Exemptions
Recycled water providers may apply to the regulator to be exempt from having an approved recycled water management plan (RWMP). The regulator will assess applications on a case-by-case basis, depending on the potential for, and levels of, human exposure to the recycled water and the associated risks.
Some recycled water providers are not eligible to apply for an exemption. These include recycled water providers supplying to a dual reticulation scheme and recycled water providers whose scheme is declared critical by the regulator.
Recycled water providers' obligations
The holder of a granted exemption still has obligations, though these are less than those that apply to recycled water providers operating under an approved RWMP. They include:
- meeting minimum water quality criteria
- notifying the regulator if there is a change in circumstances or an intention to permanently stop supply
- meeting reporting requirements, including preparing annual reports and notifying the regulator of noncompliance with the exemption or a condition of the exemption
- stopping supply if an entity supplied recycled water is using the water for a purpose or in a way that the exemption does not provide for.
How to apply
To apply for an exemption, recycled water providers must use the approved form (PDF, 95K)* and provide enough supporting information to enable the regulator to make a decision.
In making a decision, the regulator may seek advice from an advisory council or other organisation and may request further information from the recycled water provider if necessary.
The application is taken to be withdrawn by the regulator if a recycled water provider fails to comply with the request for further information.
Transitional arrangements
There are transitional arrangements during which recycled water providers are not required to have an approved RWMP or granted exemption.
Once the transitional arrangements have expired, recycled water providers will not be permitted to supply recycled water without an approved RWMP or a granted exemption.
Duration of an exemption
The regulator will decide the duration of the exemption, which will not exceed five years. This period will be included in the notice given to the provider when the exemption is granted. This period can be altered if there are changes to the recycled water scheme or a condition of the exemption.
Before an exemption expires, a recycled water provider will need a new exemption granted by the regulator. The recycled water provider should submit an exemption application at least 60 business days before the current exemption expires.
Amending or cancelling an exemption
Under certain circumstances, the regulator may amend or cancel an exemption. There are no provisions for suspending an exemption.
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Last updated 16 February 2012
