The law regarding discharges of domestic sewage effluent from septic tanks and sewage treatment plants will change under the EPR from 6 April 2010. After this date, anyone intending to discharge 5 cubic metres per day or less to surface waters or 2 cubic metres per day or less to ground may be eligible for an exemption and will need to register before they commence making the discharge.  In April 2010 the Environment Agency will introduce a free system for registering exemptions. To be acceptable for registration, the occupier of the land on which an exempt small sewage effluent discharge is to take place must notify uthe EA of the relevant particulars relating to that discharge. Information required includes:

 - The name and address of the occupier

 - Details of the location of the activity

 - A description of the small sewage effluent discharge (including whether the equipment is new or is an existing installation)

 - Agreement to comply with – and abide by – the conditions of registration

There will only be a need to register any septic tank or sewage treatment plant once. The EA may refuse to register a discharge where the activity will adversely affect the environment or human health. In such cases you will need to discuss your options with your local Environment Agency office. You may be able to apply for a permit.

Further details of these changes can be found on the Environment Agency Website - www.environment-agency.gov.uk