Fremantle - Environmental Health Topics

AIR QUALITY

Backyard Burning
Burning of rubbish on a property, whether on the ground or in an incinerator, is an offence under the Health Local Laws 1997. This creates a considerable smoke nuisance for neighbours, can be a fire hazard especially in summer and pollutes the air.

Smoking in Enclosed Public Places

From July 2006, all enclosed public places including pubs and clubs, have a smoking ban. Smoking is only permitted in an area deemed to be a non-enclosed public place under the Tobacco Control Act. Signage must be displayed in the enclosed public place. If you are a proprietor requiring 'no smoking' stickers you can order them here.

Second-hand smoke is deemed to be a significant health risk causing cancers and respiratory illnesses and this legislation will help to ensure this risk to the public is minimised.

Should you wish to make a complaint regarding a premises allowing smoking in an enclosed public places, please contact Compliance Services here.

Smoking in Outdoor Eating Areas (Alfresco Areas)

From August 2008, the City of Fremantle’s licensed Outdoor Eating Areas became smoke free. This legislation will help to ensure the effects of second-hand smoke are reduced, and persons wishing to eat a meal in an alfresco area, can enjoy a smoke-free environment.

The City of Fremantle was the first local government in Western Australia to adopt such legislation and has been hoping to force changes state wide in an effort to reduce the harmful effects of second-hand smoke on the population.

If you are a proprietor requiring 'no smoking' stickers you can order them here.

Should you wish to make a complaint please contact Compliance Services here.

Wood Smoke and Wood Heaters

Wood heaters are a large source of air pollution in winter and contribute to the smoky haze often seen over Perth. This air pollution can have adverse health impacts on those with respiratory illness such as asthma. Home owners with wood heaters have a responsibility to ensure they are correctly operated to ensure minimal smoke is produced.

Follow these handy tips for correct wood heater operation:

Ensure only dry wood is burned. Wet wood produces a significant amount of smoke.
Don’t burn any household waste or painted wood.
Ensure firewood is kept undercover to protect it from moisture.
Don’t overload the wood heater with large logs as this will reduce air flow and cause more smoke.
Ensure your flue is cleaned annually as accumulation of soot reduces air flow.
Use the ‘chimney checker’ (see below) to check the amount of smoke produced outside. Smoke should only be visible for the first 10 to 20 minutes after starting.
Use plenty of kindling and small logs to ensure a hot fire is produced quickly as slow burning causes smoke. Add some newspaper above the fuel load to heat the flue to increase the draught – this will make the fire easier to start.
Always leave the air intake open for at least 20 minutes after lighting the fire and after refuelling – fire requires oxygen to burn.
Fit a parallel rain excluder to the chimney (not a ‘Chinamen’s cap) as this will send smoke straight upwards instead of dispersing it outwards.

For more information and a copy of the ‘chimney checker’, you can download the ‘Halt the Haze – Wood Smoke’ brochure produced by the Department of Environment and Conservation here.

Should you have any problems with neighbours causing a smoke nuisance please contact Compliance Services here.

Purchasing a new or used Wood Heater in Western Australia

The Department of Environment and Conservation have produced a brochure to assist buyers or sellers. It is important to note that it is illegal to sell non-compliant wood heaters. Wood heaters must meet the standards in the State regulations and be clearly labelled ‘TESTED TO AS/NZ 4013:1999’.

The brochure can be downloaded here.

ANIMALS

Cats

The City’s Health Local laws 1997 restricts the number of cats kept on a premises to no more than 3 over the age of 3 months.

For complaints regarding persons keeping more than 3 cats which are causing a nuisance, please contact Compliance Services here.

Dogs

All complaints regarding dogs must be sent to Ranger Services as they are authorised officers under the Dog Act. Contact Ranger Services at rangers@fremantle.wa.gov.au

Large Animals

The City’s Health Local Laws 1997 restricts the keeping of large animals on premises. Large animals include horses, cows, pigs, sheep or goats.

Should you wish to make a complaint regarding a person keeping a large animal within the City of Fremantle, please contact Compliance Services here.

Poultry, Parrots, Pigeons and Roosters

The City’s Health Local Laws 1997 governs the keeping of poultry, parrots, pigeons and roosters on premises. Poultry includes fowls, ducks and other domestic fowls. Parrots include cockatoos, galahs and weeros etc.

An owner or occupier must not keep more than 12 poultry on one lot of land, and may not keep any poultry within the Prohibited Area. Parrots, roosters, geese, turkeys or peafowls are not allowed to be kept within the City of Fremantle due to noise nuisance. For more information, you can download an extract of the local law here.

