Pipelines and Easements
Hobart Water manages over 400km of pipes and corresponding easements to ensure water's safe journey throughout Southern Tasmania.
Pipelines
More than 400kms of pipes carry water from catchment areas to reservoirs and dams. Owned by Hobart Water, the pipes range from brand new sections to pipes which are more than 150 years old. 
The first pipes in Tasmania were laid in 1832 and were the first to be laid in Australia. They were built because of increased pressure on the Government to deal with the problem of pollution in the water supply.
The Mount Wellington pipeline system has heritage significance with some sections heritage listed. Hobart Water works closely with Heritage Tasmania to ensure the area maintains its historical significance for future generations.
Located both above and underground, Hobart Water's pipes traverse mountains and rivers, bridges and highways. Hobart Water has a dedicated area within its Production & Supply Division to ensure pipelines are maintained and repaired as required.
The Water Infrastructure team plans regular inspections, maintenance activities.
Hobart Water's pipes are primarily made of three
materials:
- Metals - 83%,
- Cement/Concrete 14%, and
- Plastics 3%.
Hobart Water Easements
In addition to pipelines, reservoirs and key water infrastructure, Hobart Water also either owns or has legal access to the land on either side of its pipelines. This section of land is called an easement or right of way.
Easements allow us the right to carry out maintenance work, install additional pipelines or any emergency works that could arise. The upkeep of these easements is absolutely critical in ensuring the ongoing use of all our infrastructure.
Land ownership
The land on which an easement passes is owned by another property owner but, in a small number of cases, Hobart Water owns the land outright.
Building near an easement
Under no circumstances can any persons or organisation build on a Hobart Water easement. Anyone planning on carrying out works such as building a structure/s near an easement needs to consult and grant permission from Hobart Water and local council.
In a few unusual circumstances, additional conditions may be negotiated by the proponent and Hobart Water. Such conditions are covered by caveats and are attached to the property's title. Similarly, planting of large trees, gardens or terracing near the easement may also require the permission of Hobart Water.
Any structures built on an easement without permission from Hobart Water will be required to be dismantled. Present easement conditions are well defined and protect Hobart Water's assets as well as giving access for operational and maintenance purposes.
Hobart Water strongly recommends anyone planning works close to an easement to contact us early in their planning to avoid any unnecessary problems. For more information on Hobart Water easements, contact us or phone 6233 6533.