Septic tanks and private sewage treatment systems
If you operate a septic tank or private sewage treatment system, you may need to register your discharge with SEPA. This ensures environmental protection and legal compliance.
Who needs to register?
You must register if your system serves:
- Up to 10 domestic properties, or
- Non-domestic premises with a population equivalent (p.e.) of 50 or fewer
If your discharge exceeds these limits or is located in a sensitive area (e.g. phosphate-sensitive catchments or freshwater lochs), you’ll need to apply for a licence instead. Learn more about licence applications (word 287kB).
Information you will need to apply
Before registering, gather the following:
- Installation date of the treatment system
- Address or location of each connected property
- Contact name and email address
For new or recently installed systems (less than 2 years old), SEPA will conduct an environmental check to determine the type of treatment system you need to have in place, you will also need to let us know:
- Number of domestic properties using the system, or the population equivalent (p.e.) for non-domestic properties
- The location of the discharge point (i.e. where the sewage discharges to the environment)
- If the treated sewage discharges to land or water
- Soil percolation test result (if discharging to land)
How to apply
- Apply online - Register your Private Sewage Treatment System (PSTS)
- Pay a one-off fee of £190
- Read the registration guidance before starting
If you need help or cannot apply online, contact us.
After you apply
Once your application is complete:
- Your registration will be added to the public register
- You will receive a copy of your registration via email
- Your registration will include conditions that must be followed to prevent pollution
Failing to meet those conditions is against the law