Pigeons may be approved after application to the City of Fremantle however restrictions apply and an annual registration fee must be paid. An application form and extract of the local law can be downloaded here.

Petting Zoos

The Department of Health has produced information on what is required when holding a petting zoo, Petting Zoo Guidelines.

BUILT ENVIRONMENT

Liquor Licensed Premises and BYO

Premises that have a liquor licence are controlled by the Liquor Control Act 1988. The Department of Racing, Gaming and Liquor (DRGL) are the regulatory body that issues the license and carries out inspections of premises to ensure compliance and responsible service of alcohol.

When an application to DRGL is made, comment is sought from the City of Fremantle and also the Alcohol and Drug Office as part of the WA Police. The City will provide advice as to whether the premises may be suitable for a liquor license based on knowledge of the surrounds, or if a change to the license is being made, the City will provide advice of any negative impacts the premises may be having on the community.

The City receives many enquiries on BYO alcohol for restaurants however there is currently no law or guidelines in Western Australia. The City advises that owners or managers develop a management plan to restrict the level of intoxication of patrons.

For advice on liquor licences please contact Department of Racing, Gaming and Liquor on (08) 9425 1888 or email rgl@rgl.wa.gov.au

For information on noise from liquor licensed premises please see the Noise section.

Lodging Houses

A Lodging House is any building which makes provision for lodging more than 6 persons exclusive of the family of the owner (keeper) or manager, for hire or reward. A lodging house includes serviced apartments, short term hostels such as backpackers and recreational campsites.

Lodging houses are inspected regularly for compliance with the City’s Health Local Laws 1997 to ensure acceptable sanitary standard, emergency provisions and pest control are being maintained.

Should you wish to open a lodging house, you must ensure you obtain the appropriate planning and building approvals and also apply through Environmental Health Services.

The application form can be downloaded here.

If you have any questions relating to lodging houses or require advice please contact Environmental Health Services on 9432 9856 or email health@fremantle.wa.gov.au For information on planning and building approvals please phone 9430 9940 or email planning@fremantle.wa.gov.au

Mould

Moulds are types of fungi that can grow on walls, timber, carpet, furniture and fabrics that are damp and usually in dark places. Moulds need moisture to grow and thrive in humid conditions. Mould can give off an odour which many people find unpleasant and can cause sneezing, asthma attacks and other respiratory illness in at-risk populations.

Moulds in the household are most commonly found in wet areas such as the bathroom because of the humidity from showers and baths. Condensation on the ceiling and walls provide a good habitat for mould to grow.

The most practical ways of controlling mould growth is by using ventilation, heat and insulation. The Department of Health has produced a brochure on fighting mould in the home. You can download the document here.

If you are having trouble getting rid of mould it is advisable for you to contact a building consultant or inspector (look in the Yellow Pages) which may be able to thoroughly investigate the cause.

Public Buildings

A public building is a place where persons may assemble for civic, theatrical, social, political, religious, educational, entertainment, recreational, sporting or business purposes. A public building also includes fenced off outdoor events such as music festivals.

Public buildings are inspected regularly by the City’s Environmental Health Officers (EHOs) to ensure compliance with the Health (Public Building) Regulations 1992. This includes checks for fire safety, emergency procedures, ease of egress for escape during an emergency and ensuring emergency exits aren’t locked to prevent escape. EHOs also check on the sanitary standard of toilet facilities, bar areas and food preparation areas.

Every public building is initially assessed for maximum capacity through toilet numbers, ventilation, exit widths and floor area. A Certificate of Approval for Maximum Accommodation is then issued and this certificate must be displayed in the public building area at all times. EHOs will conduct routine inspections of nightclubs and pubs and other high risk public buildings to ensure the building is not being overcrowded with patrons.

Should you wish to construct, alter or extend a public building you must apply to the City for approval. Appropriate planning and building approvals must also be obtained. Plans of the building and payment must be submitted with your application.

The application form can be downloaded here.

Some public buildings require emergency evacuation plans. You can download a brochure here and a copy of FESA’s Guidance Notes here.

If you have any questions relating to public buildings or require advice please contact Environmental Health Services on 9432 9856 or email health@fremantle.wa.gov.au For information on planning and building approvals please phone 9430 9940 or email planning@fremantle.wa.gov.au

Asbestos

The City receives frequent enquiries of concern relating to removal of asbestos from neighbouring properties. Asbestos is commonly found in materials such as roofing, shingles, fencing, cladding, material on floor tiles and vinyl flooring, textured paints and pipes however manufacturing and use of asbestos ceased in 1987. Asbestos is present everywhere in the environment. Asbestos fibre release occurs from natural sources as well as occurring from extensive industrial and commercial use in the past. Material generally can not be determined to contain asbestos simply by looking at it and it must be sent to a laboratory for microscopic examination.

