You can identify the Type of Discharge Trade Effluent:
Liquid waste from manufacturing, washing, or industrial processes (e.g., chemicals, food/drink, launderettes, car washes). Domestic Sewage: Wastewater from toilets and kitchens. Uncontaminated Water: Clean rainwater from roofs or hardstanding. This usually does not require a permit, but often requires an oil separator..

If discharging to a public foul sewer, companies must: Contact the Sewerage Undertaker: Contact your water company (e.g., United Utilities, Thames Water, Severn Trent) or your water retailer to apply for a Trade Effluent Consent or agreement. Provide a Site Plan: Submit a plan showing your site drainage system, identifying the trade effluent route to the sewer, and marking a safe, accessible sample point. Comply with Conditions: Adhere to limits on volume, flow rate, temperature (usually up to 43.3°C), pH (normally 6-11), and substance concentrations. Declare Changes: Give at least seven days' notice of any change to the process, volume, or composition of the effluent.
If discharging directly to surface water (rivers, streams, canals) or onto/into the ground (soakaways), companies must: Apply to the Regulator: Apply for an Environmental Permit from the Environment Agency (England), Natural Resources Wales, or SEPA (Scotland). Check "General Binding Rules": For small sewage treatment plants (under 5 /day to surface water or 2 /day to ground), you may not need a permit if you meet specific rules. Develop a Management System: Create a written set of procedures to identify and minimise pollution risks. Demonstrate Necessity: Provide evidence that you cannot connect to a public foul sewer (e.g., if a river or rail line is in the way).