Septic tanks and sewage treatment plants: what you need to do
Your property has a cesspool
If you have a cesspool then the ‘general binding rules’ do not apply.
You must maintain your cesspool and make sure it:
- is emptied regularly (for example once a month) by a registered waste carrier
- does not leak or overflow
You do not need a permit unless the Environment Agency tells you that you do.
If your system releases sewage into the ground or surface water then it is not a cesspool. If you are not sure what your system is, ask a local installation or maintenance company.
The Environment Agency or your local council can make you repair or replace your cesspool if it’s in poor condition.
You are breaking the law if your cesspool causes pollution.
If you install a new cesspool
You must:
- get planning permission and building regulations approval
- make sure it has a minimum capacity of 18,000 litres per 2 users (plus another 6,800 litres per each extra user)