In your business

What is trade waste?

Trade waste is wastewater produced from the operations of industry and commercial businesses, which is discharged to the sewerage system. It is usually more contaminated than normal domestic sewage. It may contain chemicals, metals, high organic loads, fats, greases or detergents.

Only trade waste which complies with specific guidelines may be discharged into the sewerage system. All companies and businesses operating in the Yarra Valley Water area and discharging trade waste into the sewerage system need to be aware of our trade waste requirements.

Why manage trade waste?

The presence of trade waste in the sewerage system increases the risk of environmental damage and increases the cost and risk associated with sewage treatment. Trade waste must be treated at a sewage treatment plant before it can be safely recycled or disposed to the environment. Managing trade waste risk is a significant issue involving continual monitoring of discharges, education and assistance to customers.

Am I a trade waste customer?

If you are a business customer, your discharge to the sewerage system may classify as trade waste. Businesses with discharge to the sewerage system from anything related to their 'trade' are trade waste customers. In fact, all commercial or industrial wastewater entering the sewerage system over and above what would be considered typical household use such as flushing toilets and washing hands is classified as trade waste. Trade waste customers are required by law to enter into an agreement with their water business to have permission to discharge to the sewerage system. Please click here to download a trade waste application form.

For further information on the classification of trade waste customers please see here. If you are unsure whether you require a trade waste agreement, please contact our trade waste team by phone 13 1721 or email tradewaste@yvw.com.au.

Trade waste agreements

To learn about your obligations, our standards and how to apply for a trade waste agreement, click here.

Trade waste charges

To learn about the relevant fees for trade waste services and the new prices for 2011/12, click here.

Classification of customers

To learn about Yarra Valley Water’s classification system for trade waste customers which determines the agreement type and the pricing structure, click here.

To read more about specific requirements for food businesses such as restaurants, delicatessens, butchers, takeaway food stores etc. Also find out about requirements for some businesses to install grease traps to prevent the discharge of oils, fats and greases to sewer. Click here.

To see the criteria for acceptance of trade waste to sewer, click here.

Information for food businesses (greasy waste)

Read more about specific requirements for food businesses such as restaurants, delicatessens, butchers, takeaway food stores etc. Also find out about requirements for some businesses to install grease traps to prevent the discharge of oils, fats and greases to sewer. Click here.