Extending house which is already too close to septic tank

[Jimbobjones]

Hello,

 

Looking at a potential project which has an existing (old) septic tank of brick construction on edge of property boundary that drains into a stream. It is registered exempt / permitted.

 

My plan for the project requires partial rebuilding and extending the property, which will require planning. The existing septic tank is located close to the house, less than the current required minimum distance. In this situation does anyone know what happens if I submit plans that would:

1. Rebuild the existing walls (solid) for cavity - so no change in distance to septic tank. OR
2. Extend (slightly) closer to the existing tank

 

My assumption is planning would deny (2) but not sure about (1)

[JohnMo]

36 minutes ago, Jimbobjones said:

does anyone know what happens if I submit plans that would

What you do has to comply with current regs, as you are making a change 

 

So outcome could be, a treatment plant to replace septic tank, located in a suitable location. 

[Jimbobjones]

if there is no suitable location for a PTP then does that mean no planning / no change to existing property will be allowed ?

[JohnMo]

1 hour ago, Jimbobjones said:

if there is no suitable location for a PTP then does that mean no planning / no change to existing property will be allowed ?

? Possibly, think you may be answering your own question.

 

What other choice would a planner have? They will not turn a blind eye.

7 hours ago, Jimbobjones said:

existing septic tank is located close to the house, less than the current required minimum distance.

May open a can of worms you don't want?

[ProDave]

Which country is this in?

 

In Scotland SEPA are taking a way too relaxed view, I know of at least 2 old systems that don't comply with the General binding Rules either for location or discharging into a watercourse.  Basically they are not interested unless someone raises a pollution issue.

 

I doubt building control would be that relaxed though, so if there is no suitable location on your land to locate a proper treatment plant the correct distance from the house and the watercourse then you are either stuck with things as they are and keep quiet, or seek permission from an adjacent land owner to site something on their land.

 

Building control do have some leeway to be flexible, i.e. I know one house near here where they allowed the TP closer to the burn than would normally be allowed as there was nowhere else.

[Marvin]

Hi @Jimbobjones

 

Planning says yes, and building control have to ensure you follow building regulations - different things.

 

I know a lot of plans that permit a building, however there was nowhere for rainwater to go but in the foul sewer, and this was permitted by default.

 

M.

[Jimbobjones]

thank you I understand the interplay better now, I'll ask around the local area to see if anyone has encountered BC related problems relating to septic->PTP upgrades