OSET zones
Some properties in the Bay of Plenty can connect to a public wastewater (sewerage) network, while others rely on on-site effluent treatment (OSET) systems to treat and discharge wastewater to land.
OSET Zones help identify the requirements that apply in different areas of the Bay of Plenty. This includes areas where connection to a public network is available, where public wastewater network is planned or investigated, and areas where on-site system require additional maintenance to protect water quality.
Use the zone information below to understand what wastewater requirements apply to your property and whether connection to a public wastewater network may be required now or in the future.
Operating Reticulation Zone
An area where a public wastewater network is already available. Properties must connect to the wastewater network when a connection becomes available at their boundary The continued use of an on-site wastewater system, and the discharge of wastewater to land, is not a permitted activity under the OSET Plan in an Operating Reticulation Zone. If you want to continue using an on-site wastewater system, you will need to apply for resource consent from Bay of Plenty Regional Council. Approval will also be required from your city or district council.
Confirmed Reticulation Zone
An area where a public sewerage system has been approved, funded, and scheduled for construction. Properties in these areas may continue using their existing on-site wastewater systems until the sewer network becomes available, provided the system meets the relevant permitted activity requirements, including performance and maintenance standards
Future Reticulation Zone
An area where the council is investigating future sewerage options. No decision has been made yet, but public sewerage may be developed in the future.
Maintenance Zone
Maintenance zones are areas where wastewater is already affecting water quality, so extra care is needed to protect the environment.
Properties within 200 metres of any Rotorua lake, and in the following communities, are in a maintenance zone:
- Tanners Point
- Bryans Beach
- Gisborne Point
- Hinehopu
- Rotoma
- Tarawera
Maps showing the extent of these zones are in the OSET Plan or available online. Alternatively, you can contact your local city or district council.
If your property has an on-site wastewater system and is in a maintenance zone or Rotorua lakes catchment:
- Regular maintenance is required.
- Septic tanks must be pumped out every three years by an approved contractor (may be extended to six years following inspection)
- Installing an outlet filter is recommended. This helps prevent solids entering the soakage area and should be cleaned during pump-outs.
If your property is listed as a Maintenance Zone but is now connected to reticulated wastewater, these zoning rules no longer apply.