Introduction

New developments, re-developments and renovations can have a substantial impact on the surrounding environment, particularly the foreshore and waterway of Pittwater estuary. This fact sheet specifically focuses upon sediment and erosion control during and after construction and native habitat conservation. The guideline outlines points to be considered and links to additional information for those undertaking building and associated activities in Pittwater. Issues relating to sustainability are outlined in the "Climate Change" Best Practice Guideline.

During the construction phase of a development, run off across the work site may result in erosion of surface soils, wash off of building materials and chemicals, and the delivery of sediments and pollutants to nearby creeks and the Pittwater waterway. See below for tips on how you can minimise sediment pollution.

Another issue with building and associated activities is the management of stormwater that runs off roofs, pavements, driveways and other hard surfaces into kerbside drains, flowing into nearby creeks and the Pittwater waterway. As there is limited treatment, virtually all pollutants that enter the stormwater systems are delivered untreated to the creeks and estuaries. If you are undertaking re-development or new development, you have a responsibility to ensure that stormwater from your site is treated to the highest standard before it reaches our creeks and waterways.

How you can minimise sediment pollution

• Ensure you have a Sediment and Erosion Control Plan, and that you comply with the plan
• Implement sediment and erosion controls before commencing any site work
• Ensure sediment traps, silt fencing and other sediment control features are operating correctly
• Minimise the removal of natural vegetation as this will reduce top soil loss

How you can manage stormwater

• Retain vegetation on your site both during and after the development commences
• Minimise the area of hard surfaces on your property
• Use permeable paving such as pebbles gravel
• Install rainwater tanks
• Use water sensitive urban design principles for your stormwater system
• Capture and retain stormwater on your site
• Direct hard surfaced areas into garden beds, lawn and infiltration trenches
• Plant native species to reduce the use of fertiliser and pesticides
• Locate all infrastructure including stormwater systems at least 40 metres from the edge of a watercourse (Mandatory)

What you need to know to retain and improve native vegetation

• Use areas of non-native vegetation as a buffer to filter run off from the site
• Retain native vegetation to reduce the exposure and loss of top soil
• Retain native vegetation to reduce the cost, time and effort required to re-establish gardens
• Identify flora and fauna at your site and identify ways to minimise the impacts of construction on sensitive habitats prior to construction
• Retain significant habitat trees including dead trees with hollow branches or trunks
• Select native vegetation as it requires less water, fertilisers and pesticides
• Provide a variety of plant species and canopies
• Install nesting boxes, rocks and hollow logs to provide a variety of habitats to different species
• Avoid exotic species and do not use environmental weeds in the garden

To access the full details of the Best Practice Guidelines click here

Further Information

• Sediment Control
• Stormwater – Australia’s guide to environmentally friendly homes 
• Rainwater – Australia’s guide to environmentally friendly homes
• Guidelines for the installation of Rainwater Tanks on Residential Properties
• Native Plant Species – Pittwater Council
• Wildlife Corridors – Pittwater Council
• Pittwater Vegetation Community Location Map – Pittwater Council
• Manual Weed Control Techniques – Pittwater Council