Inhalation of asbestos fibres in sufficient quantities at a respirable size may cause a number of diseases including asbestosis, mesothelioma, lung cancer or pleural plaque. Given the nature of the asbestos material generally encountered in the public domain, it is unlikely that the general public would be exposed to levels much higher than background, except in a few isolated instances, for example, during house renovations. It is important to note that materials containing asbestos are relatively harmless when left undisturbed as it is bound in a solid cement matrix. It is only when the material is damaged that it may release fibres into the air. Disease is directly related to the amount of fibres inhaled and has been associated with a persons occupation.

Persons removing asbestos must comply with the Health (Asbestos) Regulations 1992 and follow these key points:

Use adequate personal protective equipment
Wet the area thoroughly
Do not use power tools
Dispose of asbestos correctly by wrapping it in plastic sheeting and labelling it ‘CAUTION ASBESTOS’.

For more information you can download a brochure from the Department of Health here.

For issues with asbestos in the work place please contact WorkSafe WA on (08) 9327 8777.

To make a complaint about asbestos removal from a neighbouring property please contact Compliance Services here.

CONTAMINATED SITES

The state government through the Department of Environment and Conservation administers, develops and enforces the Contaminated Sites Act 2003.

A contaminated site is defined under the act as:

“in relation to land, water or a site, having a substance present in or on that land, water or site at above background concentrations that presents, or has the potential to present, a risk of harm to human health, the environment or any environmental value.”

To access information about contaminated sites please visit the Department of Environment and Conservation Contaminated Sites Index or field enquiries by calling the contaminated sites freecall hotline: 1300 762 982.

Using the Contaminated Sites Database a ‘Basic Summary of Records’ (BSR) can be accessed. The BSR offers the sites address, classification, memorial, restrictions of use and if a regulatory notice has been placed on the site.

A memorial is a written statement specifying the classification of the site which is placed on the Certificate(s) of Title relevant to the site. Sites are classified under the act using the following categories:

Report not substantiated.
Possibly contaminated – investigation required.
Not contaminated – unrestricted use.
Contaminated – restricted use.
Remediated for restricted use.
Decontaminated.

An example of a contaminated site is a site classified as Contaminated – restricted use. This classification is placed as a Memorial on the Certificate of Title. The nature and extent of contamination is the site is contaminated by Hydrocarbons (petrol and diesel) which are present in the soil and ground water. Restriction of use would infer no ground water abstraction and a health and safety plan be implemented before any soil works.

DISEASES

Amoebic Meningitis

For information please refer to the Department of Health brochure here.

Barmah Forrest and Ross River Viruses

For information please refer to the Department of Health brochure here.

Food Poisoning

Food poisoning is a common occurrence amongst the population and can range from very mild to severe symptoms. There are many types of bacteria that can cause food poisoning such as Salmonella sp., Clostridium perfringins, Vibrio parahaemolyticus, Listeria monocytogenes and Campylobacter.

Food poisoning bacteria grow best in foods between temperatures of 5°C and 60°C – this is referred to as the ‘temperature danger zone’. Bacteria is spread through poor food handling practices such as cross contamination of raw and cooked foods and poor hygiene such as not washing hands after using the toilet.

Not all bacteria are harmful and some are even found in the gut to help digest food. It is only when the bacteria reach an infective dose that symptoms will appear. Some of the symptoms of food poisoning are listed below:

Nausea
Vomiting
Diarrhoea
Stomach cramps
Fever
Sweating
Lethargy

Symptoms and severity differ with the type of bacteria that caused the illness and symptoms may not develop until several days after ingesting the food.

What should you do if you are suffering from suspected food poisoning?

Consult your doctor immediately and request stool samples. Some illnesses have identical symptoms to food poisoning and so it is important to identify the bacteria or virus to help with the investigation.
Drink plenty of water and take oral re-hydration tablets if recommended by your doctor or pharmacist.
Refrigerate (not freeze) in a sealed container any samples of food you might suspect cause the illness. These can be sent for microbiological analysis to help with the investigation.
Contact the City’s Environmental Health Services. Many people are quick to blame the last thing they ate but it is important to remember that food poisoning symptoms can sometimes appear several days after ingestion of food. EHS will request a list of all foods consumed within the last 72 hours and also ask for the following information:

What time and date was the food eaten?
What premises, function or event do you suspect served the food that caused the illness?
How many members of the party contracted the illness and what foods did each person eat?
What time did symptoms start to develop?
What symptoms did you or other person’s experience?
Do you have a sample of the food left for microbiological analysis?

