What is the Story with Stormwater?

Follow this link and find out more http://www.waternz.org.nz/documents/publications/books_guides/stormwater_booklet.pdf

Frequently Asked Questions

Stormwater is surface water, usually rain water off roofs and paved areas. Itusually contains few, if any, contaminants. Stormwater must not be drained into sewers.

Where does stormwater go?

Nearly all stormwater goes directly to lakes, streams, rivers or groundwater. Any contaminant put in a stormwater system causes pollution.

Keeping stormwater clean

Oils, fuels, cement wash water and antifreeze should never be put down stormwater systems.

Tree leaves and litter should be collected before they wash down stormwater grates.

Where can my stormwater go?

Central Otago is a little differentto many areas. There are often three options for stormwater disposal. These are:

• piping to Council’s in-street stormwater pipe system directly, where available
• piping to kerbs (only allowed where no pipe system exists and with special approval)
• through on-site soak pits where the ground is sandy or gravelly (preferred option)

Soak Pits

Soak pits work well only where the subsoil is sandy or gravelly.

Soak pits should be more than 3 metres away from buildings.

Soak pits need reconstructing if they become blocked

Stopping leaves getting into soak pits extends their life considerably.

Finding More Information

Some councils have websitescontained very detailed information and you may find them useful, but please remember that not all places have the same bylaws and regulations. Two such websites are www.ccc.govt.nz www.dcc.govt.nz