Stormwater

Waverley Council manages most of the public stormwater network, including stormwater harvesting. The exception is larger stormwater drains and infrastructure, such as those which discharge at beaches, which are managed by Sydney Water.

Some of the public storm water network is visible on the Discovery Waverley mapping service (use the ‘Environment’ map and turn on the ‘Stormwater Pit & Pipe’ layer), however Council does not keep records or diagrams of private stormwater systems.

Stormwater concerns

If there is an issue with the stormwater network on public land, such as blocked drains or pollution, Lodge a Request with Council using the ‘other’ category. To assist, please include photos of the issue.

If the flow of surface water (from rain) from one private property to another is causing property damage, Council can be asked to investigate if there is clear evidence the issue is due to defective roof drainage and/or there has been deliberate alteration of the natural water path. Lodge a Request with Council using the ‘other’ category.

Note: Council cannot act if the water flow issue is due to natural topography, existing structures, works that are in line with a development consent (an approved DA), or if the issue is only evident in extreme weather. Seepage water and natural run off from a sloping block is a matter for the private owner.

Connecting to the stormwater network

An easement is a nominated section of public or private land that is used by someone other than the land owner to access drainage, sewer, water, gas, electricity or similar services. Stormwater can exit a property via a private or public easement.

Private stormwater equipment

Stormwater drainage and flood protection systems installed on private land as part of a Development Application may be subject to a Positive Covenant and Restriction on the Use of Land. In practice, this means the landowner needs to agree to maintain the drainage or flood system, including formal maintenance schedules that Council can inspect.

In terms of maintenance documentation, Council suggests residents follow the template format:

Dewatering from a construction site

A permit is required to pump water out of a construction site into the Council stormwater system. Request the permit via the Temporary Dewatering form or see Applications and forms for more information.

Flood planning

The proper function of the stormwater network is crucial in flood mitigation – see Flood planning more information.