Industry standards released by the Environmental Agency in 2015, mean any sewage treatment plant that discharges wastewater must meet strict regulations. 

If your treatment system was installed before 1983 you do not need to do anything, as there was no British Standard in place before then. You must, however, still meet the other general binding rules that apply to you.

The new January 2020 General Binding regulations are thorough and rules depend on how much you discharge, where you discharge and if you are a commercial entity. 

Some of the key standards outlined in the regulations are: 

• Discharge can only be domestic sewage
• In an area where the water level changes depending on the tide, discharge must be below the mean low water spring mark.
• Plant must meet the relevant British Standard.
• Plant must be the correct size for the amount of sewage it will need to treat. This should meet the sizing requirements in British Water’s guidelines.
• Regular maintenance in line with manufacturer’s instructions should be adhered, and it the system must always be in good working order
• The system must be regularly emptied – once a year or in line with the manufacturer’s instructions. The company used to dispose of the waste must be a registered waste carrier. 

If you’re not sure if you meet the regulations, reach out to our team who can advise you on the system right for you and of our standard practices for installation and maintenance.