Septic tanks and the general binding rules

What the general binding rules are

The general binding rules are the Environment Agency’s rules for small sewage discharges in England. If you meet them, you do not need a permit.

There are two sets of rules. One covers discharge to the ground, through a drainage field. The other covers discharge to surface water, such as a stream or ditch.

Septic tanks and streams

You must not discharge effluent from a septic tank to a watercourse. To discharge to a river or stream, you must use a small sewage treatment plant.

If your septic tank discharges straight to a watercourse, you must act as soon as possible. You can connect to the public sewer, fit a treatment plant, or fit a drainage field that meets the rules. GOV.UK says you usually need a plan in place within 12 months.

Emptying and care

Look after the system so it works well. The rules include these points.

• Have the sludge removed before the tank is full: at least once a year, or as the maker says.
• Use a company that is a registered waste carrier. You can check it on the Environment Agency’s public register.
• Have the system repaired or replaced if it is not in good working order.
• Have maintenance done by a competent person, as the maker says.
• The system must meet the British Standard in place when it was installed.

Volume limits and permits

Discharge to the ground must be 2 cubic metres a day or less. Discharge to surface water must be 5 cubic metres a day or less.

You need a permit if you cannot meet the rules. For example, a single home needs one if a public foul sewer is within 30 metres. Check the full rules on GOV.UK.

Selling a home with a septic tank

If you sell the home, tell the new owner about the sewage system. Give them written details of the system, its layout, any changes, and the maintenance records.

If a septic tank discharges straight to a watercourse, the buyer and seller should agree who will upgrade it, as a condition of sale.

Questions

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