Do not prepare or handle food until 48 hours after symptoms have ceased. Remember it is against the law to work in a food business if you knowingly have food poisoning.

For further information please refer to the Department of Health brochure here.

Campylobacter

Listeria

Salmonella

To make a complaint please contact Environmental Health Services on (08) 9432 9856.

Head Lice

For information please refer to the Department of Health brochure here.

Legionella

For information please refer to the Department of Health brochure here.

EFFLUENT DISPOSAL

Aerobic Treatment Units

ATUs are a more advance effluent treatment system than septic tanks, but are not an alternative to sewer connection. They treat the water via chlorination and wastewater can be dispersed into garden areas, but must not be used on vegetable gardens. Phosphates are also required to be removed if the system is near water bodies as they can contribute to algal growth. ATUs are required to be serviced quarterly by a qualified person and a copy of the service report sent to the City.

For more information see the Department of Health website here.

To install an ATU an application and fee must be submitted to the City of Fremantle for approval. The application form can be downloaded here.

Grey Water Reuse Systems

GRS are used to filter waste water from bathrooms, laundries and sometimes kitchen sources for use to water gardens. The system is not connected to toilets (known as black water) because of the high bacterial load which may cause illness.

There are many products available on the market however the system you choose must be on the approved GRS list from the Department of Health. The type of product that suits your household needs will be dependent on your water usage and the dispersal area available. Your plumber can advise you on which system would best suit you.

To install a grey water reuse system, you must make application and payment to the City of Fremantle. It is an offence under the Health (Treatment of Sewage and Disposal of Effluent and Liquid Waste) Regulations 1974 to install a GRS without approval and it is an offence to use the GRS without a permit.

Reuse of grey water is encouraged in the City of Fremantle because our climate can be very dry in summer with a critical shortage of water and grey water reuse offers a practical method of conserving water. The City offers a rebate on the application fee if the system is installed to the satisfaction of an Environmental Health Officer.

For more information you can download the Department of Health brochure here.

For a list of approved systems you can download a brochure here.

To apply to install a grey water reuse system you can download the application form here.

Septic Tanks and Decommissioning

Septic tanks are commonly used in areas where sewer connection is not available. The City of Fremantle has sewer connection available to all suburbs and as such septic tank systems are no longer an approved method of disposing waste water.

If you have an existing septic tank but are not sure where it is located on the property, the City may have records of plans. You can request a copy of the plans (if available) by contacting Environmental Health Services on (08) 9432 9856. Please note that request of file may take up to 3 days.

If you want to discontinue use of your septic tank and connect to sewer, it is recommended that you ‘decommission’ the system. Although not mandatory, decommissioning is important as disused systems can become unstable over time and collapse.

Septic tank decommissioning is a requirement when:

The property is sold. The new owner has a legal obligation under the Health (Treatment of Sewage and Disposal of Effluent and Liquid Waste) Regulations 1974, to decommission the system within 60 days after settlement of the property.
Building extensions encroach on minimum clearances from the system. Septic tanks must be located at least 1.2 metres from any building or boundary and leach drains/soakwells must be located 1.8 metres from any building or boundary.
The permitted use of the development changes e.g. from a residence to a commercial use.

What do you have to do to decommission a septic tank?

Pump out all septic tanks, soakwells, leach drains or other on-site disposal systems using a registered liquid waste contractor.
Remove the tanks or if this is impractical break the base of the tank.
Backfill all tanks, soakwells and leach drains with clean fill.
Keep the receipt from the contractor to prove that decommissioning has been completed.

For more information contact Environmental Health Services on (08) 9432 9856 email health@fremantle.wa.gov.au

FOOD

Food Businesses

Environmental Health Officers (EHOs) routinely inspect all food businesses within the City of Fremantle for compliance with the Food Act, Regulations and the Food Safety Standards to ensure hygiene and structural requirements are being maintained. The inspection rate is dependent on the food types sold or produced, previous inspection results and if vulnerable consumer groups are the targeted population. EHOs also regularly sample food from City of Fremantle based manufacturers such as bakeries and butchers.

Should you wish to open a new food business within the City of Fremantle you will need to ensure you have the correct planning approval for the premises first. For detailed information on the approval process and construction requirements you can download a copy of the City’s guidelines here. All prospective food business operators must make an appointment with an Environmental Health Officer to discuss ideas to ensure the premises complies with the relevant legislation.

All food businesses must notify or register with the City of Fremantle. Your food business may also have to pay a one-off registration fee and annual licence fee.

The Food Business Notification / Registration form can be downloaded here.

