Septic tanks and sewage treatment plants: what you need to do
Find out if you need a permit
You can only get a permit for a private sewage treatment system if it is not reasonable for you to connect to the mains sewer (also known as the ‘public foul sewer’).
Read the section on discharges in sewered areas in the ‘Discharges to surface water and groundwater’ guidance to find out when you have to connect to the mains sewer.
Check if you meet the ‘general binding’ rules. You do not need a permit if you meet all of these rules.
You’re breaking the law if you operate without a permit when you need to have one.
Types of permit
Depending on the size, age and location of your sewage system, you can apply for either a standard rules permit or a bespoke permit.
Standard rules permit
You can get a standard rules permit quickly if your discharge is not considered high risk.
Read the section on applying for a standard rules permit in the ‘Discharges to surface water and groundwater’ guidance.
Bespoke permits
You must apply for a bespoke permit if your system does not meet the requirements for a standard rules permit.
These permits take longer to process and can cost more because the Environment Agency must manually assess your site.
Read the section on applying for a bespoke permit in the ‘Discharges to surface water and groundwater’ guidance.
If your application is refused
If your application is refused, you’ll be told why and how you can appeal.
Get help with your application
If you know you need a permit but are unsure which one to apply for, you can ask the Environment Agency for advice before you apply.