Why do I need a permit to run my stormwater to the kerb?
On most homes, stormwater runs under the front yard, across the footpath and out through a kerb outlet into the gutter. The footpath, nature strip and kerb belong to the council, not to you, so work on them needs the council's approval. It can feel like red tape for a short pipe, but there are good reasons for it. Here's why, and what the process involves.
Why council approval is needed
It's public land
The footpath and kerb are council assets. Councils need to know what's being done to them.
Other services underneath
Gas, water, power and telecommunications run under footpaths. Digging needs care.
Safety and trip hazards
Footpaths must be reinstated properly, so people don't trip and the path doesn't sink.
Correct kerb outlets
Councils specify the type of kerb adaptor and how it's fitted so gutters keep working.
What's involved
- An application to the council for work on the footpath and kerb, with any fees and conditions they set.
- Checking for underground services with Before You Dig. See Before You Dig.
- Laying the pipe to the council's specifications and fitting an approved kerb adaptor.
- Reinstating the footpath and nature strip as required.
We handle the plumbing and work through the council's requirements with you. You get a fixed price before any work starts.
Common reasons for a new kerb outlet
- An old outlet has cracked or been crushed, so stormwater backs up in the yard.
- Roots have blocked the pipe under the footpath.
- Stormwater was never properly connected to the street.
- A larger pipe is needed to take more water.
In southern Eastern Suburbs homes
Kerb outlets in Maroubra, Matraville and Kingsford are often decades old and crushed by cars or blocked by street tree roots. We replaced a kerb outlet in Maroubra recently. See our projects.
Why locals call us
- Local to Matraville and the southern Eastern Suburbs
- Free on-site quotes, with a fixed price before any work starts
- Lifetime labour warranty on our workmanship
- 100+ five-star Google reviews
- Licensed plumbers and gasfitters (Lic. 398171C)
Common questions
Do I need council approval for a kerb outlet?
Generally, yes. The footpath and kerb are council land, so work on them needs approval.
Who pays for a new kerb outlet?
The property owner, as the stormwater pipe serves their property.
Can I connect my stormwater to the kerb myself?
No. It's licensed plumbing work, and the council's requirements apply.
What if my stormwater can't reach the kerb?
There are other options, such as an absorption system or a pump. See stormwater with no fall to the street.
Related help: stormwater, stormwater rules guide, no fall to the street and backyard flooding. Local pages: Maroubra, Matraville, Kingsford and Coogee.