Fremantle Markets Food Stalls
Stall holders wishing to trade at the Fremantle Markets require approval from Environmental Health Services no matter what type of food they intend to sell. For more information you can download the guidelines and application form here.

Village Art Markets
Persons wishing to operate a food stall at the VAM must apply to trade through the VAM Coordinator on (08) 9432 9826 and will require a Temporary Food Premises Permit.

Food Premises and Product Complaints

For suspected food poisoning cases please click here for information.

If you have found a foreign object in a food product , retain the portion and contact Environmental Health Services on (08) 9432 9856.

Should you find a food business within the City of Fremantle that has unacceptable hygiene or maintenance standards then please contact Compliance Services here.

Residential Food Preparation

Only certain low risk foods can be prepared for sale in a domestic kitchen. This is because a traditional domestic kitchen does not have the appropriate fit-out to meet food safety controls adequately. Should you wish to prepare food in a residential premises then you must ensure you have obtained Home Occupation planning approval first. Contact Planning Services on (08) 9432 9940 or email planning@fremantle.wa.gov.au for further information.

For guidelines on what is required for residential premises to be suitable to prepare low risk foods in, download a brochure here or contact Environmental Health Services on (08) 9432 9856 or email health@fremantle.wa.gov.au

To apply to prepare food in a residential premises download an application form here.

Temporary Food Stalls and Vehicles

Should you wish to operate a temporary food stall or vehicle at an event, then you must obtain approval from Environmental Health Services. For information on what you will require to operate your temporary food premises so it meets the Food Safety Standards please click here. For an example of what a food stall should look like download a poster here.

If you wish to sell food that you have prepared at home then you must have approval from your Local Government where the home is located. Contact your local Council for further information or if you are a City of Fremantle resident please see Residential Food Preparation.

To download an application form please click here.

Labelling of Food Products

Food products are required to be labelled in accordance with the Food Standards Code. The only exemption from this is food produced solely for community or charity fund raising events. For more information you can download the following brochures:

Food Labelling – Information for Food Stalls
Food Labelling – Information for Community & Charity Groups

NOISE

Noise is unwanted or unpleasant sound and is therefore ‘pollution’. It can cause major disturbances and affect human health greatly through loss of sleep, emotional stress and damage to the ear. The Environmental Protection (Noise) Regulations 1997 stipulate the allowed decibel levels and what is deemed to be ‘reasonable’ noise. Noise pollution can be a major problem in high density residential areas and the regulations have been designed to ensure acceptable levels are met while being flexible to allow reasonable normal activities to occur such as public events.

The City receives many enquires as to what the acceptable noise levels are but this is often difficult to explain as a particular decibel level doesn’t mean much when you can’t put it into perspective. The acceptable level at your property may be different to someone else’s as factors such as the amount of traffic and commercial and industrial premises in your area are taken into consideration when calculating the specific level. The time of day is also taken into consideration as annoying or intrusive noises may be perceived as louder at night than during the day when background noise levels are higher.

Measuring the noise using a sound level meter is the only way the get an accurate decibel level, but even this is impeded by background and other noise sources at times.

To make a complaint regarding a noise issue contact Compliance Services here.

For more information on who handles noise complaints you can download a Department of Environment and Conservation brochure here.

Below are some examples of sound levels and sources and the effect on hearing.

Neighbour Noise

What can you do if your neighbour is being noisy?

Approach your neighbours yourself. Your neighbours may be unaware of the discomfort they are causing you and may be only too happy to "turn it down."
Compromise. Negotiate with your neighbour and work together to find a solution. There may be a time that they can create noise and not interfere with you, or they may be able to adjust noise levels to suit you.
Informing your neighbour of potential noise prior to the event. If you are planning a party your neighbours will appreciate being told about the event before it happens. This gives your neighbours the opportunity to plan to be out on the night of the party, or better still ... invite them!

Air Conditioners

Noise from air conditioners can disturb neighbours. The noise can disrupt sleep, interfere with normal daily activities and can have significant impacts on people’s health. Installation of an air conditioner that emits unreasonable noise is illegal. Installers can face penalties of up to $5000 if they do not meet their legal obligations.

Section 80 of the Environmental Protection Act places the responsibility on installers to ensure that an air conditioner does not emit unreasonable noise.

For more information on installing air conditioners click here.

Construction Noise

The assigned noise levels do not apply to noise emitted from a construction site as a result of construction work conducted between 7am and 7pm Monday to Saturday. Noise from construction sites is not exempt from the assigned levels after these hours or on a Sunday or Public Holiday.

