Private dams can be used to supply water for toilet flushing, laundry, and garden irrigation in single dwelling developments only, subject to relevant approvals and licences.
The dam nominated as an alternative water source for BASIX must be exclusively for household use. Water stored for agriculture, stock watering, firefighting or stormwater detention purposes cannot be included.
BASIX assesses private dams based on:
- Catchment area
- Surface area and volume
Catchment area
The catchment area of the dam includes any roof area, impervious areas, and pervious areas diverted to the dam.
Impervious areas are surfaces that do not allow natural infiltration of rainfall to the underlying soil and include concrete, tiled and timber surfaces.
Pervious areas are surfaces that allow natural infiltration of rainfall into the underlying soil and include gardens, lawns, pasture, and other native vegetation.
Private dam surface area and volume
The surface area (in m²) and the volume (in kilolitres) are for when the dam is full.
Note: 1 kilolitre = 1000 litres = 1m³.
For more information on private dams and the approvals and licence requirements for their construction, refer to advice provided by the NSW Office of Water.