Septic Tanks - New Rules
Many of the homes in our villages have septic tanks, rather than being connected to mains drainage. If you have a septic tank are you aware that you need to be compliant with new rules regarding discharge from septic tanks by January 2020?
Discharges from septic tanks directly to a surface water are not allowed under the rules. If you have a septic tank that discharges directly to a surface water you will need to replace or upgrade your treatment system by 1 January 2020.
If you’re discharging to a surface water, such as a river or stream, you must use a small sewage treatment plant to treat the sewage. A small sewage treatment plant (also known as a package treatment plant) uses mechanical parts to treat the liquid so it’s clean enough to go into a river or stream.
Alternatively you may be able to install a drainage field (also known as an infiltration system) so the septic tank can discharge to ground instead.
For more information visit the government website here.