In instances where construction work needs to be done outside these hours, an application must be made to the Chief Executive Officer. Note that the City does not generally approve these unless they are of urgent need. Noise Management Plans must include:

Details and reasons for construction work likely to be carried out outside the hours of 7am-7pm;
Details of activities on the constructions site likely to result in noise emissions that will not comply with the assigned levels under Regulations 7;
Details of durations of such work;
Predictions of potential noise emissions on the construction site;
Details of measures to be implemented to control noise emissions (including vibration);
Procedures to be adopted for monitoring of noise emissions (including vibration); and
Details of complaint response procedures that will be adopted (including contact details to site managers/supervisors etc)

Completed Noise Management Plans to be submitted to the City of Fremantle’s Environmental Health Services for approval 7days beforeconstruction can commence.

The Housing Industry Association together with the Department of Environment and Conservation has developed a Noise Management Plan for work from 6am – 7am in the months from October to April. This plan recognises the risk to workers of exposure to ultraviolet radiation in the summer months. It must be submitted at least 7 days prior to commencement of 6am work. A copy can be downloaded here.

Radios and stereo systems on a construction site are not exempt and must comply at all times with the assigned noise levels.

Party and Stereo Noise

Noise from parties can be disturbing, particularly if it is excessively loud or they happen regularly. Generally one-off parties are accepted as normal activity by neighbours but more frequent gatherings can be upsetting.

What should you do if you intend to hold a one-off party at your house?

Inform your neighbours of the event including date, time of finish and a contact phone number. Generally people won’t mind noise from a celebration as long as it is a one-off event on a Friday or Saturday night and it does not finish late. This allows them to make arrangements to go out if they want to or better yet invite them along!
Parties on weeknights and Sunday nights are generally not acceptable, but if there is no other time then a 10pm finish is suggested. On Friday and Saturday nights the finish time should be around midnight.
Start your party earlier so that it can finish earlier.
Hold the party inside if possible and close all doors and windows.
Don’t use speakers outside the house.
Ensure that party goers do not cause a nuisance with offensive language or behaviour while at the party or when leaving.

Remember: You’re allowed to have fun, but your neighbours also have the right to not be disturbed!

If the City receives a complaint regarding party noise, then an investigation could lead to seizure of noisy equipment and fines. The Police also have the power to seize equipment.

What should you do if you are affected by party noise?

Notify your neighbours to make them aware of the noise disturbance. If the noise continues then contact the Police for assistance. The Police have powers to seize noisy equipment and issue infringement notices.
Contact Compliance Services here with your complaint.

NOTE: If the complaint is relating to foul language and abusive behaviour, the City can not deal with this and all queries should be sent to the Police for assistance.

What happens after you have made a noise complaint?

The City’s officers will contact the noise producer as soon as possible.
If the issue is not resolved after this then the City will take noise measurements in your home using the ‘Yellow Brick’ device. Residents will need to record the noise and associated information as per the instructions.
Should the results determine that noise levels were excessive the City will inform the noise producer of the results and the penalties that apply.
If the issue continues the City has a number of options it can take including Infringements, seizure of noisy equipment, Noise Abatement Direction, Environmental Protection Notice and prosecution.

Planes, Trains and Vehicles

The Environmental Protection (Noise) Regulations do not deal with any noise emitted from aircraft, rail, or vehicles on public roads. This includes the City’s rubbish trucks which need to start early to finish their run and especially if the route is along a bus service way. Rubbish or delivery trucks on private property are not exempted from the regulations but it is generally acceptable if they operate after 7am.

For more information contact Main Roads on (08) 13 81 38, Public Transport Authority (Rail) on (08) 9326 2000 or Perth or Jandakot Airports.

Other Noise Sources

Spa and pool pumps can be considerably annoying especially at night. Ensure your spa or pool pump is only used during the day.

‘Specified equipment’ (equipment that requires the constant presence of an operator for normal use e.g. power tools, lawn mower, basketball) are only allowed to be used from 7am – 7pm Monday to Friday and 9am- 7pm on Sundays and Public Holidays. The maximum time is 2 hours and it must also not unreasonably interfere with the health, comfort or convenience, of an occupier of a premises receiving the noise.

Musical equipments can only be played for a maximum of 1 hour per day between 7am – 7pm Monday to Saturday and 9am – 7pm Sundays and Public Holidays. It must also not unreasonably interfere with the health, comfort or convenience, of an occupier of a premises receiving the noise.

Audible alarms can be annoying if they sound intermittently. The Police can gain entry to a premises to switch off the alarm if it has been sounding for more than 30 minutes. The City’s officers do not have right of entry and can only assist.

Vehicle Reversing Beepers are exempt from the Environmental Protection (Noise) Regulations 1997 as these are safety devices required to alert persons of a moving vehicle that may the driver not be able to see behind them.

