Trade waste

Trade waste is liquid waste from businesses such as restaurants, service stations, spray painters, car washing, photo developing, butchers, commercial laundries, cafes and shopping centres.

Two types - sewerable and non-sewerable

Sewerable trade wastes can be put in the sewer if they have been correctly pretreated and the grease, oils and solids separated and retained.

Non-sewerable trade wastes are not permitted to enter the drains or sewer. These wastes include pesticides, soluble oils, cyanide, acid, petrol and other hazardous substances.
 
Guidelines for pre-treatment of trade waste prior to discharge into Council's sewer  [PDF 56KB]

Council's Trade Waste Policy and Environmental Management Plan  [PDF 472KB]

Do you need a trade waste permit?

If your work produces a liquid waste, you should have a Trade Waste Permit  [PDF 42KB]. The conditions of the permit will enable you to dispose of the liquid waste safely.

Where do you get a trade waste permit?

An application must be made to Council's Trade Waste Officer on 3829 8827 or you can lodge an application at either of our Customer Service Centres. There are no fees/charges to submit this application.

Who pays for the permit and disposal of trade waste?

The owner of the premises or the person who uses the disposal facilities is responsible for paying the fees. 

Are you allowed to remove or dispose of waste yourself?

No. This industry requires specialist training and is licensed by the Environmental Protection Authority.

Always contact a trade waste licensed company. Remember to use a legally licensed companies and retain all documentation the contractor gives you. 

Does the council provide a hazardous waste collection facility for industry?

No. Commercial or industry users are required to use liquid waste disposal contractors. We do provide domestic hazardous waste collection facilities.

How do I clean the grease trap/interceptor?

Make sure you use detergents that quickly break down.

The trap/interceptor must be pumped out every two months. Your cleaning contractor will advise if it needs to be cleaned more or less regularly.

Generally, if the grease is more than 50mm thick in the first chamber of the interceptor or if there is over 15mm of oil or grease in the last chamber, it needs to be cleaned.