Is Your Property Connected to a Septic Tank or Treatment Plant? Here’s What You Need to Know
Many homes in rural Ceredigion aren’t connected to the public foul sewer. If this includes your property, you may be using a septic tank, small package treatment plant, or cesspit - and how you look after it really matters.
When these systems aren’t maintained or emptied regularly, they can become a health hazard and allow pollutants to enter our rivers and coastal waters. Substances like nitrogen, phosphorus, oils, chemicals and other contaminants can travel invisibly into local waterways, affecting wildlife, bathing waters and the wider marine environment.
Why it matters
Poorly maintained systems can lead to:
- Excess nitrogen and phosphorus entering streams and rivers
- Pollution reaching the coast
- Health risks for households and neighbours
Simple actions make a big difference
- Only flush pee, paper and poop (other items can block or damage your system)
- Empty your tank regularly to keep it working safely
- Avoid bleach and harsh chemicals - they kill the beneficial bacteria your system needs
- Register your system with Natural Resources Wales if you haven’t already
These small steps help protect your home, your community, and the rivers and coastline that make Ceredigion special.
For full advice on maintenance, legal responsibilities and best practice, download our Septic Tanks & Treatment Plants: How to Protect Our Waterways leaflet.