Guidance

National standards for sustainable drainage systems

Non-statutory standards for the design, maintenance and operation of surface water drainage systems in England.

From:
Department for Environment, Food & Rural Affairs
Published
19 June 2025

Applies to England

Documents

National standards for sustainable drainage systems (SuDS)

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Details

The non-statutory standards can help you design, maintain and operate surface water drainage systems for:

  • new developments
  • retrofit sustainable drainage systems (SuDS) (although not all parts may be directly applicable)

They promote consistency and help ensure long-term performance and resilience.

SuDS manage surface water in a way that mimics natural processes, providing a wide range of benefits beyond traditional drainage methods. This makes SuDS essential for new development. 

SuDS offer opportunities for: 

  • water reuse
  • reducing flood risk by slowing and storing runoff 
  • improving water quality by filtering pollutants 
  • enhancing the visual quality of our environment and offering recreational and educational opportunities 
  • supporting biodiversity  

Updates to this page

Published 19 June 2025

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