If a property or an existing dwelling that you are planning to develop is not able to be connected to a reticulated sewer system, in most cases, council will require a Land Capability Assessment (LCA) to be undertaken. This will enable council to make an informed decision on the viability of the proposed development in regards to the onsite management of the resulting wastewater.
What Is A Land Capability Assessment?
A LCA is a report, prepared by a suitably qualified person, which is needed to determine the type of treatment system and the area of land that is required in order to dispose of the waste water created by a dwelling.
To this end the LCA will demonstrate to council if the proposed dwelling/commercial site is capable of sustainably managing within allotment boundaries all wastewater likely to be generated by the proposed development. The LCA also stipulates an ongoing management program that must be implemented to ensure that the health and environmental impacts of on-site wastewater management are minimised.
Who should carry out an LCA?
The preparation of an LCA requires a range of skills and must be prepared to a high standard in order to meet council requirements. The LCA should be prepared by an appropriately qualified and experienced professional in the environmental, geotechnical, soil science and/or wastewater consulting field. Owners are advised to ensure that assessors have the appropriate qualifications, accreditation and experience and have professional indemnity insurance cover.
Source: Land Capability Assessments – An Overview for the Land Owner by Yarra Ranges Council