These are the rules you must follow. They are called the general binding rules. If you’re the operator of a septic tank or small sewage treatment plant you must comply with these rules.
The sewage that is discharged from your sewage system must:
- be domestic in nature, for example from a toilet, bathroom, shower or kitchen of a house, flat or business (such as a pub, hotel or office) – contact the Environment Agency if you’re not sure if the sewage is domestic in nature
- not cause pollution – you can find out how to check for pollution here.
There are other rules you must comply with. They are dependant on where you release your sewage:
- It be be discharged into the ground, for example in your back garden
- It can be discharged to surface water, for example a river or stream