Septic tank registration reminder

The Agency has already sent letters and registration forms to over 70,000 people who are believed to have septic tanks to make the registration process as simple as possible. Over 36,000 households in Wales have so far registered their tanks.

The need to register is part of the environmental permitting regulations for both England and Wales, introduced in 2010.

There is strong evidence that poorly maintained septic tanks contribute to poor water quality in rivers, lakes and coastal waters and there is also a danger that pollution from septic tanks could contaminate private water supplies from wells, boreholes and springs.

Knowing the location of septic tanks will help Agency officers check for any poorly maintained septic tanks that could be the cause of pollution in the area.

Anyone who is unaware of the requirement will be given the opportunity to register or obtain a permit. If people do not take this opportunity, enforcement action would be considered but the Agency’s first priority would be to get them registered.

In Wales, for the majority of people, registration is a simple process, free of charge and a one off requirement. This approach differs to some other parts of the UK and some EU Member States. Single properties with up to 9 occupants should be able to register for free.

However, in some cases (less than 3% of septic tanks in Wales) where a household has a larger septic tank or where a septic tank discharges within a sensitive area a permit will be required. This is specified by the environmental regulations and there may be a one off
£125 charge.

To register go to Environment Agency - sewage discharge or call 03708 506 506 and ask to speak to an advisor.