Water and sewer connections

Since November 2013, building work over or near sewer mains, water mains, stormwater drains and combined sanitary drainage lines must be assessed against the Queensland Development Code Mandatory Part 1.4 (MP1.4). Please refer to the Department of Housing and Public Works website, for additonal details.

Bundaberg Regional Council does not allow construction over sewer easements. Council will assess applications related to building over sewer mains without easements and for structures located adjacent to the sewer main/easement, and where the sewer main is within the zone of influence. 

If the building work is outside the MP1.4 guidelines, then an Application to Build Over or Adjacent to Council Sewer/Water Infrastructure will be required

How to submit an Application to Build Over or Adjacent to Council Sewer/Water Infrastructure:

1. Complete the online application form.
2. Upload the following supporting information and relevant technical documentation;
   • Site Plan (scaled and/or dimensioned) - must show all existing and proposed buildings/structures, BRC’s infrastructure and the property connections to that infrastructure.
   • RPEQ Design Drawings of the footings/foundations for the proposed building work, including the depth of the infrastructure – the design must show that BRC’s infrastructure is clear from the zone of influence. The RPEQ must certify that there will be no additional loading on the relevant infrastructure.
   • Form 15 certification by RPEQ certifying that no additional loading is imposed on the infrastructure and the integrity of the main will be preserved.

Note: Missing or incorrect information will delay assessment.

Upon receiving the application form, we will discuss the requirements with the applicant to confirm:

• All alternative options have been explored, 
• Payment of the application fee (based on the requirements a tax invoice and/or quotation will be supplied); and 
• Arrangements for an inspection of the relevant infrastructure before approval is issued.

For additional information and guidelines, please refer to the following documents for assistance:

• Building Over Sewers Operational Policy
• Building Over Sewers Policy Appendix 1 – Technical Guidelines
• Building Over Sewers Policy Appendix 4 – Fact Sheet
• Building Over Sewers Policy Appendix 6 – Cost Sharing Arrangements
• Queensland Development Code Mandatory Part 1.4

Application to Build Over or Adjacent to Council Sewer/Water Infrastructure

Should you require any further information, please contact Water Services - Planning and Delivery section on 1300 883 699 or alternatively email ntsp@bundaberg.qld.gov.au