Update on Registration of small sewage discharges from Septic Tanks & Sewage Treatment Plants
04 October 2011 by Daryl Tunningley
On 6 April 2010 the introduction of the Environmental Permitting (England and Wales) Regulations 2010 (EPR) changed the rules regarding discharges of domestic sewage effluent from small Septic Tanks and Sewage Treatment Plants.
These regulations which were due to come into force on 1st January 2012, required all householders to register their Septic Tank or Sewage Treatment Plant with the Environment Agency by 31 December 2011.
On the 16th August, the Environment Agency issued a Regulatory Position Statement announcing that they are now jointly reviewing the implementation of this legislation with the Government.
Whilst this review is being carried out, the Environment Agency will not require householders to register provided that they still comply with certain conditions as set out in the Position Statement.
For more information, please visit the Environment Agency’s website or click this link: http://publications.environment-agency.gov.uk/PDF/GEHO0811BTVP-E-E.pdf.
The review process is due to be completed by 31 December 2012 when the Environment Agency will issue updated guidance on this matter.
The Environment Agency have stated that they will not take enforcement action against householders with septic tanks or treatment plants unless a discharge has caused or is likely to cause pollution.
CSG tanker drivers answering emergency calls to empty systems often arrive to find drain covers lifted out of the lawn by pressure from the overflowing tank and balancing on top of a spreading slick of sewage.
To avoid this risk of overflows and blockages which can cause pollution, it is essential to have your tank regularly de-sludged and at least every 12 months.
Regular servicing and maintenance of sewage treatment plants will also ensure your system performs efficiently and your tank is kept in perfect working order.
For further information or to book your clearance please call one of our Specialist Sewage Service Advisors on 0800 048 0629.
