Collection and discharge of sewage from a sewer network
This activity applies to the collection, storage, conveyance, and discharge of sewage from a sewer network.
Authorisation level
Permit
Public consultation
We may publicly consult on applications that, due to their nature or location, have higher likelihood of environmental impact and community impact.
Read more about public participation and engagement
Fit and Proper Person tests
Fit and Proper Person tests apply to this activity. You will be asked in your application if you have any relevant convictions held by you or any additional persons.
Read more about Fit and Proper Person tests
Fees and charges
An application fee applies to the application of a new authorisation for this activity.
An annual activity fee may apply to this activity.
Read our charging information for further information on application and annual activity fees.
Information on the application fees to transfer, vary or surrender a permit that authorises this activity, is in our charging information.
Permit conditions
Permits may contain both standard conditions and conditions specific to the activity and location. The conditions of your permit will be decided when we assess your application. This is to ensure that the appropriate limits and controls are in place to minimise pollution and protect the environment.
If you carry out an activity under a permit authorisation you must comply with the conditions set out in your authorisation. It is an offence if you do not comply with the conditions.
SEPA will not authorise this activity if it poses an unacceptable risk to the environment.
How to apply
In this section you can find out how to apply for a new authorisation and how to apply for a variation, transfer and surrender of an existing authorisation.
New applications
You can apply for a new permit for this activity using our digital application service.
If you are applying for new permit, we would encourage you to contact us with any pre-application enquiries before submitting your application.
Step 1: Download your activity form
You will need to download and complete the following activity form. The completed form will be submitted as part of your application:
Step 2: Provide supporting information
For a new permit, you will also need to provide the following supporting information:
- Details of the sample facilities that will be used
- Schematic plan
- Non-technical summary of your application
- Information on the dry weather flow and population equivalent
- Sewer modelling and supporting report
- Completed Formula A calculations (if applicable)
- Modelling report of the impact of the discharge on the water environment (if required)
- Information on the pass forward flow and screen details
- Information on the design of storm storage facilities
- Details on how storm tank contents will be returned for full treatment
- Justification for the emergency overflow(s)
- Report on pumping arrangements and mitigation measures in the event of pump failure
- Screen details for each emergency flow
Step 3: Submit using our digital application service
You can submit your completed application using our digital application service.
Make an application for a new authorisation
Help and guidance
- Glossary of terms
- WAT-G-058: EASR Guidance: Sewer Overflows
- WAT-G-065: Permit Activity: Municipal Sewage Treatment Works
- WAT-G-057: EASR Guidance: Permit Activity: Discharge of sewage effluent
- WAT-G-070: EASR Guidance: Discharges to and near bathing and shellfish waters
- WAT-G-066: EASR Guidance: Assessing the impact of a discharge on coastal and transitional waters
- WAT-G-072: EASR Guidance: Environmental standards for discharges to surface waters.