Commercial Tank Requirements (Fire Safety)
When it comes to commercial or rural properties, especially those requiring fire safety compliance, your water tank isn’t just for rainwater harvesting; it becomes a critical safety asset. In many cases, property developers, builders or owners must meet strict standards around tank size, fittings and accessibility.
Why Fire-Ready Tanks Are Treated Differently
Fire services may rely on your tank: In rural areas, local fire brigades might depend on your water supply during bushfires or emergencies.
Building and planning regulations demand compliance: Whether for new buildings, sheds, workshops, or agriculture, many properties legally require compliant fire‑water reserves.
Public safety demands reliability and access: The system must be built, maintained and accessible, not just a button on a tank waiting to underperform when needed.
Typical Council & Fire Authority Requirements
Although exact requirements vary by council and fire authority, most follow similar guidelines:
Minimum water volume: Often a set threshold (e.g. 10,000 L) depending on property type, building size or fire risk zone.
Specific outlet fitting: Usually a 65 mm Storz fitting (or equivalent) to allow fire trucks or pumps to access the water supply.
Clear labelling: Tanks designated for fire use should be clearly marked as “FIRE WATER SUPPLY” to avoid confusion with domestic water.
Accessibility: Tank needs to be sited with enough clearance for fire trucks or pumps to access. That includes a clear driveway, stable ground, and free of obstructions (trees, low-hanging wires, narrow gates).
Overflow and drainage compliance: Overflow must not discharge near buildings or create hazards; it should be directed safely away.
Separation from potable water supply: If you’re also using the tank for domestic water, there must be back‑flow prevention, separate plumbing and often filtration to prevent cross-contamination.
What That Means for Your Property
If your property is commercial, agricultural, subdivided or located in a bushfire‑prone zone:
Don’t assume any standard tank will do. Check the volume requirement carefully.
Ensure the 65 mm Storz or equivalent fitting is installed and tested.
Plan for vehicle access (do gates, driveways, and trees all allow fire trucks?).
Make tank location and overflow plumbing part of the initial design. Retrofitting after construction can be expensive or even non‑compliant.
Clearly label the tank and maintain records of installation, maintenance and testing (some authorities may audit or request evidence).
How Taztanks Helps Ensure Fire Compliance
During site visits, we assess tank size, fitting requirements and access for emergency services.
We provide tanks with correct fittings (e.g. 65 mm Storz), labelling, overflow plumbing and base prep to code for fire‑rated tanks.
We advise on placement, clear of vegetation or obstructions, and easy for a pump or fire truck.
We coordinate with your builder, fire assessor or council if required, so the tank becomes a fully compliant feature of your property.
Common Mistakes That Break Compliance
Assuming a domestic tank will meet fire‑water requirements, domestic fittings and outlets are often inadequate.
Installing a tank without proper access, e.g. behind a locked gate, narrow fence or down a steep driveway.
Forgetting to label the tank, in an emergency, can cost lives.
Not separating the domestic and fire water supply risks contamination or non‑compliance with plumbing codes.
Overlooking overflow and drainage requirements, leading to erosion, property damage or legal penalties.
Tips for Planning Fire‑Compliant Tank Installations
Check your local council’s building/fire regulations from the start. Don’t treat tank size or outlet fittings as optional extras.
Choose a tank size and type based on building class, property use and local fire risk.
Ensure the driveway or access route is wide enough for fire trucks, and maintain clearance (no low-hanging branches or wires).
Install overflow systems that safely divert excess water, and ensure drainage doesn’t pose a risk to neighbours or your property.
Keep documentation, installation specs, photos, test results, and maintenance records, in case of audits or inspections.
For commercial or rural properties, a tank isn’t just about water storage; it’s a safety feature, a legal requirement, and potentially a lifesaver in emergencies. Don’t cut corners. Do it properly: choose the right tank, install compliant fittings, plan access and drainage, and maintain it.
If you’re building or upgrading, call us early. We’ll guide you through requirements, help you choose the right tank, and make sure you meet all compliance needs.
