Septic tanks prior to the 1990's may not be built to current standards and performance should be checked. You should check tank structure, provide access points for maintenance and de-sludging, replace soak-pits and pipes to drains (if present) with a properly designed percolation area exclude roof and yard water from the system. Consult a trained specialist in the area of domestic systems if necessary or in doubt.
FAQs
No, grants for improvements to septic tanks are not generally available. There is a grant available if the County Council have inspected your septic tank, have found a problem with it and issued you an Advisory Notice. (Please contact Tipperary County Council for more information).
However, you may qualify for tax relief on these works under the Home Renovation Incentive scheme.
Contact the Citizens Information or the Revenue Office for more information.
New wastewater treatment systems should be a minimum of 3 Meters to site boundary and 10 meters to water
In general septic tanks should be emptied every one to two years, but this will depend on the age of the system and the number of people using it. Inspect your tank; if the sludge or scum volume is greater than 30% or are close to the inlet and outlets of the tank it should be emptied. If you have a secondary treatment system with a pump or other mechanical device refer to the manufacturers guidelines; some of these systems require high levels of desludging and maintenance.
Yes. Grey water should always be directed to the wastewater treatment system. Grey water is also a pollutant and if directed to the rain water system may cause contamination of waters. Take care with house extensions or alterations - don't connect any wastewater pipes to the rain water disposal system.
No. Roof and yard waters should not be connected to your wastewater treatment system. Clean water should be collected and discharged separately to a local watercourse or soak away.
Yes. If you are not connected to a public sewer and you have running water in your house you must register, whether you can locate the system or not. You can register on-line at www.protectourwater.ie or fill out an application form (these forms should be available at the CSD. The application fee is €50. You will not be eligible for a grant if the system was not registered before 01st February 2013.
No. Septic tank wastes contain high levels of bacteria and other potential disease-causing organisms. They should only be handled by contractors with the correct equipment and facilities for their safe treatment and/ or disposal. A contractor emptying septic tanks is required to hold a waste collection permit. Householders are obliged to check in advance that the contractors they use have the required permits.
Yes but only his own septic tank and he must comply with Use of Sewage Sludge in Agriculture Regulations. (Restrictions on grazing and loading rates)
A contractor emptying septic tanks is required to hold a waste collection permit. Householders are obliged to check in advance that the contractors they use have the required permits and they should retain the receipt as evidence of properly emptying their tank. The following is a list of contractors authorised to empty septic tanks and other treatment systems.See List of Authorised Contractors list below.
