How to handle Overflow Relief Gullies when planning a side path?

DnDad

G'day workshop boffins. I've been immersing myself in all the wonderful examples of side paths that DIY'ers have put up on the site as I also have a perpetually overgrown mess down the fence line that I'm also very keen to replace with some nice stones and pavers (Photo is it looking at its current 'best' believe me) . My issue is I haven't seen in any of the examples (or have missed if it was there apologies) how one deals with what I believe are the 'Overflow Relief Gullies' ORGs <see marked up image>???. To be honest, the fact that they're flush with the ground seems a bit strange to me but the plan was made by the builders so I guess up to code 😅. What I'm looking for advice on is if I go the rip it up, road base, sand/matting, stones and big paver route to create a nice base under the clothesline, what do I do about that overflow pipe??? Welcome any feedback, I've been super impressed by what the community on this site is capable of! Cheers and thank you in advance. 👍

EricL

Hello @DnDad

Welcome to the Bunnings Workshop community. It's sensational to have you join us, and thanks for sharing your question about your side path in the house.

All plumbing work needs to be performed by a licensed plumber for safety and compliance.

If you're turning the area into a pebble and paver walkway, the overflow relief gully (ORG) should remain fully accessible and never be covered or buried. It is an important plumbing safety feature that allows wastewater to escape outside the home if there's a blockage in the sewer, helping to prevent sewage from backing up into the house.

A neat way to finish around it is to cut the pavers neatly around the gully and leave the grate exposed and slightly proud of the finished surface, or level with the surrounding pavers if the fitting allows. You can continue the decorative pebbles around the outside of the ORG, but avoid placing pebbles or pavers over the opening or restricting access to it. This keeps it functional while allowing it to blend into the overall design.

If you'd prefer it to be less noticeable, there are decorative stainless steel or low-profile ORG covers available that provide a much cleaner appearance while still complying with plumbing requirements. These can work particularly well in modern landscaped areas.

If the ORG is in an awkward position right in the middle of your planned walkway, it may be possible for a licensed plumber to relocate it, but it must remain compliant with the Plumbing Code and local authority requirements. It's not something that should be altered or covered as part of the landscaping.

With a little planning, you can achieve a clean, attractive pebble and paver finish while keeping the overflow relief gully ready to do its job if it's ever needed. I've placed a sample rendered image using AI at the bottom to give you an idea of what it can look like.

If you need further assistance, please let us know.

Eric