At the start of the year we talked about the latest septic tank regulations for homeowners. But we understand it’s not immediately obvious whether you need a permit for a septic tank or sewage treatment plant. Here’s what you need to know as a property owner, in terms of permit requirements under different circumstances.
Understanding the General Binding Rules
The General Binding Rules are national regulations applying to septic tanks and sewage treatment plants. These were last updated in 2023, to add clarity on aspects relating to discharge points and the distances between them. But the main takeaway for anyone with a septic tank or sewage treatment plant is an encouraging one.
Put simply, if you meet all the General Binding Rules that apply to you, you’re unlikely to require a permit. The full list of compliance requirements for small sewage discharges in England is relatively easy to follow.
Put simply, it covers:
- Capacity
The system (either your property alone, or combined with others connected) must not discharge more than 2000 litres per day.
- Discharge location
Any treated effluent from a sewage treatment plant must discharge into a watercourse, surface water, or drainage field – not directly into a sewer. But from a septic tank, discharge into a water course isn’t permitted – instead, these should be replaced or upgraded with a drainage field.
- Maintenance
Any septic tank or sewage treatment plant system should be well maintained and operate efficiently and effectively.
- Quality standards
Your septic tank or sewage treatment plant must meet the British standards that applied on the date of installation.
As of 2026, newly installed systems should satisfy BS EN 12566 regulations.
- Registration
In some locations, you may need to register your system with the local authority or Environment Agency.
Which circumstances require a permit?
If your system doesn’t meet the requirements outlined above and in the General Binding Rules, you may need a permit. To be sure you’ve explored every avenue, familiarise yourself with these key considerations:
- Local regulations
Always check with your local authority, as they may have additional requirements or guidelines.
- Professional advice
Consult with a reputable professional drainage firm to assess your specific needs and ensure compliance with all regulations.
- Environmental impact
Establish whether or not your property is in a designated Groundwater Protection Zone (SPZ).
If you’re confident you’ve taken the necessary steps above, it’s time to apply for a permit. This can be issued by the Environment Agency, who may also provide alternative recommendations or conditions to apply.
What do I need to do next?
If you need a permit, apply following the steps above – but remember that there may be other requirements to satisfy too. Systems that don’t need permits must still meet certain maintenance and quality standards to avoid potential fines and environmental damage.
If you’re unsure about any of the issues relating to septic tank and sewage treatment permits and compliance, please contact us.