Sewage Treatment Regulations in Hampshire & Surrey
By Alton Facility Services • Reviewed by Senior Pump Engineer • Updated June 2026
Sewage treatment regulations are important for any property that is not connected to mains drainage.
Property owners must ensure that systems are suitable, correctly installed, properly maintained and not causing pollution.
This guide summarises the main compliance points, but site-specific advice should always be taken before installation or upgrade work.
Quick Answer
In England, small sewage discharges may be allowed without an environmental permit if they meet the Environment Agency's General Binding Rules.
If the rules cannot be met, a permit or system upgrade may be required.
What Are the General Binding Rules?
The General Binding Rules set conditions for septic tanks and sewage treatment plants that make small sewage discharges.
They cover issues such as system design, discharge volume, discharge route, installation, maintenance and pollution prevention.
Septic Tank Discharge Rules
Septic tanks should not discharge directly to a watercourse. They normally need a suitable drainage field.
Where this is not possible, many systems need upgrading to a sewage treatment plant.
Treatment Plant Discharge Rules
A sewage treatment plant can produce cleaner effluent and may be suitable for discharge routes that a septic tank cannot use.
The discharge still needs to meet the relevant rules and site requirements.
Planning and Building Regulations
Even where a full environmental permit is not required, building regulations or planning requirements may still apply.
Protected locations, groundwater source protection zones and sensitive landscapes may create extra restrictions.
Owner Responsibilities
The property owner or operator is responsible for ensuring the system is maintained and operated correctly.
Systems should be serviced, emptied where required and repaired promptly if faults appear.
Property Sales
Drainage compliance can become important during a property sale. Buyers may ask for servicing records, discharge details and evidence that the system complies.
A non-compliant system can delay a transaction or lead to negotiation around upgrade costs.
Get Compliance Support
Alton Facility Services can inspect off-mains drainage systems, advise on compliance risks and recommend upgrades where needed.
Need help? Contact our team or call 0808 175 5779.
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