National rainwater tank rebate closed 10 May 2011

Council no longer offers a rebate for rainwater tanks. However, to be eligible for a rebate of $500 through the federal government incentive program, you must have purchased your tank before 10 May 2011. This federal government rainwater tank rebate was available to residential property owners supplied with town water provided the tank is connected for internal use of rainwater.  Check the guidelines and application form on the following web link: National Rainwater and Greywater initiative: Household rebate guidelines and relevant forms.

• All applications must have been received by the Department of Sustainability, Environment, Water, Population and Communities by 10 November 2011. Applications will not be accepted after this time.

Please note: Council and State Government rebates no longer apply. Federal government rebate closed 10 May 2011

If you intend to install a tank (even though there is no longer any rebate available), you will still need to fill in the appropriate plumbing and drainage forms 1 and 7 from Queensland Department of Infrastructure and Planning and submit these forms to council with a sketch map of your proposed site for the tank BEFORE you install your tank.

• A plumbing inspection, and in some instances a building inspection, is required.  Certain plumbing systems will need to be fitted with a backflow prevention device.  Request further advice on this and other plumbing requirements from TRC Plumbing Inspectors by contacting your local service centre.  Check council's Information Sheet 026 (in particular page 2) for siting information.

For further information related to council's building requirements, including siting of your rainwater tank and whether a building approval is required, contact the Building Certification Unit.

Rainwater tanks can make a great contribution to reducing your town water consumption, when you have it plumbed into suitable fixtures such as your toilet and washing machine. However there are implications for outside use depending on the type of connection made to the home.  Consider your choices when installing your rainwater tank (see below in 'Related documents')

Maintenance

Regular cleaning of rainwater tanks and collection systems is critical if water quality is to be maintained. Studies have shown that water in poorly maintained or constructed tanks often contains bacteria, ammonia and other contaminants. Our brochure Rainwater tanks for a sustainable future (see below in related documents) offers guidance in relation to tank installation and maintenance; and a maintenance checklist is available to download.  Go to menu item Rainwater tanks and view related documents.