The 2020 septic tank regulations were something we revisited 12 months after they were introduced.
But it’s been more than three years since these rules were applied, so it’s worth another update.
Read what has changed since 2020 and how this might affect you from a drains maintenance and servicing perspective.
What did the regulations cover?
The General Binding Rules are for domestic and commercial property owners and cover those with septic tanks and small sewage treatment plants.
To comply from 2020 onwards, you needed to replace your septic tank with a system that produced water clean enough to discharge to a waterway.
Failing that, you needed to have a soakaway system or drain field fitted to your existing septic tank to achieve comparable results.
2023 septic tank updates
The only major update applies to anyone that started a discharge to surface water on or after 2 October 2023 and includes:
- Discharges from small sewage treatment plants
- A change of discharge from surface water to ground
- A relocation of discharge of more than 10 metre from the previous location
- An increase of discharge to ground to more than five cubic metres (5,000 litres) a day to surface water
Anyone in this category must satisfy the general binding rules that apply to most properties.
But in addition, they must also ensure that the following two regulations are followed:
Rule 22:
Your new discharge can’t use the same discharge point as any other, if the combined volume exceeds the general binding rule limit.
If the combined volume of your new discharge and the existing one is above the 5000L limit, you’ll need to secure a permit.
Rule 23:
Your new discharge can’t be within 50 metres of any other exempt small sewage discharge.
You may need to ask your neighbours if their drainage solution is covered by the rules and if so, how far it is from your discharge location.
If it is indeed closer than 50 metres, again, you’ll need a permit for the new discharge.
How do I ensure I’m compliant?
While the General Binding Rules have changed slightly since 2020, the simplest way to ensure your system is compliant is to ask a professional.
Drain servicing and maintenance by a specialist will identify any potential non-compliance issues and suggest the best course of action.
Whether you simply need a new soakaway system, or would be better with a replacement small sewage treatment plant, support is available.
Need to talk to a professional?
If you’re concerned about septic tank regulation and whether you comply, a comprehensive CCTV drain survey may put your mind at rest.
To speak to a member of our helpful team about your requirements, please contact us.