and more efficient building approval experience.

Please note that this list is not exhaustive and further information may be requested prior to building approval being granted.

Please note that the above information is a guide only and further information may be requested following the assessment of an application. If you have any further queries in relation to this information sheet, or general building related matters please contact Building Services on 9526 1111 or by email at info@sjshire.wa.gov.au