Does a septic tank need to be registered?
Septic tanks are a great way to connect remote houses to the sewerage system while also being an environmentally-friendly solution to disposing of wastewater. However it’s always important to follow established rules and regulations to avoid receiving a hefty fine from the council or the Environment Agency.
At OMDI, we deal with septic tank questions every day. And one of the most common queries we respond to is about registration. Does a septic tank need to be registered? Our experts answer your questions below:
Which septic tanks must be registered?
Until recently, it was necessary for all septic tanks to be registered. That is no longer the case though, and there are exemptions that don’t require listing. For example, small septic tanks in England do not need to be. The size of a septic tank depends on the quantity of discharge, not the physical size of the system.
A septic tank discharges water into the ground, and the quantity of such is important so as to avoid damage to the environment. If your septic tank discharges two cubic metres or less above ground, then you don’t need to register it. If it releases five cubic metres, or less, below ground level then it is also exempt. Larger quantities of wastewater discharge must be catalogued because there are more stringent regulations to follow to keep the surrounding waterways clear of high levels of pollution and waste.
Importantly, you must also be able to show that your septic tank is regularly maintained and emptied by a qualified professional in order to be exempt. Remember though that precise requirements can vary depending on your location, so always check with a qualified expert to ensure you comply with regulations.
How soon do septic tanks need to be registered after installation?
It’s best to register your new septic tank as soon as it’s constructed and begins discharging waste, providing of course that it isn’t exempt. Doing so ensures you are following all regulations and keeping to the law. As part of its installation service, OMDI will be able to guide you through the registration process where appropriate.
How much does it cost to register a septic tank?
Registration will vary depending on how much waste is actually being discharged. There are also different costs that depend on whether the waste is domestic in nature or connected to a business. The minimum cost of registration for a household septic tank that doesn’t meet the exemption criteria is £125, but that figure can reach into the thousands for businesses. Failure to register a septic tank can result in large fines from the Environment Agency, so it’s always important to keep your system registered.
Still unsure if your septic tank needs registering?
If you’re still unsure whether your septic tank needs to be registered, then don’t hesitate to contact OMDI today.
Our experts have years of experience working in the sector, and we can provide a free, no-obligation quote for a septic tank installation while offering any guidance you require.