Permit exemption for building foundation dewatering now covers all buildings, not just residential

Plain-language summary · AI-assisted · not legal advice

An exemption from water-taking permit requirements for sewage works that handle groundwater and stormwater from building foundations has been broadened. Previously, the exemption only applied where the building was used, or intended to be used, primarily for a residential purpose. That residential-use restriction has been removed, so the exemption now applies to any building's foundation dewatering system, provided the works take less than 379,000 litres per day and their sole purpose is collecting, transmitting, treating and disposing of that water. Separately, a new exemption has been added for water takings connected to early mineral exploration activities carried out under valid exploration plans or permits issued under the Mining Act, subject to additional conditions. Operators of commercial, industrial or mixed-use buildings with foundation dewatering systems should review whether they now qualify for this permit exemption, and mining exploration operators should check whether the new early-exploration exemption applies to their activities.

Who this affects: commercial and industrial building operators with foundation dewatering systems · residential building operators with foundation dewatering systems · mining exploration companies · sewage works operators · construction project operators near water bodies