Threat To Environment From Illegal Waste

Hutt City Council Trade Waste Officers have recently received several reported incidents of unlawful discharges of septic tank wastes in to the city's stormwater and sewer systems.

"Septic tank waste must not under any circumstances be tipped into Council's drainage system," said Steve McCarthy, Divisional Manager Inspections and Enforcement.

"There are health risks to Council maintenance workers and the waste could potentially affect the operation of the new Seaview Wastewater Treatment Plant."

"There are also environmental risks if the waste enters our waterways through the stormwater drainage systems."

The new Local Government Act 2002 makes any offence of this kind liable for a fine of up to $20,000.

"Hutt City Council officers have spent valuable time and effort investigating these incidents and any offenders will be prosecuted," said Steve McCarthy.

"Trade Waste Officers welcome any inquiries from members of the public wanting to know how to dispose of this waste correctly and safely and what collection facilities are available in the Hutt Valley for Domestic Tank, Caravan and House Truck Wastes."

Members of the public are asked to keep an eye out for any unusual activity that could involve the illegal discharge of waste into the stormwater or sewage system.

Anyone with a tip-off can call 570-6666 and ask for an Environmental Health & Inspections officer.

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