Sewerage System Standard Practice Manual

The Ministry of Health Standard Practice Manual (SPM), is a source of "standard practice" for onsite sewerage systems, and is referenced in the Sewerage System Regulation. The SPM is reviewed from time to time, and information regarding the September 2007 version, (Version 2) is provided below. This revised version is expected to result in systems that are more cost effective, as well as more reliable.

Key changes in the updated version of the document are described in the following overview document (PDF, 110KB).

The complete standard practice manual and appendices are below:

Standard Practice Manual September 2007 (PDF, 5MB)

Appendix to Standard Practice Manual (PDF, 2MB)

To provide a transition period for industry from the old manual to the new, the previous September 2006 version will not formally sunset until midnight December 31, 2007.

Immediate use of the new version is highly recommended, but during this transition period both versions are in effect and it is understood the Authorized Person can use either version. On January 1, 2008, only the new September 21, 2007, SPM Version 2 will be in effect.