Registration of Septic Tanks and Waste Water Treatments Systems

Registration of Septic Tanks and Waste Water Treatments Systems

What's new?

The Water Services (Amendment) Act 2012 (the "Act") and the Domestic Waste Water Treatments Systems Regulations 2012 introduced new regulations whereby the owners of  properties serviced by septic tanks or similar domestic waste water treatment systems must register their systems and their details with the relevant Local Authority and pay a registration fee. 

What do I have to do?

All systems must have been registered with their Local Authority by 1 February 2013.  Owners of such systems must re-register after 5 years, however, no fee will be payable on any such subsequent registrations.  Up to 28 September 2012, the fee for registration was €5.00 with a fee of €50 payable thereafter.

What if I don't?

It is an offence under the Act to have a non-registered system and those householders with non-registered tanks could face fines up to €5,000.

What will happen?

After 1 February 2013, the Environmental Protection Agency will arrange for inspections of septic tanks to take place and each householder will be formally notified by the relevant local authority if  their water treatment system is to be inspected.

What do I need to have when I sell my property?

Should you wish to sell or transfer ownership of your property which is connected to a water treatment system or a septic tank, a Certificate of Registration will be required.  This certificate confirms that the domestic waste water treatment system serving the property is registered.   After the sale/transfer of the property, the new owner will then be responsible for submitting their details to the Local Authority and updating the register. 

Where can I register?

Registration can be completed either on line at www.protectourwater.ie, by sending a registration form by post to: Protect Our Water, PO Box 1204, Dublin 7 or at your Local Authority Offices.  For further information, enquiries can be made with the Department of the Environment, your Local Authority or at www.protectourwater.ie.

For further information contact Michelle McVeigh or your usual contact in Byrne Wallace Shields LLP.