Liquor Licensed Premises

Noise from liquor licensed premises is usually dealt with by the Department of Racing, Gaming & Liquor. You can make a Section 117 complaint by calling DRGL on (08) 9425 1888 or emailing rgl@rgl.wa.gov.au.

The City of Fremantle may also be able to assist in dealing with noise pollution from liquor licensed premises. To make a complaint please contact Compliance Services here.

PEST CONTROL

Ants

The City has Coopex Insecticide powder for sale, available from the Town Hall Service and Information Centre.

For information on Argentine Ants you can download a Department of Agriculture and Food brochure here.

Bed Bugs

Bed bugs do not carry disease however the bite and saliva can cause an allergic reaction to the skin and welts to form. They are an increasing problem in the short term accommodation industry due to increased availability of travel options amongst the population and relative difficulty in eradication.

They can be found hiding in mattress piping, bed bases, door or window architraves, woodwork, behind light and plug switches, in old books and papers, behind wallpaper, in clothing, dresser drawers, behind curtains and drapes, any crack and crevice in floors or walls, wallpaper joints, upholstered furniture, pictures, covers and bedspreads. Well used hiding places are covered in spots of dried blood excrement.

For more information you can download a Department of Health brochure here.

What do I do if I experience bed bugs at a short term accommodation premises within the City?

Inform the premises immediately – this is extremely important as the room and your belongings will need to be separated. They will have a bed bug management procedure in place.
Seek treatment for bites from a pharmacy.
Contact Compliance Services here to make a complaint.
Check your belongings for bed bugs. Bed bugs can be transferred easily so is advised they be separated in sealed bags until they can be treated.
Wash all your clothing and linen in hot water above 60°C and dry in dryer on hot setting.
For more difficult objects you may want to consult the advice of a qualified pest controller.

What do I do if I experience bed bugs in my house?

Have you had a friend who is travelling stay at your house? This is the most likely reason for the infestation so check all their belongings and separate them in sealed bags.
Wash all clothing in linen in hot water above 60°C and dry in dryer on hot setting.
Contact a qualified pest controller to carry out treatment in the rooms as they can use both chemical and non-chemical methods to treat affected areas.

For more information on bed bugs go to www.bedbug.org.au

Bees and Wasps

If you have a bee or wasp hive that needs removal on your property then you must seek the advice of a bee removalist. If the bee or wasp hive is on council property you can contact Parks & Gardens on (08) 9432 9801.

For more information on bees you can download a Department of Agriculture and Food brochure here.

European wasps are not native to Australia and are a pest. For more information you can download a Department of Agriculture and Food brochure here.

Should you suspect a European Wasp nest check the identification guide here and contact the Department of Agriculture and Food on (08) 9368 3333.

Portuguese Millipedes

For information download a Department of Agriculture and Food brochure here.

Rats and Mice

For information download a brochure here or download the Department of Health ‘Facts on Rats’ brochure here.

Termites

For information on Termites you can download a Department of Health brochure here.

White Cedar Moths

For information on White Cedar Moths you can download a Department of Health Brochure here.

POLLUTION CONTROL

Rubbish

If you see rubbish being dumped on Council property or on any reserves please contact Ranger Services rangers@fremantle.wa.gov.au for follow up.

Unauthorised Discharges

Persons in connection with a business have the responsibility to dispose of waste in the correct manner in order to protect our environment. Some materials can be particularly hazardous and may affect the habitat and life of native animals as well as the quality of our waterways. Commonly businesses dispose of materials into storm water drains, which connect directly to the ocean which may be hazardous to human and aquatic species’ health. The Environmental Protection (Unauthorised Discharges) Regulations 2004 regulate what is prohibited to be disposed of into the environment or burned.

Persons in connection with a business found to be discharging materials such as acids, compounds of heavy metals, degreasers or detergents, paint or solvents, pesticides, sewage and oils, fats or grease can be fined up to $5,000.

Persons in connection with a business found to be burning materials which produce dark smoke may be fined up to $5,000. These materials include paint, carpet, plastic, vehicles, rubber and tyres.

If you witness a person discharging material into the environment or burning materials that produce black smoke then please contact Compliance Services here.

Dumped Hazardous Material

From time to time the City receives requests for removal of dumped material which could be hazardous. Suspected asbestos dumped on council property can be removed by the City on request to Waste Management Services (Ph: (08) 9432 9612). Drums containing an unknown liquid should be treated with concern and the City may need to employ the services of the Department of Environment and Conservation for investigation.

For all hazardous materials complaints please contact Compliance Services here.

