Trade Waste Agreements in Melbourne

What Is a Trade Waste Agreement?

A trade waste agreement is a formal contract between your business and your local water authority that permits the discharge of trade waste into the sewerage system. Trade waste is any liquid waste produced by a commercial or industrial activity that differs from normal domestic sewage — this includes wastewater containing fats, oils, grease, food particles, chemicals, and other contaminants.

The agreement sets out the specific conditions under which your business is permitted to discharge, including acceptable contaminant levels, required pre-treatment equipment such as grease traps, monitoring obligations, and applicable fees. Without a valid agreement, discharging trade waste to the sewer is illegal and subject to significant penalties.

Who Needs a Trade Waste Agreement?

Any business in Melbourne that discharges trade waste to the sewer system requires a trade waste agreement. This includes, but is not limited to:

• Restaurants, cafes, and takeaway shops
• Hotels and hospitality venues
• Bakeries and food manufacturers
• Butchers and delicatessens
• Supermarkets with food preparation areas
• Aged care facilities and hospitals with commercial kitchens
• Schools and childcare centres with cooking facilities
• Automotive workshops and car washes
• Laundries and dry cleaners
• Dental and medical practices

If you are unsure whether your business requires a trade waste agreement, contact your local water authority or get in touch with us for guidance.

How to Apply for a Trade Waste Agreement

Applying for a trade waste agreement involves contacting your local water authority. The process typically includes:

1. 1. Contact your water authority — Reach out to the water authority servicing your area to request an application form or begin the process online.
2. 2. Site assessment — A trade waste officer may visit your premises to assess your operations, existing pre-treatment equipment, and discharge characteristics.
3. 3. Agreement conditions — Based on the assessment, your water authority will set conditions for your agreement, including required equipment (such as a grease trap), cleaning schedules, and discharge limits.
4. 4. Installation and compliance — Install any required pre-treatment equipment and ensure your operations meet the agreement conditions before commencing discharge.
5. 5. Ongoing obligations — Maintain your equipment, keep records, and comply with all agreement conditions on an ongoing basis.

Melbourne Water Authority Contact Details

Contact the water authority that services your area to discuss your trade waste agreement requirements:

Conditions and Monitoring

Once you hold a trade waste agreement, your business must comply with the conditions set out in the agreement. Common conditions include:

• Pre-treatment maintenance: Grease traps and other equipment must be cleaned and maintained at the frequency specified in your agreement, typically before FOG levels reach 25% of capacity.
• Discharge quality: Wastewater discharged must meet the quality limits set in your agreement. Excessive FOG, pH levels outside acceptable ranges, or prohibited substances can trigger compliance action.
• Monitoring and sampling: Your water authority may conduct periodic sampling of your discharge to verify compliance. Some agreements require businesses to conduct their own monitoring.
• Record keeping: Maintain records of all grease trap cleanings, waste transport certificates, and maintenance activities. These records must be available for inspection by your water authority.
• Fees and charges: Trade waste agreements typically include annual fees and usage charges based on the volume and strength of your discharge.