SKIN PENETRATION, BEAUTY THERAPY & HAIRDRESSING

Skin Penetration is defined as a procedure where the skin is cut, punctured, torn or shaved or the mucous membrane is cut, punctured or torn. For general information on Skin Penetration refer to the Department of Health brochure here.

For information on cleaning, disinfecting and sterilising body art equipment download a Department of Health brochure here.

If you are thinking about getting some body art you can download a Department of Health ‘Healthy Body Art’ brochure here.

The age limit for getting a tattoo is 18 years of age. There is no minimum age for body or ear piercing however it is recommended that the minimum age is 16 years with parent or guardian permission.

Arcylic Nails - MMA Use

For information on Methyl Methacrylate use download a Department of Health brochure here.

Acupuncture

Acupuncture is a form of skin penetration and premises must comply with the Health (Skin Penetration) Regulations 1998. To apply to conduct acupuncture clinic you must have planning approval. Contact Planning Services on (08) 9432 9940 for more information.

You must also seek approval from Environmental Health Services. To apply download an application form here.

Beauty Therapy

The beauty therapy industry is not regulated by any laws however it is still the responsibility of owners to ensure the premises is maintained in a hygienic condition. This includes proper cleaning and disinfection of equipment in between clients and using of single-use items to prevent infection.

Wax can be re-used only if the temperature of the wax is reheated to above 130°C for a minimum of 20 minutes. Beauty therapy premises should have a thermometer available to ensure this.

Body and Ear Piercing

Body & Ear Piercing is a form of skin penetration and premises must comply with the Health (Skin Penetration) Regulations 1998. To apply to conduct body or ear piercing you must have planning approval. Contact Planning Services on (08) 9432 9940 for more information.

You must also seek approval from Environmental Health Services. To apply download an application form here.

For information on ear piercing guns you can download a Department of Health brochure here.

Hairdressing

Hairdressing premises are governed by the Hairdressing Establishments Regulations 1972. To apply to conduct a hairdressing establishment you must have planning approval. Contact Planning Services on (08) 9432 9940 for more information.

Cut throat razors are permitted to be used only with an interchangeable single-use blade. For more information you can download a Department of Health brochure here.

Tattooing

Tattooing is a form of skin penetration and premises must comply with the Health (Skin Penetration) Regulations 1998. To apply to conduct tattooing you must have planning approval. Contact Planning Services on (08) 9432 9940 for more information.

You must also seek approval from Environmental Health Services. To apply download an application form here.

For information on Henna Tattooing you can download a Department of Health brochure here.

TRADING IN PUBLIC PLACES

If you wish to trade on Council land then you will be required to apply for approval. This is to ensure any activities in public places occur at locations appropriate for public safety and access, including applicant’s safety and they do not adversely impact on the amenity of an area. Trading in public places reinforces the established character of Fremantle as a market place, having a diversity of trading activities and providing a range of retail and service options to the public in a lively, colourful environment. It allows for the operation of trading activities in public places in such a manner that they do not conflict with or prejudice the City's permanent retail and service base, or other normal functions of the city centre. Applicants must comply with the Activities in Thoroughfares and Public Places and Trading Local Law.

An application form can be downloaded here.

NOTE: Stall holders wishing to sell food must also apply for a Temporary Food Premises Permit.

WATER QUALITY

Drinking Water

For information on drinking water, guidelines and links to resources please visit the Department of Health’s website here.

Rain Water Tanks

Rain water tanks are an excellent source of providing non-potable water to your household for the toilet and laundry or washing your car and watering the garden. You can help conserve our precious water by installing a rain water tank in your home. There are no requirements to obtain a building license from the City either so it is an easy way to save money. Federal and State rebates are also available.

If you require more information on rain water collection you can visit the Department of Health website here.

Recreational Water Sampling

The City of Fremantle’ Environmental Health Services samples each public pool and spa within its boundaries once a month, testing the water quality to ensure it is safe to swim or bathe in. Parameters for testing include level of chemical disinfection, pH, temperature, bacteria and amoeba. Samples are measured against the standards set out in the Code of Practice for the Design, Construction, Operation, Management & Maintenance of Aquatic Facilities.

The City’s four beaches (Bathers Beach, Leighton Beach, South Beach and Port Beach) are also sampled during the months November through to April for bacterial quality as part of the State government’s annual Health Swimming survey. The City’s beaches have each recorded a green beach grade over the past years of sampling. This means that the water quality is of a high standard and is safe for swimming. The results of testing are collaborated yearly with other Local Governments and displayed on the Health Swimming website which can be accessed here.

For more information on natural waterways you can download a Department of Health brochure here.

Environmental Health Services
Forms
Fee Schedule 2009-2010
Environmental Health Resources
External Website Links

Environmental Health Services > A-Z List of Topics